Project Engineer and Musician

Tell us about your hobby.
I enjoy writing and playing music. I started playing the trumpet in 4th grade, moved to the tuba in high school and taught myself to play guitar and piano. I started writing singer/songwriter music shortly after high school and started playing at open-mic nights through college. I recorded a short demo (5 original songs) at a studio which was an amazing experience. I love connecting with people and sharing a message through music.

What is your chosen discipline? Why do you love it?
I am a Civil Engineer in the Land Development discipline. I love using the intricacies of engineering to solve real-world problems. I love that our work is very practical in nature and important for civilization. Designing a site on a computer and seeing it on paper is one thing but going out to the site to see what you’ve designed after it has been built is a special feeling.

If you could snap your fingers and become an expert in something, what would it be?
Being an expert in parenting would be very beneficial. I am a proud father of three, and my wife and I have become foster parents to other children in need. It can be a struggle to keep up with the many needs of children, but it is such a rewarding feeling knowing that I have a great impact on their learning, development, and growth. They are keeping me young!

What’s one thing you’re learning now, and why is it important??
In the last two years I have been learning more and more about Project Management through a series of trainings put on by our in-house managers. I have learned a great deal about client relationships, team dynamics, and project budget management. This information will aid in my development as an Engineer and allow me to expand my career opportunities.