Title/Position: Engineer in Training

Community/Company: Strand Associates, Inc.

What's your primary job? - I am a project engineer in the water resources group at the Joliet branch of Strand Associates, Inc. I primarily work on projects including water storage design, water main design, booster station design, and well design. Additionally, I have completed water audits, Lake Michigan allocation applications, and consumer confidence reports for surrounding municipalities, among other things.

How long have you worked in the total water industry? - I began my work at Strand Associates straight out of college in June 2021, so I will be coming up on three years in the water industry this summer!

How did you get involved in the industry? - During my interview at Strand Associates, Inc., I was asked which specialty I would be interested in working in. I shared that I was passionate about environmental health and helping local communities. When I was pointed towards the water resources group, I was intrigued. Upon learning more about the water industry, I learned that it was exactly where I was meant to be. I joined the water group on my first day at Strand Associates, Inc. and never looked back!

What sets you apart in the industry? - Something that sets me apart in the total water industry is my passion for humanitarian engineering. My goal is to approach communities with a listening ear to understand their water system concerns and issues and create solutions that benefit the community, its residents, and Strand Associates alike.

What do you enjoy the most about being involved in the industry? - My favorite part about being involved in the total water industry, besides helping aid communities with their clean water needs, is networking with new people - collaborating with them and learning from them to create more efficient and effective water solutions.

What is the best piece of advice you've ever received or have given to another person? - The best piece of advice I've received is to treat every day as a clean slate and a new opportunity. Just because something goes awry one day, doesn't mean it has to define your week. With each sunrise is a new chance to make your day what you want it to be.

What's your idea of a perfect day? - My perfect day would involve waking up to the sunrise, taking a long walk along the water with a coffee in hand, spending the day in the sun and the water, and ending it with a sunset dinner.

Fun Fact - I have two cats, Alie and Peeta, that I love dearly! I have one younger brother who will be graduating in May 2024 with a degree in electrical engineering! I love to paint, dance, and practice yoga in my free time!