Join host Dr. James Bryant as he interviews Aaron Shavel, a seasoned civil engineer with a decade of experience in New York City's transit construction sector. Discover how Aaron navigated his path from field engineer to managing multimillion-dollar MTA projects, and explore his insights on leadership transitions, preventing burnout, and finding work-life balance in the demanding construction industry. Aaron shares valuable wisdom on team building and his “train your replacement” philosophy while discussing his current pivot toward infrastructure policy work.
Key Highlights
- Career Evolution: From entry-level field engineer to project manager overseeing $150 million in transit projects
- Leadership Transformation: Managing the challenging transition from an 8-person team to leading 45 people
- Burnout Prevention: Practical strategies for maintaining balance in high-pressure construction environments
- Team Development: Implementing a “train your replacement” mentality that elevates everyone
- Infrastructure Innovation: Insights on design-build approaches and public-private partnerships
- Career Planning: The power of written manifestation for career development and pivoting
Timestamps
00:00 – Introduction and Aaron's background
03:00 – Career transition to infrastructure policy work
05:36 – The realities of working in general contracting
07:00 – Managing burnout and work-life balance
08:10 – Leadership transition challenges
10:46 – Effective leadership strategies and team building
13:26 – The “train your replacement” mentality
15:06 – Future career planning and reflection
18:28 – Role reversal Q&A with Dr. Bryant
21:09 – Final thoughts and closing remarks
Featured Guest
Aaron Shavel is a New York City-based civil engineer specializing in rail and transit construction. With extensive experience managing complex projects for the MTA and Long Island Railroad, Aaron has recently joined the Alliance for Innovation and Infrastructure to help shape nationwide infrastructure policy.
Connect With Our Guest
About Engineer Your Success
Engineer Your Success is the podcast for technical professionals who want to grow as leaders, build meaningful careers, and live fulfilled—at work and at home. Hosted by Dr. James Bryant, the show blends practical strategies and real-life stories to help you lead with intention, whether you're advancing in your role, managing a team, or growing a business. With insights drawn from industry, government, and national organizations, each episode equips you with tools to thrive professionally without losing sight of what matters most.
Connect with Dr. Bryant
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Website: engineeryoursuccessnow.com
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Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjamesbryant_coach/
- LinkedIn: Dr. James Bryant
Grab Your Copy of the Engineer's Blueprint for Success Here: https://www.engineeryoursuccessnow.com/engineers-blueprint/