D36, No. 45: Last Year is History, Next Year Is A Mystery. 2025 is Here. It's Project Planning Time!
Deck 36, Issue No. 45: Last Year is History, Next Year a Mystery. 2025 is Here—It's Project Planning Time. Carpe Diem, Baby.

D36, No. 45: Last Year is History, Next Year Is A Mystery. 2025 is Here. It's Project Planning Time!


Carpe Diem, Baby! Reflecting on Wins, Lessons, & Growth of the past year while building a roadmap for the future. Let’s make 2025 count????


By: James O'Flanagan, MS, FRSA ,

OAPSIE?Inc.



Author’s Note: Themes That Guide Our Vision


A vibrant cyberpunk cityscape with glowing neon lights and futuristic elements. The bold text "Author’s Note: Themes That Guide Our Vision" stands out, surrounded by technology-inspired patterns. Oapsie Inc. branding is subtly integrated, reflecting innovation and forward-thinking ideals.


At OAPSIE?Inc. , each year begins with a guiding theme that sets the tone for our actions, projects, and interactions. In 2025, our theme is “Conciseness is Kindness”, emphasizing the power of clear, intentional communication. This mantra guided everything from our project management strategies to our interpersonal relationships, helping us focus on delivering impactful work with efficiency and clarity.


In 2025, our theme is “Conciseness is Kindness.”


This year’s theme builds on a foundation laid in prior years:


  • 2024: "The Kindness Rules!" reminded us that empathy and respect are key to building strong relationships in business and beyond.
  • 2023: "Easy Does It, Engineering." encouraged a thoughtful, patient approach to solving complex problems.
  • 2022: "We Must Get There Together" emphasized collaboration and teamwork as essential drivers of success.


Each theme has shaped OAPSIE?Inc. ’s culture and priorities, reflecting our shared values and collective goals. For 2025, the theme remains “Conciseness is Kindness”, continuing our commitment to clear communication and purposeful action.


A Note On The Article Title: This article's title is a play on my favorite scene from Cool Runnings, which is a hilarious John Candy movie about the true story of the Jamaican Bobsled team at the 1988 Winter Olympics in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. Highly recommended!

Feel the rhythm, feel the rhyme, get on up, it's bobsled time!

Video Reference: https://youtu.be/kUPG9Wd44JQ?si=nfJbGw_h4yGpOBlb


Thank you everyone for taking the time to read my content. I really appreciate it!

- James O'Flanagan, MS, FRSA

OAPSIE?Inc.



Article Summary

  • Author's Note: Themes That Guide Our Vision Reflection on Oapsie Inc.’s annual themes, including 2025’s "Conciseness is Kindness" and how prior themes shaped the company’s culture and priorities.
  • Article Summary: A brief overview of key topics, goals, and reflections that structure the article’s narrative.
  • Article Playlist: Curated music selections tied to the themes and emotions explored in the article, featuring tracks like Metallica’s "Carpe Diem, Baby!" and Billie Myers’ "Kiss The Rain."
  • Introduction: Personal reflections on the challenges and milestones of 2024, setting the stage for the year ahead and inspiring readers to pursue their goals with purpose.
  • Oapsie Inc.’s and James O'Flanagan, MS, FRSA 's 2024 Goals: A detailed outline of strategic objectives, including engineering collaborations, environmental impact studies, professional growth, and digital engagement.
  • How We Did on Those Goals: A candid review of successes and setbacks from 2024, exploring lessons learned and areas for improvement. Highlights include:
  • Challenges Overcome in 2024 A reflection on the obstacles faced and how they were navigated, highlighting the key challenges that shaped the journey.
  • Celebrating Milestones and Takeaways A celebration of accomplishments in 2024, including personal and professional milestones, as well as the important lessons learned.
  • Setting SMART Goals for 2025 A clear outline of specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound goals for 2025, focused on continued growth and success.
  • Looking Ahead to 2025 Insights into the plans for 2025, building on past experiences to tackle new challenges and opportunities.
  • Conclusion A summary of the year’s reflections and a look forward to the future, encouraging growth and progress.
  • Call to Action Encouraging the reader to take action toward their own goals, drawing inspiration from the year’s reflections and plans for the future.
  • Errata Acknowledgment of any mistakes or corrections made throughout the article.



Article Playlist

  • Metallica, "Carpe Diem, Baby!" (1997)
  • Billie Myers, "Kiss The Rain." (1997).
  • The Irish Rovers, "The Unicorn," (1962)
  • AD/DC, "Back In Black." (1980).
  • Seal, "Crazy." (1991).
  • Don McClean, "American Pie." (1971).
  • 2 Live Crew, "Pretty Woman." (1989).
  • Roy Orbison, "Pretty Woman." (1964).
  • Montell Jordan, "This Is How We Do It." (1995).


Music by: Metallica, "Carpe Diem, Baby!" (1997)

Theme song for this Deck 36 Newsletter Article.

Link Reference: https://youtu.be/tb6CnztUvDk?si=lA00XusZbEJL7-uA



Introduction


A visually dynamic image representing the concept of an introduction, featuring an open book emitting glowing digital data streams against a vibrant futuristic backdrop, symbolizing the gateway to ideas and exploration.


As 2024 comes to a close, I’m reflecting on the challenges, growth, and achievements that defined the year. This article offers a brief review of my 2024 goals and a preview of what's to come in 2025. Along the way, I’ve learned valuable lessons, celebrated milestones, and encountered obstacles that have shaped both my personal and professional journey.


Here’s a glimpse of my new school at sunrise, captured in August as we kicked off the school year. This past year, I became the Engineering, Manufacturing, & Robotics Instructor at Bedford High School .

Music by: Billie Myers, "Kiss The Rain." (1979).

Video Reference: https://vimeo.com/1005193770


Guided by our 2025 theme, "Conciseness is Kindness," we focused on simplifying processes, enhancing communication, and prioritizing clarity in all we do. As 2025 begins, I’m excited to share what worked, what didn’t, and how these lessons are informing our bold goals for the year ahead. ??



Oapsie Inc.'s and James O'Flanagan's 2024 Goals


A futuristic image of a figure standing on a mountain peak, gazing toward a glowing skyline, symbolizing focus and determination in setting and pursuing Oapsie Inc.'s and James O'Flanagan's 2024 goals.


2024 was a year of progress and learning. Although not all goals were met, the experience provided important insights that will guide my decisions in the future. Here's a look at my key goals for the year and how they played out.


Here are OAPSIE?Inc. 's 2024 Goals:


  • Engage in a project with Engineers Without Borders to leverage engineering expertise for global betterment.
  • Conduct an environmental impact study, gratis, to reinforce the commitment to environmental stewardship.
  • Expand the circle of competence by 10%, emphasizing continuous learning and adaptability.
  • Secure a speaking role on engineering management and servant leadership to establish thought leadership.
  • Foster Brand Partnerships to promote a culture of mutual growth and collaborative relationships.
  • Expand the coaching business by landing five new clients, building on recent successes.
  • Write and publish a business book to further establish thought leadership in the field.
  • Increase digital engagement by averaging one post per day on LinkedIn and Facebook, and building an audience on TikTok.
  • Implement the Pitcherview application code for the Spring 2024 Baseball Data Collection Project.
  • Secure funding for Pennantview and derivative technologies, showcasing the drive to merge passion with innovation.


  • For more info about our 2024 business plans, please see this Deck 36 Newsletter Article:

Deck 36 Article Reference: https://www.dhirubhai.net/pulse/deck-36-14-summary-oapsie-incs-2024-strategic-plan-james-o-flanagan-et9dc/



How We Did On Those Goals


An image illustrating progress and reflection, featuring a figure analyzing data on a futuristic screen, symbolizing the assessment of Oapsie Inc.'s 2024 goals and achievements.


In this section, we'll review the progress we made toward the goals we set, highlighting the achievements and challenges along the way. We'll reflect on how our efforts have shaped the outcome and what we've learned in the process.


1. Engaging with Engineers Without Borders

In 2024, I aimed to engage in community service through organizations like Engineers Without Borders (EWB). While I wasn’t able to participate in an official EWB project, I explored remote opportunities with EWB data science projects, which will support Oapsie Inc. in 2025. These experiences reaffirmed my commitment to using engineering for social good.


I also engaged with The RSA (The royal society for arts, manufactures and commerce) and pursued social entrepreneurship goals. You can see my RSA Fellowship Profile Here:

Link Reference: https://www.thersa.org/fellowship/find-a-fellow/profile/203183


Additionally, I was honored to be listed among the Top 100 professionals in my field—an inspiring reminder of the power of socially responsible work. This is my 2024 placement in The Official Top 100 Magazine :

Link Reference: https://www.thetop100magazine.com/james-o-flanagan


Looking ahead, 2025 will focus on environmental and conservation service, with key efforts like the USGS naming project and other conservation initiatives central to our mission.



2. Conducting an Environmental Impact Study

In 2024, I set out to conduct a pro bono environmental impact study as part of my sustainability commitment. What started as a small project grew significantly in scope. The time invested far exceeded my initial plan, pushing other priorities aside, but the results were worth it.

This experience underscored the importance of combining technical expertise with environmental stewardship and laid the groundwork for future contributions. Our work, including insights from the #QuarryYesMore, led to key milestones, such as a published article and a bonus "Day Nine" discovery.

It was a rewarding challenge, and I look forward to its lasting impact. Let's take a look at a few of the projects:


  • #QuarryYesMore

#QuarryYesMore is an exciting initiative aimed at preserving the legacy of The Peninsula Quarry should it ever be developed. As part of an environmental impact study, one key component is our U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) naming project, which aims to assign names to previously unnamed water features in the Cuyahoga Valley Watershed.

Our working thesis is that naming these features helps protect them, as it becomes harder to destroy something once it has a name.

Link Reference: https://www.dhirubhai.net/pulse/d36-issue-38-quarryyesmore-bonus-day-9-james-o-flanagan-ms-frsa-l00qc/


The article outlines the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) Water Feature Naming Project, emphasizing its significance in preserving natural landmarks and enhancing environmental awareness. It highlights how the project aims to name unnamed water features in the Cuyahoga Valley Watershed to protect and sustain the area's ecological legacy.

Link Reference: https://www.dhirubhai.net/pulse/d36-19-conservation-oapsie-inc-files-usgs-bgn-naming-james-o-flanagan-5fw8c/


As part of our ongoing efforts, I submitted a proposal for new names to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) , which were included in the meeting agenda. The linked PDF contains the official meeting minutes, outlining the proposed names and their discussion during the session.

Document Reference: https://d9-wret.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/palladium/production/s3fs-public/media/files/DNC%20863_Apr11%202024_Minutes.pdf


  • Sylvan Run, Cuyahoga Valley, Ohio

We've proposed the naming of Sylvan Run, a key tributary to the Cuyahoga River south of Deep Lock Quarry. This video highlights its unique features and significance to the local ecosystem.

Sylvan Run was one of the success we had for conservation in 2024. It is a primary tributary to the Cuyahoga River and was officially submitted to the USGS for naming, celebrating its natural beauty and historical significance.

Music by: The Irish Rovers, "The Unicorn," (1962).

Video Reference: https://vimeo.com/954816712?share=copy#t=0


  • Brandywine Golf Course Site Revitalization:

This article outlines a practical, cost-effective plan for the Peninsula Community for the old Brandywine Golf Course Site, focused on achieving real impact through thoughtful engineering solutions. We hope to see this plan implemented in the near future.

For more info:

Deck 36 Newsletter Article Reference: https://www.dhirubhai.net/posts/jamesoflanagan_brandywine-community-deck36newsletter-activity-7261339320345636864-V6ac


Once a power source on the Cuyahoga River, is being removed to restore the river ecosystem and uncover Class 5 rapids. This restoration will reveal a hidden natural treasure. (In this video I am standing where the main rapids will be.)

I’m excited to see how the dam’s removal will enhance outdoor recreation and environmental education along the river.

Down Goes Dam IV: In this short video, I discuss the Gorge Dam removal project, highlighting how on-site collaboration and strategic social media engagement are driving awareness and support for this critical environmental initiative.

Link Reference: https://youtube.com/shorts/BHKLKetjPyk?si=uPuiSrVaHzIcjRRk


Here's a much longer explanation from a previous LinkedIn post:


Music by: Don McClean, "American Pie." (1971).

Link To Full Post: https://www.dhirubhai.net/posts/jamesoflanagan_conservation-spillway-conservation-activity-7226239875191128065-VXHx


This project tracks the impact of dam removal on local fish populations in the Cuyahoga River. Researchers count fish and monitor their migration patterns to better understand how restoring natural waterways can support biodiversity and improve ecosystem health. While this isn’t my own project, I came across it and found it inspiring—an excellent example of how environmental conservation can create meaningful, lasting change.

?Here is a video I took of the equipment on the Cuyahoga River in Cuyahoga Falls, OH:

Music by: AD/DC, "Back In Black." (1980).

Video Reference: https://vimeo.com/1004907417?share=copy#t=0



3. Expanding My Circle of Competence

In 2024, I exceeded my goal of expanding my circle of competence, achieving a notable increase through industry events, specialized training, and teaching. Teaching alone significantly boosted my growth, while pursuing master’s classes at Kent State and maintaining an A average further enhanced my skills.

The concept of the circle of competence, introduced by Warren Buffett, refers to the areas where you have deep expertise. Expanding it means acquiring new skills and venturing outside your comfort zone, unlocking opportunities for innovation and leadership.


  • You can read about the circle of competence and Warren Buffett here:

Book Reference: https://www.amazon.com/dp/0553384619?ref_=cm_sw_r_ffobk_cp_ud_dp_2Y0DAP2NQPMR7WNKMAA4&skipTwisterOG=1&bestFormat=true&newOGT=1


In August 2024, I was honored to be recognized in The Official Top 100 Magazine as one of the leading innovators and entrepreneurs shaping the future. This recognition highlights the ongoing expansion of my circle of competence, as I continue to engage with diverse industries and tackle new challenges.

  • Here is a short video about it:

I was recognized in Top 100 Magazine, highlighting his innovative application of social media and AI techniques to advance conservation efforts.

Music by: Seal, "Crazy." (1991).

Video Reference: https://vimeo.com/1005193335



4. Securing Speaking Engagements

Public speaking was once a personal challenge, but after decades of practice, I’ve grown more comfortable and confident in my delivery.

I’ll never forget my first presentation at a department meeting at 固特异 , where I completely froze. Fortunately, my colleagues offered immense support, which I truly appreciated.

(Some of you reading this might actually remember that particular TVET Department Meeting!)


  • I pre-recorded a lecture for a Generative AI conference, which you can view here:

Practice Run: My practice-run lecture, where I explored the intersection of 2 Live Crew's McCuff and AI training datasets, discussing how music and data influence machine learning models and the potential implications for both fields.

  • 2 Live Crew, "Pretty Woman." (1989).
  • Roy Orbison, "Pretty Woman." (1964).

Link Reference: https://youtu.be/HivlkJOBPmo


By 2024, speaking had transformed from a challenge to a strength. Over the year, I delivered more than 400 hours of lectures & webinars, plus speeches on topics like Artificial Intelligence , Engineering Management and Servant Leadership .

These opportunities allowed me to share valuable insights, connect with diverse audiences, and establish myself as a thought leader in my field. I quickly learned that effective communication is not just about sharing knowledge—it’s about building trust and inspiring action.

In addition, we I speaking engagements at ASME (The American Society of Mechanical Engineers) . Unfortunately, I couldn’t attend due to my new role as the Engineering, Robotics, & Manufacturing Instructor at Bedford High School .


For more information on material the was accepted by ASME (The American Society of Mechanical Engineers) for publication in the Spring of 2024:

Link Reference: https://www.dhirubhai.net/pulse/d36-42-asme-imece-zonular-curvi-linear-coordinate-eye-james-gvywc/


In this article, I explore how Deck 36 leveraged generative AI to optimize the setup and execution of experiments. Both this and the above presentations were accepted at ASME IMECE 2024.

Link Reference: https://www.dhirubhai.net/pulse/deck-36-41-asme-imece-using-generative-ai-set-up-run-james-o-flanagan-lycac/


I've also recorded some lectures on various topics to support my teaching efforts.


  • You can see one of those here:

Link Reference: https://youtu.be/LoDc84jTFbU


As part of the delivery of my curriculum at Bedford, I set up new web properties for Bedford Engineering, Robotics, & Manufacturing.

Here is a link to the Youtube Channel:

YouTube Video Reference: YouTube.com/@BedfordEngineering


...And to an Intro To Robotics on Bedford Engineering's Channel:

Video Reference: https://youtu.be/l4WFsOsbkzM?si=crMUhHPoQhNTj-jR



5. Fostering Brand Partnerships

In 2024, I aimed to form five new brand partnerships that aligned with OAPSIE?Inc. ’s mission and values. While I secured three partnerships—falling short of the target—the depth of these collaborations exceeded my expectations. These partnerships have opened doors to new projects and resources, strengthening OAPSIE?Inc. ’s ability to innovate and deliver value.


  • Here is the first:

Link Reference: https://stow.mortgage


  • And the second:

Link Reference: eastrimtrail.com


  • Our own site:

Link Reference: https://oapsie.com


Plus three more in earlier stages of Design & Development:


2025 is shaping up to be a busy year for us and our brand partners, with exciting opportunities and continued growth on the horizon.



6. Expanding Oapsie Inc.'s Coaching Business

Looking ahead, expanding OAPSIE?Inc. 's coaching business will be an area focus in 2025. Coaching continues to be one of the most rewarding parts of my work, and is totally congruent with my role as a high school engineering teacher.

I’m eager to build on the momentum from this year. I plan to welcome even more clients and expand our services, including bringing on another teacher as a software coach to further grow our reach and impact.


I also aim to connect with the next generation of engineers at the 72nd Annual NORTHEASTERN OHIO SCIENCE AND ENGINEERING FAIR, where I have been a judge for the past several years.

  • You can read more about my time at the Science Fair last year in this Deck 36 Newsletter Article:

Link Reference: https://www.dhirubhai.net/pulse/d36-23-after-action-report-71st-neo-science-fair-james-o-flanagan-rfq6c/


tailored workshops and mentorship programs. While the goal of onboarding five new clients wasn’t fully met, the relationships I’ve built with existing clients have been incredibly fulfilling.

Looking forward, OAPSIE?Inc. will continue to evolve and expand its service offerings in 2025. We’ve built a robust suite of services, including:

  • AI solutions tailored to specific client needs
  • Programming expertise to support diverse projects
  • Prompt engineering to drive efficient and effective AI interactions
  • Business process improvement to streamline operations and boost efficiency
  • Tailored workshops and mentorship programs aimed at fostering growth and development

While the goal of onboarding five new clients wasn’t fully met, the relationships I’ve built with existing clients have been incredibly fulfilling. These connections form the foundation for continued success and deeper impact in the year ahead.


Link Reference: https://oapsie.com/contact



7. Writing and Publishing a Business Book

Although I didn’t meet the goal of publishing a book in 2024, I made substantial progress toward it. My book, Engineering with Heart, is based on nearly 1,000 collaborative LinkedIn articles I wrote throughout the year. With the help of generative AI, transforming these articles into a book draft took just a weekend—something I never would have attempted before. While the next step involves a thorough human editing process, it’s incredibly rewarding to finally hold a book draft in my hands.


Deck 36. Issue No. 27, which focused on business books, played a key role in shaping my approach and inspiring the writing journey. Although the book won’t be published until later in 2025, I’m excited to share the finished product soon.


  • Here is a link to that Deck 36 Newsletter Article:

This is my most popular post from 2024 on all platforms. Takeaway? This article is almost 100% about helping other people, rather than talking about myself. I am taking notes ??

Link Reference: https://www.dhirubhai.net/pulse/d36-27-deck-36-newsletter-article-business-books-james-o-flanagan-ivy1c/


I currently have two manuscripts in editing, both moving toward publication.

One of them is a student project called The Boiler Room Chronicles, where we used generative AI to bring our story to life.

The other is my engineering book discussed above.

In preparation, I also explored storytelling on YouTube and reviewed several books in a Deck 36 newsletter article focused on book recommendations.

We plan to publish both manuscripts on Amazon KDP, available in both Kindle and paperback formats.



8. Increasing Digital Engagement

In 2024, I focused heavily on digital engagement, particularly on LinkedIn and Facebook . Through consistent posting and meaningful interactions, I grew my online presence, increasing my follower count by 4X—an achievement I’m proud of and expect to be hard to surpass.


Being featured in Marquis Who's Who this year for innovation and entrepreneurship is a key milestone, expanding my circle of competence by connecting me with new networks, perspectives, and opportunities. It highlights the value of digital engagement and networking with like-minded professionals.


Honored to be recognized by Marquis Who's Who for contributions to engineering and social entrepreneurship. View my profile here.

Link Reference: https://badges.marquiswhoswho.com/Badge/honoredlistee/f7352e95980a4dca9989b901a957eb997ac74ebd1ee6485395522c2a5c8abe00


Over the past year, I contributed to more than 1,000 collaborative articles on LinkedIn , focusing on topics that bridge Engineering Design , Business Development , and Leadership Development .

This effort not only expanded my knowledge but also allowed me to engage with a wider network of professionals, further enhancing my expertise.

Music by: Montell Jordan, "This Is How We Do It." (1995).

Link Reference: https://vimeo.com/995447999/3b2d2177d8



9. Advancing Pennantview

In 2024, I made significant strides with Pennantview , focusing on research, patent work, and refining the technology. While data collection didn’t happen last spring, I'm excited to partner with a baseball team in 2025 to gather valuable insights and take the technology to the next level. With ongoing efforts to find a buyer, I'm optimistic that 2025 will be a breakthrough year for Pennantview, both in terms of development and potential opportunities.


P03: James O’Flanagan, “Ballparkview: A Baseball Stadium Predictive Performance Platform”
Numerous stadium effects impact the outcome of a baseball game – variations in both the in-play and out-of-play areas of the ballpark; weather and wind conditions; and lighting conditions. O’Flanagan presents a predictive sabermetrics model leveraging data science, Ballparkview, that uses CAD models for the stadium, Computational Fluid Dynamics simulations, National Weather Service data, ray tracing technology and game statistics. This model generates a large new dataset of simulated stadium days, with a new set of 30 equations that describe ball flight characteristics at each stadium. This model is encapsulated in a predictive software application.

Link Reference: https://sabr.org/convention/sabr51-posters


The Pennantview homepage, hosted by OAPSIE.com, provides an in-depth look at the innovative technology and its potential to enhance baseball data analysis and performance.

Link Reference: https://pennantview.com



10. Securing Funding for Pennantview

Although I wasn’t able to secure funding for Pennantview in 2024, the groundwork laid—including technology development and stakeholder engagement—positions us well for success in 2025. The patent filing at the end of 2023 has set a solid foundation for the upcoming year.


  • This Poster was displayed at SABR 51 in 2023:

Further used to explain the technology in 2024.

Link Reference: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/380574003_Ballparkview_Poster_for_SABR_51


Due to scheduling conflicts, we were unable to instrument players and gather force and moment data during the spring baseball season to further validate the Pennantview model. However, we plan to focus on this crucial task in the spring of 2025.

In this research, we examine how computational biomechanics can be applied to optimize the baseball pitching motion, enhancing performance and reducing injury risks.

Here is the full paper published on ResearchGate :

Link Reference: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/380577271_Pitcherview_Using_Computational_Biomechanics_To_Optimize_The_Baseball_Pitching_Motion


Though progress on this goal was limited in 2024, it remains a priority, and we are committed to advancing it in 2025.



Challenges Overcome in 2024


Standing tall at the summit, a symbol of resilience and perseverance—this is the victory over the challenges faced and conquered in 2024.


2024 presented its share of challenges, particularly balancing my roles as a teacher, entrepreneur, and mentor. Time management became crucial, along with the ability to prioritize and delegate effectively.

Several years ago, I implemented a routine of blocking out two hours every Monday morning, from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m., dedicated solely to weekly project planning. This uninterrupted time has been invaluable, and I plan to apply similar thinking to spend more quality time with my wife in 2025.

Technical setbacks and funding challenges also tested my resilience, but each obstacle offered opportunities for learning and growth.

One of the personal challenges I overcame this year involved navigating tricky boundaries with friends in both personal and professional settings.


  • You can read about that here:

Link Reference: https://www.dhirubhai.net/pulse/d36-30-blurred-lines-navigating-personal-ties-james-o-flanagan-bjmyc/



Celebrating Milestones and Takeaways


Reflecting on achievements and lessons learned, as we celebrate the journey & milestones along the way.


In 2024, I published over 40 issues of my newsletter—a significant milestone.


Highlights of the year include:

  • Delivering presentations at industry conferences
  • Expanding my coaching practice
  • Advancing Pennantview and the Pitcherview application

These accomplishments reflect the efforts made throughout the year, backed by a solid team.

Key takeaways include the importance of continuous learning, collaboration, and maintaining work-life balance. These will shape my plans for 2025.



Setting SMART Goals for 2025


Setting SMART goals is the key to success: Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound objectives guide us toward clear and actionable outcomes.


SMART goals are designed to help you achieve success by making your goals clear, achievable, and time-bound.


The SMART acronym stands for:

  • Specific
  • Measurable
  • Achievable
  • Relevant
  • Time-bound


This framework ensures that each goal is clearly defined and has a realistic timeline for completion.

As I focus on my personal and professional growth in 2025, I’m setting the following SMART goals to guide my actions and track progress.


  • Here they are:


OAPSIE?Inc. & Business Goals

  1. Achieve the sale of one brand from the portfolio by Q3 2025 I will identify and complete the sale of one brand, freeing up resources for new investments.
  2. Launch a new product or service within OAPSIE Inc. by December 31, 2025 Introduce a new offering under OAPSIE Inc. to expand the business and enhance our market position.
  3. Submit the next flight of USGS naming applications by April 30, 2025 Submit the next set of naming applications to the USGS to advance ongoing projects.


Teaching Goals

  1. Secure contract renewal at Bedford and obtain an adjunct teaching position at another institution by June 2025 Ensure continued teaching opportunities at Bedford and expand my teaching portfolio by securing an adjunct role.
  2. Coach a team or student club to foster leadership and collaboration, with at least 10 students involved, by October 2025 Lead a student team or club to build leadership skills and teamwork, engaging at least 10 students.


Personal Development

  1. Maintain a B average or higher in all Master of Education classes at Kent State by December 2025 Maintain a strong academic record to support my growth in education and teaching.
  2. Onboard five new clients to expand my coaching business by December 2025 Grow my coaching business by acquiring five new clients throughout the year.


Digital Presence & Networking

  1. Increase LinkedIn followers by 2.5x, reaching approximately 12,500 followers, by December 2025 Focus on increasing my LinkedIn follower count to strengthen my professional network.
  2. Triple readership of LinkedIn’s Deck 36 newsletters, reaching 1,500 readers by December 2025 Work to grow readership of my newsletters, aiming for 1,500 readers by year-end.
  3. Grow my LinkedIn presence by 25% in terms of engagement and followers by December 2025 Increase engagement and followers by 25% to expand my professional reach.


Student Projects

  1. Complete live demo data collection for Pennantview with the a baseball team by April 2025 Collect live data for Pennantview, possibly collaborating with the Bedford baseball team, if feasible.
  2. Publish Part 1 of "The Boiler Room Chronicles" on Amazon KDP (paperback & Kindle) by September 2025 Publish the first part of The Boiler Room Chronicles to expand my writing portfolio.
  3. Publish my business book on leadership in engineering management by November 2025 Finalize and publish my book on leadership in engineering management to contribute to the field.


Other Goals

?? Divest from one brand partnership to free up capital by June 2025 Free up capital by divesting from one brand partnership.

This is one we're looking to sell:

Link Reference: https://stow.mortgage


?? Explore water features near the Route 8/303 interchange and complete a feasibility study by October 2025 Investigate water features in the area and complete a feasibility study to guide future decisions.

I have already gotten started with research about Orchard Park, which was in this area until the 1980's. I remember Orchard Pond being drained, because my mother took me there to see it happen. I think that's the feature we intend to name.

More info on that here:

Link Reference: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/15v1jusoa5/



Conclusion

A visual representation of conclusion, symbolized by a lightbulb, highlighting a moment of insight & clarity.


Reflecting on 2024, I feel both grateful and energized by the progress we've made and the opportunities ahead. With "Conciseness is Kindness" as our theme, I’m focused on keeping our goals clear and purposeful. This approach isn’t just about achieving milestones—it's about maintaining clarity in every step. Thank you for being part of this journey. I’m excited to see what we can accomplish together in 2025.

This process is more than just setting goals; it’s a practical framework for how I project plan, and it will form the basis of a lesson plan for my students, too.



Call to Action


A scenic view of Peninsula Quarry with a group of people brainstorming, highlighting the community’s involvement in preserving the quarry’s legacy through the naming process.


As we embrace the theme of "Conciseness is Kindness" for 2025, it’s time to act decisively and with focus. Setting clear, measurable goals and pursuing them with purpose will not only streamline our efforts but also honor the time and resources of those around us.

This year, let’s cut through the noise, focus on what truly matters, and make meaningful progress. I’m committed to turning my goals into reality—now, I challenge you to do the same. Let’s be intentional, concise, and kind in how we work toward our shared success.

It’s time to make 2025 a year of impact.



Errata


Errata checklist summarizing key takeaways, additional insights, and noteworthy points that didn't fit into the main article but remain valuable. Image produced by DALL-E.


While some items didn’t fit into the main article, they remain valuable in their own right. Here are a few updates and interesting tidbits:

  • AI in Engineering: Generative AI is transforming engineering with smarter, more efficient solutions, aligning with OAPSIE?Inc. ;s mission.
  • Sustainable Tech Growth: Sustainability remains a priority, with new reports on green engineering. Oapsie continues to develop technologies that balance innovation and environmental stewardship.
  • Tech in Education: The integration of AI and robotics in classrooms is accelerating, supporting my passion for teaching innovation.
  • Robotics in Manufacturing: Recent collaborations in robotics are creating new opportunities for Oapsie in AI-driven manufacturing processes.
  • Paper Submission: I submitted a paper to a financial conference that didn’t make the cut—but I’ll find a new home for it soon.
  • Oapsie Inc. as a Public Benefit Corp: I’m working on transitioning Oapsie to a public benefit corporation to further align with our mission and values.
  • Family Connection and Conservation: My family’s connection to Orchard Park has inspired me to focus more on conservation efforts this year.
  • Science Fair: I plan to be a judge for the March science fair—looking forward to seeing the innovation of young minds!
  • Cuyahoga Valley Projects: We’ve completed two important projects in the Cuyahoga Valley, along with remediation plans for both. Notably, the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) water feature naming project.



?? Thank You! ??


Thank you, Dear Readers, for your continued support and engagement with our content; I really appreciate it.


#ProjectPlanning #YearInReview #Innovation #OapsieInc #Technology #FutureVision #Engineering #Cyberpunk #CarpeDiem #Leadership #AI #Themes #Entrepreneurship #TechTrends #BusinessGrowth #Creativity


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Sarah Jane Mayberry

Artist at Self Employed

1 个月

Does this cost money to subscribe sir?

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Sarah Jane Mayberry

Artist at Self Employed

1 个月

I'm very new to this platform does it cost to subscribe to this newsletter?

James O'Flanagan, MS, FRSA

Your Personal Engineering Guide ?? | Oapsie.com | Top 100 Innovators 2024 | Marquis Who’s Who | EastRimTrail.com | Stow.Mortgage | jamesoflanagan.com | MS | FRSA | F:??♂???♀???????????♂????

1 个月

Someone had a question about conciseness, and what that actually means. For me, isn’t so much about having a lot or a little to say, It’s about delivering the content efficiently and succinctly. B/c respecting someone else’s time by being concise is the ultimate kindness, IMHO. That’s how we intend to approach our communication across all channels this year. And #kindness is the reason why! Thanks everyone for reading the article. ??

Jim Finlaw

Producer | Innovator - Travel Marketing

1 个月

Love the title!

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