My time is split almost evenly between client coordination and design production. For client coordination, I make and receive phone calls from architects, owners and county/city personnel in an effort to maintain win/win situations and achieve jurisdictional approvals for my projects. I also host and attend meetings with county/city staff, clients and general contractors. For design production I design site layouts, traffic flow patterns, utilities, stormwater management for both quantity and quality of the runoff water, site grading, erosion and sedimentation control, and design the details needed for the contractor to construct my designs.
How long have you worked with Draper Aden Associates and how have your responsibilities increased?
I have been working with Draper Aden Associates since July 2006. When I began, my responsibilities were mainly focused on the production side of the project cycle; now my responsibilities are evenly split between production and coordination. In addition to my professional responsibilities, I was elected chairman of Draper Aden Associates' Firm of Choice Committee. This committee examines current employee satisfaction/dissatisfaction, studies the methods needed to improve upon weak areas, and implements the strategies based on balancing financial responsibility and overall desire of the firm.
What types of projects do you work on?
I work on projects such as new University student housing facilities, projects with confidentiality agreements, redevelopments of historical buildings, and various commercial developments.
What types of activities, associations or memberships have you had that contribute to your career?
I am involved in the Richmond Chapter of ASCE which allows me to meet fellow Civil Engineers and learn about new methods and procedures in the field.
Looking back to your college years, what types of internships or jobs did you have that have helped your career path?
I had Civil Engineering related jobs after each of my first three years. After my freshman and sophomore years, I worked as an intern for a Geotechnical Engineering firm. After my junior year I worked as an intern for a Land Development firm and discovered that I liked the duties, responsibilities, and coordination more than the Geotechnical side.
Will you be sitting for your PE exam in the coming future?
I will take the PE at my first availability, which is April 2009.
