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 pac...

In this episode of The Infrastructure Network Podcast, host Chad Smeltzer sits down with Jonathan Hasson, VP of Smart Water Solutions at Aquasight llc, to explore his unconventional career path — from civil engineering roots to leading in intelligent water tech.🚀 Topics Covered:Early influences that led Jonathan to Mississippi State UniversityHis experience in structural design and nuclear co-ops...

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down how he saved over $1.3 million in just a few projects by rethinking land development and refusing to play by the outdated rules.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...

Michael's conversation with Chad Smeltzer covers the essentials of how city managers handle budgeting, the significance of long-term fiscal planning, and the challenges cities face with infrastructure management. Through his tenure in cities like San Antonio and Ventura, Michael emphasizes the importance of understanding both current and future fiscal impacts to create sustainable city environ...

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...

In this revealing episode listeners get a glimpse into the world of underground infrastructure through the lens of industry expert Carter Hobbs. Carter unpacks the complexities and challenges involved in locating and managing buried utilities—a topic of increasing importance amid rapid urban development. Throughout the discussion, Carter Hobbs dives into the intricacies of locating underground uti...

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 guest...

Tom Moore is the Vice President of Operations at Vepo Solutions and the CEO and President of 123 Backflow Testing. With his start in 2008 in civil infrastructure, Tom has established a significant presence in the industry, particularly in the New York City metro area. After initially involving himself in water meter changes as a favor to a friend, he quickly recognized opportunities in the backflo...

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 o...

George Kurz  is a seasoned environmental engineer with a focus on sanitary sewer systems and water quality. Graduating from Tennessee Tech University in 1974, George Kurz has spent decades honing his expertise in environmental and sanitary engineering. He implemented the first EPA-approved pretreatment program in Tennessee while serving with the City of Chattanooga and has worked extensively on ov...

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 acade...

Mike McGill, founder of WaterPIO, discusses the importance of proactive communication for water and wastewater utilities. He shares his background in political news and PR work, and how he transitioned into the water industry. Mike emphasizes the need for utilities to work with the press, communicate with customers and elected officials, and build trust through proactive communication. He also dis...

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 mani...

In this compelling interview, Dr. Heidi Gregory-Mina, a seasoned business psychologist and mental health specialist, delves into the significant impact of stress and burnout on construction workers. With over 14 years of experience in healthcare and education, Dr. Gregory-Mina brings insightful perspectives on employee engagement, mental well-being, and creating a positive work culture. Join us as...

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...

Chad Smeltzer hosts a conversation with Brian Jack, Utility Superintendent for the City of Lombard, Illinois, and Charlie Rotman, Midwest Account Manager for Infosense. They discuss sewer optimization and how Lombard is utilizing technology like SL Rat to prioritize their sewer systems. Brian shares the history of Lombard's sewers and their previous maintenance methods, while Charlie explains...

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...

Looking to gain insights into the world of civil infrastructure and asset management? Don't miss this engaging discussion with Dr. Tom Iseley and Dr. Dennis Traux. Their expertise will inspire you to think differently about the future of our infrastructure. #InfrastructureInsights #AssetManagement #InfrastructureNetwork

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 strivi...

In this eye-opening episode of The Infrastructure Network, we sit down with Rick Joy, the CEO of Easy Cam, to discuss the seismic shifts in the plumbing industry. From the days of his father's Roto-Rooter franchise to the cutting-edge technology of Easy Cam, Rick shares his journey and insights into the plumbing world. 🔧 Why Listen? The Good Old Days Meets Innovation : Rick reminisces about t...

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 Lau...

🎧 About This Episode: Join host Landon Sparks for an enlightening conversation with Mark Lee, a civil engineer who's at the forefront of technological innovation in the infrastructure industry. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in how cutting-edge technology like AI is shaping the future of civil engineering and asset management. 🔍 Why You Should Listen: Curious about the f...

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 rol...

In this episode we talk to the leaders of Roadbotics about their vision for the future of infrastructure. Roadbotics uses AI and advanced technologies to improve roads and transform the way people move around urban environments. The importance of roads, their maintenance and adaptability increases as autonomous vehicles become a reality. We will discuss the challenges in redefining infrastructure...

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...