Hi all 👋,
Welcome back. Today I’m speaking to my friend, Connor Ferster.
Connor has been operating in the Python for Engineering space for a few years now and has become a leading voice. He is the founder of StructuralPython.
He is the author of the highly regarded StructuralPython course, which teaches engineers practical, Python-based solutions to streamline workflows and address real-world challenges in structural design. His next project, Engineering Automator, digs into engineering automation, guiding engineers on integrating custom Python solutions into their specific work environments for optimal efficiency and giving you a chance to maintain your sanity amidst the ever-increasing demands of the industry.
In this episode, we discuss:
Engineering toolkits and workflow automation
Python for complex structural calculations
Open-source tools in structural engineering
Educational gaps in engineering with Python
Connor is also a key contributor to the open-source engineering community. His python libraries, handcalcs and forallpeople, are popular engineering tools.
handcalcs renders LaTeX math expressions in a way that mirrors traditional handwritten math (like MathCad).
forallpeople is a robust units management library simplifying the complexity of unit conversions.
These open-source projects not only demonstrate his technical approach but highlight his dedication to making engineering tools more accessible to everyone. He’s an open book, pushing things forward. That’s what it’s all about.
Connor also contributes to the development of Pynite, an open-source structural analysis library led by Craig Brinck. Listen to episode on Pynite here 🔗🎙.
Connor is helping to formalize and drive consistency in Pynite, making it even more accessible and reliable to structural engineers worldwide.
Recently, he left his position at RJC Engineering here in Vancouver to focus on StructuralPython full-time, and I’m excited to see what new ideas, courses, and tools he’ll come up with, given the extra bandwidth.
Check out his recent series of interviews with engineers who have used Python to create their own workflow solutions.
It’s always a pleasure to speak with him and I hope our listeners take a closer look at his work and upcoming Engineering Automator course, his waitlist is currently open.
You can also go to https://engtoolkit.com to get your free:
PDF framework for building your own automated engineering toolkit
Links for Connor’s full, unlisted, video interviews
Connor is always welcome on this podcast, and I look forward to following his journey in the years to come.
See you in the next one.
James 🌊
Share this post