The QBS Express

In the Room Where It Happens: ACEC Kansas Past and Present Presidents Share Their Stories

ACEC of Kansas — Sun, 08 Mar 2026 03:00:00 +0000

The QBS Express was joined recently by ACEC KS President Brian Armstrong and Past President Agnes Otto. Take a listen as we look back at 2025 and look ahead to 2026. It’s not only a great review of ACEC Kansas activity, but also a chance to learn much more about our fearless leaders as they share their experiences and some nuggets of wisdom!

Episode #35 of the QBS Express is available now!

Highlights

• 2025 legislative session successfully stopped transportation fund sweeps and advanced water infrastructure priorities

• The governor's new water task force mirrors the successful transportation planning model that led to the IKE program

• ACEC Kansas maintains formal partnering committees with KDOT, Army Corps of Engineers, State Board of Regents, and others

• Qualifications-based selection (QBS) remains the organization's top advocacy priority, protecting the engineering procurement process

• The Emerging Leaders Program, now in its 19th year, continues developing future industry leaders

• City and County Public Improvement Awards provide unique PR opportunities at statewide conferences

• Economic Lifelines partnership strengthens transportation funding advocacy at the state level

• Building relationships—with legislators, agency leaders, and fellow engineers—drives the most tangible ROI for board members

Chapters

0:00 – Welcome and Introductions
4:10 – 2025 Legislative Session Wins
10:26 – Water Task Force and Infrastructure Priorities
13:42 – Formal Partnering Committees Overview
29:51 – KSPE Partnership and Collaboration
34:06 – City and County Public Improvement Awards
38:37 – Economic Lifelines and Transportation Advocacy
45:52 – Scholarship Program and National Success
51:19 – Fall Membership Lunches Across Kansas
56:11 – ACEC-KDOT Partnering Conference Highlights
1:02:08 – Water Quality Seminar and Rural Development Events
1:04:13 – Qualifications-Based Selection (QBS) Advocacy
1:09:47 – Emerging Leaders Program Deep Dive
1:17:41 – Personal Board Journeys: Agnes Otto
1:20:59 – Personal Board Journeys: Brian Armstrong
1:24:04 – Why Serve on the ACEC Kansas Board?
1:31:56 – Looking Ahead: Infrastructure Funding and AI Challenges
1:37:44 – Past Presidents Dinner and Legacy
1:40:01 – Lightning Round Questions
1:44:13 – Final Thanks and Wrap-Up

Resources Mentioned

• KDOT (Kansas Department of Transportation) – Multiple partnering committees including leadership liaison, road design, and bridge design

• KDHE (Kansas Department of Health and Environment) – Informal quarterly partnering meetings

• US Army Corps of Engineers - Kansas City District – Joint partnering committee shared with Missouri ACEC

• OFPM (Office of Facilities and Property Management) – State design partnering committee member

• League of Kansas Municipalities – Host of annual City Managers Conference where city improvement awards are presented

• Kansas Association of Counties – Host of annual conference where county improvement awards are presented

Other Resources:
Learn more about ACEC Kansas

Engineering the Future: What Tomorrow's Engineers want in a Career

ACEC of Kansas — Sun, 02 Nov 2025 03:00:00 +0000

What does it take to attract and inspire the next generation of engineers? Hear directly from two standout scholarship winners, Matthew Young and Isaiah Choma, as they share their journeys, motivations, and what they’re really looking for in an employer. From switching majors and navigating internships to the importance of work-life balance and company culture, this conversation is packed with honest insights and a few laughs along the way.

Highlights

The winding path from biology to civil engineering
How scholarship opportunities shape student decisions
The real value of internships (and the “space to be incompetent”)
What young engineers want from employers—beyond salary
The role of company culture and growth opportunities
Lightning round: favorite bars, movies, and dream travel destinations

Chapters

00:00 – Welcome and introductions at SMH Engineering in Manhattan, KS

01:00 – Meet Matthew Young: background, family, and early interests

03:00 – The journey to engineering: switching majors and finding a fit

08:30 – Why K State? College choices and COVID-era experiences

13:00 – Internships: from city government to Black & Veatch

22:50 – Landing a full-time offer and what matters most in a job

25:15 – Isaiah joins: biomedical engineering, film, and global ambitions

29:00 – What young engineers look for in employers and company culture

33:30 – Questions for employers: best days, worst days, and the future of work

41:00 – Lightning round: favorite bars, movies, and retirement dreams

53:20 – Final thoughts and thanks

Resources Mentioned

ACEC Kansas Scholarship Program
ACEC Kansas Scholarships
Black & Veatch
Black & Veatch Careers
Kansas State University (K-State)
K-State Engineering
SMH Consultants
SMH Consultants
ASCE (American Society of Civil Engineers)
ASCE
AISC (American Institute of Steel Construction)
AISC

Other Resources:
Learn more about ACEC Kansas

From Pool Shark to Public Servant: The Journey of House Minority Leader Brandon Woodard

ACEC of Kansas — Mon, 31 Mar 2025 03:00:00 +0000

The QBS Express podcast welcomes House Minority Leader Brandon Woodard to the show. Join us as we discuss his journey from childhood through the world of volunteering with the campaigns of others, and finally to his election to the Kansas Legislature and quick rise to be House Minority Leader. Along the way we’ll discuss people, hobbies, and experiences which shaped his life and commitment to public service.

Have you ever wondered what drives someone to pursue a career in public service? Raised in Topeka, Kansas, Brandon shares his unique childhood experiences, from turning entrepreneurial at 13 with a lawn-mowing business to his vibrant involvement in theater and music. Learn how his early interest in policy was sparked by debates on same-sex marriage, leading him to active participation in student government at the University of Kansas, and finally, a career in politics. Discover the pivotal moments and key influences, including his mentors and the bipartisan relationships that have shaped his political stance. Plus, get a glimpse into his favorite dining spots, vacation destinations, and musical preferences. This episode is not just about policy but understanding the person behind the leadership role.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

00:45 Childhood Memories and Early Influences

02:16 Entrepreneurial Spirit and School Activities

03:49 Musical Pursuits and High School Decisions

08:17 Mentors and Inspirational Figures

12:07 Journey into Public Policy

14:27 College Activism and Early Political Involvement

18:40 Forming the Johnson County Young Democrats

21:09 Decision to Run for Office

24:06 The Moment of Decision

25:21 Journey to House Minority Leader

26:57 Navigating the State House

28:22 Leadership Roles and Responsibilities

30:35 Challenges and Triumphs

37:00 Building Bipartisan Relationships

42:47 Engaging with Constituents

46:30 Personal Favorites and Closing Thoughts

Other Resources:
Brandon Woodard

Learn more about ACEC Kansas

From Small Town Roots to State Leadership: Get to Know Senate Majority Leader Chase Blasi

ACEC of Kansas — Sun, 16 Feb 2025 03:00:00 +0000

The QBS Express is delighted to welcome Kansas Senate Majority Leader Chase Blasi to the show. Join us as we go from an idyllic childhood in Colwich, KS to working on multiple campaigns, being a legislative staffer, running for the Senate and eventually attaining the role of Senate Majority Leader. Along the way we learn about Senator Blasi’s inspirations, philanthropic work, and some of his favorite parts of being a legislator and public servant.

Representing the 26th district in West Sedgwick County, you will get a personal glimpse into his life, the importance of community and relationships, and hear his advice for those looking to get involved in public service.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

00:55 Senator Blasi's Early Life and Childhood

01:20 Growing Up in a Small Town

07:14 Influences and Early Political Interests

10:57 First Steps into Politics

12:22 College Years and Community Service

13:50 Early Career and Political Campaigns

15:07 Working in the Kansas Legislature

19:11 Transition to Chief of Staff

21:48 Decision to Run for Office

22:52 A Resignation and a New Opportunity

23:44 Early Political Career: City Council at 18

25:13 Running for the Senate: The Precinct Path

26:50 Winning the Senate Seat and Leadership Reflections

30:35 The Importance of Building Relationships

37:53 Lightning Round: Personal Insights

38:28 Encouraging the Next Generation

48:42 Final Thoughts and Farewell

Other Resources:
Chase Blasi

Learn more about ACEC Kansas

Leadership Journeys and Industry Insights: Our Annual Conversation with the Past and Current ACEC Presidents

ACEC of Kansas — Sun, 09 Feb 2025 03:00:00 +0000

The QBS Express was joined by ACEC KS President Agnes Otto and Past President Cameron McGown. Take a listen as we look back at 2024 and look ahead to 2025. It’s not only a great review of ACEC Kansas activity, but also a chance to learn much more about our fearless leaders as they share their experiences and some nuggets of wisdom!

We will take a deeper look at their unique career journeys, the value of being involved with ACEC, and how the organization benefits its members. From discussing legislative wins and the importance of qualifications-based selection (QBS) to the rewards of participating in the Emerging Leaders Program, this episode is packed with valuable insights. Don't miss out on their personal stories, professional experiences, and a bit of fun. Tune in to learn more about what makes ACEC Kansas a vital organization for engineering professionals.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction

01:19 Agnes Otto's Career Journey

05:29 Cameron McGown's Career Journey

07:37 Legislative Review and Water Issues

12:58 Partnerships and Collaborations

23:49 Qualifications Based Selection (QBS)

27:41 Emerging Leaders Program

29:56 The Power of Partnerships in ELP

30:41 A Heartwarming ELP Success Story

31:44 Personal Journeys to ACEC Board

32:41 The Value of ACEC Board Membership

35:35 Benefits of ACEC for Companies

41:06 ACEC National's Impact and Initiatives

47:11 Looking Ahead: Challenges and Opportunities

50:34 Personal Reflections and Fun Questions

Other Resources:

Learn more about ACEC Kansas

Engineering Change: Celebrating Philanthropy within ACEC Kansas

ACEC of Kansas — Sun, 15 Sep 2024 03:00:00 +0000

ACEC KS members are making a difference in the world with the work they do every day, but they also make amazing contributions outside of their “day job”. Join us as we visit with Mark Williams, Curt Mader, and Jerry Johnson to learn more about the incredible amount that is given back to communities of need, and the impact it makes on the lives of both those who give and those who receive.

From life-changing water purification projects in impoverished communities overseas to personal tales of giving back, this episode shines a spotlight on the extraordinary altruism within the engineering community. Hear powerful stories about the direct impact these projects have on local populations and how the act of giving has profoundly transformed the volunteers themselves. Join us in celebrating the dedication and heart of engineers making a difference around the world.

00:00 Introduction to the QBS Express Podcast

00:57 Inspiration from Justin Wren's Story

02:21 Meet Jerry Johnson: A Lifetime of Engineering

03:58 Curt Mader's Engineering Journey

06:50 Mark Williams: From Baseball to Engineering

09:39 The Impact of Philanthropy in Engineering

10:23 Curt Mader's Path to Philanthropy

13:29 Mark Williams' Volunteer Journey

15:27 Gerry Johnson's Introduction to Agua Viva

18:36 Agua Viva International: Mission and Growth

25:18 Discussing the Impact of Infrastructure Projects

26:00 Heartwarming Stories of Change

27:53 Personal Transformations from Service

32:40 Challenges and Adaptations During COVID-19

36:41 The Giving Culture in the AEC Community

43:30 How to Get Involved and Make a Difference

46:41 Lightning Round: Getting to Know the Guests

Other Resources:

aguavivainternational.org

Learn more about ACEC Kansas

Building Kansas: Matt Volz on the Kansas Infrastructure Hub

ACEC of Kansas — Sun, 14 Jul 2024 03:00:00 +0000

The ACEC Kansas podcast sits down with Matt Volz, head of the Kansas Infrastructure Hub. Tune in to learn more about what “The Hub” means for Kansas communities, economic development, public safety, and of course, ACEC KS member firms!

In this episode of the QBS Express, the ACEC Kansas podcast, host Scott Heidner, Executive Director of ACEC Kansas, sits down with Matt Volz to discuss the Kansas Infrastructure Hub. Matt Volz, recently appointed to lead the Kansas Infrastructure Hub, shares his journey from Northern Minnesota to his pivotal role in Kansas. The conversation delves into the origins, funding, and impact of the Kansas Infrastructure Hub and the Build Kansas Fund. They discuss the types of projects eligible, the agencies involved, and the significant opportunities for consulting engineering firms. Listen in to learn how this initiative aims to leverage federal dollars to enhance Kansas infrastructure and the ripple effect it has on the economy and local communities.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

00:57 Matt Volz's Background and Career Journey

02:13 Transition to Kansas DOT and ITS Engineering

05:14 Consulting Career and International Experience

07:35 Return to Kansas and the Infrastructure Hub

08:41 Overview of the Kansas Infrastructure Hub

13:27 Funding and Legislative Support

14:50 Eligibility and Application Process

20:48 Impact on Consulting Engineering Companies

26:19 Success Stories and Future Plans

31:44 Lightning Round: Getting to Know Matt Volz

34:19 Conclusion and Farewell

Other Resources:

kshub.org

Learn more about ACEC Kansas

Innovating Infrastructure: Alternative Delivery in Kansas Transportation

ACEC of Kansas — Sun, 26 May 2024 03:00:00 +0000

The QBS Express, the ACEC KS podcast, sat down with key KDOT leaders to discuss alternative delivery and progress on specific projects using alternative delivery processes. Join us as we discuss the history of state legislation opening up alternative delivery, lessons learned, and more.

00:30 Introducing Today's Guests

01:33 Unveiling Today's Discussion: Alternative Delivery in Kansas

01:59 Guest Backgrounds: Journeys to KDOT

10:27 Exploring the DeSoto Project: A Progressive Design Build Model

14:00 US 69 Express: Kansas' Largest Infrastructure Project

17:03 Comparing Design Build and Progressive Design Build Models

21:54 The Industry's Response to Alternative Delivery Models

24:25 Consultants and Contractors: Adapting to New Delivery Methods

25:53 Local Government and Industry Acceptance of Alternative Delivery

26:35 The Evolution of Alternative Delivery in Construction

27:17 Key Factors for Success in Alternative Delivery Projects

28:50 Unique Requirements and Collaborations in Construction Projects

29:41 Progress and Milestones of the DeSoto Project

30:14 Detailed Update on the DeSoto Project's Progress

34:42 Exploring the 65 Project: Progress and Innovations

38:01 Lessons Learned and the Power of Flexibility

40:23 The Importance of Co-location and Teamwork

46:06 Future of Alternative Delivery with KDOT

49:18 Concluding Thoughts and Appreciation

Other Resources:

Learn more about ACEC Kansas

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Bridging Futures: Grace Lipford on Engineering, Scholarships, and Career Visions

ACEC of Kansas — Sun, 24 Mar 2024 03:00:00 +0000

Join the QBS Express as we visit with Grace Lipford, a recent winner of both state and national ACEC Kansas scholarship awards. Listen in as we visit with Grace about how the scholarship award process provided not just funds but contacts and experience. We also visit with Grace about what she and graduating colleagues are looking for in an employer, the best ways to grab their attention, and how to be a destination employer for these graduates!

00:52 Introducing Our Special Guest: Grace Lipford

01:48 Grace's Journey to Engineering

02:29 Exploring Pre-College Interests and Inspirations

05:33 Diving Into College Life and Engineering Passion

07:33 The Impact of Scholarships on Grace's Education

10:16 Experiencing the ACEC National Conference

12:31 Reflections on the Scholarship Process

14:17 Insights into Job Preferences Among Engineering Students

16:45 The Role of Internships and Career Fairs in Job Decisions

19:18 Maximizing Impact at Career Fairs: Strategies for Companies

20:26 The Importance of Employer Presence at Career Fairs

21:52 Choosing the Right Representatives: Experience vs. Youth

22:36 Personalizing Recruitment: Beyond the Resume

23:22 Identifying Top Companies: A Candidate's Perspective

23:52 The Role of Dramatic Appeal and Technical Details in Attracting Candidates

25:42 The Significance of Communication Skills in Engineering

27:00 Exploring Company Social Media Presence and Its Impact

30:22 Understanding What Companies Seek in Engineering Graduates

34:20 Getting to Know the Guest: Favorite Books, Movies, and Music

Other Resources:

Learn more about ACEC Kansas

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Reflections and Possibilities with the Presidents of ACEC

ACEC of Kansas — Sun, 11 Feb 2024 03:00:00 +0000

On this episode of the QBS Express, host Scott Heidner engages in a conversation with Brett Letkowski, the past-president and Cameron McGown, the current president of ACEC Kansas. Rightly entailing reflections on their journeys on the board, they discuss the organization's key events in 2023, the year's initiatives, legislative sessions, funding for water and vertical infrastructures, among other key accomplishments. The guests discuss their involvement in various collaborative projects, challenges they faced, and the impact of their service at the state and national levels of the ACEC. They highlight the significance of scholarship opportunities offered by the ACEC, underscoring the benefits to the students and the industry at large. The podcast also features a discussion on their favorite music, movies, and local restaurants, helping listeners know them better personally.

00:00 Introduction and Welcome

00:59 Looking Back at ACEC's Successes in 2023

04:29 Partnerships and Collaborations

16:02 Scholarships and Opportunities

18:40 In-Person Meetings and Conferences

23:42 Promoting Qualifications Based Selection

26:23 Emerging Leaders Program

28:48 Journey to the Board and Benefits of Involvement

33:37 Importance of Teamwork and Collaboration

35:41 The Role of the Board in Industry Events and Activities

36:06 The Board's Influence on Legislation and Policy

38:25 Reflections on Serving on the Board

40:46 How to Get Involved with the Board

42:26 Looking Ahead: Priorities and Challenges for the Year

49:08 The Board's Relationship with ACEC National

Other Resources:

Learn more about ACEC Kansas

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

KDOT Transportation Tales w/ Calvin Reed and Greg Shieber

ACEC of Kansas — Sun, 21 Jan 2024 03:00:00 +0000

In this engaging conversation on the QBS Express, host Scott Heidner is joined by Calvin Reed, Kansas Secretary of Transportation and Director of the Kansas Turnpike Authority, and Greg Shieber, the Deputy Secretary and State Transportation Engineer for the state of Kansas. Both guests share a glimpse of their personal backgrounds, their journeys into the realm of civil engineering, and their experiences working with the Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT). They provide valuable insights into KDOT's broad mission, stressing its significant roles beyond the design and paving of roads and building of bridges. The conversation also highlights the agency's vital partnerships at the state, federal, and local level, the challenges and opportunities lying ahead for KDOT, and the critical role of the workforce in the future of engineering and infrastructure projects.

00:09 Introduction and Guest Introduction

01:02 Guest Background: Greg Schieber

06:45 Guest Background: Calvin Reed

15:17 Understanding KDOT's Role and Responsibilities

23:57 Interactions with Policymakers at State and Federal Level

32:33 Appreciation for Agency Partners

33:07 Working with Local Units and Government

34:13 Building Relationships with Local Authorities

34:34 Challenges in Local Infrastructure Maintenance

34:59 Investing in Local Bridge Improvement Program

36:13 Developing a Local Bridge Planning Tool

36:42 Future Challenges in Local System Investment

37:07 The Role of KDOT in Supporting Local Governments

37:37 Creation of the Kansas Infrastructure Hub

38:31 Looking Forward: Challenges and Opportunities for KDOT

38:52 Delivering the Eisenhower Legacy Transportation Program

39:25 Future Funding for Transportation

41:09 Workforce Challenges in the Industry

42:30 Innovation and Changing Technologies in Infrastructure

43:15 Managing Inflation in Local Projects

44:12 Future of Preservation and Modernization of Infrastructure

Other Resources:

Learn more about ACEC Kansas

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

All the Numbers w/ Steven Johnson, Kansas State Treasurer

ACEC of Kansas — Sun, 13 Aug 2023 03:00:00 +0000

Kansas State Treasurer Steven Johnson might very well have the most important job that no one ever really thinks about. He shares with host Scott Heidner how he got to his current position and how the work of the treasury has an impact on the lives of every Kansan. On this episode we discuss:

A family heritage of farming since 1868
Growing up on the farm and the influence of 4H
How farming has transformed over the years
Working in the private sector
Running for office to fix the underfunded pensions
Making systems like KPERS work for Kansans
The criticality of staff to make the legislature work
Partnering with Kathy Wolfe Moore to work on the pension system
The breadth of responsibility at the treasurer's office
Helping Kansans find unclaimed property
Supporting education savings through the Kansas Learning Quest program
The ABLE Savings Plan

Other Resources:

The Office of the Treasurer

Kansas Able Savings Plan

KPERS

Learn more about ACEC Kansas

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

A Chance Encounter Leads to a Political Career with Blake Carpenter, Kansas State Representative, 81st District

ACEC of Kansas — Sun, 02 Apr 2023 03:00:00 +0000

Being involved in politics wasn’t even on Blake Carpenter’s radar until a class project at Wichita State led him to an interview with Representative Jim Howell that changed everything. He shares with host Scott Heidner how that journey has led him to his current role as the House Speaker Pro Tem. On this episode we discuss:

Growing up in Halstead
Being ranked a top tier gamer at Call of Duty (when time allows)
Trying to figure out what to study at Wichita State
The value of the Eagle Scout achievement
Becoming interested in politics
Starting as a freshman legislator right out of college
Growing into leadership roles and the associated time commitment
The internship program
Blake’s podcast, The Kansas Briefing
Proposing on the cliffs of Ireland

Other Resources:

Learn more about Braden, Headner, Lowe and Associates

Blake Carpenter, Kansas State Representative, 81st District

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

From Student Body President to House Minority Leader with Vic Miller, Kansas State Representative, 58th District

ACEC of Kansas — Sun, 26 Feb 2023 03:00:00 +0000

Host Scott Heidner is joined by Kansas State Representative and House Minority Leader Vic Miller. They examine his life from the one room schoolhouse to his love for fantasy sports, as well as his involvement in politics beginning with his time at Emporia State as student body president. On this episode we discuss:

Growing up in a one room schoolhouse
The impact of his father’s involvement
The role of Associated Students of Kansas and the act they got passed
The importance of having attorneys (at least a few) in the legislature
Starting out young as an elected official
Trying to balance service and a public practice
How serving in property valuation gave him an in-demand skill
The fraught challenge of drawing district lines
Influence and responsibility
Getting young people involved in public service
A love of fantasy sports

Other Resources:

Learn more about ACEC Kansas

Vic Miller, Kansas State Representative, 58th District

This podcast is brought to you by the American Council of Engineering Companies of Kansas.

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

A Journey of Service with Chris Croft, Kansas State Representative, 8th District

ACEC of Kansas — Sun, 12 Feb 2023 03:00:00 +0000

Host Scott Heidner is joined by Kansas State Representative and House Majority Leader Chris Croft. They talk about his life and military career that eventually brought him to Kansas and led him to taking on his current role in state government. On this episode we discuss:

The role his mother played in his life and finding role models for him
Growing up outside
Joining the Army and seeing the world
How he met his wife
What he learned from Popeye’s Fried Chicken
Jumping out of the first plane he rode on
The value of mentors in his life
Working at the Pentagon and military mobility equipment
Finding a home in Kansas
A vision for transportation infrastructure in the state
Getting started in public service
Taking on the house majority leader mantle
Going out on Black Friday and Christmas Eve

Other Resources:

Learn more about ACEC Kansas

Chris Croft, Kansas State Representative, 8th District

This podcast is brought to you by the American Council of Engineering Companies of Kansas.

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Looking back and forward with current and past ACEC Presidents Jeff McKerrow and Brett Letkowski

ACEC of Kansas — Thu, 22 Sep 2022 03:00:00 +0000

Host Scott Heidner meets with the previous and current ACEC presidents in Jeff McKerrow and Brett Letkowski to discuss the latest developments and the opportunity that lies ahead for the organization. On this episode we discuss:

Transportation funding situation
Stopping some legislation is just as important
Moving back to in-person meetings
Legislative leadership and the upcoming governor race
Keeping the train on the tracks (figuratively speaking)
Increasing college scholarships
Bringing back the emerging leaders program
The partnership with KSPE
How to be involved with ACEC

Other Resources:

Learn more about ACEC Kansas

Brett Letkowski, TranSystems, ACEC Kansas President

Jeff McKerrow, Kimley-Horn, ACEC Kansas Past President

This podcast is brought to you by the American Council of Engineering Companies of Kansas.

This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

The QBS Express ft. co-host Sara Clark and President of KC SmartPort Chris Gutierrez

ACEC of Kansas — Thu, 28 Apr 2022 16:32:12 +0000

The latest episode of The QBS Express features co-host Sara Clark with TranSystems and guest Chris Gutierrez, President of KC SmartPort.

Listen in as we get an in-depth account of how SmartPort came to be, who it serves, what part of the market occupies its time and resources, and how Chris's interest in this industry was sparked by collecting beer cans at a young age!

The QBS Express ft. co-host Jeff Keller and KDHE Director of the Bureau of Water Tom Stiles

ACEC of Kansas — Wed, 02 Mar 2022 17:43:56 +0000

The latest episode of The QBS Express features co-host Jeff Keller with Burns and McDonnell and KDHE Director of the Bureau of Water Tom Stiles.

Listen in as we learn about his interest in water quality from a young age, how he found his way to the engineering field, the services he provides to members, and the interaction that involves with ACEC member firms.

The QBS Express ft. co-host Steve Turner and Representative Richard Proehl

ACEC of Kansas — Thu, 30 Sep 2021 16:33:10 +0000

The QBS Express is happy to welcome co-host Shawn Turner with Transystems and Representative Richard Proehl to the show!

Tune in as we learn about Representative Proehl's interest in veterinary science and agriculture, his time in the 101st Airborne Division, working as a rodeo clown and bull rider, and most importantly the importance of good infrastructure investment!

The QBS Express ft. Chad Bristow

ACEC of Kansas — Wed, 21 Jul 2021 15:53:45 +0000

The QBS Express welcomes Chad Bristow, Director of Facilities for the Kansas Board of Regents, to the show! Join us as we discover how a farm kid from Leavenworth County found his way from art to the world of facilities and design, the many ways Chad and the Board of Regents team partner with ACEC member firms, and some very interesting recent developments regarding the funding of university infrastructure!

The QBS Express ft. Keith Browning

ACEC of Kansas — Tue, 08 Jun 2021 14:52:13 +0000

Join us as we visit with Keith Browning, the Local Road Engineer for the Kansas Association of Counties! Listen in as we discuss how he found his way to the engineering field, the services he provides to members, and the interaction that involves with ACEC member firms. Stay with us to the end and you may find out something you didn’t know about what Keith does in his free time!

The QBS Express ft. Steve Hewitt

ACEC of Kansas — Fri, 07 May 2021 17:31:05 +0000

The QBS Express visits with Kansas Turnpike Authority (KTA) CEO Steve Hewitt. Join as we learn about the KTA’s mission, the customers it serves, partnerships with other states, aligned certain services with KDOT, and how technology is driving change. And if you stay with us to the end, you may or may not learn about Mr. Hewitt being part of a dynamic 80s/90s grunge cover band…..

The QBS Express ft. Julie Lorenz and Bob Brock

ACEC of Kansas — Wed, 03 Mar 2021 18:07:14 +0000

The QBS Express visits with KDOT Secretary Julie Lorenz and KDOT Director of Aviation Bob Brock to discuss the recently announced Kansas Supersonic Flight Corridor! Learn the exciting story of how KDOT and partners all around the state proactively created and pitched this program, the opportunities and challenges that were met along the way, and what the future of this project means to Kansas business, the aerospace industry, scientific/academic fields of study, and much more.

The QBS Express ft. Frank White

ACEC of Kansas — Sat, 26 Sep 2020 22:19:49 +0000

Five time all-star. 1980 American League Championship Series MVP. World Series Champion. An incredible eight gold gloves. The ACEC Kansas QBS Express podcast series is delighted to bring you our interview with Jackson County Executive and former Kansas City Royal Frank White. We hope you enjoy listening at least a fraction as much as we enjoyed the conversation!

The QBS Express ft. Gary Janzen

ACEC of Kansas — Thu, 23 Jul 2020 14:44:58 +0000

Join ACEC KS Executive Director Scott Heidner on this episode of the QBS Express as we visit with Gary Janzen, City Engineer/Assistant Director of Public Works for the City of Wichita. We convince Gary to tell us the full story of his journey into engineering and public works, what changes he has seen through his long career with the City of Wichita, what challenges and opportunities he sees ahead, and what he does on the odd chance he winds up with some free time!

The QBS Express ft. Kansas Engineering College Deans

ACEC of Kansas — Tue, 08 Oct 2019 21:24:05 +0000

ACEC Executive Director Scott Heidner joins the Deans of the three Kansas Engineering Colleges for a discussion on the University Engineering Initiatives Act (UEIA). Learn more about how this initiative was born, the substantial requirements placed on universities in order to be a beneficiary, and the incredible success metrics as we near the ten year mark of the program. Nobody knows more about it than the Deans!

The QBS Express ft. Kansas Governor Laura Kelly

ACEC of Kansas — Tue, 13 Aug 2019 15:33:32 +0000

The QBS Express welcomes Kansas Governor Laura Kelly to the show. Listen in as we discuss life in a military family, the many places she’s lived along the way, why playing for the Yankees was her first career choice, and some of the best opportunities that come with being the Governor of Kansas. We also discuss issues near and dear to ACEC and her support for several of those issues through the years.

The QBS Express ft. Jerry Stump

ACEC of Kansas — Tue, 09 Jul 2019 14:36:55 +0000

The QBS Express welcomes Jerry Stump, President & CEO of Volkert Inc and a Past Chairman of ACEC National. Join us as we discuss the future opportunities and challenges of the industry, what traits are found in good leaders, the most important political issues to our businesses, and the joys of hearing Merle Haggard music on the radio as a child!

QBS Express ft. ACEC National President Linda Darr

ACEC of Kansas — Wed, 29 May 2019 13:20:23 +0000

Join us as we visit with ACEC National President Linda Darr! We discuss the career steps that brought her to ACEC, current challenges to the consulting engineering industry, and how ACEC will play a vital role under her leadership in meeting these challenges.

QBS Express ft. Julie Lorenz

ACEC of Kansas — Wed, 10 Apr 2019 18:36:39 +0000

The QBS Express welcomes KDOT Secretary Julie Lorenz. We discuss what it's like growing up in a newspaper family, the unpredictable ways she found herself in the engineering world, classic movies, and of course future plans for KDOT!

The QBS Express ft. Tim Cowden, KCADC

ACEC of Kansas — Tue, 26 Feb 2019 18:27:39 +0000

The QBS Express welcomes Tim Cowden, President & CEO of the Kansas City Area Development Council. We discuss life as an Oklahoma Sooner, following your dreams even when they take a detour, and the contributions of the engineering community in helping market the Greater Kansas City Area.

QBS Express ft. Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt

ACEC of Kansas — Tue, 05 Feb 2019 22:30:36 +0000

The QBS Express welcomes Attorney General Derek Schmidt. Listen in as we explore life as a child in SE Kansas, best political/career advice, hidden gems of Kansas, and what it’s like to argue before the United States Supreme Court!

The QBS Express ft. Ron Ryckman

ACEC of Kansas — Tue, 15 Jan 2019 23:33:12 +0000

Kansas State Representative and Speaker of the House Ron Ryckman joins the ACEC Kansas podcast team for a good conversation about what it's like to be Speaker, interesting sports figures he's had the chance to befriend, country music, great experience working across the aisle with the other party on policy issues, and his support of QBS!

The QBS Express Ft. Blaine Finch

ACEC of Kansas — Fri, 14 Dec 2018 21:26:51 +0000

This episode of the QBS Express sits down with State Representative and Speaker Pro Ten Blaine Finch of Ottawa. We discuss meeting your heroes, historic candidates for President (and their downfall), the saddest country songs of all time, and what to choose for good sipping' whiskey with one of the more engaging personalities at the Kansas Capitol!