S4E#19: Lessons of the Great Builders – Building The Hoover Dam with Paul Giroux

The Hoover Dam stands as one of the greatest civil engineering construction achievements in history, as it was unprecedented in its size, scope, and technical complexity. Built during the challenging times of the Great Depression, it not only showcased incredible project management and innovation but also served as a symbol of hope. In this episode of “Lessons of the Great Builders”, host Jerry Eyink is joined by Paul Giroux, a leading construction historian with decades of experience on mega projects and a professor of practice at Purdue University. The discussion centers around three critical areas of knowledge from the project: technical innovations, and professional and personal outcomes. Paul discusses the project's challenges, highlighting the technological advancements and safety improvements that emerged as a result. He also explores the key attributes that enabled the project leaders to achieve success. Through this conversation, valuable insights from the Hoover Dam's construction continue to be shared across the industry, serving as a reminder that even the most ambitious dreams can become reality.