In this episode of The Ground Investigation Podcast, Michael Taylor sits down with Luke Turko, a civil engineer with over 19 years of experience in geotechnical engineering and design. As Director of Geotechnical Services at Navarro & Wright Consulting Engineers, Luke oversees projects across Pennsylvania, West Virginia, Kentucky, Maryland, Ohio, Florida, and Virginia, managing a highly skilled team across four offices.

Luke shares his journey into geotechnical engineering, the challenges of managing large teams across multiple locations, and the evolving role of AI in engineering. From high-stakes infrastructure projects to mentoring the next generation of engineers, Luke provides valuable insights into leadership, technical excellence, and the future of the industry.

✅ How a high school field trip inspired Luke’s engineering career
✅ The impact of mentorship and education on his professional journey
✅ Managing 18 professionals across multiple offices and states
✅ The biggest geotechnical challenges in Pennsylvania and beyond
✅ Balancing technical excellence with financial performance
✅ The role of AI in geotechnical engineering – where is it heading?
✅ The importance of early contractor involvement in large projects
✅ Why teaching civil engineering to young students is crucial for the industry's future
✅ The challenges and opportunities in renewable energy projects
✅ The most complex project Luke has ever worked on and what made it so demanding

🗣️ "If you produce a technically poor product or cut corners, you won’t get repeat work. The cost of a mistake is far higher than the cost of doing it right the first time."
🗣️ "Geotechnical engineering is never boring. One side of the state has coal mining issues, the other has karst and harder rock—it’s always a challenge."
🗣️ "AI is going to change engineering. We don’t know exactly how yet, but it’s happening fast."
🗣️ "Teaching young students about civil engineering was one of the most rewarding things I’ve done—it’s amazing to see how engaged they are."

Subscribe to the show to join our host, Michael Taylor, as he continues to explore the intricacies of running a business in the ground investigation industry, bringing geological experts to share their wisdom, insights, and plans for the future, and shedding light on what they believe will enhance the ground investigation industry moving forward. Don't forget to stay connected by visiting https://girec.co.uk/.

In this episode of The Ground Investigation Podcast, Michael Taylor sits down with Dr. Ed Medley, a geological engineer, researcher, and storyteller with a 45-year career spanning mineral exploration, litigation, consulting, and academia. Known for his work on BIMROCKS (Block-In-Matrix Rocks), Ed shares some of the most unexpected, humorous, and insightful moments from his global career—including mapping toilet paper at a major San Francisco sinkhole failure.

Beyond the stories, Ed offers hard-earned wisdom on resilience, curiosity, and the ever-evolving geotechnical industry. Whether you’re an engineer, student, or just love a good geotechnical adventure, this episode is packed with insights.

🔹 How he went from dishwasher on a Norwegian cargo ship to geotechnical expert
🔹 His early career in helicopter geophysics, blasting, and mineral exploration
🔹 The unexpected career pivots that shaped his geotechnical path

🔹 What BIMROCKS are and why they’re so complex
🔹 Why engineers struggle to characterize mixed geological materials
🔹 How he created the term BIMROCKS to help engineers think differently

🔹 Mapping toilet paper to solve a massive sewer failure in San Francisco
🔹 Flying over the wilderness and facing bears during mineral exploration

🔹 Why Ed says: “Get fired. It’ll teach you something.”
🔹 The mantras that guided him through challenges:
✔ Nothing is simple.
✔ Nothing is what it seems.
✔ Nothing stays the same.
✔ Excellence is not convenient.
🔹 Why resilience, curiosity, and humility are essential for success

🔹 How technology like AI, GIS, and LiDAR is changing site investigations
🔹 Why over-reliance on software is risky—"Computers make pretty pictures, but that doesn’t mean they’re right."
🔹 The globalization of geotechnical engineering and differences between UK, US, and Canadian practices.

Subscribe to the show to join our host, Michael Taylor, as he continues to explore the intricacies of running a business in the ground investigation industry, bringing geological experts to share their wisdom, insights, and plans for the future, and shedding light on what they believe will enhance the ground investigation industry moving forward. Don't forget to stay connected by visiting https://girec.co.uk/.

In this episode of The Ground Investigation Podcast, Michael Taylor interviews Yichi Du, a geotechnical engineer whose career journey spans academic research and practical industry applications in the U.S. and China. Yichi shares his passion for geotechnical engineering, highlighting his research on shrink-swell clays and the innovative use of numerical modeling in understanding soil behavior. The discussion also explores his experiences transitioning from academia to industry, the unique geotechnical challenges in Texas and California, and the future of machine learning in geotechnical engineering. Yichi emphasizes the importance of balancing experimental testing with modeling, and how engineers can better communicate their findings to diverse stakeholders.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

1. Global Perspective on Engineering:

   • How Yichi’s studies in China, Florida, and Texas shaped his geotechnical outlook.
   • Lessons from his Ph.D. at Texas A&M and their impact on his work today.

2. Numerical Modeling Insights:

   • Practical applications of Yichi’s research on shrink-swell clays and desiccation cracking.
   • Challenges and innovations in modeling unsaturated soils using tools like Plaxis 2D and Abaqus.
   • The potential of the Mesh Fragmentation Technique (MFT) for addressing desiccation cracking.

3. Regional Challenges in Geotechnics:

   • Key differences between geotechnical engineering in Texas and California.
   • How seismic risks in California influence design decisions.
   • Managing environmental factors and soil behavior in diverse regions.

4. Future of Geotechnics:

   • Yichi’s take on integrating numerical modeling into everyday design practices.
   • The role of machine learning in advancing soil behavior analysis.
   • Bridging the gap between academic research and industry practice.

5. Career Reflections & Advice:

   • Yichi’s most rewarding career moments and aspirations for tackling global geotechnical challenges.
   • Tips for young engineers passionate about numerical modeling and geotechnical design.

Highlights:

• Behind-the-scenes look at modeling expansive soils and desiccation cracking.
• Practical examples of balancing academic precision with real-world industry needs.
• How seismic and environmental conditions influence geotechnical decisions.
• Yichi’s vision for the evolution of numerical modeling and its integration into sustainable design practices.

Who Should Listen:
This episode is perfect for:

• Geotechnical and geological engineers at any career stage.
• Professionals interested in numerical modeling and advanced geotechnical techniques.
• Students eager to learn about transitioning from academia to industry.
• Industry leaders exploring the role of machine learning in geotechnical design.

Resources and Mentions:

• Learn more about numerical modeling tools like Plaxis 2D and Abaqus.
• Connect with Yichi Du on LinkedIn to follow his professional journey.
• Subscribe to the show for more insights from industry experts like Yichi Du, as Michael Taylor delves into the challenges, innovations, and future of geotechnical engineering.

Visit https://girec.co.uk/ to stay updated on the podcast and learn more about the ground investigation industry.

In this conversation, Daniel Vieira discusses his journey into the field of geo-hazards and landslide mitigation with Michael. He shares insights on his career transitions, the challenges faced in slope stabilization projects, and the importance of safety and efficiency in his work. Daniel highlights rewarding projects, innovative techniques, and the role of technology in geophysical investigations, emphasizing the impact of his work on communities and infrastructure. He highlights the industry's adaptation to climate change challenges and the significance of value engineering in delivering cost-effective solutions. Dan also shares insights on the value of field experience in professional development.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• Responding to Emergencies: Dan Vieira shares his firsthand experience of managing emergency geohazard projects, including a standout case repairing the Crescent City coastal landslide.
• Adapting to Climate Change: How the geotechnical industry is evolving with proactive strategies, from accelerated site investigations to innovative green solutions like vegetated slopes and turf-reinforced mats.
• Career Insights: Dan’s transition from consulting at NV5 to his current role at GeoStabilization International, and how his varied experiences have shaped his approach to geohazard mitigation.
• Innovative Techniques: A breakdown of advanced geotechnical methods like Geosynthetically Confined Soil (GCS) systems, soil nails, and micropiles, and why they’re critical to modern projects.
• Mentorship and Leadership: Dan’s philosophy on training younger engineers and the importance of fostering a collaborative work environment.

Highlights:

• Behind-the-scenes of emergency slope stabilization on California’s Alpine Road.
• Practical examples of using green engineering solutions to mitigate geohazards.
• Balancing technical expertise and client relationships in high-pressure situations.
• How mentorship and knowledge-sharing help preserve industry expertise in a rapidly evolving field.

Who Should Listen:
This episode is perfect for:

• Geotechnical and geological engineers at any career stage.
• Professionals tackling climate-related geohazard challenges.
• Students curious about the technical and leadership skills required in geotechnics.
• Industry leaders exploring sustainable and innovative solutions for infrastructure resilience.

Resources and Mentions:

• Learn more about GeoStabilization International and their emergency geohazard work.
• Connect with Dan Vieira on LinkedIn to follow his geotechnical journey.

Subscribe to the show to join our host, Michael Taylor, as he uncovers insights from industry experts like Dan Vieira. Together, they dive deep into the challenges, innovations, and future of geotechnical engineering. Visit https://girec.co.uk/ to stay updated on the podcast and learn more about the ground investigation industry.

In this episode of The Ground Investigation Podcast, Michael Taylor sits down with Hannah Thomas, a geotechnical engineer with a passion for exploration, both in the field and in professional growth. From her first helicopter drilling project in Oregon to her belief in the power of LinkedIn as the modern Rolodex, Hannah shares her unique experiences and actionable advice for geotechnical and geological professionals.

• Memorable Projects: Hannah recounts her most challenging and rewarding project—a helicopter drilling expedition that pushed her out of her comfort zone and taught her invaluable field skills.
• The Role of Social Media: How platforms like LinkedIn can act as a digital Rolodex to grow your network, open career opportunities, and even attract clients.
• Career Advice: Insights for students and early-career engineers on trying new roles, building connections, and staying adaptable in a constantly evolving industry.
• Demystifying Geotechnical Engineering: Hannah explains the field in simple terms, from understanding the soil beneath a building to ensuring stability for dams and hillsides.
• Mentorship and Growth: The value of mentors in shaping your skills and how stepping out of your comfort zone can lead to tremendous personal and professional growth.

• Helicopter drilling and safety lessons learned in Oregon.
• Why every engineer should start building their LinkedIn network early.
• Practical tips for explaining geotechnical engineering to non-professionals.
• How to find inspiration and knowledge by following industry leaders.

This episode is perfect for:

• Geotechnical and geological engineers at all career stages.
• Students exploring engineering career paths.
• Professionals interested in networking and personal branding.
• Anyone curious about the adventures and challenges of fieldwork.

• Connect with Hannah Thomas on LinkedIn
• Woman in Mining
• Follow Shelby Yee of Rockmass for inspiration.

Subscribe to the show to join our host, Michael Taylor, as he continues to explore the intricacies of running a business in the ground investigation industry, bringing geological experts to share their wisdom, insights, and plans for the future, and shedding light on what they believe will enhance the ground investigation industry moving forward. Don't forget to stay connected by visiting https://girec.co.uk/.

In this episode of The Ground Investigation Podcast, Michael Taylor interviews Graham Carter, co-founder of Impact Geotechnical. Graham shares his journey from working as an employee in the ground investigation industry to starting his own company, Impact Geotechnical, alongside his business partners. With over 18 years of experience, Graham dives into the challenges and rewards of running a business that handles everything from rail projects to structural investigations and even Formula One tracks. From hands-on drilling to streamlining operations, this episode is packed with insights into the realities of running a ground investigation company.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

1. The Journey to Founding Impact Geotechnical:

   • The professional and personal factors that led Graham and his partners to start their own company.
   • Lessons learned from their previous roles and how they applied them to build a successful business.

2. The Challenges of Running a Small Business:

   • Balancing client demands with the realities of limited resources.
   • Overcoming obstacles in marketing, bookkeeping, and day-to-day operations.
   • Graham’s approach to maintaining quality control and efficiency through teamwork.

3. The Unique Aspects of Rail Projects:

   • Why rail work differs from other sectors and the importance of accreditations.
   • The impact of Transport for London’s industry-leading approach to geotechnical data management.

4. Innovative Approaches to Operational Efficiency:

   • How Impact Geotechnical achieved a paperless workflow using affordable tools like Microsoft Excel and tablets.
   • Graham’s tips for streamlining processes and avoiding unnecessary complexity.

5. Advice for Aspiring Professionals in Ground Investigation:

   • Graham’s perspective on gaining hands-on experience and staying adaptable.
   • The importance of building a diverse skill set and embracing hybrid roles in the industry.

Subscribe to the show to join our host, Michael Taylor, as he continues to explore the intricacies of running a business in the ground investigation industry, bringing geological experts to share their wisdom, insights, and plans for the future, and shedding light on what they believe will enhance the ground investigation industry moving forward. Don't forget to stay connected by visiting https://girec.co.uk/.