Rob Phillips, Principal at Bennett & Pless, brings over two decades of experience in structural engineering leadership. His journey reflects a deep commitment to advancing the profession by fostering strong relationships, embracing design collaboration, and maintaining a business-minded approach to engineering. Rob is not just a technical expert but a people-focused leader who understands the balance between design intent, structural performance, and client needs. His role at Bennett & Pless allows him to influence projects across various sectors, including commercial, industrial, and specialty structures, making him a key contributor to the firm's national reputation.
In this episode of The Power of Design Podcast, Jack Ossa sits down with Rob Phillips to discuss the critical role of collaboration between architects and structural engineers in delivering successful projects. Rob shares insights from his professional journey, highlighting the importance of communication, trust, and mutual respect in overcoming design challenges. He emphasizes how a collaborative mindset not only improves technical solutions but also builds long-lasting professional relationships that drive repeat business and client satisfaction. The conversation also touches on Rob’s leadership philosophy, his views on balancing design vision with structural reality, and his approach to business development in the engineering industry.
Rob emphasizes that technical knowledge alone isn't enough. Building strong, trust-based relationships with architects, contractors, and clients is essential to deliver outstanding results.
Working closely with architects early in the design process allows engineers to provide valuable input that preserves design intent while ensuring structural efficiency and constructibility.
Rob shares that true leadership in engineering means staying humble, listening to others, and guiding teams with a clear vision that aligns technical excellence with client objectives.
Understanding business development, client relationships, and project management is just as important as technical expertise for long-term success in the engineering profession.
Consistent communication and delivering on promises are key to building trust with project partners, which leads to smoother project execution and better outcomes.
Engineers should engage with architects and project teams as early as possible to influence the design positively and avoid costly changes later in the process.
Taking the time to listen to team members, clients, and partners helps leaders make informed decisions that benefit the entire project team.
Structural engineers shouldn’t see themselves only as problem solvers but as creative partners who contribute to the aesthetic and functional goals of a project.
Delivering consistent, high-quality work builds a professional reputation that attracts new opportunities and long-term partnerships.
Rob Phillips leaves listeners with a powerful message about the value of people-centered leadership and the importance of building strong professional relationships. His approach to engineering goes beyond calculations and technical drawings—it's about understanding the bigger picture, aligning with client goals, and fostering collaboration at every stage of the design and construction process. Rob’s insights remind us that success in architecture and engineering is not just about what we build but how we build it—together.