Avsnitt
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In Episode 7, Matt sits down with Matthew Burke, a leading timber designer and founder of his own specialist consultancy. Matt’s journey didn’t start in a corporate office: it started as a surfer in Newcastle with a passion for carpentry.
This conversation tracks Matt’s evolution from a Newcastle surf rat to the engineer behind some of Australia's most iconic structures. We move past the sustainability buzzwords to look at how timber actually solves complex site constraints. From the massive wave roof of the Sydney Fish Markets to vertical extensions in Queensland, Matt explains why he is often the first person to say when timber is not the right option and how he bridges the gap between tradie intuition and high-level engineering.
Timestamps
[00:00:00] From the Surf to the Site: Introducing Matthew Burke and his early days in Newcastle.
[00:04:00] The University Pivot: Why seeing 65 year old tradies still lugging hammers pushed Matt toward a double degree.
[00:08:00] The Tradie Edge: Why putting trade experience on a resume is more powerful than a high GPA.
[00:11:00] Newcastle vs Sydney: The culture shock of moving from a family style office to the hustle of Martin Place.
[00:15:00] The Pivot to Mass Timber: Leaving traditional structures for the technical unknown.
[00:18:00] CLT vs Concrete: The engineering breakthrough that allowed timber to act like a concrete slab.
[00:21:00] The Commercial Reality: Why developers are finally paying attention to wood for more than just green points.
[00:25:00] Iconic Projects: Lessons learned from the Barangaroo International House build.
[00:29:00] The Sydney Fish Markets Roof: Solving a geometric nightmare with massive timber joints.
[00:34:00] Building Up: How timber’s light weight makes vertical extensions possible on old buildings.
[00:38:00] The Consultant’s Edge: Why telling a client no builds more trust than saying yes.
[00:42:00] Logistics and Fabrication: Getting massive timber panels from Europe to Australia on time.
[00:48:00] Short Term Durability: Managing timber on site when it starts to rain.
[00:52:00] Building Your Own Luck: Why success in engineering comes down to preparation and the extra 10 percent effort.
[00:58:00] The Bamboo Frontier: Exploring the potential of grass based materials and their incredible regeneration speed.
[01:06:00] Closing Thoughts: Matt wraps up the episode with a Full Send engineering t-shirt for guest Matt Burke.
Additional Resources
Website: fullsendengineering.comEmail Matt: [email protected]Connect with Matthew BurkeAre you seeing more timber on your sites, or is it still too hard for most developers? Join the conversation in the comments!
If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to like, subscribe, and share to help us keep sending it.
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In Episode 6, Matt sits down with Harout, civil engineer and Director at Ocean Protect, to unpack a hard industry truth: approval is not the finish line.
From Olympic construction projects to leading a 100-person environmental engineering business, Harout has seen stormwater systems at every stage - concept, design, construction, and years later when they’re opened and inspected.
This episode dives into:
Why most stormwater systems are never properly maintainedThe gap between modelling and realityConstruction-phase failures that damage environmental assetsPFAS, microplastics and emerging contaminantsWhy engineering responsibility extends decades beyond approvalIf you work in council, consulting, or construction, this conversation challenges how you think about ownership and accountability.
Timestamps
[00:00:00] Introduction to Harout
[00:02:00] Early Signs of an Engineer
[00:04:00] Migrant Expectations and Career Pressure
[00:05:30] Bachelor of Technology Pathway
[00:07:00] From Theory to Site
[00:09:30] Lifestyle Reality of Construction
[00:12:00] Entering Technical Sales
[00:14:00] “Sales” as an Engineering Skill
[00:16:00] Transition into Stormwater
[00:18:00] What Actually Happens When It Rains
[00:21:00] Biofiltration and Rain Gardens Explained
[00:24:00] MUSIC Modelling and Compliance Culture
[00:28:00] Construction Phase Failures
[00:31:00] The Maintenance Gap
[00:34:00] Lifecycle Accountability
[00:37:00] Scaling Ocean Protect
[00:41:00] Emerging Contaminants
[00:45:00] Stormwater vs Sewage Misconceptions
[00:48:00] Environmental Impact in Real Terms
[00:52:00] Responsibility of Councils, Consultants and Contractors
[00:56:00] Creating Roles for Passionate Engineers
[01:00:00] R&D and Innovation in Practice
[01:05:00] Wildlife and Ecosystem Impact
[01:09:00] Advice for Engineers
[01:14:00] Final Reflections
Are we designing for approval… or for performance in 20 years?If you work in council, consulting or construction, this episode is worth your time.
Listen to Episode 6. Share it with your team. Start the internal conversation about lifecycle accountability. Join the Full Send Engineering community. Like. Comment. Subscribe. Because what leaves your site does not disappear. It ends up somewhere.
Additional Resources
Website: fullsendengineering.com
Email Matt: [email protected]
Ocean Protect: oceanprotect.com.au
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Saknas det avsnitt?
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In Episode 5, Matt sits down with Tim Green, whose career spans hard-dollar building, landmark CBD projects and one of Australia’s most technically demanding facilities at Lucas Heights.
This conversation is about making the leap, taking on responsibility before you feel ready, changing paths when the timing isn’t perfect and learning how big projects actually succeed when pressure, complexity and people collide.
From rugby clubs and early cadet roles to One Central Park, Lucas Heights and moving into a developer-builder environment at Toga, Tim shares practical lessons that resonate with cadets, engineers and anyone standing at a career crossroads.
Additional Resources
Visit our website: fullsendengineering.com
Email Matt: [email protected]
Have you ever made a move before the timing felt right? What pushed you, and what did you learn?
Drop a comment, and if you enjoyed the episode, like, subscribe and share to support the Full Send Engineering community.
Timestamps
[00:00:00] Introduction to Tim Green
[00:02:00] Early Influences: Family, Sport and Teams
[00:05:00] Why Engineers Need Something Outside Work
[00:07:00] Putting Your Hand Up Early
[00:10:00] Graduating During the GFC
[00:12:00] The Interview That Changed Everything
[00:14:00] First Major Project: Museum of Contemporary Art
[00:16:00] Old-School Site Lessons and One-Percenters
[00:19:00] What Tough Projects Teach You
[00:23:00] Progressing Without Chasing Titles
[00:27:00] Scaling Up: One Central Park
[00:29:00] Coordinating Complexity
[00:33:00] Lucas Heights: Extreme Technical Environments
[00:36:00] Why Getting Design Right Early Matters
[00:38:00] Client Influence and Project Reality
[00:40:00] Contracts, Values, and Alignment
[00:42:00] Making the Leap
[00:45:00] A New Environment at Toga
[00:51:00] How Tim Approaches Complex Projects
[01:08:00] Mentors That Stick
[01:18:00] Advice for Engineers
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In Episode 4, Matt sits down with Kate Leone, a mechatronics engineer whose experience spans humanitarian engineering, robotics, telecommunications, and major infrastructure projects.
From growing up between Camden and Hong Kong, to Engineers Without Borders projects in India and Nepal, and into large Australian infrastructure programs, Kate has developed a sharp instinct for understanding problems before jumping to solutions.
This episode explores why engineers are trained to move fast, how risk often starts with silent confusion, and why problem framing is a technical skill that directly impacts project outcomes.
Additional Resources
Visit our website: fullsendengineering.com
Email Matt: [email protected]
Connect with Kate on LinkedIn
Have you ever seen a project jump to a solution before the problem was fully understood? What happened, and what would you do differently now? Share your experience in the comments and be sure to subscribe so you never miss an episode!
Timestamps
[00:00:00] Introduction to Kate Leone
[00:02:00] Growing Up Between Camden and Hong Kong
[00:04:30] Learning to Relate to Authority
[00:06:30] Early Interest in Architecture
[00:08:30] Choosing Engineering Instead
[00:10:45] Discovering Mechatronics and Robotics
[00:12:00] University Internships and Early Rejection
[00:14:30] Landing an Internship in Hong Kong
[00:17:00] Early Site Experience
[00:20:00] Engineers Without Borders
[00:22:30] India Fieldwork Experience
[00:25:30] Why Technically Good Solutions Fail
[00:27:30] Learning to Frame the Real Problem
[00:30:00] Designing Low-Resource Solutions
[00:34:30] Nepal Project and Rapid Prototyping
[00:39:30] Returning as a Facilitator
[00:42:30] Capstone Project and Assistive Technology
[00:45:00] End-to-End Project Ownership
[00:50:00] Transition to Major Infrastructure
[00:55:30] Defects, Testing, and Asset Performance
[01:00:10] Silent Confusion and Engineering Risk
[01:07:30] Automation and the Future of Engineering
[01:14:30] Advice for Engineers
[01:20:30] Final Reflections and Wrap-Up
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In Episode 3, Matt sits down with Dr David Oliveira, a respected geotechnical and rock mechanics specialist known for translating complex theory into practical engineering outcomes.
With more than 25 years in academia and major project delivery, David has helped teams understand ground behaviour, improve modelling, validate assumptions and challenge the thinking behind “we’ve always done it this way.” This episode is packed with lessons for geotechs, tunnellers, designers and modellers who want to think deeper, work smarter and deliver engineering they are proud of.
Additional Resources
Visit our website: www.fullsendengineering.com
Email Matt: [email protected]
Connect with David on LinkedIn
If you enjoyed this episode please like, comment and subscribe. Join the Full Send Engineering community now!
Timestamps
[00:00:00] Introduction to DavidHow Matt and David met at University of Wollongong (UOW)Bridging theory with real-world engineering
[00:01:00] Early InspirationWhy he once disliked geotechTwo mentors who changed everything[
00:02:00] Working Through UniversityIntern years in BrazilThe moment geotech finally clicked
[00:14:00] Pivot to Rock MechanicsUnexpected PhD shiftAdapting to challenging new topics
[00:15:00] First Job After PhDMoving to AustraliaLearning a new environmentChoosing growth over comfort
[00:23:00] Challenging Old MethodsWhy “we’ve always done it this way” is dangerousMindset behind innovation
[00:24:00] Shotcrete and Rock BoltsDesigning tunnel supportBalancing sustainability with performance
[00:27:00] 3x to 5x Capacity BreakthroughThe modelling insight that changed tunnel support behaviour
[00:28:00] Field Testing and ValidationBuilding real tunnel sectionsTesting to failureSetting new support standards
[00:29:00] New Materials Becoming StandardFibre improvementsBetter performance across Sydney tunnels
[00:30:00] Principles for Complex ModelsBeing approximately rightAligning modelling goals with real questions
[00:31:00] Deformation vs Structural PerformanceWhy these two modelling goals need different approaches
[00:34:00] Proving Your Model WrongThe discipline behind great modellingCommon mistakes to avoid
[00:35:00] How to Document a Model ProperlyRecording assumptionsTracking changesProducing reproducible work
[00:37:00] Structural Elements and Capacity ChecksElastic elementsExternal capacity checksEngineering judgement
[00:39:00] Reviewing a ModelStarting with the reportSpotting major issues fast
[00:42:00] Learning Through MistakesHow errors build intuitionDeveloping engineering judgement
[00:43:00] Innovation and FailureBolt deformation limitsControlled failureAlways having a plan B
[00:57:00] AI, TBM Data and AutomationSensors, face pressure and data overloadUsing scripting to understand complex tunnel data
[00:59:00] AI and Scripting in Daily EngineeringPython, automation and building tools that save days of work
[01:01:00] Machine Learning and Smarter DesignExtracting value from large datasetsTurning complexity into clarity
[01:04:00] Curiosity and PassionWhy these traits build long-term career success
[01:05:00] Pride in EngineeringSeeing your work builtUnderstanding the impact of good engineering
[01:06:00] Final ThoughtsThe conversation that changes your pathMatt closes the episode
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In Episode 1, Jeremy sets the tone for the entire Full Send movement. From running a precast yard at 23 to stepping into the world of Silicon Valley construction tech, his story is packed with lessons about self belief, adaptability and making bold moves when the opportunity arrives.
If you are exploring career growth, leadership, innovation or construction technology, this episode is the perfect starting point.
Additional Resources
Visit our website
Connect with Jeremy
Email Matt: [email protected]
Enjoyed this episode? Please rate, comment and follow so you never miss an episode - it really helps the show.
Join the Full Send community as we explore the mindset and stories shaping engineering and construction.
Timestamps
[00:00:00] Introduction to Full Send Engineering
The meaning behind Full SendWhy Jeremy was the perfect first guest[00:03:00] Early Influences
How his parents shaped his valuesThe lesson that changed how he saw his future[00:05:00] First Leadership Role
Managing 60 workers at 23Learning accountability and riskFixing major safety challenges[00:09:00] Transition to Client Work
Moving into sales and client engagementLearning value engineering on real projects[00:18:00] Leap to Shanghai
Working in the middle of China’s construction boomHosting meetings with major global clientsOperating in high pressure environments at 20 years old[00:27:00] Discovering Construction Tech
Using Bluebeam to work smarterRealising the future of digital workflows[00:35:00] Joining PlanGrid
Leaving concrete for Silicon ValleyAdjusting to the startup lifestyleTech adoption on job sites[00:39:00] Autodesk Acquisition
PlanGrid’s $875M saleBecoming a top performer at Autodesk[00:44:00] AI and Generative Design
How AI will transform constructionThe future of digital engineering[00:50:00] Digital Twins and Accountability
BIM and future defect trackingHow digital tools improve accountability[00:56:00] Advice for Young Engineers
Start anywhereBack yourselfMake bold moves in your career[00:58:00] Jeremy’s Full Send Moment
Leaving a safe career for PlanGridThe rewards of taking a big leap[00:59:00] Closing Thoughts
Matt wraps up Episode 1What to expect next -
In Episode 2, Matt sits down with Argot Ansons. From the mines of Western Australia to the tunnels under Sydney, Argot has seen it all, from four-tonne rocks dropping at his feet to running teams of hundreds under pressure.
In this episode, we go deep on what real leadership looks like when things get tough. We talk about pushing back against the boss to do what’s right, finding momentum on projects, and why every manager, from grad to director, is really a “king gopher” serving the people who actually build it.
It’s straight talk from one of the most respected names in infrastructure. No fluff, no buzzwords, just Full Send lessons on people, purpose, and pressure.
Additional Resources
Visit our website
Connect with Argot
Email Matt: [email protected]
Enjoyed this episode? Please rate, comment and follow so you never miss an episode - it really helps the show.
Join the Full Send Engineering community and be part of the future of construction and engineering.
Timestamps
[00:00:00] Intro: Who Is Argot
Matt introduces Argot and sets the tone[00:01:00] Early Adventures and Confidence
How travel shaped his confidenceLearning to adapt and lead[00:05:00] Becoming a Gopher Underground
Working as a miner before becoming an engineerA near miss that shaped his approach to safety[00:12:00] Leadership Under Pressure
Staying in the detailHow pressure exposes a team’s structure[00:18:00] Mechanical Scaling
The dangerous practice he fought to changeResistance from the old guardHow the change saved lives[00:23:00] Supported Ground
Why it became non negotiableBringing mining safety into tunnelling[00:26:00] Mining to Civil Transition
Precision requirementsTolerances and quality[00:31:00] High Performance Culture
Culture as the multiplierThe difference between 50 percent and 120 percent effort[00:38:00] Clarity Beats Blame
Resetting struggling teamsAsking the right questions[00:45:00] Working With Clients
Transparency and trustTaking accountability[00:49:00] Safety and Productivity
Why alignment mattersTeam momentum[00:55:00] Leadership Growth
Learning from mistakesGetting involved early[01:01:00] High Stakes Project Lessons
Decision making in dangerous environments[01:05:00] Advice for Young Engineers
Ask questionsSeek exposureLearn through doing[01:09:00] Closing Thoughts
What matters most in leadershipMatt wraps up Episode 2 -
Welcome to Full Send Engineering - the podcast with real talk from real engineers.
This is the show for engineers and professionals across all stages of their careers who are done with the corporate jargon and ready for genuine insights they can actually use.
Host Matthew Macelli, a Chartered Civil Engineer with over 15 years of experience leading projects across Australia and beyond, pulls back the curtain on what it really takes to thrive in this industry.
Each month, you’ll hear unfiltered conversations with engineers who’ve been there and done that - the wins, the setbacks and those pivotal moments that shaped their careers. We’ll dive into how real-world problems get solved and uncover the practical wisdom that can fast-track your own growth and decision-making.
If you’re an engineer or someone aspiring to grow their career looking for honest stories, inspiration and fresh perspective from people who’ve walked the path before you - you’re in the right place.
Hit subscribe now so you never miss an episode!
Connect with Matthew
