Why Great Engineers Focus on Prevention, Not Just Problem Solving

Welcome to a new episode of I’m The Gaffer 👷‍♂️ If you're a construction business owner, engineer, project manager, contractor, safety professional, or someone responsible for delivering projects, this conversation offers valuable insights into engineering leadership, safety, technology, and the future of the industry. In this episode, Craig Montz joins Gavin Coyle to discuss what makes a great engineer, why the industry needs more engineering talent, how technology is transforming project delivery, and why preventing problems is more valuable than simply solving them. You’ll learn: Why engineering is a rewarding career with endless opportunities What qualities make a great engineer Why safety should be considered during design, not after construction starts How asking better questions leads to better project outcomes Whether construction projects are being over-engineered How BIM and 3D modelling are changing project planning Why technology and AI are becoming essential engineering tools Why experienced engineers focus on preventing problems, not just fixing them How engineering firms can attract and retain top talent Why leadership is often about listening instead of providing solutions Why Craig believes he should have bet on himself earlier in his career 🎯 Episode Highlights / Timestamps 00:00 Problem solving vs problem prevention 01:30 Introduction to Craig Montz 05:15 How engineering firms attract top talent 07:52 What makes a great engineer? 09:37 Why engineering logic improves safety 10:36 Are projects being over-engineered? 15:23 The qualities of a modern engineer 16:03 How BIM and technology are transforming construction 18:44 The leadership lesson behind problem prevention 20:00 Building projects virtually before construction begins 26:14 How AI helps engineers make better decisions 27:25 Engineering salaries and specialist career opportunities 32:05 Leadership lessons from managing people 35:00 The future of engineering and technology 37:50 Knowing what you know now, what would you do differently? Connect with Craig Montz LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigmontz/ Company Website https://mcclurevision.com/ About Coyle Group Coyle Group provides safety outsourcing and managed services for high-impact projects across wind, utilities, power generation, engineering, and construction. With 25+ years of experience, 100+ safety professionals, and 1M+ safety hours completed, Coyle Group helps projects run safely and compliantly. Learn more: https://coyle-group.com/ About the Podcast I’m The Gaffer, hosted by construction professional Gavin Coyle, brings together industry leaders, entrepreneurs, and experts to share real insights on leadership, growth, safety, engineering, and success in the construction industry. Listen on: Apple Podcasts https://bit.ly/ImTheGaffer Spotify https://bit.ly/ImTheGafferSpotify YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@imthegafferpodcast Website https://www.imthegaffer.com Subscribe for more insights for construction business owners, engineers, project leaders, and industry professionals.