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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
  • Mamon Powers, Jr., Part Two

    Mamon Powers, Jr., Part Two
    Apr 24 2026

    In this episode of Engineering Legends, host Chris Burke talks with Mamon Powers, Jr., chairman and CEO of Powers & Sons Construction. Powers shares the story of building one of the Midwest’s leading minority-owned construction firms, from joining his father’s company in the early 1970s to leading major projects across the region.


    He reflects on key milestones, the mindsets that shaped his leadership and growth, and major developments throughout his career, including large-scale projects and the formation of Lakeside Alliance. The conversation also highlights the journey and significance of the Obama Presidential Center project.

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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    27 mins
  • Mamon Powers, Jr., Part One

    Mamon Powers, Jr., Part One
    Apr 24 2026

    In this episode of Engineering Legends, host Chris Burke talks with Mamon Powers, Jr., chairman and CEO of Powers & Sons Construction. Powers shares the story of building one of the Midwest’s leading minority-owned construction firms, from joining his father’s company in the early 1970s to leading major projects across the region.


    He reflects on key milestones, the mindsets that shaped his leadership and growth, and major developments throughout his career, including large-scale projects and the formation of Lakeside Alliance. The conversation also highlights the journey and significance of the Obama Presidential Center project.

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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    25 mins
  • Benjamin Sells, Part Two

    Benjamin Sells, Part Two
    Mar 31 2026
    In this episode of Engineering Legends, host Chris Burke talks with Benjamin Sells, writer, psychotherapist, lawyer, and former Village President of Riverside, Illinois. Ben shares the story behind key moments in Chicago’s infrastructure history, drawing from his books The Tunnel Under the Lake and The History of the Chicago Portage. He explores the engineering challenges and bold decisions that helped shape the city’s development. The conversation also highlights the legacy of Ellis Sylvester Chesbrough and why Chicago wouldn’t be what it is today without his vision.

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