What Breagh is Listening to this week!

Podcast Summary: Sustainability, Digital Tools and the Future of Asset Management
Infrastructure Matters – with Ursula Bryan, Chief Executive, Institute of Asset Management

In this episode, Ursula Bryan shares practical insights on the evolving role of asset management in tackling global infrastructure challenges. Speaking from her experience at the Institute of Asset Management (IAM), she covers key themes including climate resilience, digital innovation, and inclusive practices.

 

Key takeaways:

• Asset management is shifting from asset-focused thinking to outcome-led planning

• Digital twins and green infrastructure are becoming central to long-term resilience

• The IAM’s Anatomy guidance offers a useful framework for organisations starting or improving their asset management strategy

• International collaboration and local knowledge, including integrating First Nations expertise, are crucial to sustainable infrastructure planning

• Attracting the next generation into the field will require clearer career pathways and greater visibility of the profession’s impact
  
  

  Who this is useful for:
  Local authorities, utilities, infrastructure planners, and any organisation managing long-term built assets.

  Breagh Recruitment is not affiliated with this podcast or IAM. We are simply sharing it as a useful resource for professionals across the construction and infrastructure sectors.

Link: https://open.spotify.com/show/6yNo3Uth2V4774YFhAec9I

 

Podcast Summary: Why Construction Needs to Catch Up – and How BIM Is Leading the Way
The Take Off Podcast – with Ralph Montague, ArcDox and BIM Heroes

In this episode, host Mick is joined by BIM specialist Ralph Montague to unpack why construction still lags behind other industries when it comes to efficiency - and how Building Information Modelling (BIM) is pushing change, like it or not.

 

Key takeaways:

• The construction sector wastes up to 30% of materials, while other industries have embraced tech to work smarter

• Many contractors still resist process improvement, but those adopting BIM are already seeing financial benefits

• Digital skills are in high demand across the sector, yet there is a shortage of talent ready to lead that transformation

• Real progress depends on greater collaboration across design, delivery, and supply chain teams—not just chasing the lowest price

• BIM is not just about models, it's about streamlining workflows, improving accuracy, and helping firms stay commercially competitive

 

Who this is useful for:
Contractors, design managers, site teams, and anyone interested in how digital adoption can improve margins and project delivery.

Breagh Recruitment is not affiliated with this podcast. We're sharing it as a useful listen for those navigating digital transformation in construction

Link: https://open.spotify.com/episode/1x4PFbIxBkeAbQIMCgkbSC

 

Podcast Summary: What the Building Safety Act Means for Engineers
NCE Podcast – with Sam Harland, Civic Engineers

In this episode, Rob Hakimian speaks with Civic Engineers associate director Sam Harland about the real-world impact of the Building Safety Act 2022. The conversation focuses on how the Act is reshaping the day-to-day work of structural engineers.

 

Key takeaways:

• New legal duties are raising the bar for design competence and project accountability

• The gateway process and the requirement for a “Golden Thread” of building information are introducing more checks and documentation at every stage

• Retrofitting and working on existing buildings now demands deeper investigation into structure, history, and risk

• Harland notes that while the Act brings necessary improvements, the rollout has not been without its challenges and confusion

• The changes are likely to drive more rigour, better record-keeping, and a shift in how engineers approach early-stage design and handover

 

The episode also includes commentary from NCE senior reporters on major infrastructure stories, including Havant Thicket Reservoir and the long-running Aquind Interconnector.

 

Who this is useful for:
Structural engineers, designers, contractors working in refurbishment or compliance, and anyone involved in safety-critical works.

Breagh Recruitment is not affiliated with the podcast. We’re sharing this as a valuable listen for those navigating regulatory change in engineering and the built environment.

Link: https://www.newcivilengineer.com/podcast/podcast-how-the-building-safety-act-is-changing-uk-construction-and-engineering-with-civic-engineers-26-03-2025/

 

Podcast Summary: What Is Geospatial Engineering – And Why It’s More Relevant Than You Think
Guest interview with a Geospatial Engineer based in Germany, originally from Kenya via the UAE

In this episode, the host sits down with a geospatial engineer to explore what the role really involves, how to get into the field, and why it's increasingly relevant across global construction and infrastructure projects.

 

Key takeaways:

• What is Geospatial Engineering?
  It’s the use of data, mapping, and spatial technologies (like GPS, LiDAR, and GIS) to plan, build and manage infrastructure. It helps pinpoint exact locations, monitor changes over time, and improve design accuracy.

• Start-up package:
  New geospatial engineers typically need a strong foundation in mapping tools, surveying equipment, remote sensing, and GIS software. Practical field skills and an analytical mindset are essential.

• Career journey:
  The guest shares a personal story of moving from Kenya to the UAE and now working in Germany, offering insights into what it’s like to grow a career internationally in this technical field.

• Challenges and opportunities:
  The episode covers the knowledge gaps, tech demands, and adaptability required, especially when shifting between regions and working across civil, environmental, and transport projects.

• And Tinder?
  Surprisingly, the conversation links Tinder to geospatial engineering by showing how location-based data drives decisions -just like in geospatial tools used for infrastructure planning. It’s about using smart location data to match people, or in engineering, to match decisions to places.
  

 

Who this is useful for:
Aspiring geospatial professionals, civil engineers, planners, and those interested in how spatial data improves project outcomes across sectors.

Breagh Recruitment is not affiliated with this podcast. We’re sharing it as a useful listen for those exploring digital and data-driven roles in the built environment.

Link: https://open.spotify.com/episode/4eELDAvKLi7QJ9CmHeEgVd

 

Podcast Summary: The Engineering Career Podcast – Practical Advice for Building Your Career

Hosted by Daniel Dahlinger, The Engineering Career Podcast is a useful resource for anyone looking to move from thinking about engineering as a career to making real progress within it. The show shares practical advice, personal experiences, and industry insight aimed at helping you grow professionally.

 

What to expect:

• Honest discussions about career transitions and early career decisions

• Q&A episodes tackling real-world challenges and common doubts

• Interviews with professionals who share how they reached key milestones

• Deep dives into specific growth areas like communication, leadership and technical development
  

 

Whether you are just starting out, changing direction or mentoring someone in the field, this podcast offers useful takeaways that apply across engineering and construction.

Breagh Recruitment is not involved with this podcast. We are sharing it as a helpful listen for early-career professionals and jobseekers looking to take the next step with clarity and confidence.

Link: https://open.spotify.com/show/4AnBWxE0BdY2dTmbAw4x1j

 

Podcast Summary: Representing Civil Engineers in a Changing Industry
The Engineers Collective – with Jim Hall, ICE President

In this episode, Rob Hakimian speaks with Jim Hall, President of the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE), about the evolving role of civil engineers and how the ICE is adapting to support the profession in today’s complex environment.

 

Key takeaways:

• Jim shares insights from his career and his new position at the National Infrastructure and Service Transformation Authority (Nista)

• The conversation explores how ICE is working to improve efficiency in the civil engineering workforce and promote resilience in infrastructure delivery
  
  

• Digitisation is highlighted as a major opportunity, with ICE supporting collaboration and innovation through its knowledge-sharing platforms

• They discuss the importance of creating career pathways that reflect the profession’s diversity and attract the next generation of engineers
  

 

The episode also includes commentary on the launch of Nista and the growing attention on infrastructure readiness in the face of space weather risks.

 

Who this is useful for:
Civil engineers, public sector planners, and infrastructure leaders looking to stay aligned with professional trends, innovation and institutional support.

Breagh Recruitment is not affiliated with this podcast. We’re sharing it as a helpful listen for those shaping or supporting the future of civil engineering.

 

Link: https://open.spotify.com/episode/01l5ntCs78FlfLOupRedCK

 

Podcast Summary: Engineering Innovation with Scott Collins
The Structural Engineering Podcast – Featuring Scott Collins

In this episode, the team chats with Scott Collins, a forward-thinking structural engineer whose work was recently featured in Modern Steel. From steel-intensive projects to creative problem solving, Scott shares insights into his current work and how innovative thinking is shaping modern engineering practice.

 

Key takeaways:

• Behind-the-scenes discussion on Scott’s standout projects and his approach to complex structural challenges

• Reflections on what caught Modern Steel Magazine’s attention and what others can learn from it

• A look at how engineers are thinking beyond spreadsheets by developing their own custom calculation tools
  

 

Also mentioned in the episode:

• The Structural Python Course is nearly ready to launch, aimed at engineers who want to create their own calculation software

• A short video from Connor highlights the practical benefits of learning Python for structural design

• A surprising mention of Mr. Beast’s domino project - yes, there was an engineer behind that too
  

 

Who this is useful for:
Structural engineers, early-career professionals, and anyone curious about blending traditional engineering with modern tech. Link

Breagh Recruitment is not affiliated with this podcast or course. We’re sharing it as an inspiring and educational listen for those pushing the boundaries in structural engineering.

Link: https://open.spotify.com/episode/7qlX9FPHI7LEZHJEZ66BXU

 

Podcast Summary: A Deep Dive into Temporary Works and the Legacy of BS5975
The Engineers Collective – with Ronan O’Driscoll

This episode features Ronan O’Driscoll, a seasoned engineer currently working on Hinkley Point C, who brings decades of insight into the world of temporary works. He joins host Rob Hakimian to talk about why temporary works are critical to construction, and how the sector can improve understanding and delivery.

 

Key takeaways:

• O’Driscoll discusses the evolution of temporary works, their often underappreciated importance, and how poor practice can lead to serious project risks

• He shares insights from his new resource Construction Engineering – A Guide to Temporary Works in Construction & BS5975:2019, a nearly 900-page document now available for free at constructionengineering.uk
  

• The discussion covers misconceptions, best practice, and the value of formalising guidance in a clear, accessible way

• Temporary works are shown to be vital not just technically, but in improving site safety, project efficiency and regulatory compliance
  

The episode also touches on the rising costs of Sizewell C and potential nuclear-related work for civil firms via the Atomic Weapons Establishment.

 

Who this is useful for:
Temporary works engineers, site managers, civil engineers, and anyone involved in major infrastructure delivery.

Breagh Recruitment is not affiliated with the podcast or the guide. We are sharing this episode as a helpful listen for those seeking better understanding or improved standards in temporary works.

Link: https://www.newcivilengineer.com/podcast/podcast-exploring-the-wide-world-of-temporary-works-in-construction-and-engineering-29-01-2025/

 

Podcast Summary: Recognising Global Structural Excellence – Behind the Scenes of the IStructE Awards

The Engineers Collective – with Professor John Orr (IStructE & University of Cambridge)

In this episode, Professor John Orr joins host Rob Hakimian to explore the Institution of Structural Engineers’ 2024 Structural Awards. The conversation offers a look at how these awards celebrate engineering excellence, innovation, and global impact in the built environment.

 

Key takeaways:

• The Structural Awards have evolved to recognise projects that not only demonstrate technical achievement but also respond to broader challenges across environment, society and the profession

• Entries are judged against four pillars: planet, people, process, and profession, encouraging a more holistic view of engineering excellence

• John highlights four standout entries from this year’s shortlist that exemplify each of these categories—ranging widely in purpose, scale and location

• The IStructE is encouraging future submissions that further integrate sustainable thinking, collaboration and societal benefit into their approach

The episode also includes insights from NCE reporters on site visits to GE Vernova’s valve manufacturing plant, Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, and the ongoing construction of Hinkley Point C.

 

Who this is useful for:
Structural engineers, design managers, and engineering professionals with an eye on global best practice and professional recognition.

Breagh Recruitment is not affiliated with this podcast or the awards. We are sharing it to highlight innovation and inspiration across the structural engineering profession.

Link: https://www.newcivilengineer.com/latest/podcast-discussing-the-structures-of-the-year-with-the-istructe-30-10-2024/