PE, PEng, CBO/CFM
Las Vegas Branch Manager UES
Type of Business: Geotechnical/Environmental/Materials Engineering; Construction Inspections & Testing; Building Sciences
Based: Las Vegas, NV
Hails from: Goldsboro, NC
Years Org. has been in Nevada: 21
Year with Organization in Nevada: 1
Employees in NV: 225
What is your professional background?
A good friend initially sparked my passion for geology and the environment. Although I ultimately pursued engineering in college, that guidance stayed with me. My first job was working hands-on with drill rigs, logging samples, and engaging in construction engineering with a remarkable team.
What career advice would you give to someone just starting in your industry?
Jump in with both feet and enjoy. Find a mentor you can relate to. Learn everything you can as fast as you can. Volunteer and take every remote/hard assignment and learn from it. Join a professional society and get involved. Become a valuable member of the team and keep your technical and personal skills sharp! Avoid negativity and build on the positive.
What is an issue facing your industry an outside observer might not be aware of?
The available pool of qualified engineers, scientists, inspectors and testers and those willing to join our profession is really tight right now. By necessity, we are spending a lot of time, energy and effort to develop inhouse training programs to build up our younger staff.
What is your favorite business book?
“First, Break All the Rules” by Marcus Buckingham – To be really good, you need to set the outcomes that you want and then let your staff develop how to reach those goals. Don’t micromanage them – hire smart!
If you were going to teach a college course, what would you teach?
“Guiding Future Leaders: Building Your Expertise, Professionalism, and Effective Communication” [The course would] provide practical tools and insights that will contribute to the students’ achievements in their personal and professional lives.
What leaders do you look up to?
I admire those leaders who do the right things, follow ethical business practices, are dedicated to taking care of their team and customers and help to mentor the next generation.
What do you hope future generations can learn from your professional journey?
Wholeheartedly embracing engineering and giving your best can make the journey remarkably rewarding and fulfilling. It’s your career and your life: enjoy it!
