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In this special Market Edge episode of ACEC’s Engineering Influence podcast, host Diana O’Lare is joined by GHD’s Victor Tirado, Americas Market Sector Lead for Maritime & Coastal, and Michael Vanderbeek, North American Maritime & Coastal Planning Lead, for a deep dive into the shifting dynamics of the global ports market.

With decades of international experience, Victor and Michael unpack the trends driving change in port planning and design — from the growing role of ports as energy hubs in the global decarbonization effort to the adoption of alternative fuels. Looking ahead, they address the potential of artificial intelligence and automation, and the increasing importance of surrounding real estate — from cold storage to logistics facilities — in sustaining port competitiveness.

The conversation also explores the evolving landscape of port financing, as public authorities hit debt capacity limits and increasingly rely on federal, state, and private sector partnerships to deliver billion-dollar projects. Victor and Michael share perspectives on the uncertainty created by tariffs and trade diversification, the pause in offshore wind development, and how ports are adapting to unpredictable market and policy shifts.

Looking ahead, they address the potential of artificial intelligence and automation in the maritime space, the realities of labor and regulatory constraints, and the increasing importance of surrounding real estate — from cold storage to logistics facilities — in sustaining port competitiveness.

This episode offers practical insights and forward-looking analysis for engineering firms navigating change in one of the world’s most vital and complex markets.

NAWE President Carl Bentzel joins the Engineering Influence Podcast to explain the role of marine terminal operators, current trends shaping ports, and the policy challenges affecting trade and infrastructure.

Topics include the impact of trade policy and tariffs, Chinese dominance in ship-to-shore cranes, import volume volatility, technology and space constraints at urban ports, rail connectivity and mergers, and the critical role engineers play in modernizing the waterfront.

Welcome to the Engineering Influence podcast, where we delve into the complexities and opportunities in today's economic landscape. Hosted by Diana O' Lare, Director of Market Intelligence for the American Council of Engineering Companies, this episode is part of our new series, The Market Edge.

We are joined by Sarah Wolfe, a Senior Economist and Strategist at Morgan Stanley Wealth Management. With a wealth of experience and insights, Sarah discusses pivotal topics such as tariffs, inflation, immigration, and their impact on various sectors including construction and manufacturing. Gain an understanding of the possible recession implications and how firms can navigate these challenges.

Dive in to explore the broader economic effects of current policies, potential positive catalysts like tax negotiations, and the global trade dynamics affecting engineering firms. Don't miss this insightful conversation aimed at empowering engineering businesses to adapt and grow in an ever-changing market.

Welcome to another episode of the Engineering Influence podcast from the American Council of Engineering Companies. Join Diana O'Lare, Director of Market Intelligence at ACEC National, as she engages in a compelling conversation with Mike Moss, President of the Society of College and University Planning. Together, they explore the evolving landscape of higher education, diving into topics such as enrollment trends, the impact of administration changes, and the future of campus planning.

Discover how institutions are adapting to demographic shifts, with insights into the concept of the "enrollment cliff" and its implications. Learn about the role of international students, the influence of artificial intelligence on campus planning, and potential financial challenges faced by educational institutions. Diana and Mike discuss workforce shortages and the importance of STEM programs.

This episode offers valuable perspectives for engineering firms, shedding light on opportunities that arise from trends in education and their impact on the engineering sector. Whether you're interested in integrated planning, multidisciplinary spaces, or innovative learning environments, there's something here for everyone.

Don't miss this engaging discussion that weaves together the future of education with engineering excellence.

Listen to the podcast: https://acecnational.podbean.com/e/navigating-the-future-insights-into-higher-education-and-engineering/

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Download the latest brief: https://www.acec.org/resource/educational-market-brief-fall-2024/