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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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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Born and raised on a farm in southwestern Saskatchewan, Ryan King studied civil engineering technology at Lethbridge College before returning to Saskatchewan to stay close to his family. After an early role with the City of Saskatoon on a term contract, he eventually joined UMA Engineering, a legacy company of 91影视, and has been with us for 25 years and counting.

Ryan has extensive experience in preliminary design, detailed design and construction services for water and wastewater facilities, site grading, stormwater management, water and sanitary sewer servicing and road work. He was previously 91影视 Canada鈥檚 conveyance market sector lead and has recently moved into a role as lead of the North & Indigenous market sector. In this role, he will focus on delivering practical solutions and strong project outcomes across Northern communities. He has strong, long-standing relationships with Peter Ballantyne Cree Nation, Lac La Ronge Indian Band and the City of Yellowknife, to name a few.

Tell us about what inspired you to join the industry.

Right out of high school, I worked for several construction companies on large commercial and institutional projects. I would observe the engineer or architect come to the site to check on their design and on the work we were doing. To have the responsibility and freedom to take a design from concept to reality really intrigued me and led me to consulting engineering.

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

I want to say most of my projects hold special meaning. However, my favourite project is probably the Saskatchewan Landing Regional Water Project (SLRWPU) where I was the project manager and project engineer. This project brought a reliable and sustainable potable water system to a vast area of west-central Saskatchewan.

The project was with one of our longest-standing clients in the Town of Rosetown 鈥� a partnership that made us truly excited to pursue this work. I still remember meeting with the water utility in its earliest days, before they had even issued an engineering request for proposals, and being part of the journey all the way through to celebrating the 10-year anniversary of the project鈥檚 completion.

Over seven years, we delivered a transformative solution: two water treatment plants, five booster stations and reservoirs, and 700 kilometers (435 miles) of transmission and distribution pipeline. The impact on the community was profound and lasting. We鈥檙e incredibly proud to have helped SLRWPU achieve its vision and complete a project that continues to make a tangible difference in people鈥檚 lives.

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

Our work always aims to make a difference in communities, but one partnership truly stands out. Over the past 25 years, my projects with Peter Ballantyne Cree Nation (PBCN) feel the most impactful. The infrastructure we鈥檝e delivered across multiple PBCN communities have real lasting benefits to remote northern areas 鈥� from providing safe drinking water to creating new subdivisions or housing. These improvements have profoundly impacted the quality of life for the residents, and the opportunity to contribute to that transformation remains deeply rewarding to me personally.

Share a piece of career advice.

My advice is to enjoy the journey. I never set out to reach different roles or responsibilities within our firm. I focused on being the best consulting engineer I could be 鈥� providing sound advice and exceptional service to my clients, listening carefully and responding to their needs, especially those of our long-term clients.

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Vinoth Manoharan has 19 years of experience in water and wastewater infrastructure, including 12 years leading major initiatives from our Houston office. He specializes in the planning, design and delivery of complex water and wastewater treatment plants and pump stations across Texas, with a strong track record of managing multi-disciplinary teams and navigating regulatory and funding challenges. Vinoth also leads our water and wastewater treatment team in Houston, partnering with offices across the country to deliver resilient, community-centered solutions.

Tell us about what inspired you to join the industry.

Growing up and seeing the effects of untreated water on public health and safety motivated me to become a water and wastewater engineer. I carried that motivation into my education, earning a bachelor鈥檚 degree in chemical engineering and then a master鈥檚 degree in environmental engineering, where I focused specifically on water and wastewater treatment. That path shaped my entire career and continues to drive my commitment to preserving water resources for all.

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

My favorite project is the 360-million-gallon-per-day (MGD) City of Houston East Water Purification Plant. It was the first project I was assigned to when I joined 91影视 and I鈥檝e been involved in various aspects of its design and improvements ever since.

The project began with a Sustainability Evaluation Study to assess and recommend strategies for long-term plant sustainability. Over more than a decade, it has evolved into a series of impactful improvements that have strengthened the facility and its operations. Throughout this time, I have built strong relationships with the operations and maintenance staff, and the engineering team 鈥� everyone who keeps it running. Being responsive and accountable to the client has been key, and it鈥檚 rewarding to know that our work is helping Houstonians access safe, clean drinking water.

When Hurricane Harvey hit Houston, our team鈥檚 foresight and preparation ensured the East Water Purification Plant stayed operational, keeping safe water flowing to millions despite record-breaking rainfall. Planning ahead for vulnerabilities and implementing critical improvements made all the difference. Most recently, we completed a condition assessment of the plant facilities and developed a facility master plan to address deficiencies and create a blueprint for future capacity expansion. A recommendation was made to decommission Plants 1 and 2 to make way for a more resilient treatment facility. This recommendation will provide long-term reliability and redundancy with a focus on producing clean and safe drinking water sustainably.

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

I’m working on three different projects for the City of Port Lavaca, a historically underserved community. One of the key initiatives involves expanding their wastewater treatment plant, significantly improving infrastructure to support future growth and environmental resilience. The challenge was that they didn鈥檛 have the financial capability to fund the expansion.

We explored different grant options, but they didn鈥檛 qualify for any at the time. After extensive research into alternatives, we were able to secure a loan for them through the Texas Water Development Board. We applied on their behalf and successfully obtained funding, which will reduce impact and help the city and its residents move forward.

It felt rewarding to be involved from the very beginning, helping build the project all the way through and truly making a difference for the community.

Share a piece of career advice.

Starting your engineering career strong is essential. Early on, focus on earning the trust of senior colleagues and clients by consistently showing initiative and accountability. Demonstrating a willingness to take ownership not only builds credibility 鈥� it sets the foundation for long-term career growth.

The post People Spotlight: Meet Vinoth Manoharan appeared first on Blog.

Nik Carlson is a principal economist based in Oakland, California with several decades of experience performing economic and financial analyses for a wide range of water, wastewater, renewable energy, transportation and natural resource infrastructure projects across the United States. Nik routinely supports project planning for our clients鈥� large infrastructure projects. His analysis of economic benefits provides the basis for better decision making, including the evaluation of project alternatives and justification to secure project funding. His expertise in feasibility, benefit-cost, environmental justice and impact analysis help achieve more beneficial, equitable and sustainable long-term project outcomes. Nik鈥檚 experience has ranged from supporting multi-billion water/wastewater programs, public-private concession evaluations for the National Park Service, providing grant funding assistance to cities and successful water-right litigation settlements for small tribal governments in rural Montana and Oklahoma. As a certified ENVISION Sustainability Professional, Nik led the sustainability analysis and application that contributed to the US 101 Managed Lanes project receiving a Silver award from the Institute for Sustainable Infrastructure.

Tell us about what inspired you to join the industry.

During my gap year before university, I worked for a grassroots environmental group in Massachusetts as a community organizer and door-to-door fundraiser. Our leading issue was advocating and organizing for the clean-up of groundwater pollution from a neighboring military base. I saw firsthand both the environmental effects and the bureaucratic challenges in addressing complex and sensitive issues. But more importantly, working with local residents and public officials showed me the vital and effective role that informed public engagement, stakeholder commitment and collaboration can contribute to achieving effective environmental solutions. This formative experience encouraged me to earn a master鈥檚 degree in public policy from Harvard University鈥檚 Kennedy School of Government where I gained the analytical skills and tools I needed for a career as an environmental economics practitioner.

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

Over the last 14 years, I have been involved in planning and development of Sites Reservoir in Northern California. Once completed, it will be California鈥檚 largest new reservoir project in over 50 years and will provide off-stream storage of up to 1.5 million acre-feet of water 鈥� enough to serve 7.5 million people. The project is an ambitious and expensive collaboration between the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation, the State of California, and more than 20 regional water agencies. It has been an interesting, challenging and personally rewarding experience supporting the project鈥檚 evolution from initial conceptual alternatives to its forthcoming project delivery during a period of shifting political contexts, regulatory requirements and evolving future water demand and availability projections.

As a complex and multi-benefit water project, there is a multitude of interrelated resource and operational issues. Determining the project鈥檚 lifecycle costs and benefits has been an important component of the work. My work also included the analysis to identify the most beneficial approach to water management for urban water demand, agricultural, ecosystem, recreation, flood protection, water quality, emergency supply and hydropower generation. My analysis has supported the evaluation and selection of project alternatives, justified over US$1 billion in federal and state funding, and assisted sensitive negotiations between agency partners to secure public benefits. As a result, this project has greatly expanded both my understanding and ability to perform comprehensive and rigorous economic feasibility evaluations.   

One of the most rewarding achievements was helping the Sites Authority apply and advocate for state funding. This effort required intensive collaboration with the team鈥檚 hydrologists, engineers, cost estimators and environmental experts to quantify and document the reservoir鈥檚 expected long-term performance.

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

I recently helped the Truckee Meadows Water Authority (TMVA) in Reno, Nevada win US$30 million in federal grant funding for its groundbreaking wastewater reuse project. This ambitious initiative will convey wastewater from the City of Reno to the City of Sparks for advanced treatment and groundwater replenishment to provide critical benefits to the entire watershed. The project not only increases dry-year water supplies for Sparks鈥檚 residents and businesses 鈥� it is also a forward-thinking solution that allows the neighboring City of Reno to avoid a costly expansion of its wastewater facility. The recycled wastewater supply is not only vital for supporting the City of Sparks鈥� future growth and economic development but also important for maintaining local agricultural use and protecting the Truckee River鈥檚 ecosystem. By addressing both water scarcity and infrastructure challenges, TVMA is taking a major step towards more sustainable watershed management that also ensures a more reliable and resilient future water supply and wastewater service for the region鈥檚 residents and businesses.

Share a piece of career advice.

My advice is to try daily to maintain a growth mindset as best you can. Try to stay curious, open and flexible to new ideas and opportunities. Embrace continuous learning, challenges and occasional mistakes. Actively collaborate and learn from your colleagues. A growth mindset approach will not only help your personal growth and make your professional life more rewarding but can also keep you more youthful and engaged in your day-to-day tasks and relationships. It can also enable you to better collaborate and contribute to innovative problem solving to improve the world around us.

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Stephen Munro is a Chartered Engineer and Chartered Water and Environmental Manager with over 30 years of experience delivering complex infrastructure projects. Prior to joining 91影视 through the acquisition of Allen Gordon, where he served as Senior Partner, Stephen led multidisciplinary teams across water, renewables, transport and education sectors. Based in Inverness, he has a strong track record across Scotland and the wider UK, and has also contributed internationally, including post-disaster recovery work in Christchurch, New Zealand following the 2011 earthquake. Stephen鈥檚 current role includes leading 91影视 design teams working on a range of water sector projects across Scotland as well as working directly in client teams on major projects in the water and energy sectors.

Tell us about what inspired you to join the industry.

I鈥檝e always had a natural interest in physics and engineering, even back in my school days. But what truly drew me to civil engineering was the idea of creating infrastructure that genuinely benefits people 鈥� bridges that connect communities, dams that protect resources. That sense of purpose has stayed with me throughout my career. Whilst my journey through my career was with a relatively small firm, I have been lucky to work across a diverse variety of major projects and programmes and have taken inspiration from the outcomes the projects deliver.

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

One of the most defining projects in my career was the Aberdeen Western Peripheral Route, which I worked on through the Caledonia Water Alliance (CWA) while still at Allen Gordon, in collaboration with 91影视. The project involved constructing a major bypass around Aberdeen, which required the diversion of critical water and wastewater infrastructure to allow for the construction of the new road. This road was designed to alleviate congestion in the center of Aberdeen and significantly improve journey times for those traveling around or across the city.

I led a collaborative team that included Scottish Water, CWA, and our supply chain, navigating a five-year program of high-risk, technically demanding works. The complexity of the project was matched only by the pressure we faced. We were responsible for relocating major aqueducts and strategic water mains, and in some cases, failure would have meant cutting off the water supply to the entire city. This work involved complex designs, frequently including connections whilst existing water mains remained live, and construction of diversions often in constrained locations within live existing roads and during construction of the new road, including major bridges.

Yet, through strong teamwork and a shared commitment to delivery, we successfully completed the infrastructure works. What stood out most was the spirit of collaboration 鈥� even with the main contractor, where despite challenges, we built relationships that lasted beyond the project. It was a true testament to what can be achieved when everyone pulls together.

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

One of the most profound and personally impactful experiences in my career was the work I undertook in Christchurch, New Zealand, following the devastating series of earthquakes in 2011.

I spent several months leading efforts to re-establish essential water and wastewater services in a city still grappling with ongoing aftershocks and widespread infrastructure damage. The environment was incredibly challenging, not only from a technical standpoint but also emotionally. Many of the team members and residents were still living without basic services and dealing with the trauma of repeated seismic events. I was Program Manager leading a multidisciplinary design team working alongside construction teams and some were themselves directly affected by the disaster.

Our work went beyond restoring infrastructure; it was about supporting a community in recovery. We had to approach every task with empathy and heightened awareness with project teams partnering with communities, understanding that even minor issues could become emotionally charged in such a fragile context. This involved working closely with contractors and council teams in engaging with communities and minimizing the impact of initial service re-establishment and longer terms solutions. The experience taught me the importance of balancing technical delivery with human sensitivity, and it remains a powerful example of how engineering can play a vital role in healing and rebuilding communities.

Share a piece of career advice

Success comes down to two key traits: aspiration and application. If you have the drive to achieve and the commitment to put in the work, there isn鈥檛 just one path 鈥� you can carve your own.

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Working in a region known for its 鈥淰ery High Hazard鈥� seismic zone and marked by extreme tropical weather 鈥� including typhoons 鈥� Pete is highly skilled in effectively addressing the complexities of remote Pacific projects. From managing long lead times for materials and equipment to overcoming labor shortages driven by the ongoing military construction program to relocate U.S. Marines to Guam, Pete鈥檚 expertise continues to drive impactful projects in the Pacific region and his award-winning leadership is a cornerstone of 91影视鈥檚 operations in Guam.

Tell us about what inspired you to join the industry.

Growing up in Guam, the beaches and reefs were an integral part of my life. I have vivid memories of swimming and playing in areas full of coral and sea life, and in other areas that were impacted by pollution, yet we continued to visit and swim because being in the water was such a fundamental aspect of island life. Those experiences left a lasting impression on me. I often thought about the impact of pollution and how it could be addressed to preserve our environment for future generations. This reflection sparked my interest in finding ways to improve environmental conditions, particularly through engineering.

My focus naturally gravitated toward water and wastewater treatment 鈥� areas where I saw an opportunity to make a tangible difference. My father, a civil engineer specializing in roadway and stormwater management, also influenced my path. While I initially thought our interests diverged 鈥� his were in infrastructure and mine were in environmental preservation 鈥� I later realized how interconnected these fields are. Civil engineering, in all its facets, plays a critical role in protecting and enhancing our environment.

This realization solidified my commitment to the engineering field, where I could combine my passion for environmental stewardship with technical expertise to create meaningful change. It鈥檚 a journey that continues to inspire me every day.

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

One of my favorite projects has been working with the U.S. Navy and U.S. Marine Corps on their drinking water compliance programs in light of legally enforceable drinking water standards in various locations, including Japan, Singapore, and Diego Garcia. These projects have been particularly rewarding because they combine technical challenges with the opportunity to travel and experience different cultures. Each location presents unique requirements for compliance, as these bases operate outside the U.S. and must comply with the Navy鈥檚 Overseas Drinking Water Program, modeled after USEPA national policy and state regulatory programs.

The complexity of addressing per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) to ensure that service members and their families have access to high quality drinking water, whether it’s produced locally or sourced from a host nation, is both challenging and fulfilling. It鈥檚 about bridging the gap between local practices and U.S. standards to protect human health. These projects have allowed me to apply my expertise in water systems while also gaining insight into diverse operational environments.

Traveling for these projects has been an incredible experience, taking me to places like Guam, Hawaii, Japan, and Diego Garcia. It鈥檚 inspiring to see how our work positively impacts communities and supports the well-being of those serving abroad. The blend of technical problem solving and cultural exploration makes these projects some of the most meaningful of my career.

Share a piece of career advice.

My favorite piece of career advice came from my dad. While some parents push their kids to strive for a doctorate, my dad would often say, 鈥淏e P.H.D.鈥� He meant, Be Poor, Hungry, and Driven. Not to be poor financially, but to always remember to be humble and remember where we came from. Not to be hungry in terms of food, but to have a strong desire for improvement and success. And to always be driven, to accomplish new goals and strive for bigger and better things.

The post Across the Indo-Pacific, from Alaska to Japan: Meet Agapito (Pete) Diaz appeared first on Blog.

Jeff Chan is a structural engineer with five years of experience specializing in the transportation and water/wastewater sectors. Since joining 91影视 in 2020 as a structural designer, he has contributed to building projects across Canada, gaining expertise in seismic design and integration of diverse structural materials in buildings.

Tell us about what inspired you to join the industry.

I was born in Hong Kong, a region renowned for its rapid infrastructure development, and spent my early childhood immersed in a constantly evolving urban landscape. For the first nine years of my life, this rapid urban growth felt normal. It wasn鈥檛 until my family immigrated to Canada that I began to recognize how unique and complex such development was, especially in densely populated areas. This realization sparked my curiosity about the built environment and a deep appreciation for the role infrastructure plays in shaping quality of life. That early insight, combined with an interest in thoughtful, impactful design, inspired me to pursue a career in engineering.

At 91影视, I was fortunate to have a flexible full-time schedule, which allowed me to pursue graduate studies part-time. The combination of academic learning and guidance from knowledgeable, supportive colleagues and mentors helped me sharpen my technical skills, expand my confidence, and step into greater responsibilities.

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

I’ve had the opportunity to contribute to many meaningful projects at 91影视, but the Capital Line South Extension has been one of the most rewarding experiences so far. I鈥檝e served as the structural engineer and was also part of the pursuit team for the Operations and Maintenance Facility, which was one of the key components of this major design-build project.

What made this project stand out for me was the collaborative spirit from day one. We worked closely with an engaged client and a talented multidisciplinary team to develop conceptual designs, propose creative solutions, and shape a design that helped win the project. The strength of our design stemmed from the close collaboration we maintained with the builder throughout the process. We were aligned in our goals and challenges which allowed us to understand and share concerns around key issues such as material costs, construction sequencing, and overall constructability. By maintaining open lines of communication and working through these issues collaboratively, we were able to tailor our design approach to directly support their needs. This provided a smoother transition from design to construction, minimized surprises in the field, and fostered an integrated, solution-focused team dynamic.

This environment of trust and intensive multi-disciplinary coordination left a lasting impact on how I approach design thinking and cross-disciplinary teamwork.

The project was awarded in mid-2024 and is now in the construction phase. I’m excited to continue my contribution to a project that will help shape the future of transit in Edmonton and look forward to seeing our work take shape on site.

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

One of the most rewarding experiences of my career has been contributing to the structural design of the Warehouse Park Pavilion in downtown Edmonton. What was once a stretch of surface parking lots is being transformed into a vibrant, community-focused park. The striking new pavilion structure anchors a revitalized green space in the city鈥檚 core.

The pavilion鈥檚 cantilevered, barrel-vaulted roof is framed with wood trusses, curved plywood sheathing, and is supported by steel beams and columns. This serves as both a functional shelter and an architectural statement. Its irregular geometry presented a complex structural challenge, requiring close collaboration with a senior 91影视 engineer and an award-winning architect to develop a solution that balanced durability, cost and design intent. Several roof design iterations were explored during the conceptual and design phases, considering concrete, steel and wood systems. Ultimately, we formed the barrel vault using prefabricated wood trusses and curved plywood, while the cantilever was framed with steel beams which leverages the versatility of wood and the strength of steel. Following the construction award for this design-bid-build project, we engaged early with the contractor to review the framing design. With input from carpenters and site supervisors, we refined details to enhance constructability and confirm accurate execution of the complex geometry.

What makes this project especially meaningful is knowing how the community will engage with the space once it鈥檚 fully redeveloped. Whether its families enjoying the shade in the summer, visitors gathering around the fireplaces in the winter, or individuals seeking a quiet moment in the heart of the city, it鈥檚 incredibly fulfilling to know that the structure the team designed will become a part of people鈥檚 everyday experiences. That kind of lasting, human impact is exactly what inspired me to pursue engineering.

Share a piece of career advice.

My best advice would be to ask questions, stay open to the perspectives of other building disciplines or contractors, and shape your design to anticipate their needs. What may initially seem like an impossible design challenge within your own discipline can often be resolved through collaboration with others who bring different skills and expertise to the table. Each discipline, whether it鈥檚 architectural, structural, mechanical, or electrical, has its own approach to solving problems and its own set of needs. By considering end user, contractor and discipline perspectives early in the design process, you can create more effective and integrated solutions that benefit the entire project.

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Joyce O鈥橠onnell is a registered professional engineer with over 30 years of experience in process engineering. She holds a master鈥檚 degree in environmental engineering and a bachelor鈥檚 degree in chemical engineering from Worcester Polytechnic Institute. Based in New England, Joyce began her career supporting military operations and has since expanded her expertise across various industries, including oil and gas, petrochemicals, pulp and paper, electroplating and metal finishing.

During her 15-year tenure at 91影视, Joyce has worked across both Environmental and Water business lines, focusing on industrial wastewater treatment systems. Her roles have involved design, operation, and troubleshooting, as well as participating in regulatory audits and preparing permitting documentation. Joyce’s extensive experience also includes process safety and process safety management, demonstrating her versatility and commitment to the field.

Tell us about what inspired you to join the industry

My entry into the industry was shaped more by circumstance than intention. My background is in chemical engineering, and many chemical engineers enter the oil and gas industry. However, when I graduated from college, the oil and gas sector was experiencing a downturn. Consequently, I was hired by a small engineering firm in New England that supported metal finishing operations. New pretreatment regulations under the Clean Water Act had recently been issued for certain industrial categories, including the metal finishing and electroplating industries. As such, many industrial facilities in the greater Boston and Providence area were required to install new or upgraded wastewater treatment systems to comply with these new regulations. This is how I began working in industrial wastewater management.

Because those regulations were new, I had to learn them thoroughly, and this knowledge has stayed with me. Interestingly, those regulations haven’t changed much since then. Working at the small engineering firm was enjoyable because I had to handle everything, from answering phones, field sampling, and engineering design tasks. This experience marked the beginning of my journey in the industry.

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

One of my favorite projects was for a small oil refinery in the southern United States where my involvement in the project scope continued from start to finish. We began by diagnosing performance issues in the wastewater treatment system resulting in violating discharge limits and recommended a new, upgraded, wastewater treatment system to reliably maintain compliance.  The new treatment system was also sized to handle increased flow capacity to support future expansion. We conducted thorough wastewater characterization and developed the basis of design. Following this, we proceeded with the detailed design, ensuring every aspect of the new system was meticulously planned. The design included wastewater equalization and transfer, oil/water separation (API Separator), dissolved gas flotation (DGF) with nitrogen blanketing, chemical addition, and sludge dewatering.  At the completion of the design phase, we developed the bid documents, evaluated the bids, and recommended an equipment vendor for all major process units.  Once the equipment was installed, we provided hands-on support during the startup phase. The treatment system is still running today, and the client remains very satisfied with the results.

This project stands out as a success story because we were involved from the very beginning, through design, installation, and operation. It was incredibly rewarding to see the project through to completion and know that it continues to operate smoothly. The experience reinforced the importance of comprehensive planning and execution in achieving long-term success.

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

One memorable project involved conducting a safety audit for a paper mill in Florida. We arrived about six months after a hurricane had devastated the facility, and the employees were still recovering from the aftermath. The damage was significant, affecting both the mill and the local community. During the safety audit, we asked the staff to reflect on what went well 鈥� and what didn鈥檛 鈥� during the hurricane.

The facility stores and generates a significant quantity of hazardous chemicals requiring an audit of their management practices under EPA鈥檚 Risk Management Plan (RMP) regulations.  91影视 had performed the previous audit at this plant three years prior and made several recommendations including the conduct of emergency preparedness drills and coordination with the industrial facility located immediately adjacent.  Since our previous audit, the facility had made notable improvements in how it manages hazardous materials and has conducted emergency drills 鈥� which proved vital during the crisis.  Their preparedness ensured that the release of hazardous chemicals was prevented, protecting the community.

Yet, despite their success in mitigating the risks, the experience left a lasting emotional impact. The team was eager to share their stories. My colleague encouraged the client team to discuss their personal experiences, giving them space to describe how the hurricane affected their lives and the wider community. This project was particularly impactful because it highlighted the importance of walking in our clients鈥� shoes. It remains a vivid memory, reminding me of the human side of engineering and the resilience of those we serve.

Share a piece of career advice

Adopt a positive approach by saying yes to new experiences. I recommend younger engineers spend time in the field to gain practical insights. Seeing equipment and talking with operators firsthand is invaluable. Moreover, personal interactions, even in the office, are essential in our digital age, especially after COVID. Direct conversations enhance communication and build stronger relationships and can often lead to your next professional opportunity.

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In line with this year鈥檚 theme, #TogetherWeEngineer, we asked our women engineers how they collaborate 鈥� across teams, regions and with clients 鈥� to solve challenges and deliver a better world.

Lindsay Stafford, Senior Civil Engineer
Queensland, Australia

From the start of my career, I鈥檝e prioritized building a strong network of mentors. That foundation has grown into a broad internal network that鈥檚 essential to how I work 鈥� especially in a region where collaboration across business lines and geographies is key to delivering better engineering outcomes.

One of the most rewarding projects I鈥檝e worked on involved a small, remote community facing long-term water scarcity. Their pipeline had been failing for years. We partnered with them from the bid phase through to commissioning 鈥� securing funding, diagnosing the issue, and delivering a full design solution. The moment the new pipe was turned on and water flowed again was a powerful reminder of why we do what we do.

Whether virtually or in person, collaboration is at the heart of every successful project. It starts with trust, grows through shared goals, and results in solutions that truly make a difference.

Becky Wong, Technical Director, Water
Hong Kong

In engineering, sustainable outcomes often rely on cross-disciplinary collaboration. On a new town development, I worked with hydrology, ecology, landscape, and geotechnical teams to preserve a natural river course while meeting flood protection standards. The result was a resilient, ecologically rich corridor that balanced technical and environmental goals.

Client collaboration is just as vital. On a project for the Civil Engineering and Development Department (CEDD), we expanded our drainage solutions to support nearby rural villages. By co-developing upstream and downstream improvements, we delivered a more inclusive and climate-resilient outcome.

In another project, we designed a closed-loop water system to reduce reliance on external potable sources. Working with government departments, we integrated sewage collection, treatment, and reuse 鈥� cutting emissions and supporting long-term sustainability. These projects show how collaborative engineering can meet complex challenges and deliver lasting value.

Marcia Tobin, VP, Flood Risk Solutions
Knoxville, TN, U.S.

Leading a 250-person flood risk team across the U.S., I鈥檝e experienced firsthand how collaboration fuels better outcomes. Our multidisciplinary team 鈥� comprising planners, scientists, GIS specialists, and water resource engineers 鈥� delivers essential flood risk data that helps communities prepare for and respond to disasters. By working together and partnering with our clients, we provide data, analysis and most importantly, actionable insights that make a difference.

We take a 鈥渂est athlete鈥� approach, assembling talent from across our Water business as well as Transportation, Environment, and Buildings and Places. This approach means that every project benefits from the right mix of expertise. Whether it鈥檚 partnering with FEMA on risk mapping and disaster response or co-developing a flood resiliency tool in North Carolina using Agile methods, we tailor our teams to meet the unique demands of each challenge.

In Texas, we piloted a scalable flood risk analysis using LIDAR and aerial imagery, collaborating with state officials to create a tool that informs mitigation strategies and strengthens resilience. Across all our projects, it鈥檚 this spirit of collaboration 鈥� across disciplines, regions, and with our clients 鈥� that transforms data into action and engineering into lasting impact.

Harriet Ridler, Engineer
Basingstoke, U.K.

Coastal protection is a team effort. Our work focuses on shielding inland communities and infrastructure from flooding and erosion, requiring input from multiple engineering disciplines. In my role, I coordinate across internal and external teams 鈥� highways, drainage, geotechnical, landscape, and public engagement, environmental and heritage fields.

A great example is the Langstone FCERM scheme that we鈥檙e helping Coastal Partners, our client, to deliver. The client led on the environmental appraisal and stakeholder engagement, while we supported the process and co-developed the design. Joint workshops helped shape the final proposal, now submitted for planning. Public support has risen significantly since project inception, showing the value of collaboration.

I鈥檓 also working on the 拢150 million Havre des Pas scheme in Jersey, which balances new coastal defenses with community benefits. The site鈥檚 sensitive designations pose challenges, but through close work with the Government of Jersey and local officers 鈥� and aided by 3D modeling 鈥� we鈥檝e agreed on key design principles and are progressing positively.

Alice Custard, Wastewater Group Manager
Markham, Ontario, Canada

Collaboration is at the heart of how I work 鈥� across disciplines, regions, and project phases. One of the greatest strengths of working at 91影视 is the ability to draw on global expertise. Whether it鈥檚 a familiar challenge or something entirely new, I鈥檝e always been able to find the right expert. On a recent project involving a technology not yet used in Canada, I brought in a colleague with years of international experience. His insights helped us deliver a more informed and effective solution.

That same spirit of collaboration extends beyond internal teams. I鈥檝e worked closely with clients, operators, stakeholders, and rightsholders to shape better outcomes. At the Kitchener Wastewater Treatment Plant, I was on-site daily during commissioning 鈥� sometimes even on night shifts 鈥� working directly with Plant Operators to troubleshoot and get the headworks running. That hands-on teamwork was essential to delivering our shared vision.

My wastewater team continues to be one of my proudest achievements. Together, we protect the environment, mentor others, and grow as professionals. We collaborate not just as a process team or a project team 鈥� but as a team committed to building a better world.

Kelly Giesing, Civil Engineer
San Diego, CA, U.S.

Across dam design projects, I鈥檝e seen how collaboration drives better outcomes 鈥� especially with clear communication. I set expectations early on around schedule and budget and hold regular check-ins to keep teams aligned. With strong leadership, cross-disciplinary teamwork becomes a real asset.

A recent project with San Diego Gas & Electric showed this in action. We expanded our geotechnical scope to include civil design and worked with the contractor鈥檚 structural subconsultant. The client was highly engaged, and during construction, we served as their on-site representative 鈥� streamlining decisions, reducing costs, and ensuring success.

Environmental collaboration also matters. On one dam project, I worked with an environmental consultant to reroute access roads and staging areas away from sensitive habitats. The design impact was minimal, but the ecological benefit could be significant 鈥� proof that smart engineering can serve both people and the planet.

Jade Singleton, Group Lead, Resources + Industry
Western Australia

Effective collaboration starts with communication. By regularly connecting across teams and regions, we ensure the right skills are matched to the right projects 鈥� delivering better outcomes for clients and broader opportunities for our people.

A recent example involved a trip to Port Hedland for a project. Knowing another client also operates nearby, I reached out. That quick conversation led to a site visit and early input for a new proposal 鈥� maximizing value for both clients through simple, proactive collaboration.

In the mining and resources sector, this kind of thinking matters. These industries power everything from infrastructure to clean energy. Every project we deliver helps make resource extraction safer, more efficient, and more sustainable 鈥� contributing to a better world for everyone.

Meghan Cooke, Process Engineer (EIT)
Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada

For the French Creek Pollution Control Centre Stage IV Expansion Project, I work with colleagues across business lines within the Canada West region to coordinate efforts as both a Process Engineer in Training and Project Coordinator. Using tools like Autodesk Construction Cloud and Microsoft Teams, we ensure smooth communication across disciplines in this integrated project delivery (IPD) model.

The IPD model brings the contractor, client and consultant together under a poly-party agreement, encouraging collaboration and finding solutions that are best for project. Biweekly co-located meetings with all key participants 鈥� owner, design team and contractor 鈥� foster open dialogue and shared problem-solving. I help facilitate these sessions to ensure all voices are heard and aligned.

One major success has been addressing the facility鈥檚 odor control challenge 鈥� a key concern for the local community (the area is unofficially referred to as 鈥淪tench Creek鈥�!). Through close collaboration, we鈥檝e designed effective solutions that will improve air quality and enhance residents鈥� quality of life, demonstrating the power of teamwork in delivering meaningful community impact.

Ruby Yew, Executive Director, Water
Hong Kong

In infrastructure projects, collaboration is essential. I promote open communication across teams and regions, ensuring shared goals and respect for diverse perspectives. This approach helps us solve complex challenges efficiently and inclusively.

When unforeseen ground conditions threatened piling progress on a project, we worked closely with the client to identify a design review as the best mitigation strategy. We fast-tracked the revised design and submitted it within two days, enabling the client to secure approval from the Geotechnical Engineering Office within a week. This swift, coordinated effort helped us avoid costly delays and keep the project on track.

Another example is the Queen鈥檚 Hill public housing development in Fanling, where we faced the absence of a sewerage system. Collaborating with the Fanling North NDA and Queen鈥檚 Hill Development teams, we developed an interim sewerage scheme that cut installation time from 4.5 years to three. By integrating this with the permanent system, we not only saved time and costs but also improved energy efficiency.

Lorreta Agnew, Technical Director, Dams
New South Wales, Australia

In engineering, collaboration and communication go hand in hand. Having worked extensively in virtual environments, I鈥檝e learned that regular, effective communication 鈥� whether through chat, video, or calls 鈥� is essential to keeping teams aligned and projects on track. Trust is equally important. Whether working with clients or colleagues, transparency and honesty build the foundation for shared success. It鈥檚 about navigating challenges together and learning from one another along the way.

A standout example is the Upper Nepean Risk Review, part of our work on large dam safety projects. I led risk management efforts, collaborating with structural, geotechnical, and geology teams, as well as clients and expert reviewers. Together, we assessed dam safety and identified critical upgrades to protect downstream communities. This project is a reminder that when we communicate openly and collaborate effectively, we don鈥檛 just deliver technical solutions 鈥� we help create safer, more resilient communities.

Martha Newman, Principal Engineer, Water
Basingstoke, UK

Since COVID, remote working has made it easier than ever to collaborate across regions. Based in North Wales, I regularly work with colleagues from Basingstoke to Belfast, staying connected through Teams calls and site visits. I鈥檝e never felt more in sync with my colleagues across the country.

A great example was the Bedford to Milton Keynes Waterway Park. The client wanted a press release to announce the project, so I worked with Communications to deliver it. It was picked up by the BBC and New Civil Engineer, raising awareness of the project, the client and sparking new industry connections.

Another highlight was managing the Millmead Fish Pass with the Environment Agency. It brought together specialists from multiple disciplines and stakeholders. Hydraulic modelling helped us balance the needs of fish and eel migration with those of recreational river users. Construction is planned for this summer.

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