TCEP 266: A Civil Engineer’s Perspective on Engineering, Entrepreneurship, and Family Life
In this episode, Ann Tomalavage, P.E., PMP, LEED AP, and president of Malarkey Consulting, Inc., interviews me about my civil engineer’s perspective on entrepreneurship, and how I manage it alongside my family life. ***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.*** Engineering Quotes: Here Are Some of the Questions Ann Asks Anthony: When did you realize you wanted to be an engineer? When you were in high school or grad school, did you ever imagine having your own business? What are you most proud of in your life so far, whether it's related to work or family? Is there anything you would do differently? Did you find yourself naturally doing entrepreneurial things before you realized you wanted to be an entrepreneur? What's your secret to consistently making time for your family? What legacy do you think you'll leave behind? When your kids roll their eyes, what's going through their minds? What compliments do you think your kids would give you? What compliments do you think Jill, your wife, would give you? What places are on your bucket list for upcoming trips and future destinations? When you think about it, what has 2024 been the year of so far? What will the year 2025 be known for? Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode About a Civil Engineer's Perspective on Engineering, Entrepreneurship, and Family Life: In high school, during Anthony's junior and senior years, his interest in math and science led him to decide he wanted to be an engineer, influenced by guidance from his parents and counselors and solidified by an internship at a civil engineering firm where he worked on land surveying. In high school and college, Anthony started with ventures like lemonade stands and network marketing, which sparked his interest in owning a business. This early experience continued alongside his engineering studies, shaping his ambition to combine engineering with entrepreneurship. Anthony is most proud of nurturing growth in his family, supporting his team at EMI, and empowering engineers through podcasts and programs, finding fulfillment in these contributions to both his personal and professional life. Anthony focuses on learning from mistakes rather than regretting what could have been done differently. He believes in using experiences to shape future decisions and strategies for ongoing improvement in both business and personal endeavors. Before deciding to become an entrepreneur, Anthony naturally engaged in activities like starting ventures and exploring network marketing during college, which sparked his entrepreneurial spirit and guided his career path toward combining engineering with entrepreneurship. Anthony ensures he consistently makes time for his family by prioritizing meaningful activities and minimizing distractions, guided by the principles of the 80-20 rule. This approach allows him to strike a balance between work and family life, ensuring he dedicates quality time to those he cares about most. Focused on advancing youth leadership through the Give Guide Grow Foundation and innovating reading experiences with a unique bookstore concept, Anthony aims to leave a legacy of empowerment and personal growth. His goal is to inspire individuals and communities to embrace leadership, making a lasting impact on their lives. When Anthony's kids roll their eyes, they're likely thinking about wanting to prioritize their social activities and immediate interests over hearing more about personal growth and responsibilities, finding parental advice sometimes repetitive or unnecessary in their current perspective on life. Anthony's kids would probably praise him for always supporting them and making sure they're set up for suc...