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: matt@fullsendengineering.com
Connect with David on LinkedIn
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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
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
Join the Full Send Engineering community and be part of the future of construction and engineering.
Timestamps
[00:00:00] Intro: Who Is Argot
[00:01:00] Early Adventures and Confidence
[00:05:00] Becoming a Gopher Underground
[00:12:00] Leadership Under Pressure
[00:18:00] Mechanical Scaling
[00:23:00] Supported Ground
[00:26:00] Mining to Civil Transition
[00:31:00] High Performance Culture
[00:38:00] Clarity Beats Blame
[00:45:00] Working With Clients
[00:49:00] Safety and Productivity
[00:55:00] Leadership Growth
[01:01:00] High Stakes Project Lessons
[01:05:00] Advice for Young Engineers
[01:09:00] Closing Thoughts
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
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
[00:03:00] Early Influences
[00:05:00] First Leadership Role
[00:09:00] Transition to Client Work
[00:18:00] Leap to Shanghai
[00:27:00] Discovering Construction Tech
[00:35:00] Joining PlanGrid
[00:39:00] Autodesk Acquisition
[00:44:00] AI and Generative Design
[00:50:00] Digital Twins and Accountability
[00:56:00] Advice for Young Engineers
[00:58:00] Jeremy’s Full Send Moment
[00:59:00] Closing Thoughts
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.
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