Clint聽Laaser聽brings a proven聽track record聽of over 20 years in the industry, most recently serving as聽global聽aviation聽planning and聽strategic聽advisory聽lead. In his new role聽as U.S.聽aviation聽architecture聽lead,聽Clint聽is dedicated to聽growing聽our aviation architecture聽and building engineering聽practice聽and serving clients across the United States.聽With a background spanning architecture, terminal planning and advisory, Clint brings a unique ability to connect planning,聽design聽and stakeholder collaboration to deliver impactful airport projects.聽

What inspired you to join the industry?

My love for buildings and planning started聽when I was young, and I always knew聽I wanted to go to architecture school.聽Upon graduation I worked on a variety of residential,聽commercial聽and transportation聽projects,聽but聽I realized it was the large public聽facilities聽and the dynamics that go into them聽that fueled my passion.聽

That聽realization聽led me to my first aviation project: a聽new聽airport聽terminal聽in聽Wichita,聽Kansas. I was deeply involved聽from聽the first stages of聽master planning through design and ribbon cutting.聽I鈥檓聽grateful for that experience聽because聽it allowed me to work聽closely with a client throughout the聽full聽project聽lifecycle.

I discovered that I really enjoy the upfront planning and consensus-building stages of the design process.聽I聽remain聽motivated by聽bringing people together, connecting ideas and shaping聽environments that serve the public.聽

What is your favorite 91影视 project that聽you鈥檝e聽worked聽on聽and why?

Elevate CVG is a design-build聽program聽at Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport聽led by 91影视 Hunt that brings together multiple 91影视 business lines聽鈥斅爄ncluding Transportation and Buildings + Places聽鈥斅爐o create a cohesive vision. The program includes renovations to the terminal,聽concourses聽and a pedestrian tunnel.聽It鈥檚聽a large, complex effort involving significant collaboration.聽聽

My role involved shaping the pursuit strategy and I鈥檓 continuing to support the project through delivery. I鈥檝e contributed to the planning and design, aligning teams and adapting the design as project leadership and priorities evolved.  

This program reflects my favorite parts of aviation work: storytelling, consensus building and connecting people to deliver a strong outcome. 

Tell us a story of how your work positively impacted the community.

Positive community impacts聽start聽with understanding your client and the people they serve.聽You need to learn聽what鈥檚聽important to them and聽approach聽the project as a local聽鈥� even聽if聽you鈥檙e聽not.聽

Airports are gateways to their communities, so designs should reflect their culture, history and identity. We鈥檝e accomplished this across projects of all sizes 鈥� from Boston Logan Terminal E, where the layout and signature 鈥淏oston Red鈥� roof reflect the city鈥檚 spirit of innovation, to the North Concourse at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, which draws on the Pacific Northwest through warm wood, natural light and river-inspired forms. At Presque Isle International Airport in Maine, a simpler design uses regional materials and familiar building forms to create a strong local connection.  

Each of these projects聽demonstrates聽how a sense of place can be thoughtfully scaled to reflect the communities they聽represent.聽聽

Share a piece of career advice. 

When you have a chance to try a different role, project or area of focus, take the leap! Stretching yourself is where you learn the most, even if it feels uncomfortable at first.  

It鈥檚 also important to build relationships along the way. You never know who you鈥檒l work with in the future or how those connections will shape your career. 

If you stay open, curious, grounded and above all genuine, opportunities tend to come together in meaningful ways.

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Matt Lee brings more than 25 years of experience in intelligent transportation systems (ITS) and currently serves as vice president of ITS operations for the Americas. In this role, he leads coordination across our network of transportation management centers (TMCs) while advising federal, state, city and local agencies on mobility operations and system performance. His leadership draws on experience spanning control room operations, incident response and program management, which helps him shape innovative, data-driven solutions that improve safety, efficiency and overall traveler experience.

Tell us about what inspired you to join the industry.

I have always had a strong interest in the transportation industry, spending the first decade of my career in airline operations. Over time, that interest expanded to surface transportation and the opportunities it presented.

The unique blend of technology and ingenuity behind TMCs appealed to me. I enjoyed combining real-time data, operational strategy and human decision-making to keep people moving safely and efficiently.

After 25 years at 91影视, I can鈥檛 see myself doing anything else. The environment is constantly evolving and I鈥檝e never stopped learning. This fuels my passion for helping people get from point A to point B safely, quickly and confidently.

What is your favorite 91影视 project that you鈥檝e worked on and why?

One of my most meaningful roles was serving as operations manager for the Hampton Roads Traffic Operations Center (TOC) in Virginia Beach. I oversaw a large, multidisciplinary team that included 24/7 control room operators, safety service patrol teams, traffic engineers, field maintenance staff and administrative personnel.

It was the most complex project I had managed at the time, and the client was highly engaged in decision-making. The region also has an extensive network of bridges and tunnels with limited roadway capacity, which created constant operational challenges.

The program was a success due to a strong client partnership and a highly motivated team. We fostered a collaborative and fulfilling environment, which allowed me to learn a great deal from the people I managed while supporting a positive experience for the entire team.

The project continues to operate today, and I still enjoy visiting the site nearly 20 years later to see the lasting impact of our work.

Tell us a story of your work positively impacting the community.

In 2016, I established the 91影视 TMC Assessment Service 鈥� a program designed to help agencies evaluate and improve their transportation operations through an in-depth, top-down audit process.

Our first client was a toll road agency navigating capacity and safety challenges amid growing public expectations. Our role was to provide candid, constructive feedback while maintaining the client鈥檚 integrity.

After a week onsite with their team and a month of analysis, we proposed a set of recommendations with a clear implementation roadmap. The client integrated many of them with our continued support.

Over time, we saw measurable enhancements in both mobility and safety along with a noticeable positive shift in public and media perception. It was incredibly rewarding to see the impact on the community. I still travel on that toll road today, and it鈥檚 gratifying to experience those upgrades firsthand.

Share a piece of career advice.

Don鈥檛 change jobs frequently. Spending a meaningful amount of time with a single organization allows you to learn from others, build trust and demonstrate your value over time. It also gives you the opportunity to shape your own career path as you grow within the company. I often see resumes with multiple short-term roles intended to show ambition, but to me, they reflect a lack of long-term commitment and confidence. Real growth comes from staying engaged, continuing to learn and making the most of the opportunities in front of you.

No two career paths look the same. At 91影视, we have four main career paths for our people to explore. An employee鈥檚 unique career journey can cross paths at different points depending on what inspires them.

Check out how Matt Lee chose the path he鈥檚 on today.

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David Lee has driven many impactful renewables projects throughout his career. Passionate about sustainability, David combines technical expertise with community-focused solutions. His journey highlights that true advocacy in renewable energy is not only about technical contributions but also about communicating the importance of sustainable development in positive and understandable ways. 

Tell us about what inspired you to join the industry. 

I鈥檝e been with 91影视 for 14 years now, and my journey into the renewable energy industry has been both rewarding and transformative. My interest in renewables began during my time at university in Edinburgh, where I pursued a civil engineering degree. Back then, renewable energy wasn鈥檛 as prominent as it is today; specific degrees were few and far between. However, I found myself drawn to the subject, particularly onshore wind, which became the focus of my dissertation.  

After graduating, I initially worked in civil engineering outside the renewable sector due to the limited opportunities during the financial crash. However, when an opportunity arose at 91影视 in Edinburgh, I knew I had to take it. It was my dream job out of university to work on onshore wind developments and contribute to a sustainable future. What keeps me inspired is the belief that renewable energy is not just about tackling climate change but also, by reducing costs and providing community ownership, addressing issues like fuel poverty and building resilience in communities. It鈥檚 a field that truly makes a difference.

What is your favorite 91影视 project that you鈥檝e worked on and why? 

Back in 2012, one of the first projects I worked on was the installation of a 2.5-megawatt wind turbine at Lancaster University. I used to drive down and do the foundation inspections and a lot more on-the-ground engineering work than I do now. Fast forward 10 years, we returned to Lancaster to install an 11-megawatt solar farm. Seeing the evolution of this project and maintaining a long-term relationship with the client has been incredibly rewarding. It鈥檚 a testament to the impact we can have over time.  

I鈥檝e also enjoyed working on projects like the Pennon Solar Portfolio鈥檚 renewable energy installations. These projects not only reduce carbon footprints but also demonstrate the potential of renewables to inspire future generations. It鈥檚 about showing what鈥檚 possible when sustainability is at the forefront of design and development. 

Pumped storage hydro represents a significant opportunity for us, and we have been actively involved in the Loch na Cathrach project, previously Red John, since 2016. We began by assisting the client in identifying a suitable site, followed by the development of that site. Our support extended through the planning application and environmental assessments. It was 100 percent delivered by us from an engineering and environmental planning side. We guided the client from the initial concept all the way through to executing the final plan.聽

Tell us a story of how your work positively impacted the community. 

A project I鈥檓 particularly proud of is our work in Nigeria. Funded by the European Union (EU) through the Department for International Development (DfID), we helped deploy 2.5 megawatts and 6.7 megawatt-hours of solar photovoltaic and battery storage across 50 sites in northern Nigeria, giving a renewable supply of electricity to maternity wards, hospitals and shelters for domestic abuse survivors. The project was rewarding not just for its climate benefits but also for the life-saving infrastructure it provided. For example, the renewable energy allowed hospitals to store coronavirus vaccines safely and deliver babies under proper lighting instead of relying on phone flashlights. Knowing that our work had such a direct and positive impact on people鈥檚 lives was incredibly fulfilling. 

This project is a perfect example of how our work can transform communities. By providing a reliable renewable energy supply, we improved healthcare facilities and created safer environments for vulnerable populations. It鈥檚 projects like these that remind me why I do what I do. Even though we worked remotely from Edinburgh due to security concerns, the impact of our efforts was tangible and life-changing for those communities.聽聽

Share a piece of career advice. 

If you鈥檙e considering a career in renewables, my advice is simple: understand the bigger picture. It鈥檚 not just about the technical aspects like designing a wind turbine foundation but also about why we鈥檙e doing it. What are the environmental impacts? How does it benefit the community? Having a holistic view will not only make you a better engineer but also help you connect with clients and stakeholders on a deeper level.  

Don鈥檛 be afraid to immerse yourself in the industry. Renewables are a fast-changing, highly visible field often at the center of political and social discussions. By staying informed and passionate, you鈥檒l not only keep up but also stand out. 

I often reflect on my journey in this industry and the passion that drives everyone involved. I remember working alongside environmental colleagues like ecologists, and it was clear we all shared the same love for the environment. We weren鈥檛 there to destroy nature for the sake of development; we were there because we genuinely believed in protecting it. At times, our mission felt like a balancing act. Whether it was addressing issues like climate change, enhancing community resilience against fuel poverty or promoting sustainability overall, every project had its own set of multiple benefits. I truly believe that if you鈥檙e going to work in this field, you have to be an advocate for the environment. You need to shout about the positive changes we鈥檙e making, loud enough to remind everyone that our work matters. 

In essence, while one might think our field would naturally be at the forefront of positive change, it鈥檚 a continuous effort to connect, inspire and advocate effectively. And though it should be easier, the work itself challenges us to be better every day.

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Nicol谩s Orellana is an aviation architect and design leader based in Boston with nearly two decades of experience delivering complex airport projects across the U.S., Europe, South America and the Middle East. Known for blending advanced geometry with human-centered design, Nicol谩s has contributed to landmark projects such as Boston Logan International Airport鈥檚 Terminal E. His work reflects his deep commitment to creating highly functional and meaningful spaces for the people who use them.

What inspired you to join the industry?

My path began with a passion for public art. I spent many weekends in high school painting large-scale murals, which sparked my interest in how design can shape a city and influence how people experience it. I found architecture was the best way to combine creativity, technical thinking and public impact.

A project for a small airport in Chile early in my career showed me that aviation offers a unique opportunity to create operationally complex and meaningful spaces for the people who use them every day. From that moment, I knew I wanted to focus on airport design.

I later moved to London to study Space Syntax and made my thesis on airport wayfinding, which taught me how design can improve the overall passenger experience 鈥� confirming that this was the field for me.

What is your favorite 91影视 project that you鈥檝e worked on and why?

Boston Logan International Airport means the most to me, professionally and personally. I joined the project during the concept design phase in 2016. A decade later, the city has become my home, making this project a defining part of my career and life.

I worked on the building envelope design 鈥� including the geometry of the iconic fa莽ade and roof 鈥� for the Vision Architect team. The outward design influenced the interior spaces to create a strong connection between form and experience.

One of the main challenges was translating innovative design ideas and complex geometry into buildable solutions that met local regulations and technical requirements.

Drawing on the team鈥檚 expertise in airport design, environmental performance and passenger experience, we developed innovative solutions such as the climate-responsive envelope shaped to maximize daylight and reduce glare, as well as the use of natural illumination to support wayfinding and reduce stress. These strategies contributed to the project earning numerous international awards and LEED Platinum certification. What makes it most meaningful is how people experience it 鈥� the airport is now part of Boston鈥檚 identity and fosters a positive, memorable environment for travelers.

Tell us a story of how your work positively impacted the community.

Airports are often overwhelming, but thoughtful, human-centered design can make them more intuitive and welcoming. Throughout projects like Santiago International Airport and Boston Logan, we upgraded the passenger experience with design strategies focused on right-sized spaces, intuitive wayfinding, creating a sense of place, integrating nature indoors and achieving sensory balance.

The most rewarding feedback comes when people say an airport feels less stressful and more comfortable. That shift in perception shows how transforming airports into spaces where people feel connected and at ease is one of the most meaningful contributions we make to the communities we serve.

Share a piece of career advice.

Build your career around what you are genuinely passionate about.

Passion drives you to keep improving, contribute original ideas and work through challenges. It gives meaning to your work and strengthens outcomes for your team. In my own career, focusing on work I feel connected to is key to my development and growth. That passion has become one of my greatest strengths and helped me build a fulfilling career.

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Chad Laucamp is a dedicated professional at 91影视 with 26 years of experience in the Chicago office, specializing in potable water, wastewater and conveyance projects. His expertise spans planning studies, hydraulic modeling, water and wastewater treatment plant design, risk and resilience assessments, and program management. Beyond his impressive career, Chad is a vibrant individual who thrives on staying active and exploring the world. He is a former triathlete, prioritizing fitness and adventure in his daily life. Being an avid traveler, he has visited captivating places like South Africa, Malaysia and Sri Lanka, where he immersed himself in diverse cuisines and cultures. He resides in Chicago, enjoys spending time at the lake and cheering for his favorite baseball team, the Chicago Cubs. Chad has a zest for life and adventure and embraces every opportunity to connect with nature and experience new cultures.

Tell us about what inspired you to join the industry.

Growing up in rural Iowa, I always had an aptitude for science, math and problem solving. My connection to the environment and desire to be part of the solution inspired me to pursue a career in engineering. It was during my time in graduate school that I encountered a professor who became a pivotal mentor in my life. His guidance helped me navigate my path and solidify my understanding of where I wanted to go in my career. This combination of my early interests and the influence of an inspiring mentor truly shaped my journey into the industry. I am excited to continue my professional journey in leading technical teams to solve complex challenges for our clients in the water industry.

What is your favorite 91影视 project that you鈥檝e worked on and why?

I鈥檝e been with 91影视 for almost 26 years now. Over the years, I often say it feels like working for three or four different companies because of how much 91影视 has evolved since I started. One of my favorite projects during this time was managing a 30-million-gallon-per-day water treatment plant as part of a Greenfield project. It was fascinating to work on a blank slate, designing and laying out the plant without the constraints of existing infrastructure. The project presented unique challenges, particularly due to the poor soil conditions at the site, requiring innovative design provisions like pile-supported structures and piping. What made this project truly memorable was the exceptional team I had the privilege to lead. Together, we overcame difficult design and construction conditions and delivered to the client within a tight timeframe 鈥� a remarkable achievement that stands out in my career.

Tell us a story of how your work positively impacted the community.

A couple of the most rewarding projects I鈥檝e worked on in the Chicago area are stormwater management projects to help mitigate flooding for nearby homeowners. The first was an opportunity to contribute to planning, design and permitting efforts for stormwater landscapes on vacant parcels of land across the city. The project focused on implementing green infrastructure strategies to divert stormwater and mitigate flooding in vulnerable neighborhoods. It was incredibly fulfilling to evaluate and develop solutions that not only addressed stormwater management but also provided tangible community benefits. These strategies helped improve the quality of life for residents, particularly those who had been disproportionately affected by flooding. What made this project truly special was seeing the direct impact of our work 鈥� watching the solutions come to life and knowing they were making a difference in the lives of people in the community. It鈥檚 projects like these that remind me of the power of engineering to create meaningful change and improve resilience in urban environments.

The second project was a stormwater storage project that provided compensatory storage for the Corps of Engineers (COE) / Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) Levee 37 project on the Des Plaines River. The project is in a large existing recreational park, and balancing the needs of the park with the needs for flood control was a critical aspect for project success. Recreational elements included four artificial turf baseball fields, concession building, bandshell, picnic pavilion, soccer fields located at the base of one of the shallow detention basins, approximately two miles of multi-use paths, two parking lots and extensive landscaping throughout the 100-acre park.

Share a piece of career advice.

In our fast-paced work environment, it’s crucial to set aside time each day for meaningful conversations with clients, colleagues or junior staff. Focus on sharing insights and learning something new about those you work with. These connections enhance professional relationships and foster personal growth.

No two career paths look the same. At 91影视, we have four main career paths for our people to explore. An employee鈥檚 unique career journey can cross paths at different points depending on what inspires them.

Check out how Chad Laucamp chose the path he鈥檚 on today.

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Nadiah is a seasoned nuclear civil and structural engineer whose career began in waste infrastructure before she discovered her passion for nuclear projects. With 16 years of experience, she has led award鈥憌inning, safety鈥慶ritical work at Sellafield, the U.K.鈥檚 largest nuclear site. She champions diversity in STEM and helps others grow their skills and capabilities while improving nuclear safety across the industry. She is a Chartered Engineer and a member of the Institution of Civil Engineers and the Nuclear Institute, the professional membership body dedicated to the sector.

Tell us about what inspired you to join the industry.

I began my career as a graduate structural engineer in the waste infrastructure team. After 12 months, the team was unfortunately dissolved. At that pivotal moment, my line manager at that time transitioned to the nuclear team and invited me to join him.

Nuclear work was a completely new and somewhat daunting field for me, but I was immediately drawn to the intricacy, precision and depth of detail involved in the projects. What started as an unexpected opportunity quickly became a genuine passion.

Sixteen years later, I am proud to still be part of the industry, continually motivated by the complexity, responsibility and impact of the work we do.

What is your favorite 91影视 project that you鈥檝e worked on and why?

Two projects stand out to me as particularly rewarding, both for the technical challenges involved and the collaborative spirit that underpinned their success.

The first was the major decommissioning of the diffuser section atop a 120-metre concrete chimney at the Sellafield site. The diffuser formed part of the filtration system that played a critical role in limiting the release of radiation during the 1957 Windscale fire, preventing a disaster from escalating into a catastrophe. I joined the project during preliminary design and remained through to implementation, culminating in the successful dismantling of the diffuser in November 2021.

Due to radioactive contamination, the structure had to be cut in place using specialised diamond wire saws and removed in blocks up to nine tonnes in weight using a tower crane that had seismically qualified supports and base. The complexity of the engineering solution, combined with the need to coordinate multiple stakeholders across the supply chain, made it an incredibly collaborative effort, one that was recognised with several awards. I began the project as a graduate structural engineer and progressed to lead engineer and project manager, making it especially meaningful from both a professional and personal perspective.

My other favourite was the Harwell Flask Project, which also happened to be at Sellafield, where I was embedded in the client鈥檚 team as lead civil and structural engineer. We managed the structural risks while removing a 60-year-old, five-tonne flask from a degraded six-metre-high platform. Given initial uncertainties around the liquor inventory, the flask was assigned the highest safety classification, with worst case assumptions driving a high consequence categorisation.

We designed and implemented a contingency scaffold solution to mitigate the risk of a dropped-load fault while further characterisation work was undertaken. Subsequent historical research and detailed activity calculations enabled a revised consequence assessment, significantly reducing the predicted risk and allowing the operation to proceed using a telehandler to safely lower the flask. Like the first project, this work was recognised with health and safety, and collaboration awards.

Both projects stand out because they required innovative, 鈥渙ut-of-the-box鈥� thinking, something that is essential within the nuclear industry. They combined technical complexity, rigorous safety standards and true teamwork, which for me are what make this field so rewarding.

Tell us a story of how your work positively impacted the community.

In my role, I鈥檝e had the privilege of contributing to something that profoundly affects the wider community: protecting nuclear safety while enabling reliable, high鈥憅uality project delivery. By providing clear technical authority and strong governance, I helped elevate design standards, reduce risks and rework, and strengthen confidence among regulators and stakeholders in the overall safety case.

Beyond the technical impact, my work supported the growth of a resilient civil and structural engineering capability 鈥� developing people, setting consistent standards, and ensuring high鈥憅uality delivery across the entire nuclear portfolio. This investment in people and processes helps build a safer, more sustainable future for the communities these facilities serve.

As a millennial, I especially valued collaborating with both Generation X and Generation Z teams. Each group brings unique perspectives and strengths, and I found myself learning from both 鈥� enhancing not only our collective work but also my own professional growth.

I contribute to closing the gender gap in STEM by being visible as a woman engineer in a leadership role and showing that these careers are achievable. I mentor and support women and underrepresented groups, helping them build confidence and progress in their careers. I also champion inclusive practices in my teams making sure diverse voices are heard and opportunities are equitable while supporting initiatives that encourage girls and young women to explore STEM. It鈥檚 both about representation and creating an environment where everyone can succeed. I was honored to be a shortlisted finalist for Civil Engineer of the Year at the 2025 for my work.

Share a piece of career advice.

One piece of advice I always share is to say 鈥測es鈥� to new tasks and new responsibilities 鈥� within reason, of course. Growth rarely comes from staying within the comfort of what we already know. By putting yourself forward for unfamiliar challenges, you accelerate your learning, broaden your technical capability and build confidence in your own judgment.

Saying yes doesn鈥檛 mean overcommitting or stepping beyond your competence without support, it means being open to opportunities that stretch you. Some of the most defining moments in a career come from unexpected responsibilities, leading a meeting for the first time, managing stakeholder relationships or taking ownership of a complex technical issue. These experiences not only develop technical expertise but also strengthen leadership, communication and decision-making skills.

In my experience, progression often comes from those moments where you choose to step up rather than step back. Each new responsibility becomes a stepping stone, building credibility and trust with colleagues and clients. Over time, those small 鈥測es鈥� decisions compound into significant professional growth.

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Mario Turgeon is a mechanical engineer specializing in hydraulic turbines and generators. With more than 32 years of experience 鈥� including over 18 at 91影视 鈥� he has contributed to a wide range of hydropower projects, including new developments and rehabilitation programs. His experience spans multiple turbine types and configurations, from small to large鈥憇cale hydroelectric and pumped鈥憇torage facilities, across projects in Canada, the United States, South America and Africa.

Tell us about what inspired you to join the industry.

My first meaningful exposure to the hydropower industry came during a summer job after my first year at university. I worked as a tour guide at the Shawinigan 2 generating station, which was built in the early 20th century. At the time, it was the largest hydroelectric site in Quebec, earning it the nickname 鈥淣iagara of the East鈥�. This summer job was a dream opportunity. It not only satisfied my curiosity about how turbine-generator units convert the potential energy of water into electricity but also sparked a lasting interest in the rich history of hydropower.

Early in my career, I had the opportunity to join GE Hydro, one of the leading hydraulic turbine manufacturers, marking the beginning of what has become a lifelong career in hydropower. After working as a turbine design engineer and later as the turbine department technical lead, I joined RSW, an 91影视 legacy company. This move allowed me to remain in the hydropower sector while gaining exposure to a broader range of project activities, developing a more holistic project perspective and collaborating more closely with clients and multidisciplinary teams.

One thing I quickly realized is that every hydropower project is unique, not only shaped by its river hydrology and site conditions but also by the people involved. This is what makes the field so engaging: no matter how experienced you are, there is always something new to learn.

What is your favorite 91影视 project that you鈥檝e worked on and why?

One of my favourite projects I鈥檝e worked on at 91影视 is the Rusumo Hydropower Project, an 80-megawatt power station jointly owned by Rwanda, Tanzania and Burundi. I became involved in the project in 2014, beginning with the preparation of the design report and bidding documents. Over the following years, I contributed to all major phases of the project, including bid evaluation, turbine model testing, design reviews, follow-up on manufacturing, installation and ultimately unit commissioning. Being involved from early concept through commissioning made this a uniquely rewarding experience.

The project also has strong personal significance for me. While studying mechanical engineering, I first came to Rwanda in the early 1990s as an intern, teaching computer science at the National University of Rwanda. During that time, frequent power outages were a constant challenge. I never would have imagined that more than 20 years later, I would play a direct role in developing a project that strengthens Rwanda鈥檚 electricity supply and supports regional development. That full鈥慶ircle connection makes the Rusumo project especially meaningful to me.

Tell us a story of how your work positively impacted the community.

We recently completed the Jiji鈥揗ulembwe Hydropower Project in Burundi. The project consists of two run鈥憃f鈥憆iver hydropower plants, inaugurated in 2025, with a combined installed capacity of 49.5 megawatts. This single project increased Burundi鈥檚 national electricity capacity by approximately 25 percent, significantly reducing the country鈥檚 reliance on imported fossil fuels for power generation. The two plants play a critical role in improving grid reliability by delivering clean, renewable energy to communities, businesses and essential services. I was proud to participate in a project that directly supports Burundi鈥檚 energy security and long鈥憈erm development.

One of the aspects I valued most was collaborating with professionals from diverse cultural and technical backgrounds, all working toward the shared goal of delivering a key piece of infrastructure with lasting benefits for the population.

Share a piece of career advice. No hydropower project can be delivered by one person alone. Success depends on people with different skills working together toward a shared goal. Throughout my career, I鈥檝e learned that listening to others, sharing credit and supporting colleagues leads to better outcomes not only for the project but for everyone involved. When a team is aligned and working collaboratively, individual contributions have far greater impact, and it is this collective success that truly drives meaningful projects forward.

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Leah Daniel, based in our Winnipeg, Manitoba office, has 12 years of experience focusing on collaborative delivery of large wastewater treatment projects. She holds a master鈥檚 degree in civil engineering from the University of Manitoba, which included completing her thesis in partnership with 91影视 on chemical phosphorus removal on an active wastewater treatment plant during the height of the coronavirus pandemic.

Tell us about what inspired you to join the industry.

Growing up on a lake that served as a drinking water source made me deeply aware of how essential clean, safe water is to everyday life 鈥� and how easily it can be impacted by human activity. That awareness led me to study water and wastewater treatment in university, with the goal of improving quality of life by expanding access to safe drinking water, particularly in underserved communities.

My shift into wastewater treatment was less intentional and more driven by practicality. When senior design projects were assigned, I was the only student in my class who could stomach handling cadaver waste, making me the lucky one chosen to design and operate a benchscale bioreactor to treat waste generated by the university鈥檚 cadaver lab. I quickly found myself loving the process 鈥� watching the biomass 鈥渂ugs鈥� grow, finetuning micronutrients to keep them healthy and seeing tangible treatment results. Once I joined 91影视, I was drawn to the field鈥檚 complex challenges and constant innovation, solidifying my passion for the wastewater industry.

What is your favorite 91影视 project that you鈥檝e worked on and why?

A career-defining project for me has been working on Winnipeg鈥檚 North End Water Pollution Control Centre (NEWPCC) upgrade project. A real highlight for me has been being part of this project since day one and having the chance to watch it evolve over the past 10 years. When the project kicked off in 2016, I was early in my career and incredibly fortunate to work with many 91影视 colleagues with technical expertise across North America and build my network across the company.

Now, a decade later, both my role and the project itself have evolved significantly. Looking back at what we envisioned for the project 10 years ago really highlights how much it has changed, from originally being planned as a single large design-build project to now being delivered as three major ones, using a delivery method tailored to best serve each of them. It鈥檚 been incredibly rewarding to grow alongside this project, and to contribute to something that will serve the city, which I call home, well into the future.

Tell us a story of how your work positively impacted the community.

I have had the opportunity to serve as project manager on water and wastewater treatment projects for a remote community in northern Manitoba, an experience that brought me back to why I became a water and wastewater engineer in the first place. The community is accessible only by small plane, or for a few months each year by an ice road, creating unique logistical and operational challenges. Through upgrades to the community鈥檚 water treatment plant, including new ultrafiltration membranes and expansion to the treated water reservoirs, a long-term drinking water advisory was successfully lifted. Improvements to the wastewater treatment plant are ensuring all wastewater is treated to provincial and federal standards before being returned to the water body that serves as the community鈥檚 drinking water intake and is critical to its fish supply.

Share a piece of career advice.

Get out of the office whenever you can, especially early in your career. Spending time in the field lets you see how engineering designs are built, operated and maintained, which deepens your understanding far beyond drawings and calculations. Hearing firsthand about operational challenges helps identify small design changes that can make a meaningful impact over the lifecycle of a project. Those real-world lessons make you a better designer and help you connect your work to the people who use and rely on it.

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Peter O鈥機onnor has over two decades of experience spanning the energy, power, minerals and waste sectors, having worked on a diverse range of projects across Europe throughout his career. He combines technical expertise with a passion for mentoring early-career team members and delivering impactful projects that contribute to Ireland鈥檚 energy transition and sustainability goals.

Tell us about what inspired you to join the industry.

I started off with passion and fascination with maps and geography. I wasn鈥檛 sure what I wanted to do, but then I went to an open evening for a surveying course in Dublin. I always loved the idea of working outdoors rather than being stuck behind a desk. The course opened doors to travel across Europe, working on surveying different projects through Erasmus and similar summer schemes between third level institutes.

I started my career in a company that specialised in mineral surveying. From there, I began working on various projects, which gradually led me to focus on energy and power. I鈥檝e certainly had my share of experiences in the field 鈥� many of which include challenging site and weather conditions.

Initially, I was directly involved with mineral exploration, management and extraction projects. This progressed to managing mineral waste, which eventually transitioned into commercial and industrial waste projects and nudged my career into the world of the circular economy. I鈥檝e been directly involved in projects where we reduce waste, manage resources and harness energy, and now work on a range of thermal and renewable energy generation sector projects. It鈥檚 interesting to witness how interconnected these elements are in our industry, a true circular economy and the challenges that the modern world brings with it. Joining 91影视 was a perfect fit and the role allowed me to combine my expertise in energy and power sectors, with my ability to mentor early-career professionals while allowing me to become a trusted advisor for clients.

What is your favorite 91影视 project that you鈥檝e worked on and why?

One of the most rewarding projects I鈥檝e worked on is the Kilroot Power Station project in Northern Ireland. The project kicked off shortly before the first coronavirus lockdown in 2020 and involved transitioning a coal-fired power station to gas, which required pre-application work for a gas pipeline connection and integrating advanced technology. It wasn鈥檛 without its challenges 鈥� lockdowns, social distance site visits and a challenging programme managing a large multi-disciplinary environmental team was part of the job 鈥� but seeing the project secure consent, constructed and go live was incredibly fulfilling and rewarding. The early-career team members were excited about the projects as well, because they knew that the client was invested, and they could see the full project lifecycle 鈥� design to consenting to construction through to implementation 鈥� be delivered in a relatively short period of time. Our team鈥檚 environmental expertise and robust Environmental Statement and support to the planning process ensured the project itself contributed to cleaner energy solutions in the region and is a great example of how our work can make a real difference.

Tell us a story of how your work positively impacted the community.

Many of the projects I work on are large鈥憇cale in nature, and as a result, their impact is both far鈥憆eaching and undeniable. Our clients are deeply committed to strengthening energy security during a critical transitional period on the journey toward net zero. Being part of this work 鈥� especially at a time when the industry is navigating such complex challenges and ambitious sustainability goals 鈥� feels genuinely meaningful.

Knowing that our contributions help keep essential services running, support long鈥憈erm resilience, and ultimately play a role in keeping the lights on is incredibly rewarding. There is also a strong sense of purpose in recognising how this work supports wider economic growth, both by enabling the energy sector to operate efficiently and by helping create the conditions for future investment and innovation. The scale and significance of these projects make the work both motivating and fulfilling.

Share a piece of career advice.

My advice to anyone starting their career is to embrace opportunities and stay adaptable. It鈥檚 okay not to know exactly what you want to do early on so expose yourself to as many different experiences as possible and don鈥檛 pigeonhole yourself too soon. Never stop challenging yourself, always be open to adapt your skill set and keep your professional development forefront of your personal and professional goals. With that in mind, I encourage early-career team members to work towards relevant chartership and professional memberships early in their career. Listen to your peers, absorb as much knowledge as you can, and focus on building strong relationships.

I often encourage early鈥慶areer team members to talk to everyone. When you鈥檙e on a site visit, take the time to chat with 鈥� and really listen to 鈥� the people on site or in the office. These conversations help you understand exactly what stakeholders and clients need.

Our Impact Assessment team collaborates with a wide variety of clients and technical teams, and sometimes we鈥檙e the face of those teams on projects. Remember: the early鈥慶areer professionals of today are the leaders of tomorrow, and the connections you build now will be invaluable throughout your career.

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Rich Millet is a seasoned water resources and dam engineering leader with six decades of experience guiding major infrastructure projects across the United States. Early in his career, he played a central role in dam, surface water and reservoir development along the East Coast before becoming one of the principal design engineers for Metropolitan Water District鈥檚 Diamond Valley Reservoir. This is a landmark $2-billion off-stream storage project that transformed an empty valley into a fully operational reservoir in under five years and established critical water supply redundancy for Southern California.

Rich later led the California Department of Water Resources鈥� Urban and Non-Urban Levee Evaluation Program, a nine-year forensic assessment of roughly 1,300 miles of levees throughout Central Valley, California. The effort produced a comprehensive risk categorization system and helped spur nearly $4 billion in subsequent levee improvements, significantly reducing statewide flood risk to population and infrastructure. Over his long tenure with 91影视 and its legacy firms, Rich has also held senior leadership roles, including principal, Bay Area office manager, Denver office manager, Board of Directors member, and Chief Practice Officer before transitioning into his current role as a senior consultant. Today he mentors and advises staff across multiple active water and dam related projects, providing senior technical review, guidance and support. This February, he celebrated an extraordinary milestone: 60 years with 91影视.

Tell us about what inspired you to join the industry.

I was always good at math and science, and as I was finishing high school, I found myself torn between two very different paths. I had a physical education teacher in grammar school who made a great impression on me, and for a while I thought becoming a gym teacher would be a meaningful and rewarding career. I鈥檝e always been athletic, so the idea of working with kids and staying active really appealed to me.

At the same time, my brother-in-law was a civil engineer, and I was drawn to the idea of working outdoors and not being tied to a desk. I ended up choosing engineering, probably with a little encouragement from my parents, and went to Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, which is a strong engineering school in Troy, New York. During my time there, I joined ROTC, was commissioned in the Corps of Engineers and spent two years at the Army Engineer School at Fort Belvoir teaching basic engineering courses.

After completing my service, I knew I wanted to focus on geotechnical engineering rather than structural or transportation work. That led me to Woodward Clyde, which was one of the top geotechnical firms in the country at the time. I applied and was hired into the New York鈥揘ew Jersey operations. From there, my water resources career really took off.

What is your favorite 91影视 project that you鈥檝e worked on and why?

My favorite 91影视 project is definitely Urban Levee Evaluation (ULE) and Non-Urban Levee Evaluation (NULE). The project was a nine-year effort, and the sheer scale was incredible. At any given time, we had about twenty to twenty-five inhouse staff working on the project, supported by four or five primary consulting firms and another twenty or so secondary firms, including environmental support teams, surveyors, labs and drilling companies. It really had everything in it, and it was extremely rewarding. One of the biggest accomplishments on this project was developing resources and databases that are still used today. We prepared a handbook for the state that continues to guide consultants working on levee projects in California and beyond. We also created a cost estimating tool, a simplified design flow chart for remediation, and a suite of technical and resource documents that have had long-lasting value. Knowing that these tools are still in use is something I鈥檓 very proud of.

Over 60 years, I鈥檝e had the chance to work on a lot of great projects, but this one stands out not just because it was recent, but because of how immersive and complex it was. Nine years is a long time to be involved in a single effort. At times, it felt like a complex balancing act, but it was one of the most rewarding experiences of my career.

Tell us about your work with cutoff walls and how that became your area of expertise.

I first became involved with cutoff walls in the early 1970s when the technology was still very new. A former Woodward Clyde principal introduced the concept to me. At the time, we had a client building a series of reservoirs that needed a reliable way to control seepage beneath their dams. The idea of creating a vertical, low permeability barrier in the ground to block water flow was innovative for that period, and I was immediately intrigued. We designed and constructed our first cutoff wall for one of their smaller dams, and its success led to several more dams and cutoff wall systems being constructed for that same client. That early exposure put me at the forefront of the technology long before it became commonplace. Over the years, I have authored award-winning technical papers and helped shape technical specifications that are still referenced now. To date, I have participated in over 50 cutoff wall projects with depths reaching 145 feet.

Since then, cutoff walls have remained a consistent and specialized part of my career, particularly for dams and levees where seepage control is critical to public safety. I often get called to support teams across 91影视 on technical decisions, design approaches and constructability questions. I also serve on two national technical panels through the Deep Foundations Institute and the United States Committee on Large Dams, helping advance best practices for soil bentonite and related wall systems. Today, I continue to work on major cutoff wall projects, including deep installations for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in the Natomas Basin near Sacramento. After more than fifty years in this field, cutoff walls have become one of the areas where I bring deep, practical experience 鈥� especially valuable for complex dam projects where seepage control is fundamental to performance and long-term resilience.

Tell us a story of how your work positively impacted the community.

When I think about how my work has positively impacted the community, I go back to the ULE and NULE programs. The work we did there significantly enhanced public safety and the protection of critical infrastructure in Northern California. Since we completed our evaluations and the resulting remedial construction work, the region has experienced several major storm events, and those levees have performed well. In many ways, the biggest success is that nothing happened. The improvements held, and communities were protected. That is extremely rewarding.

Another major project that stands out is the Diamond Valley Reservoir for the Metropolitan Water District. That reservoir provides almost a year鈥檚 water supply for Southern California and was designed with the recognition that much of the region鈥檚 water comes from Northern California. If an earthquake disrupted that flow, Southern California could have been in a very difficult position. By creating this massive off-stream storage system, supported by three major dams, the Diamond Valley project helped ensure a more secure and resilient water supply for millions of people. All the water in that reservoir is pumped in from the California and Colorado River Aqueducts, so it serves as a critical buffer for the entire region.

There often isn鈥檛 recognition for this type of work because the best outcome is when the public doesn鈥檛 notice anything at all, and the systems perform exactly the way they鈥檙e supposed to. That’s certainly true for both the levee program and the Diamond Valley Reservoir. The results speak for themselves: communities are safer, flooding risks have been reduced and Southern California now has a far more reliable water supply. Knowing that these efforts have strengthened resilience and protected people鈥檚 lives and infrastructure is the real reward.

Share a piece of career advice.

I鈥檝e always believed that communication is the key to being a successful consulting engineer. Our work depends on explaining technical recommendations clearly so clients understand what needs to be done and why. If you can鈥檛 communicate 鈥� whether in writing or in person 鈥� it鈥檚 very hard to be effective because even the best technical work won鈥檛 go anywhere if others can鈥檛 follow it.

Today, with so much analysis done on computers and with AI, strong communication skills are more valuable than ever. When engineers learn to speak and write clearly, they can share their ideas with confidence, build trust with clients and take on greater responsibility. Being able to stand in front of a client or community group and explain your work opens doors, and it鈥檚 one of the most important capabilities you can develop for a successful and rewarding career.

Header image photo credit: Central Valley Flood Protection Board

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