Problem Solved: The IISE Podcast

Within the profession of industrial and systems engineering, the names Frank and Lillian Gilbreth are everywhere - appearing on awards, scholarships, professorships, and libraries. But who were the people behind those names, and how did their work help shape the profession we know today?In this episode of Problem Solved, historian Mike Farrelly of the Montclair History Center and Township Historian takes us on a journey through the lives of Frank and Lillian Gilbreth, the pioneering husband-and-wife team whose innovations laid the foundation for modern industrial and systems engineering.Hear how Frank began his career by revolutionized bricklaying, how the Gilbreths pioneered motion studies using photography and film, and how their work influenced fields ranging from construction and manufacturing to surgery and workplace design. The episode also explores Lillian's groundbreaking contributions as a psychologist, educator, inventor, and one of the most influential women in engineering history.Along the way, Mike shares fascinating stories about the real-life family behind Cheaper by the Dozen, including how the Gilbreths applied their principles at home while raising 12 children.Whether you're an industrial engineer, a student of history, or simply curious about the people whose ideas continue to shape the way we work and live, this episode offers a fascinating look at two remarkable innovators whose legacy can still be felt more than a century later.A huge thank you to our guest, Mike Farrelly, for sharing this thorough look at this remarkable family.• Learn more about the Montclair History Center• Watch Mike Farrelly's presentation featuring historical photographs of the Gilbreth family and their work:https://youtu.be/5N6RR0XD5Tk?si=LW9ixkOys1MqGZTL• Read Cheaper by the Dozen by Frank B. Gilbreth Jr. and Ernestine Gilbreth Carey• Read Belles on Their Toes by Frank B. Gilbreth Jr. and Ernestine Gilbreth CareyLearn more about The Institute of Industrial and Systems Engineers (IISE)Problem Solved on LinkedInProblem Solved on YouTubeProblem Solved on InstagramProblem Solved on TikTokProblem Solved Executive Producer: Elizabeth GrimesInterested in contributing to the podcast or sponsoring an episode? Email egrimes@iise.org

In this special episode of Problem Solved LIVE from the IISE Annual Conference & Expo 2026, students, researchers, and industry professionals share their perspectives on the evolving future of industrial and systems engineering. Conversations explore artificial intelligence, healthcare systems, sustainability, automation, and the growing role of human-centered problem solving across industries. The episode also features highlights from the IISE Innovation Cup competition, where teams showcased innovative solutions with measurable real-world impact. From first-time conference attendees to experienced professionals leading organizational change, the episode captures the energy, optimism, and innovation shaping the next generation of ISE.Thanks to all our guests who contributed in this episode!Thank you to our sponsor, Cullen College of Engineering Lean Six Sigma program.Learn more at IE.UH.EDUIISE Annual Conference & Expo 2026May 16–19 | Arlington, TexasLearn more about The Institute of Industrial and Systems Engineers (IISE)Problem Solved on LinkedInProblem Solved on YouTubeProblem Solved on InstagramProblem Solved on TikTokProblem Solved Executive Producer: Elizabeth GrimesInterested in contributing to the podcast or sponsoring an episode? Email egrimes@iise.org

Your 2026 IISE Annual Conference Preview: 3 Voices to Know Before You GoWhat makes this year’s IISE Annual Conference and Expo a must-attend event?In this special preview episode of Problem Solved, we bring you insights from three featured voices who are shaping conversations across industrial and systems engineering:Laura Albert (University of Wisconsin–Madison) on why this is a consequential moment for ISE and why it’s time to stop being a “well-kept secret” Jennifer Van Buskirk (AT&T) on leading transformation inside one of the world’s most complex systems and how ISEs are uniquely built for it Doug Melton (Pre-Conference Workshop, Engineering Unleashed) on developing an entrepreneurial mindset and creating value in any context From the future of the field, to industry impact, to putting the mindset into action, get your first look at the ideas waiting for you in Arlington. IISE Annual Conference & Expo 2026 May 16–19 | Arlington, TexasLearn more about The Institute of Industrial and Systems Engineers (IISE)Problem Solved on LinkedInProblem Solved on YouTubeProblem Solved on InstagramProblem Solved on TikTokProblem Solved Executive Producer: Elizabeth GrimesInterested in contributing to the podcast or sponsoring an episode? Email egrimes@iise.org

This week’s episode is a special bonus preview of what’s coming next on Problem Solved.We’re heading to the Healthcare Systems Process Improvement Conference with Problem Solved LIVE, where we'll have an onsite booth. We'll be capturing real-time insights from attendees, speakers, and leaders across healthcare systems engineering.Hear what’s coming up at HSPI, how you can get involved, and details about our live interviews and social media giveaway.If you’re attending HSPI, stop by the Problem Solved LIVE booth and be part of the conversation. If you’re not, follow along as we bring the conference experience directly to you. Follow Problem Solved on Instagram and YouTube now!📍 Feb 11–13 | Atlanta, GA 🎙️ Problem Solved LIVELearn more about The Institute of Industrial and Systems Engineers (IISE)Problem Solved on LinkedInProblem Solved on YouTubeProblem Solved on InstagramProblem Solved on TikTok

Elections are one of the most complex systems we rely on. They're decentralized, human-driven, time-critical, and under constant scrutiny. And while hundreds of decisions are made under the surface, most of us only see the final result.In this episode of Problem Solved, IISE’s Keith Albertson sits down with Dr. Natalie Scala of Towson University to explore the systems behind the ballot and how industrial and systems engineers are strengthening elections.From polling places to poll worker support, supply chains and trust in outcomes, Dr. Scala explains how classic ISE tools are being applied to one of the most consequential systems in society all while remaining nonpartisan.This conversation goes beyond politics and into process, people, and design.https://www.drnataliescala.com/Natalie M. Scala, Ph.D., is a professor and professor and cyber fellow in the College of Business and Economics at Towson University and co-director of the Empowering Secure Elections research lab. She is a faculty affiliate at the University of Maryland Applied Research Lab for Intelligence and Security, and has shared her expertise, research and work regarding elections security in conference presentations, articles for ISE Magazine and a Season 1 episode of Problem Solved in 2020.Learn more about The Institute of Industrial and Systems Engineers (IISE)Problem Solved on LinkedInProblem Solved on YouTubeProblem Solved on InstagramProblem Solved on TikTokProblem Solved Executive Producer: Elizabeth GrimesInterested in contributing to the podcast or sponsoring an episode? Email egrimes@iise.org

From Classroom to Career: Young Professional Lessons from the First Five YearsThe first five years of your career can feel like a crash course in the real world. One moment you’re confident in your coursework, and the next you’re navigating ambiguity, imposter syndrome, and expectations no syllabus ever prepared you for.In this episode of Problem Solved, we sit down with three IISE Young Professionals — Helen Siegrist, President of IISE Young Professionals, Jessica Aujla, and Gordon Quach — for an honest, roundtable conversation about what it actually looks like to transition from the classroom to the workforce.Together, they reflect on:The transition and shock of the first year out of schoolFinding your footing and earning trust in years two and threeGrowing confidence, leadership, and career direction in years four and fiveNavigating imposter syndrome, mentorship, and professional identityHow IISE and the Young Professionals community can support growth along the wayThis episode isn’t about having all the answers — it’s about learning through experience, community, and reflection. Whether you’re a student, a recent graduate, or early in your professional journey, this conversation offers perspective, reassurance, and practical insight from those who’ve been there.🎙️ Problem Solved — real conversations about industrial & systems engineering in practice.Learn more about IISE Young Professionals here and on LinkedIn.Learn more about The Institute of Industrial and Systems Engineers (IISE)Problem Solved on LinkedInProblem Solved on YouTubeProblem Solved on InstagramProblem Solved on TikTokProblem Solved Executive Producer: Elizabeth GrimesInterested in contributing to the podcast or sponsoring an episode? Email egrimes@iise.org

🎅✨ Here’s the problem: Santa’s operation defies all logic. One night. Billions of deliveries. Zero defects. A global supply chain that never misses a deadline.So…what if Santa is an industrial and systems engineer?In this festive special of Problem Solved, IISE members and volunteers share short, creative voice memos imagining how Santa’s North Pole operation uses IE/ISE tools—from logistics optimization to quality management, ergonomics, capacity planning, predictive analytics, Just-In-Time systems, continuous improvement, facility layout, human factors, and more.You’ll hear six fun, clever, and surprisingly insightful takes on Santa’s world-class system—including: 🎁 Why Santa’s naughty-or-nice list is really a data governance process 🎁 How his workshop rivals Amazon 🎁 How ergonomics keeps the elves injury-free for 500+ years 🎁 Why Santa’s sleigh route is the ultimate Traveling Salesman Problem 🎁 Lean Six Sigma at the North Pole 🎁 And—what the Grinch, Jack Skellington, and Santa can teach us about operationsThen we wrap it all up with a special story from IISE CEO Don Greene, who shares the tale of the Christmas Eve when Santa called IISE for help…and how industrial engineers saved the holiday.Whether you’re an ISE, a student, a Santa enthusiast, or someone who loves a good systems-thinking twist, this episode is full of joy, clever insights, and holiday magic—the ISE way.🎄 Happy Holidays from all of us at IISE and Problem Solved!Thank you to our guests who shared their creativity with us! Ali Anderson, Gordon Quach, Kristine Dungo, Madeline Shoot, Laura Albert, Ashley Benedict, and Don Greene! 🎧 Listen now, share with a colleague, and spread some IE cheer.Learn more about The Institute of Industrial and Systems Engineers (IISE)Problem Solved on LinkedInProblem Solved on YouTubeProblem Solved on InstagramProblem Solved on TikTokProblem Solved Executive Producer: Elizabeth GrimesInterested in contributing to the podcast or sponsoring an episode? Email egrimes@iise.org

Go behind the scenes of the IISE Innovation Cup, one of the most impactful showcases of industrial and systems engineering innovation. Hear from: • Tom Mazzone – Why the Cup exists • Aniket Ramekar – Gold Award winner • Rishabh Bhandawat – Silver Award winner • Bill Harrington – What judges look forDiscover how teams across industries are solving complex challenges — and what it takes to stand out.Make sure you subscribe to Problem Solved so you never miss an episode!Learn more about the IISE Innovation Cup.Learn more about The Institute of Industrial and Systems Engineers (IISE)Problem Solved on LinkedInProblem Solved on YouTubeProblem Solved on InstagramProblem Solved on TikTokProblem Solved Executive Producer: Elizabeth GrimesInterested in contributing to the podcast or sponsoring an episode? Email egrimes@iise.org