E39: Crazy Oil Field Fails & Genius Fixes – Geotechnical Engineering in the Wild With Louis Schulte

In this episode of The Ground Investigation Podcast, Michael Taylor interviews Louis Schulte, a senior geotechnical engineer, discussing his extensive experience in the field of geotechnical engineering. They explore the importance of field experience, the innovative design-build model in Ohio, challenges faced in shale plays, the significance of instrumentation, and the need for local expertise. Louis emphasizes the importance of mentoring young engineers and the necessity of practical knowledge in the field. The discussion concludes with insights on overcoming engineering myths and the importance of simplicity in engineering solutions.

Key Topics Discussed

✅Field experience is invaluable for engineers.

✅Ohio's design-build model fosters innovation and collaboration.

✅Local knowledge is crucial in geotechnical projects.

✅Instrumentation helps verify engineering work effectively.

✅Overcomplication in engineering can lead to misunderstandings.

✅Mentoring young engineers is essential for their growth.

✅Practical knowledge often trumps theoretical knowledge.

✅Technology should be right-sized for the job at hand.

✅Simple plans are often more effective than complex designs.

✅The engineering field needs to focus on practical solutions

Memorable Quotes from Louis Schulte

🗣️"We break down the infrastructure beneath your feet."

🗣️"I grew up on a farm here in Ohio."

🗣️"You learn how to be around large equipment."

🗣️"We need local expertise in engineering."

🗣️"Instrumentation is crucial to verify your work."

🗣️"We need to focus on simple plans."

🗣️"We need to right-size technology to the job."

Subscribe to the show to join our host, Michael Taylor, as he continues to explore the intricacies of running a business in the ground investigation industry, bringing geological experts to share their wisdom, insights, and plans for the future, and shedding light on what they believe will enhance the ground investigation industry moving forward. Don't forget to stay connected by visiting .css-j9qmi7{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;-webkit-flex-direction:row;-ms-flex-direction:row;flex-direction:row;font-weight:700;margin-bottom:1rem;margin-top:2.8rem;width:100%;-webkit-box-pack:start;-ms-flex-pack:start;-webkit-justify-content:start;justify-content:start;padding-left:5rem;}@media only screen and (max-width: 599px){.css-j9qmi7{padding-left:0;-webkit-box-pack:center;-ms-flex-pack:center;-webkit-justify-content:center;justify-content:center;}}.css-j9qmi7 svg{fill:#27292D;}.css-j9qmi7 .eagfbvw0{-webkit-align-items:center;-webkit-box-align:center;-ms-flex-align:center;align-items:center;color:#27292D;}