In a recent episode of the Encourage Build Grow podcast hosted by Randy Wilburn, listeners were offered a deep dive into the world of leadership development, communication, and personal development, specifically tailored for design professionals. Featuring Charlie Hager, an assistant project manager at LJA Engineering, the podcast episode was nothing short of a goldmine of valuable insights.
Charlie Hager shared his journey in civil engineering, his passion for creating projects that resonate with people, and his transition from South Carolina to Houston and finally settling in Austin. The episode delved into multiple facets of the industry, including the challenges of navigating it as a young professional and the importance of leadership and employee retention.
Navigating the Industry
Charlie praised LJA Engineering for its commitment to the growth and individuality of its engineers. He emphasized how the firm’s robust marketing and HR departments make it an ideal workspace. While the industry traditionally demands “paying your dues” before opportunities arise, the conversation turned to the importance of firms recognizing and accommodating fresh talent.
Differences in generational leadership perspectives were brought to the forefront. While established leaders often cite grit, patience, and endurance as the keys to success, younger professionals, influenced by the age of instant gratification, may have different work expectations. It’s crucial that both sides understand these variations to work harmoniously.
Success and Leadership
For young professionals, understanding that success in this high-stakes industry takes time and patience is key. Leaders, too, have a role to play by recognizing the impatience that often characterizes the younger workforce. They need to implement systems that both guide and accelerate young professionals toward success, filling the gap in work-life balance, technology use, mentorship, and other areas where generational differences can create friction.
Employee Retention
The podcast episode highlighted the forward-thinking strategies firms should adopt for engaging younger staff. Formal mentoring programs are often missing but much needed, and diversity and inclusion are non-negotiables for long-term retention. Innovative benefits like student loan repayment can play a significant role in fostering loyalty.
Engaging Young Employees
According to Charlie, firms that tackle common pain points like student loan debt will see returns not just in loyalty but also in productivity. Financial fitness training, offering clear career paths, and creating a culture of continuous learning are some of the ways to engage young employees who are the future of any organization. Acknowledging the value that even interns bring to the table can set the stage for a culture of appreciation and success.
Improving Leadership Skills
Managers can’t afford to be stingy with feedback — in fact, they should be giving ten times more than they currently do. Younger engineers should be involved in client meetings and industry events for professional growth. Soft skills should be cultivated alongside technical skills for a well-rounded development, and employees should be encouraged to see projects through to completion.
Industry and Culture
Organizations need to have a strong culture to attract and retain talent. Being transparent about industry recruiting activities can educate employees and enhance their sense of value. The conversation also touched upon the necessity for the public to recognize the importance of civil engineering and architecture in everyday life.
Conclusion
The Encourage Build Grow podcast offers a rich platform for future leaders in engineering and design to develop and share their ideas. Charlie Hager’s story serves as an inspiration for young professionals navigating their careers. The need for more graduates in STEM fields is evident, and LJA Engineering stands out as an example of an ideal firm for young professionals seeking to make their mark. With more platforms like this podcast, the industry is bound to evolve into a more inclusive and dynamic environment for all generations.
