At the end of 2020, the engineering community got a nice present from Ashraf Habibullah in his "Thank you video". Ashraf is urging our industry to realize how important it is and the value it brings to the table.
For those who missed it, here it is:
Irrespective of Ashraf's slightly extravagant presentation style, I wanted to know, what does another "captain of industry" think about it. So, I took the video and went to the CEO of IDEA StatiCa, Lubomir Sabatka, to ask him a couple of questions.
Lubomir, what was your reaction when you saw the video from Ashraf?
I should have done this! :) Ok, I know, this is too much for everybody except for Ashraf. I like him, I like his message, I like that he cares for the structural engineering profession. And I like to think we make a similar impression.
What is the most important takeaway for structural engineers from the film?
Be aware of the value you bring to the table. Explain that to other project stakeholders. Ask for more money. We will probably not stamp all the new buildings with a big structural engineering sign any time soon. But your attitude and payout can change in the project that just landed on your table.
You have been in the industry for over 30 years, how specific was 2020 to you and IDEA StatiCa?
After the successful year of 2019, we thought that 2020 would be a calm and stabilizing period. In the end, it was a wild ride. But the industry as a whole, companies in it, and engineers doing the actual work showed that they can work through it.
Did the pandemic change any plans for what you want to create in the future?
A lot of companies are considering or already doing cuts in R&D. We are investing more and planning projects for years ahead. We are hiring new people in all teams, from development, automation, to customer care. We are also expanding research cooperation with universities worldwide. And by that, I mean more than just giving them licenses :)
So what is your message to structural engineers for 2021?
Do not be afraid to calculate yesterday's estimates and get paid for it.
About Lubomir Sabatka
Lubomir is one of the pioneers of using CAE methods in structural analysis worldwide. With his team, he has been developing tools for this industry for over 30 years – Esa Prima Win, SCIA Engineer, etc. In 2009, he shifted his focus to the design of structural members, the use of cloud technology, and BIM adoption. He aims to fill in missing pieces in the global workflow of structural engineers and fabricators.
More about him and the team at IDEA StatiCa here. Follow or connect with him on LinkedIn.
