Peter O’Connor 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’s 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’t 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’ve certainly had my share of experiences in the field — 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’ve 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’s 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 ArchTam 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 ArchTam project that you’ve worked on and why?

One of the most rewarding projects I’ve 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’t without its challenges — lockdowns, social distance site visits and a challenging programme managing a large multi-disciplinary environmental team was part of the job — 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 — design to consenting to construction through to implementation — be delivered in a relatively short period of time. Our team’s 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‑scale in nature, and as a result, their impact is both far‑reaching 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 — especially at a time when the industry is navigating such complex challenges and ambitious sustainability goals — feels genuinely meaningful.

Knowing that our contributions help keep essential services running, support long‑term 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’s okay not to know exactly what you want to do early on so expose yourself to as many different experiences as possible and don’t 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‑career team members to talk to everyone. When you’re on a site visit, take the time to chat with — and really listen to — 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’re the face of those teams on projects. Remember: the early‑career 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’s 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’ 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 ArchTam 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 ArchTam.

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’ve 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–New Jersey operations. From there, my water resources career really took off.

What is your favorite ArchTam project that you’ve worked on and why?

My favorite ArchTam 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’m very proud of.

Over 60 years, I’ve 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 ArchTam 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 — 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’s water supply for Southern California and was designed with the recognition that much of the region’s 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’t recognition for this type of work because the best outcome is when the public doesn’t notice anything at all, and the systems perform exactly the way they’re 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’s lives and infrastructure is the real reward.

Share a piece of career advice.

I’ve 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’t communicate — whether in writing or in person — it’s very hard to be effective because even the best technical work won’t go anywhere if others can’t 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’s 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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Natalie is a project manager, and process engineer based in the Winnipeg, Manitoba office. As the Area Market Sector Leader for Western Canada, her focus is mainly on wastewater treatment. Natalie completed her master’s thesis in civil engineering on deammonification in 2017 while on maternity leave. She and her family are avid camping enthusiasts.

Tell us about what inspired you to join the industry.

I fell into the water industry by accident. I had originally entered engineering thinking that I would be mitigating environmental degradation through Environmental Impact Assessments, following my mother’s footsteps as a soil conservationist. In 2016, a co-op position within ArchTam’s Winnipeg water department changed my mind, when I was able to work alongside inspiring people on a few interesting projects.

What is your favorite ArchTam project that you’ve worked on and why?

I’ve been lucky and very grateful to work on many projects where I’ve been challenged with stretch goals, and worked with interesting clients on diverse infrastructure concepts. I enjoy alternative delivery projects that allow for extensive collaboration with owners and the construction team. This collaboration allows for ‘project-best’ decisions, with the entire team prioritizing the project’s best interests. The upgrades at the North End Wastewater Treatment Plant for the City of Winnipeg have enabled our team to deliver each phase in the most effective way for the project. ArchTam is the Owner Engineer, and we help the City determine the delivery method first before moving forward. As the program manager, I enjoy building an ArchTam team from around the globe; being able to reach out and bring expert support for this upgrade is very rewarding. Recently, we’ve been deploying over 100 ArchTam staff per month to support our 8 active projects within the program. From designers and managers to wastewater operators, quality reviewers, DB advisors, cost estimators, and project controls, we leverage a wide range of expertise within ArchTam. Having such a diverse team allows us to approach problems from different angles and develop solutions that mitigate risks. This project has made me very proud to work for a company that truly values our various levels of technical expertise.

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

When I started working full-time after graduation, I was given the opportunity to relocate to Trinidad to help a team on the design of two new wastewater treatment facilities and collection systems that ArchTam had been awarded. I was able to help but also learn on every project aspect. In addition to the facilities’ design, we encountered challenges that are likely unique to developing countries. For example, there were no proper as-builts on some of the sewered portions so we had to build our own – popping manholes and measuring. It was personally eye-opening to see how wastewater collection and treatment had been previously handled. Almost every community had potable water, but wastewater was either overflowing into drainage ditches or running through abandoned or neglected treatment facilities. Although it took a while for construction to begin, the impact that ArchTam’s team has made on improving the wastewater infrastructure and overall environment in Trinidad cannot be overstated.  

Share a piece of career advice.

Never stop asking questions, and don’t be afraid to ask for help. It’s through setting those stretch goals for yourself and figuring out how to achieve them that you can meet some incredible people within ArchTam and our industry.

You should also try to get involved in a professional organization outside of work. Help organize an event, meet up with the local young professional (or old professional!) group, provide mentoring, and just get out there and meet your peers from other companies. Share your passion for doing what you love.

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Eva Kleinert is Associate Director for social impact research at ArchTam with a strong focus on research and evaluation, and commitment to sustainability. Eva leads our Social and Equality Impact team in the UK, and is the technical lead for the monitoring and evaluation of social impacts, design and delivery of primary research, and integration into social research reports and assessments for our Energy and Environment business lines. In addition to her experience at ArchTam, she has five years of experience as a team lead and analyst for the Scottish Government, including as lead analyst for international, Europe and Brexit and senior research manager for the rural economy. She has designed and managed numerous research projects.   

Eva has four years of research experience in gender labor market inequalities, family policies and policy evaluation, applying both quantitative and qualitative methods. She holds a doctorate in comparative social policy from the University of Kent.  

Tell us about what inspired you to join the industry.

I’ve always had a strong interest in people’s lives, communities and local economies — how they are affected by policy changes or local developments. My career started as a freelance journalist in Germany, reporting on local issues. That involved many conducted interviews and group discussions, trying to understand how people were impacted on the ground with my recorder and notepad. That experience sparked my curiosity about evidence-based impact assessments.

After completing my master’s degree in the York, UK, I pursued a doctorate in Labour Market Studies at the University of Kent. As an academic, I wanted to look more methodologically into evidence-based impact assessment at a cross-national scale. My research focused on labour market inequalities, particularly how women are less represented in managerial positions. This academic foundation led me to work for the Scottish Government, where I led on research to understand and evaluate Scotland’s rural economy and analysed the impacts of national and European policies on communities. I really enjoyed applying my academic knowledge at a national and regional level and gaining experience as a government social researcher.

Joining ArchTam felt like the perfect next step. I wanted to investigate infrastructure projects — like energy developments and new road networks — shape the lives of people and local communities. I was particularly motivated to contribute to the transition to net zero by assessing social impacts thoroughly. Today, our work involves extensive primary research with community members and a wide range of stakeholders, using structured methodologies. It’s a long way from relying solely on a notepad and a recorder. This approach allows us to produce evidence-based reports, and it’s given me the opportunity to combine my methodological expertise with my passion for community engagement.

What is your favorite ArchTam project that you’ve worked on and why?

I tend to have two types of favourite projects. First, I love projects with a strong emphasis on primary research. As much as I enjoy desk-based research, I find that the most valuable insights we get are from speaking directly to those affected by new energy infrastructure, road schemes or policy changes.

This can include speaking to businesses, community members and public sector organisations. We conduct a lot of interviews and focus groups, and I find those projects the most interesting because they allow us to test what we learn from literature and evidence reviews against real experiences on the ground. Right now, for example, we are conducting a large research on public attitudes towards energy infrastructure across Great Britain. We’re running a high number of focus groups and backing our findings with representative surveys, ensuring a robust evidence base.

The second type of project I love is the kind that lets me dive deep into spreadsheets, logic models and impact assessments. I try to pin down exactly what is driving a particular impact, determining how best to measure it, and then designing a monitoring framework from the ground up. This involves identifying indicators, creating data collection tools, and analysing the data to measure impacts. It’s a different kind of work, but I find it equally rewarding.

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

Improving social outcomes is at the heart of everything we do. Whether we’re assessing how policies affect groups with protected characteristics — such as women or ethnic minorities — through equality impact assessments, or examining how new energy infrastructure will shape the lives of coastal communities in Scotland, our work always centres on people and place. These examples illustrate how community impact is the foundation of every project I’m involved in.

We go beyond simply documenting activities, funding or job creation. Instead, we focus on the long‑term effects — asking what meaningful, lasting difference an initiative has made or is likely to make. Using systematic research and evidence‑based methods, we uncover how communities truly experience change.

For instance, in recent research for a client, we engaged directly with coastal communities to understand how new offshore wind developments could affect them. We captured both positive and negative impacts and presented clear, balanced findings in the final report.

When our research highlights that particular groups may be disproportionately affected, we provide targeted, actionable recommendations to address those impacts. A recent project examining proposed changes to bus routes is a good example. We explored how shifts in schedules could affect people from different socio‑economic backgrounds or demographic groups. For example, older adults or others more dependent on public transportation might face greater challenges. By identifying these nuances, we can help clients design fairer, more inclusive solutions.

Share a piece of career advice

My main advice is twofold. Firstly, have confidence in your abilities. Whether you’re tackling a challenging project or navigating a complex situation, trust in your skills and determination to succeed.

Secondly, ask for help when needed. At ArchTam, teamwork is a cornerstone of our success. There’s always someone who can help you get a project over the line or provide guidance on specific aspects. Don’t hesitate to reach out — it’s not a sign of weakness but a way to strengthen your work.

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Ken Myers has built a nearly five-decade career dedicated to federal water infrastructure, dam safety and flood risk management — spending more than 20 years with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), Sacramento District and over 30 years supporting major civil works programs in the private sector. After graduating from Chico State University in 1978, he joined USACE through its two-year Junior Engineer Training rotational program. His early assignment as a construction inspector on the New Melones Dam — completed while he was onsite — sparked a long-term commitment to complex dam and flood control projects. Upon completing his rotations, Ken landed in the District’s Levees and Channels Section, where he spent many years advancing urban flood protection work and gaining deep knowledge of the federal project development and delivery process.

After more than two decades of federal service, Ken transitioned to the private sector, where he continued to support USACE and its non-federal partners across California. Over the past 14 years with ArchTam, he has remained closely aligned with the USACE Sacramento District, working with regional flood agencies and joint power authorities to deliver major dam, levee and flood system improvements. In his current role, Ken helps guide ArchTam’s partnership with USACE and advance critical water infrastructure programs that protect communities and support long-term resilience.

Tell us about what inspired your career in dams.

I attribute my interest in dams and flood control to my dad during my childhood, even though he likely had no idea he was influencing my future career path. When I was growing up in the 60s, a large dam was being built on the Feather River, not far from the small agricultural town where I was raised. My dad used to take us up to the overlook where you could see the dam under construction. It seemed like we went there every single weekend, and I remember seeing it slowly rise and take shape, bit by bit.

That river had flooded the year I was born, in 1955, and the Oroville Dam eventually alleviated a lot of that threat. Before the dam was fully completed in 1970, there were still moments when high river stages created real concern. I remember one Christmas when I was about seven or eight, the Feather River was running so high it was almost up to a bridge crossing in town. Even though the Oroville Dam wasn’t fully functional yet, there was enough of the embankment built to help buffer that flood risk. Our family left home for a few days because of the threat, and when we returned, we discovered that my dad and grandfather had moved things up off the floor — including the big console TV — to try to floodproof the house. Looking back, I had no idea how much all of that was sinking in. When you are a kid, it is not a conscious thought that you are going to become a civil engineer because of dams and flood control projects. But looking back, I’m sure those experiences shaped me — even if I didn’t realize it at the time.

What is your favorite ArchTam project that you’ve worked on and why?

One of my favorite projects at ArchTam has been the Folsom Dam Raise. The goal is to raise the perimeter of the reservoir by six and a half feet. Folsom has the main concrete dam with the spillways and tainter gates, but then around the perimeter there are these low spots, including embankment wing dams, eight earthen saddle dams, and the mile-long Mormon Island Auxiliary Dam (MIAD). ArchTam was awarded the work on Dikes 7 and 8 and MIAD, and we have been working on this project for about seven years now.

At the project kickoff, USACE let us know they wanted Dike 8 completed on an accelerated schedule, and we worked closely with them to make that happen. As we continued with the designs for Dike 7 and MIAD, project priorities evolved, and we supported USACE through an alternatives analysis to determine the best approach moving forward. Originally everything was going to be a full earthen raise, but through that process the decision was made to go with parapet walls on top of several of the embankments instead. That meant reworking some of the designs, including Dike 7 from final design and MIAD from about 65 percent, but it was the right solution for the project.

Construction of the MIAD raise has just been completed, with Dike 7 construction planned to follow. It has been a complex, multi-year effort with changing needs and fast-track milestones, but it has been incredibly rewarding. Working side by side with USACE, adapting as the project developed, and helping move a major flood risk management project forward has made this one especially meaningful for me.

Tell us a story of how your work positively impacted the communities in California.

A lot of the work I am most proud of has been in the Sacramento region and up through the Yuba City/Marysville area. These are places where communities were directly affected by flood risk, to the point where flood moratoriums were put in place. One example is the Natomas area, just north of downtown Sacramento. At one point, no new development was allowed, and it was very difficult for people to get flood insurance. Through the flood improvement work in Natomas, and in the Yuba River Basin as well, we were able to help demonstrate adequate progress to FEMA. There is a whole process behind that, but once the region met those requirements, the moratorium was lifted and you could start to see infill development return.

This flood protection development made a real difference for people living there. I live in a floodplain myself, and because of the work that local flood agencies have done in partnership with USACE, I believe the risk of flooding has been reduced. I still carry flood insurance, but at a much more affordable, preferred risk rate. Without these improvements, my insurance bill would be sky high. Knowing that our work has helped lower that burden for entire communities — and reduced their flood risk at the same time — is something I feel really good about.

Share a piece of career advice.

My advice is to make sure you become technically proficient in your field. A strong technical foundation really does carry you through your career. When I first started doing design work, I was drawing on mylar with a T-square and calculating quantities with a planimeter. Now technology is completely different, from digital design tools to modern surveying equipment, and it continues to evolve. It has been remarkable to see how much things have changed and how much more precise the work has become. Building solid technical skills early on will help you adapt to those changes and set you up for long-term success.

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Paige Humecki is a passionate professional in the energy sector who has been with ArchTam since 2018. From her beginnings in Chicago to her current role in London, Paige’s career journey is a testament to innovation, collaboration and a commitment to tackling some of the world’s most pressing challenges. Today, Paige leads our Energy Advisory team in the UK, supporting a range of energy system feasibility and decarbonization programs for public and private clients.  

Tell us about what inspired you to join the industry.

I first became interested in the energy sector during my studies in environmental engineering, but it was my first job at a small energy consulting firm that truly ignited my passion. In my opinion, energy is the greatest challenge of the 21st century. How do we meet increasing energy needs while decarbonizing and achieving critical climate goals? This is the question that drives me every day.

I think what has kept me in the industry is that there is always something new. There’s always a new technology, or a new approach. I feel like every six months, there is something technically different about my job that I can learn about. I also like that often when we’re working on projects, we’re focusing on the feasibility of the project because it’s the first of its kind. No one has quite figured out how to broadly decarbonize multiple industrial sectors — or how to decarbonize an entire town. That means we’re often piecing together the puzzle in real time. What technical limitations do we need to navigate? Which emerging technologies are mature enough to apply?

The people in this industry have been a significant source of inspiration for me, both at ArchTam and within the energy sector. I think many people are driven by similar factors to those that inspire me — ultimately, these are decarbonization and achieving vital global goals. We face the immense challenge of addressing these issues on a global scale. Overall, the innovative approaches we take and the incredible people we work with along the way make this journey truly rewarding.

What is your favorite ArchTam project that you’ve worked on and why?

Since joining ArchTam in 2018, I’ve had the privilege of working on a wide range of projects, from electric vehicle charging infrastructure to community-based energy initiatives. Moving to London has given me a global perspective on the energy industry, and it’s been fascinating to see how energy challenges are approached differently in different countries.

One of the things I love about working at ArchTam is the incredible technical expertise of my colleagues and their willingness to share knowledge. It’s a collaborative environment in which I’m constantly learning and growing — which is something I truly value.

I also love the scale and diversity of the work we do. It takes time to fully grasp everything ArchTam is involved in, but that’s part of the excitement. I’m always discovering new opportunities and areas of expertise within the company, which keeps my work dynamic and fulfilling.

It’s difficult to choose just one favorite project, but two stand out as particularly meaningful to me because of their scale, complexity and the impact they had on both my professional growth and the communities we served.

The first was a project on which I had the privilege of leading a team to help a major industrial client in Europe achieve its ambitious climate-neutral goals. This was a large-scale initiative that required us to travel across multiple European countries to assess a variety of industrial sites. Each site had its own unique challenges, from outdated infrastructure to varying levels of regulatory compliance, and we had to develop tailored decarbonization strategies for each one. The project was intense, with a fast-paced timeline and high stakes, but it was also incredibly rewarding. It pushed me to grow in ways I hadn’t anticipated, from managing a diverse team to navigating the complexities of working across different countries and cultures. What made the experience even more fulfilling was the client’s genuine passion and commitment to sustainability. They were fully invested in the process, which created a collaborative and inspiring environment for everyone involved. It was a powerful reminder of how impactful partnerships can be when everyone is aligned toward a common goal.

The second project that stands out is the bus electrification study we conducted for the Fresno County Rural Transit Agency in California. This project was particularly meaningful because it combined technical innovation with a strong focus on community impact. The task was to design solutions for electrifying a bus fleet in a rural area with limited electrical infrastructure. This wasn’t just about implementing cutting-edge technology; it was about addressing the unique needs of small, often underserved communities. We had to think creatively about how to overcome the challenges of limited grid capacity while ensuring that the solutions we proposed were both practical and sustainable. Our analysis went beyond just the buses themselves — we explored how investments in electrification could bring broader benefits to the community, such as improving access to the electrical grid and reducing energy costs for residents. The project also required extensive community engagement, which was particularly challenging during the COVID-19 pandemic. We had to adapt to virtual outreach methods to ensure that the voices of local residents were heard and that their needs were incorporated into our plans. Despite these challenges, the project remains a highlight of my career because of its potential to make a real difference in people’s lives. It was incredibly rewarding to know that our work could help create a more sustainable and equitable future for these communities.

Both of these projects represent what I love most about working at ArchTam: the opportunity to tackle complex, meaningful challenges that require innovative thinking and collaboration. They have not only allowed me to grow as a professional but have also reinforced my commitment to making a positive impact on the world through my work.

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

Much of my work at ArchTam revolves around feasibility studies. While I may often be working a few steps ahead of actual implementation, I take immense pride in knowing that these early studies lay the foundation for projects that can transform communities. Our projects are a rewarding reminder that the groundwork we lay today sparks the transformative projects of tomorrow.

Ultimately, decarbonization and grappling with the practical limits in any community sits at the core of my work. Personally, however, a way in which I feel I have positively impacted the community and one of the most fulfilling aspects of my career has been engaging directly with students and young professionals.

The energy industry is experiencing significant growth, and there is a shortage of skilled professionals. Throughout my career, I have had the opportunity to host placement students and interns. I have also spoken at events and visited schools, which has allowed me to connect with individuals who are early in their careers or who may not have had exposure to this sector. I enjoy discussing the energy industry with them and sharing insights about its opportunities.

However, I feel that it is critical to tie decarbonization to real opportunities for people — and opportunities to engage with early professionals or anyone who’s still deciding what to study at university is my favourite way of doing that. We need so many skilled professionals across the energy industry, from all backgrounds and with various skill sets, and it takes time to develop them. Each conversation, internship, and school visit contributes to preparing these future professionals to tackle the big challenges in the energy industry. Seeing them leave with renewed enthusiasm and a clearer vision for their roles in our field is incredibly fulfilling.

Share a piece of career advice

I always tell people: never stop asking questions. Curiosity is so important, especially in a field like energy, as it’s constantly evolving. It’s critical to stay open to learning — whether it’s gaining technical knowledge or understanding the decisions being made around you. After all, if we had all the answers, we would already have decarbonized the world!

As a woman in this industry, I’ve felt the pressure to always have the answers, but I’ve learned that it’s okay to ask questions and seek clarity. I feel that this is the only way to grow and contribute meaningfully. I encourage everyone entering this field to embrace curiosity and not shy away from asking for help or deeper understanding.

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Ameet leads our residential sector across the UK&I, collaborating with teams in project management, cost management, engineering and sustainability to deliver a wide range of residential projects that truly make a difference. Working with our clients across a range of residential asset classes, including housing, strategic land, later living, student accommodation, open market, build to rent, co-living, affordable, social, urban regeneration and city centre high-rise towers, his focus is on creating places that are practical, sustainable and built to last.

With over 15 years of experience in the construction industry, Ameet has led major residential and regeneration projects from concept to completion. His leadership approach combines commercial understanding with a strong commitment to quality, teamwork and doing things the right way, values he sees as essential to shaping the future of housing delivery.

Tell us about what inspired you to join the industry.

I grew up in a thriving region where development and opportunity were part of everyday life.  From an early age, I was fascinated by how cities grow and evolve. That curiosity was fuelled further through international travel — visiting New York, San Francisco and Hong Kong — and gave me firsthand insight into how ambitious construction and planning can transform communities. Those experiences inspired my ambition to be part of shaping the built environment.

Academically, I had strengths in both numbers and literature. This naturally led me toward quantity surveying, contracts and procurement, disciplines that blend structure, logic and communication. Over time, that evolved into a passion for project management and delivering complex, multidisciplinary projects that bring teams together to achieve shared goals.

I’ve always felt a strong connection to the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) and the professionalism it represents. I take pride in upholding traditional values of accuracy, integrity and accountability. For me, success is as much about how we deliver projects as what we deliver.

What are the biggest issues currently facing the residential sector?

The residential sector continues to face a series of evolving pressures that affect both project viability and delivery.

Viability remains a key consideration, shaped by the cost of finance and rising labour, material and plant costs. Together, these influence scheme viability and investment confidence, particularly in higher-cost markets.

Planning processes also continue to extend project timelines, requiring early coordination and realistic programming to maintain momentum. In addition, the implementation of the Building Safety Act has introduced new stages and requirements that form an important part of ensuring safe design and construction. While essential for compliance, these processes, including updated design measures such as second staircases and Gateway 2 reviews, can add time to project programmes and require proactive management across all parties.

Another key factor is the skills shortage across the UK construction industry, which continues to impact delivery capacity. This has encouraged the sector to think more innovatively about how we design and build, exploring new methods to increase efficiency, consistency and quality. I have been involved in several projects adopting modern methods of construction, which not only help to address resource challenges but also drive improved sustainability outcomes and predictability in delivery. By constantly challenging design and embracing innovation, we can unlock real value for clients and create more resilient project models for the future.

Finally, sustainability continues to drive change. Clients and developers are setting ambitious goals around carbon reduction, circular economy principles and social value. Balancing these aspirations with cost and delivery pressures requires innovation, collaboration and strong technical leadership across every stage of development.

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

Throughout my career, I’ve been fortunate to work on a range of projects that have brought lasting benefit to local communities, from housing and regeneration to specialist living and even the London 2012 Olympics, which has left a distinct legacy.

A particular area I’m passionate about is later living, having delivered several large retirement village developments designed to connect senior residents to their local communities through place, amenities and shared outdoor spaces. These projects provide environments where people can live independently while remaining active, engaged and connected to others, something that has a real social impact beyond the buildings themselves.

I’ve also been involved in several student accommodation campus and apartment build to rent projects, which have helped define a new generation of living. By integrating amenities such as music studios, cafés, shared lounges and landscaped public realm, these developments have created communities and enhanced the student and professional experience.

Most recently, I’ve worked on the Smithfield Birmingham masterplan with Lendlease, a landmark regeneration project at the heart of the city. Achieving planning consent for this major scheme was a significant milestone, paving the way to transform underused land into a vibrant, mixed-use neighbourhood. With construction now progressing into the build-out phases, it’s exciting to see that vision becoming a reality.

Across all these projects, the unifying theme is collaboration, working with clients, local authorities and residents to deliver places that have a positive and enduring impact on people’s lives.

Share a piece of career advice.

My advice to anyone in this industry is to stay engaged, open-minded and reflective. Every project, conversation or client interaction offers a chance to learn something new. Even the small moments can teach you how to communicate, adapt or solve problems more effectively.

Seek out hands-on experience early in your career. Spending time on site builds a real understanding of how projects are delivered and gives you confidence in your decision making.

Take every opportunity to gain early exposure and learn from senior professionals. Sit alongside partners and directors, observe how they think, lead and build relationships. Those lessons in judgement and communication are invaluable.

Take pride in your work, whatever the task may be. The quality of your outputs, from reports to presentations, reflects your professionalism. Always take a client-first approach, pausing to understand the world from their perspective.

Equally important is developing strong people skills. You’ll work with individuals from diverse backgrounds, experiences and cultures, both locally and internationally. Being able to connect, communicate and collaborate effectively is at the heart of successful project delivery.

And above all, enjoy what you do. When you’re genuinely passionate about your work, that enthusiasm shines through in the outcomes you deliver and the teams you lead. Passion is what sustains a career in construction and what makes it so rewarding.

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Anastasia Squirrel holds a diploma in civil engineering technologies from Saskatchewan Polytechnic and works as a civil CADD specialist with strong proficiency in Civil 3D and supporting design software. Anastasia’s experience includes civil site design for industrial developments, parking facilities, service yards and community buildings, as well as infrastructure projects involving water treatment plants, pumping stations, roadway design and other civil and water discipline‑related projects. This work has strengthened her skills in grading, utility coordination, and the production of functional, compliant site layouts.

Tell us about what inspired you to join the industry.

Growing up on Yellow Quill First Nation, we lived under a boil water advisory for nine years. When a water treatment plant was finally built near my home, I became fascinated by its design and construction. With my father being a journeyman carpenter, I was exposed to drawings and plans early on, which sparked endless questions — every answer seemed to lead back to engineering. Determined to pursue this path, I overcame limited resources on the reserve by attending school off reserve with the support of family and friends, taking the courses needed to pursue a career in engineering. That experience inspired my commitment to building and improving infrastructure every day, as it deeply impacted my community and showed me how essential these solutions are.

What is your favorite ArchTam project that you’ve worked on and why?

At ArchTam, I’ve contributed to many projects across Canada, all of which I’m proud of. Overall, my favorite project is always the one I’m working on now — it keeps me motivated to learn, grow and deliver my best. Each new challenge builds on the last, whether I’m refining grading plans, coordinating utilities, or ensuring that site layouts meet both functional and regulatory requirements.

My most recent favorite project has been the Edmonton – Forest Heights Dry Pond and Storm Improvement initiative, where our team was tasked with enhancing stormwater management for the community. The work involved retrofitting new storm infrastructure into an already dense network of existing utilities, requiring careful coordination to ensure an efficient and constructible design. We also developed a new dry pond, balancing technical requirements with the goal of preserving as many mature trees as possible. The project incorporated several bioswale-low impact development features, which were new to me and provided a valuable learning experience. Overall, it was a rewarding project that expanded my technical skills and deepened my understanding of stormwater design.

Every project deserves to be completed to the highest standard, and that mindset drives my passion for excellence. The diversity of work I’ve been part of continually pushes me to expand my technical skills and contribute meaningful solutions that support clients and communities across the country.

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

Every project I have my hands on represents a solution to a real need. Whether it’s designing municipal water and sewer systems to keep streets clean, planning landfills and lagoons to protect the environment, or creating site layouts for commercial developments that bring services closer to people, my work turns challenges into opportunities.

One recent project that stands out is the City of Saskatoon landfill expansion, where we added a new landfill cell and helped the City plan for the long‑term future of the site — supporting a project that directly impacts waste management for the people of Saskatoon.

These projects don’t just solve problems — they help communities prosper. Reliable infrastructure means stronger neighborhoods, healthier families and opportunities to grow. Each design choice, no matter how small, contributes to the quality of life for the people who rely on these systems every day.

Share a piece of career advice.

Success starts with teamwork. Always take time to understand the information, don’t be afraid to ask questions. There are people here to help, and we can help each other. When we share knowledge and collaborate toward a common goal, everyone succeeds.

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The Surface Transportation and Aviation markets are entering a pivotal period of growth, innovation and global integration, and Dwight H. Pullen, Jr. is helping lead that charge. Dwight brings decades of experience delivering complex infrastructure programs and will bring the same forward-thinking approach to highway, road and bridge solutions in the surface sector. His role will be key in helping clients navigate the future of connected infrastructure from runways to highways, and delivering smarter, more resilient communities across the globe. His leadership supports long-term growth, operational excellence, and talent development while strengthening client partnerships across markets.

Tell us about what inspired you to join the industry.

I’m drawn to the infrastructure industry for its ability to shape daily life and create lasting positive change. Early in my career, I witnessed how effective transportation systems can connect communities and boost economies. That sense of responsibility motivates me to keep working in this field, knowing our efforts have a meaningful, generational impact. Through my service as Vice Chair of the Equity in Infrastructure Project (EIP) Advisory Council, as a Board Member of the Airport Minority Advisory Council (AMAC), and as past Board Chair of the Airports Consultants Council (ACC), I’ve been able to work alongside industry leaders to advance more inclusive, effective delivery models.

Talk to us about a project that has been a major highlight of your career.

One of the major highlights of my career has been the opportunity to influence transportation infrastructure beyond any single project. While I’ve been fortunate to lead and deliver complex, multi-billion-dollar airport programs around the world, what stands out most is helping shape how our industry evolves.

One of the defining highlights of my career was leading the $1.284 billion New 5th Runway (Runway 10-28) program at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport at just 34 years old. Overseeing an ambitious expansion that included the redesign of roadways, new rental car facilities, a major runway, terminal enhancements, and the construction of an Air Traffic Control Tower, I was responsible for managing the runway’s development from start to finish. The new 9,000-foot-long, 150-foot-wide runway featured advanced taxiways and state-of-the-art markings and lighting for all-weather operations, requiring the acquisition of more than 900 acres. Bringing this complex project in 11 days ahead of schedule and over $106 million under budget not only contributed to Atlanta’s urban growth and global reputation, but also stands as a testament to the transformative impact that well-executed infrastructure can have on a community and a leader’s career.

I’ve contributed thought leadership through articles on airport infrastructure development, construction phasing, operational impact mitigation, and alternative project delivery methods, all of which have been key topics for industry progress. Combining project delivery with advocacy makes a lasting difference, and being part of that influence has been highly rewarding.

Share a piece of career advice.

I have two to offer:

• Prioritize work that delivers sustainable, long-term value rather than short-term gains. Demonstrating integrity and accountability in leadership typically results in meaningful opportunities.
• Value diverse perspectives; they strengthen leadership and results. Collaboration leads to the most meaningful careers, not solo achievements.

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Howard Michael, based in Sacramento, brings more than 35 years of engineering, transportation, and multi-disciplinary project leadership that continue to shape communities and infrastructure across California. As Director of ArchTam’s Northern California Highways Group and Senior Manager of Business Development, he has managed major Caltrans on-call contracts, multi-disciplinary highway and bridge programs, and large-scale infrastructure pursuits, blending deep technical expertise with a commitment to safety, sustainability, and meaningful community impact.

What inspired you to join the industry?
From a young age, I was fascinated by construction. Watching buildings, roads and bridges take shape left a lasting impression. That early interest grew into a love for drawing and drafting, which eventually led me into architecture studies. My first boss, owner of a small structural engineering company encouraged me to transition from my AA degree in Architecture to pursue a degree in civil engineering, where my skills and passion aligned perfectly.

I began my career in drafting and structural design while obtaining my AA degree, which later expanded with a national engineering firm into treatment plants, pump stations, and pipelines, and later transitioned into bridge and highway design. That path allowed me to blend structural expertise with transportation leadership. Over the years, I have had the opportunity to contribute to some of California’s most complex projects, including interchanges, bridges, tunnels, and highways that require project problem identification and definition, risk identification and management, and performance-based designs that involve balancing safety, environmental sensitivity, and addressing stakeholder concerns.

What projects stand out most in your career?
I have worked on a wide range of projects, both large and small. Among those that stand out:

• A water treatment plant in Redding, where I played a key role in structural design of treatment facilities, operations building, pump station and a 7-mile-long water transmission main.
• The San Diego Creek Bridge on State Route 73 in Newport Beach, CA, over the San Diego Creek, one of the largest bridges that I designed.
• The Douglas/I-80 Interchange in Roseville, CA, a complex project that included freeway mainline widening, ramp realignments, an Interstate bridge overcrossing,  a new Interstate on-ramp  with cut-and-cover tunnel involving fire life safety elements, pump station, and operations building that was concealed in a widened fill prism — closely mirroring challenges now faced on Last Chance Grade.
• Current efforts on the Sites Reservoir Project, leading the design of 31 miles of roads and a major causeway across the reservoir.
• A Complete Streets project in Angels Camp, which is beautifying SR-49 through the “town of Angels” while enhancing safety for the active transportation community through the addition of bike lanes, sidewalks, landscape strips, and low impact design with incorporated drainage systems for natural treatment of stormwater runoff.

Whether tackling mega projects or small community improvements, I take pride in engineering solutions that leave a lasting positive, sustainable impact for the benefiting communities.

How do you approach problem solving and innovation?
I take a performance-based approach to analysis and decision-making. For me, every successful project starts with clearly defining the issue we’re trying to solve — only when we understand the real problem can we identify solutions that are the right size and the right fit. I enjoy the process as much as the outcome: bringing stakeholders together, facilitating discussion, and encouraging collaboration so we can develop optimized solutions as a team.

I’ve always believed engineering is about more than technical problem‑solving. It’s an opportunity to enhance communities, preserve heritage and promote sustainability. Whether I’m helping integrate educational elements or interpretive centers into projects, or designing greener, safer facilities, I see infrastructure as a legacy — something that can serve and strengthen communities for generations.

What advice would you give to young professionals?
My advice is simple: follow your passions. When you pursue work that excites and fulfills you, it rarely feels like work. Passion fuels perseverance, even through long or difficult projects, and leads to a more meaningful career and life experience.

What do you enjoy outside of work?
Outside of work, my greatest joy is my family. Providing for them, living with integrity and leaving a legacy of service are at the core of who I am. I treasure the time spent together, finding meaning in the moments that reflect the values I have worked hard to pass on.

Faith is also a guiding force in both my leadership approach and personal philosophy. I often remind my family and colleagues of a principle I live by: “Behind every task we do, there’s something far more important than the task itself.” For me, that greater purpose is rooted in service — supporting others, uplifting communities and helping people reach their full potential.

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