The “Why I am an engineer” series is a compilation of question and answer sessions that ASCE-NH had with several civil engineers in New Hampshire. The aim is to spotlight what engineering is, what drives current engineers, and how to grow the STEM fields.
Where do you work and what type of projects do you work on?
I work part-time as the Executive Director of the Boston Society of Civil Engineers (BSCES) and also as an engineer at the BETA Group. In my role at BSCES I am responsible for the leaders and guidance of the society. I work with other staff and MANY volunteers on the advancement and promotion of the civil engineering profession.
At the BETA Group, I work in the recently opened Manchester, NH office. My main responsibility here is business development for the expansion of BETA’s client base.
What is the most rewarding aspect of your job?
The feeling that you are using your abilities to help “fix” things. Whether it is a road, bridge, or bike path, the projects undertaken by civil engineers directly impact the quality of life we all hope to enjoy.
As Executive Director of BSCES, I also enjoy the opportunity to help promote the profession and educate the public about engineering. Recently, I was featured in an article on transportation funding. I find it to be extremely fulfilling to help bridge the gap between engineers and the public.
What inspired you to be an engineer?
You might say that the apple doesn’t fall too far from the tree. Construction and engineering has been in my family ever since my grandfather emigrated to the U.S. from Italy. He got a job working as a heavy machinery operator. Inspired by my grandfather, my father became an engineer. As a result, myself, both of my brothers, and several cousins work in the construction and engineering fields.
Throughout high school and college I worked summer jobs in construction as a laborer, or loading trucks in the yard. While these were physically demanding and sometimes dirty jobs I got to see things from the ground up.
What do you think should be changed or introduced into education to grow the next generation of engineers?
We as practicing engineers need to be more visible in our local school systems. We need to take advantage of opportunities such as career days, Future City mentoring, or FIRST robotics to show who/what engineers are.
What advice would you give to young people considering engineering?
If you want an interesting and rewarding career, engineering is it.