Nolan Slagle just recently joined Pinnacle Engineering as a structural engineer but brings engineering expertise from previous roles and is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in structural engineering.
We asked him some questions about his career path, experience working at Pinnacle Engineering, and some insights on the structural engineering industry as a whole.
Here’s his perspective.
What inspired you to pursue a career in structural engineering?
Nolan’s path to structural engineering was heavily influenced by his grandpa, a respected engineer in his own right. “My grandpa was a huge inspiration for me,” Nolan recalls. “He would point out complex buildings and bridges, explaining their structural components. Those moments sparked my interest in engineering.” From a young age, Nolan knew he wanted to follow in his grandpa’s footsteps, dedicating himself to the intricate world of structural engineering.
What types of projects do you enjoy most as a structural engineer? Why do you enjoy them? Do you have a favorite project you’ve worked on?
When asked about the types of projects he enjoys most, Nolan notes he enjoys embracing creative structural engineering challenges.
“I love projects that require more than just standard solutions,” he explains. “The ones that make you dig deep and think creatively.”
A particular experience during his undergraduate co-op involved inspecting a parking garage that had been paved over. “It was an incredibly hot August day, and I was drenched in sweat by the end of it. The oddity of the situation—discovering a whole parking garage beneath a blacktop parking lot—was fascinating. Ensuring it was safe for clients to park their cars above was a unique challenge.”
What are some of the most challenging aspects of your job, and how do you approach problem-solving in your projects?
Structural engineering is a field that demands attention to detail. Nolan highlights the complexity of staying updated with codes and requirements. “There’s always a lot to remember—codes, requirements, specific calculations,” he says. “Sometimes, it’s been a while since you’ve done a particular type of project, and recalling all the necessary checks can be challenging.” To tackle this, Nolan has developed a process during his master’s classes, making detailed notes and commentaries to guide him through the nuances of each project for his reference.
What is your favorite part of your job?
For Nolan, the most rewarding part of his job is the “aha” moments. “There’s nothing quite like solving a challenging problem and having that lightbulb moment,” he shares. Recently, he faced difficulties with embedding anchors in concrete, a topic often glossed over in classes. “My team sat down with me for a two-hour interactive session, and everything clicked. It was incredibly satisfying.”
In addition, Nolan likes seeing his work come to life. One of his favorite projects was a renovation for Cincinnati’s Union Terminal, a place he frequented as a child. “Seeing it transform from a construction zone back to its iconic state was surreal. Visiting it post-renovation, not as an engineer but as a customer, was a proud moment.”
Do you have any structural engineering or design inspirations, books or resources that you like or have been helpful to you in your career so far?
Nolan’s inspirations extend beyond his grandpa’s legacy. Books like “Skyscrapers” and “Bridges” by Judith Dupree hold a special place in his heart.
“My grandpa used to go through those books with me, page by page, explaining various structures. Those moments left a lasting impression.”
How do you stay updated with the latest trends and technologies in structural engineering?
In an ever-evolving field, staying updated is crucial. Nolan actively participates in professional organizations and events.
During his studies, he was involved in the Structural Engineers Association of Ohio (SEAOO) and the student graduate chapter of the Structural Engineering Institute at UC.
He also regularly attends webinars, lectures, and reads industry publications like Structure Magazine.
In what ways do you think the field of structural engineering is evolving?
Nolan sees significant changes on the horizon for structural engineering, particularly with the integration of programming.
“Excel is amazing, but it has its limits. There’s a push towards learning programming languages like VBA, Python, and TED. These skills allow us to create more efficient, visual-based analyses and streamline data transfer between different software programs, reducing the potential for inaccuracies and saving time.”
What is the workplace culture like at Pinnacle Engineering so far? What drew you to work at PEI?
Pinnacle Engineering’s culture has been a highlight for Nolan. “It’s very open and easy to talk to someone. It’s a great place to learn and figure things out together,” he says. The relaxed yet focused environment was a refreshing change for him. Since he recently joined the team, he noted the interview process: “During the interview process I realized this was a place I was genuinely interested in. After a few short weeks and a couple of interviews, I knew it was the right fit.”
If you could design any structure anywhere in the world, where would it be?
“The fun one would be my own house. It would mean I have my perfect dream home, and I only have myself to blame for anything I don’t like about it.” Nolan also dreams of designing something utterly unique, like a structure on the moon. “During the recent eclipse, I visited the Neil Armstrong Museum and read about its design like a moon base. Designing something that’s not even on Earth, with its unique challenges and material requirements, would be incredibly cool.”
About Pinnacle Engineering
Pinnacle Engineering’s wide-ranging expertise, commitment to challenging the norm in structural engineering, and supportive workplace culture ensure that team members reach their full potential. We are always looking for passionate and qualified structural engineers.
If you’re interested in a career at Pinnacle Engineering, submit your resume here.
