New GeoHeroes Podcast Episode with Matt Moler
In the latest episode of the GBA Podcast’s GeoHeroes series, host Guy Marcozzi, P.E., D.GE, LEED AP BD+C, sits down former GBA President Matt Moler, P.E., Vice President Region 1 Director at S&ME. Their conversation explores career growth, mentorship, and the quiet strength of purpose-driving leadership.
Building a Career at S&ME
Matt joined S&ME in Greensboro, North Carolina, where he quickly realized that real-world consulting required more than academic knowledge.
“Coming out [of college], you feel like you know a lot, right? You’ve gone to school for…16 years of your life? But I learned pretty quickly that I didn’t know a lot. Thankfully, the manager that I had was very good about teaching and allowed me to fail a little bit.”
A pivotal assignment in construction materials testing introduced him to fieldwork, client interactions, and the challenge of translating recommendations into buildable solutions. This “derailment,” as he calls it, became a launchpad for his career.
Leadership Through Listening and Learning
Throughout the episode, Matt emphasizes the importance of mentorship, adaptability, and empowering others. His advice to leaders? Encourage curiosity, listen actively, and be open to change—even when it means adapting yourself.
Moler’s Advice on Mentorship
“Don’t be quick to give answers to those that come to you for advice. It’s okay to encourage inquisitiveness; it’s okay to encourage them coming up with ideas. They may be out of the box, but they may be very appropriate.”
GBA: A Catalyst for Growth
Matt’s involvement with GBA began with the Fundamentals of Professional Practice program and evolved through the Emerging Leaders Program, committee work, and eventually the executive track. He says the relationships and insights he gained far outweighed what he gave.
“One of the great things about GBA is it pairs you with individuals that share experiences, and you might learn a few things that you can bring back to your own business that make our industry better because of that sharing.”
This episode marks another milestone for the GBA Podcast, which recently surpassed 20,000 downloads.
This episode was produced by Ryan White, P.E., G.E. (Apex Companies), Chair of GBA’s Multimedia Delivery Committee.