Together, younger and older employees create a dynamic and innovative workplace where every generation has something valuable to offer.
I’ve been an engineer for more than three decades. I remember the days when drafting was done by hand, couriers delivered drawing sets, time-sensitive communication was faxed, AutoCAD was revolutionary, equipment information was in product manuals and catalogs, and you had to call someone on the phone to solve a problem. Now I find myself in an office where drafting is done with AutoCAD Civil 3D, drawing sets and time-sensitive communications are emailed, and all equipment information is easily found on the internet. In my 30+ years, we went from sitting at a drafting table with a phone to sitting at a computer with a camera.
Generation X was at the forefront of the transition to computers, AutoCAD, email, and the internet. Our industry has changed drastically over these 30 years and often it is difficult for Gen X to let go of some of the historical practices. On the other hand, it is difficult for Generation Z to see the rationale to some of the historical procedures. There are some generation gap hurdles that must be overcome in a Gen X/Gen Z working relationship, including:
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Overcoming stereotypes. Senior staff members may assume junior staff lack the necessary experience, technical expertise, or familiarity with industry standards to contribute meaningfully. While junior staff may perceive senior employees as outdated in their approach, resistant to new technologies, or unwilling to adapt to modern industry practices. These misconceptions can create barriers to collaboration and hinder the growth of both individuals and the organization.
In our office, we actively work to break down these stereotypes by fostering open communication, encouraging mutual respect, and promoting the continuous exchange of knowledge. -
Communication. Gen X started their careers communicating primarily through phone calls and in-person meetings. As a result, we often prefer phone or video calls to quickly address questions and provide immediate responses. In contrast, newer staff members tend to rely more on electronic communication, such as emails and messaging platforms.
Gen Xers believe that direct, first-person communication ensures mutual understanding and is often much faster than lengthy electronic exchanges. We encourage verbal communication as a way to build relationships based on trust and clarity – sometimes a simple phone call can eliminate multiple back-and-forth messages and reduce misunderstandings.
At the same time, we recognize that Gen Z has introduced us to the benefits of electronic communication. Digital messaging is particularly effective when coordinating with multiple individuals on different schedules, allowing for flexibility and accessibility. By blending both approaches, we can enhance efficiency, strengthen collaboration, and foster a more connected workplace. -
Mutual respect. There are many ways to foster a culture of mutual respect between generations. At our company, we have implemented a mentorship program that pairs junior staff with senior staff. These pairs meet monthly to discuss concerns, share perspectives, and exchange experiences, among other things, creating an ongoing dialogue that strengthens understanding and collaboration.
Additionally, mutual respect must be a core value embraced at every level of the organization. Our CEO leads by example, consistently demonstrating respect for employees of all generations. To further support a culture of respect and connection, we host regular non-business office events in a social setting, allowing employees to build relationships beyond their daily work interactions. -
Knowledge exchange. As the senior staff member in the office, I make it a priority to mentor and guide junior employees, sharing my experience while remaining open to fresh perspectives. Rather than immediately providing solutions or answers, I encourage junior staff to present their solutions and ideas first. This approach allows me to understand their thought processes while fostering creativity and problem-solving skills. When done correctly, these small but meaningful interactions help build trust and mutual understanding across generations.
By fostering an environment where learning flows both ways, we cultivate a culture of teamwork, adaptability, and professional growth, ensuring that every team member, regardless of experience level, feels valued and empowered. A testament to this healthy exchange of knowledge is that our conversations have expanded beyond work-related topics. I openly share my life experiences, including past mistakes, while junior staff provide insights on societal and cultural changes. This ongoing dialogue strengthens relationships and enhances collaboration across generations.
Being a 59-year-old engineer in an office with younger colleagues is a unique journey filled with learning, growth, and mutual respect. It’s about finding a balance between leveraging my experience and embracing new ideas. Together, we create a dynamic and innovative workplace where every generation has something valuable to offer. This allows us to help shape the next generation of design professionals by sharing knowledge, fostering their communication skills, and instilling a sense of mutual respect. I take great pride in mentoring young professionals and am always delighted to see those I have guided grow into highly successful individuals.
Kevin Norgaard is a principal engineer at MKN & Associates. Contact him at knorgaard@mknassociates.us.