What does it really take to lead massive infrastructure programs at the intersection of engineering, public policy, and national security?

In today’s episode, BJ Kraemer sits down with longtime mentor, former boss, and retired two-star general in the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Tom Tickner, to unpack leadership, public infrastructure, and how the industry is evolving through geospatial technology.

They discuss what the Corps of Engineers actually does, what he learned about appropriations, education, and relationships from serving on Capitol Hill as a budget liaison, and why infrastructure often goes unnoticed until it fails.

They also delve into the intersection of engineering, policy, and politics, Tom’s career transition after 33 years of active duty to working at Woolpert, and how the company is leveraging geospatial data, digital twins, and “GEOAI” to help decision-makers plan, build, and maintain systems faster and smarter.

Tom also shares his thoughts on leading without rank, building culture through teamwork and communication, and why trust and collaboration are essential in both the military and private sector. Tune in now!

Key Points From This Episode:

Learn what a USACE district commander is responsible for and their role in disaster response.
The USACE’s role in the Pacific and how it supports other agencies operate at scale.
Unpack what Tom learned on Capitol Hill about educating decision-makers on priorities.
Tom shares the differences between working in the military and the private sector.
Hear the biggest leadership lessons from his career and why AI will not replace people.

Quotes:

“Within the military, we don’t lobby. We do build advocacy, and we do educate.” — Tom Tickner

“We’re all learning, leading, and going together and doing really, really well. It is a lot of fun what we have going on in Woolpert.” — Tom Tickner

“I am convinced that culture in a company, in a unit, is just as important, if not more important, of getting the mission done, especially when times get tough.” — Tom Tickner

“If you have time to collaborate, do it. It serves a lot of purposes.” — Tom Tickner

Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:

Tom Tickner on LinkedIn

Woolpert

US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE)

The Speed of Trust

The Infinite Game

Selling the Invisible

The First 90 Days

A Philly Special Christmas Party Album

Leadership Blueprints Podcast

Leadership Blueprints Podcast on YouTube

MCFA

MCFA Careers

BJ Kraemer on LinkedIn