The Infrastructure Network

Zane Pucylowski is on a mission to fix a broken industry. In this episode, Chad Smeltzer dives into Zayn’s journey from muddy job sites to launching a million-dollar marketing company all while running an engineering firm.They break down the crisis in engineering talent, why most firms are undercharging, and how Gen Z can (and will) change the future of construction if we let them.This one’s packed with honest insights, real solutions, and a wake-up call for every civil engineer, fabricator, and municipal leader out there.🔗 Connect with Zayn: phoenixengineering.com | @ZaynEngineersLife📲 Connect with Chad: linkedin.com/in/chadsmeltzer

In this episode of The Infrastructure Network, Chad sits down with Josh Burnett, founder of RDS, to talk real infrastructure issues — cost overruns, low-bid traps, broken procurement, and the toxic culture inside civil engineering firms. Josh breaks down how he saved over $1.3 million in just a few projects by rethinking land development and refusing to play by the outdated rules.If you're in civil engineering, land development, construction, or infrastructure procurement, this conversation is a must-listen.👷‍♂️ Topics:Why most civil engineers don’t get to fully design (and what that’s costing us)The low-bid mindset: how it creates long-term infrastructure failuresWhy politics and profit often override planning and community impactWhat a smarter, people-first infrastructure model looks like⏱️ Timestamps:00:00 - Intro to Josh Burnett & Background02:29 - Breaking into civil engineering during the recession07:47 - Toxic culture in engineering firms & what drove Josh to leave10:07 - What it's really like to manage land development projects15:47 - Saving $1.3M by thinking differently about engineering21:05 - Low-bid culture: why cheap planning costs big later24:03 - Politics, greed, and why good plans still get blocked27:05 - Engineering vs Planning: Why working together saves money29:33 - Why planning is the hardest and most critical part

Elliot Smith is a forward-thinking entrepreneur with a background in municipal engineering. With nearly seven years in consulting, Elliot discovered his path after recognizing the potential and necessity for innovation within civil infrastructure. Not limiting himself to engineering alone, he sought to expand his expertise and completed an MBA to bridge the gap between engineering and business. As the CEO of Motmot, Elliot has positioned himself at the forefront of modernizing underground infrastructure through technology.In this engaging conversation, host Chad Smeltzer explores the intersections of engineering, entrepreneurship, and technology with Elliot Smith, CEO of Motmot. The episode dives into the innovative world of civil infrastructure and how emerging technologies can revolutionize its maintenance and management. Elliot discusses his journey from discovering civil engineering to becoming an innovator seeking to disrupt the industry with advanced solutions for water system inspection and maintenance.From Elliot's evolution from an engineer to a business-savvy CEO, this episode sheds light on the pressing need for infrastructural insights and the development of Motmot's unique robot technology.### Key Takeaways:* Elliot Smith transitioned from a municipal engineer to an entrepreneur after identifying the need for more cost-effective infrastructure inspection.* Motmot, Elliot's company, is developing a robotic solution that offers long-term, autonomous inspection of water systems to help communities manage underground infrastructure.* There's a pressing need for transparency and public education on water systems, alongside more efficient funding and workforce strategies.* Advanced technologies like Motmot's robotic inspector can potentially save communities money and improve predictive maintenance of water systems.* The adoption of innovative infrastructure technologies faces resistance but also garners significant interest from communities seeking improved management tools.

Join host Chad Smeltzer as he discusses non-revenue water loss with water loss consultants Emma Quail and Andrew Swirsky. They explore the economic impact of water loss on utilities and the need for effective water loss reduction strategies. The conversation delves into the challenges utilities face in prioritizing water loss reduction and the importance of accurate data and measurement. The guests also emphasize the need for collaboration between utilities and service providers to implement effective non-revenue water management solutions. Don't miss this insightful discussion on the future of water management.### About the Guest(s):**Andrew Swirsky** is the founder of Infrasync, a firm dedicated to helping utilities leverage new technologies and accelerate their adoption to improve infrastructure. With a background in engineering, Andrew has worked with companies like Jones & Carter and Stantec, focusing on projects across the water cycle. His efforts span from large capital projects to digital twins and advanced technologies in leak detection.**Emma Quail** is an independent water loss control consultant with nearly 23 years of experience. With a master's in environmental science from Northern Ireland, she inadvertently found her passion in the non-revenue water space. Her experience includes hands-on leak detection, data analysis, sales, and business development. Emma advocates for practical experience in the field and has worked for major players in the industry, as well as engaging with startups to bring innovative water loss solutions to the market.

James Golden is the CEO of PMG Pavement Management Group and has made a substantial impact in the pavement management industry. With 27 years of experience under his belt, James has grown from a draftsman to a pioneering executive. His initial exposure to civil infrastructure began with an internship at the Ohio Department of Transportation, leading to the development of a profound understanding of pavement management consulting. James's passion for utilizing data-driven decisions has made him a mentor and an influential voice in the infrastructure community. His extensive background and innovative approach have positioned him as a thought leader in transforming the way municipal road networks are assessed and maintained.

Steve Rienks is a seasoned civil engineering professional who serves as the Director of Engineering at American Surveying and Engineering Company in Chicago. With a vivid background that stretches from military service as a heavy equipment operator to pivotal roles in developing major infrastructure projects like Chicago's Orange Line, Steve boasts a rich blend of hands-on experience and academic rigor. His career reflects a thorough understanding of civil engineering, construction management, and the nuances of urban development, marked by his ongoing efforts to improve utility detection and infrastructure documentation processes.

Chad Smeltzer interviews Robert Reavis, a state trooper and transportation technology leader at Veridat, on the Infrastructure network podcast. Reavis shares his background in law enforcement and discusses the challenges faced by police officers. He also highlights the importance of technology in law enforcement, particularly in protecting the integrity of data, such as body cam footage, from manipulation. Reavis emphasizes the need for smart city integration and proactive measures to ensure public safety. Contact Reavis on LinkedIn for further information.

Jack Phan, CEO of AirDeck Co., shares his entrepreneurial journey and the lessons he learned from his father, who started an upholstery business after immigrating to the US. Jack discusses the challenges his father faced as an entrepreneur and the importance of building strong customer relationships. He also talks about his experience in the tech industry and how he became involved with AirDeck Co. Jack explains how AirDeck Co. is revolutionizing digital communication by allowing users to narrate presentations and documents, track engagement, and personalize content. He shares his vision for the future of AirDeck Co. and the role of AI in enhancing communication on a global scale. Key Takeaways: Entrepreneurship is in Jack Phan's blood, thanks to his father's influence and his own passion for technology and innovation. Word of mouth and building strong customer relationships are still essential for business success. AirDeck Co. allows users to narrate presentations and documents, track engagement, and personalize content. The future of AirDeck Co. includes global expansion, AI integration, and bridging the gap in communication. Quotes: "Entrepreneurship was something that I grew up with... my dad was always one of those people that always wanted to create things and take care of his family." - Jack Phan "Word of mouth goes a long, long way... it's about how they feel and the relationships that they build with the people that are servicing them." - Jack Phan "Your story needs to be told by you and your narrative, and AirDeck helps you do that." - Jack Phan "AirDeck is revolutionizing the way we communicate... it's about saving time and doing things effectively, efficiently, and being able to scale your business and your content." - Jack Phan

In this episode of the Infrastructure Network, host Chad Smeltzer is joined by Michael Simpson and Barbara Robinson to discuss the persistent problem of sewer infiltration and inflow (I&I). They explore the reasons why I&I continues to plague sewer systems and the challenges faced in addressing this issue. The guests emphasize the importance of public education, proper data management, and the use of technology to tackle INI effectively. They also highlight the need for a shift in mindset and the adoption of new approaches in the industry. Key Takeaways: Public education is crucial in addressing I&I, as many residents are unaware of their responsibility for maintaining their private sewer laterals. Traditional methods of flow monitoring and modeling are not effective in finding and fixing I&I. A more targeted and localized approach is needed. Technology, such as Electroscan tools, can provide actionable information about the condition of sewer pipes and help prioritize repairs. Municipalities should consider the true cost of I&I, including the impact on wastewater treatment plants, when making decisions about infrastructure investments.

Chad Smeltzer, Donnell Duncan, and Bill Davis discuss diversity, equity, and inclusion in the civil infrastructure industry. They emphasize the need to change the culture and mindset surrounding these issues. They address common objections and misconceptions, such as the belief that diversity compromises quality. They highlight the importance of measuring diversity and inclusion efforts and striving for equity in hiring and services. The end goal is to shift the culture and create a more inclusive environment where everyone is valued and respected. Chad Smeltzer, Donnell Duncan, and Bill Davis discuss diversity, equity, and inclusion in the infrastructure industry. They emphasize the need to change the culture and mindset surrounding these issues. They address common objections and misconceptions, such as the belief that diversity compromises quality. They highlight the importance of measuring diversity and inclusion efforts and striving for equity in hiring and services. The end goal is to shift the culture and create a more inclusive environment where everyone is valued and respected.

Are you curious about how to break into the tech industry without a traditional college degree? In this episode of The Infrastructure Network, we sit down with Chad Smeltzer and Pan Leung from LaunchCode, an organization dedicated to helping people from diverse backgrounds enter the tech workforce. We discuss the challenges of workforce development, the importance of diversity in tech, and how LaunchCode is making a difference.

In this episode Chad Smeltzer has an in-depth conversations with Sean Borris, we explore the complexities and nuances of pipe lining, particularly within the oil and gas sectors. Sean has over 450 miles of pipe lined, Sean shares insights into the various technologies, methods, and challenges he has encountered. Sean's dealing with unexpected issues like bullet holes in liners to the vital role of education in the industry, these discussions offer a unique perspective into an essential part of our infrastructure. Whether you're a seasoned professional or someone interested in the world of pipe rehab, these talks provide valuable insights into a field that's becoming more and more viable for various applications. #PipeLining #TrenchlessTechnology #Infrastructure #OilAndGas #Education #Challenges #Innovation #utilities

Tom Iseley is the underground infrastructure expert. In this podcast episode, Chad and Tom explore the wonders of trenchless technologies and their transformative effects. Discover how Dr. Iseley’s pioneering efforts and BAMMY’s groundbreaking training initiatives are setting global standards. We invite you to join us on an exciting journey filled with expert insights and global perspectives. You will also get a deeper look at the innovations that are reshaping the subterranean realm. Ideal for engineers, infrastructure professionals, and public works enthusiasts. Get inspired, connect, and learn from the maestro himself. #UndergroundUncovered #TrenchlessTech #DrIseleyInsights #InfrastructureInnovation #PublicWorksPioneers #EngineeringExcellence #SubterraneanSecrets #FutureOfInfrastructure #BAMMYTraining #GlobalEngineering #TechBelowTheSurface #InfrastructureRevolution