Tech Takes podcast knows what matters to you. Thought-provoking interviews with industry leaders, government officials, academia and influencers on hot topics relevant to the engineering and applied science profession and the technologies that shape the world around us.
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This Podcast is done by two Civil Engineers about Construction and Civil Engineer in General. There will be lots of talk and vibes for Civil engineers. feel free to listen! Music: https://www.purple-planet.com
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Talking about all the different things that 'digital' means in the arts, culture and heritage sectors. Tales of success and failure, interrogating the shiny new things and looking at what works (or not) and why, Interviews with digital folks working across the sector and beyond, in-house, consultants, funders, and more.
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Petra Söderling, the author of 'Governments and Innovation - the Economic Developer's Guide to Our Future', discusses the role governments play in creating new innovations, and innovation based industries. Intended audience: Economic Development and Foreign Direct Investment Professionals, Policy Makers, Civil Servants, CEOs, CFOs, R&D folks and tech enthusiasts. To subscribe to more free content go to https://petrasoderling.com/ Nothing in the show should be taken as investment advise.
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Welcome to life at the USC Viterbi School of Engineering. Classes, student organizations, faculty, research, hands-on projects, and don't forget our social lives outside of class - it's all up for discussion with regular appearances and interviews with special guests. Viterbi Voices: The Podcast is hosted by Paul Ledesma (Executive Director, Undergraduate Admission) and current student Hannah Fonseca (Mechanical Engineering, Class of 2027).
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Infrastructure Challenges and Opportunities in Ontario
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54:45In this special edition of Tech Takes, recorded live at OACETT’s 2025 Conference in Windsor, Ontario, host Louis Savard, C.Tech, moderates a discussion on Ontario’s infrastructure challenges and opportunities—and the critical role technicians and technologists play in shaping the province’s future. Panelists Nadia Todorova (RCCAO), Doug Jones, CET …
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Changing Majors 3 times, Sorority Life, Study Abroad Memories, and Tech Consulting with Lauren (Howe) Johnson, MS, Data Analytics '17, BS ISE '16
1:55:44
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1:55:44In this episode, Paul and Hannah sit down with Lauren (Howe) Johnson to reflect on the twists and turns of her USC journey, from navigating indecision around majors to finding unexpected opportunities in engineering, leadership, and travel. Lauren shares how studying abroad in Rome shaped her perspective, how she used data to improve admissions str…
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New B.S. in Artificial Intelligence with Vice Dean Erik Johnson and Executive Vice Dean Gaurav Sukhatme
1:31:59
1:31:59
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1:31:59In this episode, Paul sits down with Erik Johnson and Gaurav Sukhatme to discuss the launch of a brand-new Bachelor of Science in Artificial Intelligence degree program coming in Fall 2026. Together, they explore how the program was developed, the three specialized tracks it will offer, and what makes it distinct from computer science and other eng…
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Chemical Engineering, Polymers & Pharmaceuticals, and LGBTQ identity with Makana Krulce, B.S. Chemical Engineering '15
1:25:56
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1:25:56In this episode, Paul sits down with Viterbi alumna Makana Krulce to explore her journey from studying polymers at USC to working in global pharmaceutical consulting. Makana shares how her hands-on experience in Germany shaped her career, reflects on founding the USC student organization Queers in Engineering, Science, and Technology (QUEST), and d…
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Brandon Powers on dance, technology, immersive experiences, reframing the role of the audience, working with engineers, and the importance of translation
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45:00A chat with New York-based creative director and choreographer, Brandon Powers. Brandon works with technology to create experiences across physical and virtual spaces. We talked about his early experiences with technology, inter-disciplinary teams, the various ways that technology and virtual spaces can enhance and extend experiences for both artis…
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Navigating Fear, Misconceptions, & Social Media in College Admission with Jennifer (Jenn The Tutor) Jessie, College Admission Consultant
1:44:44
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1:44:44In this episode, Paul sits down with Jennifer, a college admission counselor best known as Jenn the Tutor, to debunk myths and misconceptions about getting into college. Jennifer shares her journey from law school to education, her community-oriented approach to guiding students, and why she believes authenticity matters more than chasing prestige.…
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The Moral Weight of Trust — With Chris McCLean
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29:39In this episode of Deep Pockets, Petra sits down with Chris McClean, Global Lead for Digital Ethics at Avanade, to explore the delicate balance between trust, power, and technology. Chris unpacks his research on the risks and benefits of trusting relationships, and the moral obligations that come with endorsing others. The conversation ranges from …
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Construction Management, Lacrosse, Sorority Life, and Study Aboard experiences with Natalie Dana (Alvarez), BS Civil Engineering (Building Science) '14, MS Green Technologies '15
1:18:09
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1:18:09In this episode, Paul speaks with Viterbi alumna Natalie Dana (Alvarez) about her interdisciplinary path through civil engineering and architecture, her career in sustainable construction at Turner Construction, and how her time at USC, from study abroad to football games, shaped her journey. They also discuss the future of engineering education, A…
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Cadaver Labs, Medical Devices, and Marketing with Pooja Sharma Rao, B.S. Biomedical Engineering (Biochemical) '07
1:26:43
1:26:43
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1:26:43Welcome to Viterbi Voice Season 11! In this episode, Paul sits down with Viterbi alumna Pooja Sharma Rao to talk about her unique career journey at the intersection of medicine, engineering, and business. From hands-on experiences in cadaver labs to developing and marketing medical devices, Pooja shares how her time at USC prepared her for a dynami…
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Cybersecurity in Engineering: Building a Secure Future from the Ground Up
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47:43In this episode of Tech Takes, host Louis Savard, C.Tech, explores the ever-evolving landscape of cybersecurity—a discipline that has rapidly transformed from an IT concern into a core strategic priority for engineers and professionals across every industry. Joined by Tim McCreight, CEO and Founder of TaleCraft Security, their conversation uncovers…
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Neil Williams (BFI) on transforming organisations through digital, comparisons between the civil service and the cultural sector, working in the open, and intentionally not empire-building
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57:19A conversation recorded in-person (hurray!) with the BFI's Exec Director of Technology and Digital Transformation, Neil Williams. Neil writes a regular 'fortnight notes' post on his blog, which you can find here neilojwilliams.netBy Digital Works
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Inside the Minds of the Next Generation: Flexibility, Purpose, and Mental Well-being
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1:07:23In this episode of Tech Takes, guest host Mladen Ivankovic explores how the next generation is reshaping ideas around work, education, and success. Psychologist Dr. Andrew Wong and David Terlizzi, Director of Member Engagement at OACETT, join the conversation to discuss why flexibility, purpose, and mental well-being are taking priority over tradit…
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Tash Willcocks (TPX Impact) on navigating uncertainty, intellectual humility, leadership in turbulent times, why zebras don't get ulcers, the importance of structure in enabling agility, how to actually ...
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56:03A wide-ranging chat with Tash Willcocks (Head of Learning Design at TPX Impact) on organisational culture, leadership, and how to deal with change and uncertainty. Tash mentioned a whole load of ideas, articles, books, and thinkers - a few of which I've linked to below: Tash's Medium lives here: https://medium.com/@tash-willcocks This is the first …
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Sparks of Genius: Creativity, Polymaths, and the Human Edge
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43:13What does it mean to be truly creative in an age of AI? Inspired by the Robert and Michele Root-Bernstein's book 'Sparks of Genius - the 13 thinking tools of the world's most creative people', this episode explores the artistry of interdisciplinary thinking with Jesús Sánchez Herrero. From abstraction and modeling to analogizing and empathizing, we…
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Join us for Saafiyah's last podcast as our co-host! Saafiyah and Paul wrap up season 10 of the Viterbi Voices podcast and introduce the next co-host... Hannah! They reflect on Saafiyah's year as co-host, share plans for the end of the semester, and discuss what’s next for the podcast. Signing off, see you all in August! Text us a Question or Commen…
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Nathan Justin’s Path to Finding a Passion in Computer Science
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54:49In this episode, Satwika talks with 5th year PhD student Nathan Justin about his take on software engineering, CS ethics and his journey towards a PhD. Text us a Question or Comment - it may be on our next episode! If you are thinking about applying for Fall 2026, check out all of our events for you at https://viterbiadmission.usc.edu/events. Virtu…
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In this episode, Jessica (AME ‘28) sits down with Emma (ASTE ‘28), Norah (ECE ‘28), and Alan (ASTE ‘28) to explore what it's like balancing the rigors of engineering with their passion for music. From acapella rehearsals to band camp, they dive into what inspired them to continue learning and performing music, how they got involved in their current…
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Finding Your Flow in Chemical Engineering
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46:32In this episode, Michaela (CHE ‘27) sits down with Zoe (CHE ‘27) to discuss what chemical engineering is really like, keys to success in a challenging major, balancing academics and fun clubs, and finding joy with friends and self-care at USC. Text us a Question or Comment - it may be on our next episode! If you are thinking about applying for Fall…
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Engineering Empathy: On Purpose and Progress in Tech
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28:13What does it mean to belong in complex and cutting-edge tech fields? In this episode, we sit down with Juliette De La Rie, CEO of Colorful Matter, to explore how identity, intuition, and inclusion shape the future of deep tech. Juliette shares her personal journey from feeling like an outsider in tech to becoming a powerful advocate for culture-dri…
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Fusion Energy: The Next Frontier in Clean Power
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15:00We’ve spoken about the energy industry a few times in this podcast, most recently about innovation in our current nuclear energy power plants. These are the fission based plants. Today, we’re going to learn about the future of nuclear, that is the fusion based nuclear power plants. My guest is Laura Thomas, Chief Strategy Officer at Fuse, a fusion …
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Exploring the Intersectionality between Journalism and Engineering
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47:52In this episode, Keilani (CSBA ‘27) talks to Ellis (CS ‘28) about the underlooked significance of journalism and science communications for STEM-related issues applicable to the real world. They discuss how accessible newsletters and publications can be used to garner traction towards wider issues such as sustainability, computer science, and engin…
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Emma Keith (National Theatre) on NT Live, remote audiences, experimentation, learning, thinking about value, leadership, and the importance of pilots
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56:27A great chat with the National Theatre's outgoing Managing Director - Digital, Emma Keith. We talked about how digital practice has developed at the NT and how that differs from other performing arts organisations. The history of the NT Live programme, and the importance of pilots and testing ideas. The hidden value of digital infrastructure, remot…
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In this episode, Saafiyah sits down with USC students from various majors and years to unpack their college decision journeys. From the factors that guided their choices to what surprised them most after arriving, they reflect on what drew them to USC and how their perspectives have evolved since. Tune in to hear why each of them ultimately chose t…
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In this episode, Sarah talks to 5 BME students (Ishaani '26, Cedric '28, Matthew '26, Hidaya '27, and Dominic '27) about their minors outside of engineering. With minors ranging from Spanish to cinematic arts to human rights, they all have different perspectives to share about how they explore their non-engineering passions at USC and fit minor cou…
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In this special 10th anniversary episode, we reunite with past co-hosts to reflect on our podcast journey. We discuss behind-the-scenes mishaps, what's changed at Viterbi over the past decade, and how the show has evolved. Tune in for a deep dive into the podcast's past and to find out what our former co-hosts are up to now! Text us a Question or C…
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Beks Leary (National Gallery) on the challenges & opportunities of working in larger vs smaller teams, different ways of thinking about audiences, and the value of building meaningful relationships with ...
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31:35A chat with Beks Leary, Senior Social Media and Content Lead at the National Gallery in London. We talked about Beks's career, which has encompassed working at a diverse range of organisations including the Bush Theatre, BBC, and National Theatre before Beks's current role at the National Gallery. Beks explained the opportunities and challenges tha…
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Tech, Talent and Tolerance: How U.S. Companies Can Tap into Global Expertise
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27:39
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27:39In his book The Rise of the Creative Class, Richard Florida argues that creativity is the nourishment of new economic growth, and introduces the three T's; Technology as a platform, talent to do the creative process, and tolerance from the surrounding society to allow this talent to shine. My guest Ceridwen 'Ceri' Koski, Partner at Denver, CO based…
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In this episode, Hannah (ME '27) sits down with Naina and Jay from CAIS++ to dive into the world of AI for social good. They discuss how the Center for AI in Society Student Branch is using artificial intelligence to tackle real-world problems, what it's like to be part of an AI-focused student organization, and how aspiring engineers can get invol…
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It's March 2025. The U.S. administration is turning on its allies south, north and east, the EU is amplifying its defense capabilities, Ukraine is being let down, science is under attack, and tech bros keep demand more and more. I'm taking Deep Pockets closer to policy, as now is not the time to be silent. Season 5 will discuss innovation policy in…
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In this episode, Sophie (CHE ’28) and her engineering friends talk about their experience with CURVE, a research opportunity offered by Viterbi. They discuss their first experiences with research, and what it’s like to work in labs on campus. Whether it’s working with air foils in the Dryden Wind Tunnel, or working with computational chemistry, CUR…
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Kyle’s Journey - Four Epic Years of Involvement & All Things Civil Engineering
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48:53In this episode, Mitchell Kirby (CE ‘26) got the chance to sit down with Kyle Revale, an inspiring senior studying Civil Engineering. Kyle has a focus on Construction Management and will be graduating with his Master’s in Construction Management in December. Kyle is very involved at USC, and they had a great conversation about ways to get engaged i…
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Early Start: Career Development as an Underclassman
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53:08In this episode, Xavier speaks with Christian Corona, a fellow sophomore in civil engineering, talking about how to get an early start on professional opportunities and work on your career as an underclassman. They talk about organizations, career fairs, excursions, and their own experiences. Whether you're also on the internship search or don't ev…
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The Future of Waste Management: Anaerobic Digestion and Renewable Energy
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1:02:42In this episode of Tech Takes, host Louis Savard, C.Tech, dives into the world of anaerobic digestion (AD) technology—a game-changing process that turns organic waste into renewable energy and organic fertilizer. Joined by Dave Ellis, Principal Engineer and Director of Azura Associates, and Trisha Aldovino, Chemical Engineer and Process Analyst, th…
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Innovating the Future: Inside Niagara College's Walker Advanced Manufacturing Innovation Center (WAMIC)
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38:19In this episode of Tech Takes, guest host David Terlizzi is joined by Neil Wilkinson, Associate Director of Niagara College’s Walker Advanced Manufacturing Innovation Center (WAMIC), to explore the dynamic intersection of education, industry, and innovation. Discover how WAMIC and the Research Innovation Division are turning ideas into real-world s…
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Mike Keating (Art Fund) on the collaborative development of AI policy, balancing the priorities of being both a membership and sector support organisation, and the impact of COVID on Art Fund's digital ...
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35:44A conversation with Art Fund's Associate Director of Digital Experience, Mike Keating. Most of our chat focused on Mike's relatively recent work in developing Art Fund's first AI policy. The collaborative, open, and pragmatic approach that Mike and colleagues took to this work feels like a useful model that other cultural organisations could borrow…
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Hobbies and Passions: Life Outside of Engineering
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39:16In this episode, Gerson and his biomedical engineering student friends talk about their "5-9s" after their "9-5s." From dancing and music to swimming and investing, they discuss their passions and pursuits beyond the classroom. Tune in for a glimpse into their exciting lives outside of engineering. Text us a Question or Comment - it may be on our n…
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Rocket Propulsion Lab, Space-Related Research & Internships, and USC Sports with Kaleigh Ray (ASTE ’25)
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54:27In this episode, Saafiyah chats with Kaleigh Ray (ASTE ’25) about all things Rocket Propulsion Lab (RPL). They discuss the teams within RPL that Kaleigh has been a part of, how she got involved, and the records the club has broken. Kaleigh also shares insights into her space-related research, her internships, and how she balances it all alongside h…
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Environmental Engineering, Design Team Competitions, and Finding Community at USC with Sejal and Ivan (ENE '26)
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52:33In this episode, Saafiyah sits down with Sejal and Ivan, Environmental Engineering majors at USC. They share their experiences on environmental design competition teams, their involvement in various environmental and identity-based clubs, and how they’ve found community at USC through classes and extracurriculars. Text us a Question or Comment - it…
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Technology Adoption Should Be a Key Metric for US Science and Engineering Policy
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16:23Tanya Ramond, technology commercialization architect, authority in Deep Tech, and the founder and CEO of Sapienne Consulting, discusses her recent article on science and engineering policy. Why the adoption of technology, turning R&D into usable products and services, should be the key metric when writing and evaluating policy? Published by Dynamic…
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Civil Engineering, The Navy, & the USC MBA for Veterans with Marcelle Phené, MBA '25, CE '10
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1:52:51In this episode, Paul interviews USC alumna Marcelle Phené, a civil engineering graduate who has worked with several companies and served in the U.S. Navy. She shares how her engineering background played a role in her military service and career journey. Marcelle also discusses her professional journey since then and her decision to return to USC …
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Ask Us Anything - First Year Admission LIVE Q&A
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1:09:05To kick off the second half of season 10, our Viterbi admission counselors answer your hard-pressed questions about first-year admission to USC. In this episode, they cover a range of common topics, from providing insights into the application process to whether there is a "secret sauce" to stand out. Text us a Question or Comment - it may be on ou…
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Enhancing Ontario's Infrastructure: OACETT's New Municipal Designations
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44:22In this episode of the Tech Takes, host Louis Savard, C.Tech. explores the new Municipal Infrastructure Designations Program from OACETT. This program aims to improve the quality and value of non-transportation infrastructure in Ontario, focusing on the Municipal Infrastructure Inspector (mii) and Municipal Infrastructure Contract Administrator (mi…
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In this episode, Hansini speaks with three members (Alexandra, Mitch, and Alanna) of Makers, an electronics design team at USC. They talk about their shared experience in the club, experience working on different project teams, and opportunities for leadership and networking. Text us a Question or Comment - it may be on our next episode! If you are…
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Taylor and her senior peers reflect on their past seven semesters at USC, recognize their growth and accomplishments, and share advice for anyone in their academic journey! Text us a Question or Comment - it may be on our next episode! If you are thinking about applying for Fall 2026, check out all of our events for you at https://viterbiadmission.…
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Navigating College as an International Student
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43:21In this episode, Saafiyah sits down with Joel Etchri, a mechanical engineering student from Macau, as he reflects on his college journey in Los Angeles. Joel opens up about the challenges and rewards of studying far from home, navigating a new culture, and adjusting to life in the U.S. He also offers advice to fellow international students on how t…
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The Future of Transatlanctic Relations in DeepTech
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23:51Both the United States and the European Union held their big elections this year. The U.S. elected a new President, and changed the balance of power in the House and the Senate that govern 335 million Americans. The EU elected a new Parliament and is in the process of appointing new Commissioners, steering the future for 450 million Europeans. What…
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Beyond the Circuit: Unraveling Misconceptions in ECE
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57:18In this episode, Cecilia reflects with Leire, Jessica, and Talise on their experiences so far as Electrical & Computer Engineering (ECE) majors. They discuss what they got wrong and right about their major, and what advice they would give themselves if they started at USC all over again. Text us a Question or Comment - it may be on our next episode…
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Atomic Insights: Innovation in Nuclear Energy 2024
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23:03It’s clear we cannot keep using fossil fuels, and it’s clear that wind and solar alone can’t fulfill all of the increasing energy needs that we have. So something has to be done: We need Innovation. Today's guest is someone who knows everything about nuclear energy, innovation, and their economic impact. Emma Wong is Principal Leader in Nuclear Eng…
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MEDesign: Why does your heart beat for BME?
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1:01:11In this episode, Ishaani sits down with Matthew (BME '26) and Eddie (BME '26), members of MEDesign, USCs premier medical device design club. Join them as they explore how Biomedical Engineering students in MEDesign are turning their passion for innovation into real-world projects, and discover what drives these engineers to push the boundaries of m…
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