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Engineering Legends

Engineering Legends

By: Western Society of Engineers
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About this listen

Engineering Legends is a podcast powered by the Western Society of Engineers, celebrating the visionaries who have shaped—and are shaping—the world we live in. Hosted by veteran engineer Chris Burke, the show dives into the often-overlooked stories behind the infrastructure we rely on every day.


From the clean water that flows from our faucets to the towering bridges that connect our cities, the innovations that define modern urban life didn't happen by accident—they were the result of groundbreaking ideas, massive planning efforts, and fearless execution.

Each episode features conversations with the most influential minds in engineering and infrastructure: legendary figures whose work has stood the test of time, and modern pioneers who are building the future.

Engineering Legends is a tribute to the people behind the progress.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Western Society of Engineers
Episodes
  • Dick Lanyon, Part Two

    Dick Lanyon, Part Two
    Feb 17 2026
    In this episode of Engineering Legends, host Chris Burke talks with Dick Lanyon, longtime leader at the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District and historian of Chicago’s water infrastructure. Dick shares the story behind the Chicago Sanitary and Ship Canal, the bold engineering project that reversed the river and helped save the city from a public health crisis. He reflects on the political battles, engineering challenges, and lasting innovations that shaped the system we rely on today. The conversation also looks ahead to modern water management issues, including the future of the Chicago Area Waterway System.

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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    23 mins
  • Dick Lanyon, Part One

    Dick Lanyon, Part One
    Feb 17 2026
    In this episode of Engineering Legends, host Chris Burke talks with Dick Lanyon, longtime leader at the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District and historian of Chicago’s water infrastructure. Dick shares the story behind the Chicago Sanitary and Ship Canal, the bold engineering project that reversed the river and helped save the city from a public health crisis. He reflects on the political battles, engineering challenges, and lasting innovations that shaped the system we rely on today. The conversation also looks ahead to modern water management issues, including the future of the Chicago Area Waterway System.

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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    29 mins
  • Silviu Livescu, PhD

    Silviu Livescu, PhD
    Feb 3 2026
    Engineering Legends, hosted by Chris Burke and powered by the Western Society of Engineers, features Silviu Livescu, PhD, the 2026 recipient of the Washington Award. Recognized for his pioneering work in low-enthalpy geothermal energy systems, Silviu discusses advancing sustainable, cost-effective building heating and cooling, his work as Co-founder and CTO of Bedrock Energy, and the role engineers play in advancing the welfare of humankind.

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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    29 mins
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