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 ArchTam, 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 ArchTam Canada’s 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 ArchTam project that you’ve 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 — 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’s 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’re incredibly proud to have helped SLRWPU achieve its vision and complete a project that continues to make a tangible difference in people’s 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’ve delivered across multiple PBCN communities have real lasting benefits to remote northern areas — 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 — providing sound advice and exceptional service to my clients, listening carefully and responding to their needs, especially those of our long-term clients.

The post People Spotlight: Meet Ryan King appeared first on Blog.

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’s degree in chemical engineering and then a master’s 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 ArchTam project that you’ve 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 ArchTam and I’ve 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 — everyone who keeps it running. Being responsive and accountable to the client has been key, and it’s rewarding to know that our work is helping Houstonians access safe, clean drinking water.

When Hurricane Harvey hit Houston, our team’s 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’t have the financial capability to fund the expansion.

We explored different grant options, but they didn’t 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 — 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’ 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’s 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’s degree in public policy from Harvard University’s 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 ArchTam project that you’ve 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’s largest new reservoir project in over 50 years and will provide off-stream storage of up to 1.5 million acre-feet of water — 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’s 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’s 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’s hydrologists, engineers, cost estimators and environmental experts to quantify and document the reservoir’s 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’s residents and businesses — 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’ future growth and economic development but also important for maintaining local agricultural use and protecting the Truckee River’s 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’s 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.

The post People Spotlight: Meet Nik Carlson appeared first on Blog.

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 ArchTam 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’s current role includes leading ArchTam 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’ve 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 — 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’ve 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 ArchTam. 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 — 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’t just one path — you can carve your own.

The post People Spotlight: Meet Stephen Munro appeared first on Blog.

Working in a region known for its “Very High Hazard” seismic zone and marked by extreme tropical weather — including typhoons — 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’s expertise continues to drive impactful projects in the Pacific region and his award-winning leadership is a cornerstone of ArchTam’s 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 — 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 — his were in infrastructure and mine were in environmental preservation — 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’s a journey that continues to inspire me every day.

What is your favorite ArchTam project that you’ve 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’s 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’s 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’s 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, “Be P.H.D.” 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 ArchTam 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’t 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 ArchTam, 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 ArchTam project that you’ve worked on and why?

I’ve had the opportunity to contribute to many meaningful projects at ArchTam, but the Capital Line South Extension has been one of the most rewarding experiences so far. I’ve 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’s core.

The pavilion’s 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 ArchTam 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’s 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’s incredibly fulfilling to know that the structure the team designed will become a part of people’s 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’s 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.

The post People Spotlight: Meet Jeff Chan appeared first on Blog.

Joyce O’Donnell is a registered professional engineer with over 30 years of experience in process engineering. She holds a master’s degree in environmental engineering and a bachelor’s 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 ArchTam, 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 ArchTam project that you’ve 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 — and what didn’t — during the hurricane.

The facility stores and generates a significant quantity of hazardous chemicals requiring an audit of their management practices under EPA’s Risk Management Plan (RMP) regulations.  ArchTam 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 — 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’ 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.

The post People Spotlight: Meet Joyce O’Donnell appeared first on Blog.

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

Lindsay Stafford, Senior Civil Engineer
Queensland, Australia

From the start of my career, I’ve prioritized building a strong network of mentors. That foundation has grown into a broad internal network that’s essential to how I work — 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’ve 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 — 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 — 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’ve experienced firsthand how collaboration fuels better outcomes. Our multidisciplinary team — comprising planners, scientists, GIS specialists, and water resource engineers — 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 “best athlete” 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’s 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’s this spirit of collaboration — across disciplines, regions, and with our clients — 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 — highways, drainage, geotechnical, landscape, and public engagement, environmental and heritage fields.

A great example is the Langstone FCERM scheme that we’re 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’m also working on the £150 million Havre des Pas scheme in Jersey, which balances new coastal defenses with community benefits. The site’s sensitive designations pose challenges, but through close work with the Government of Jersey and local officers — and aided by 3D modeling — we’ve 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 — across disciplines, regions, and project phases. One of the greatest strengths of working at ArchTam is the ability to draw on global expertise. Whether it’s a familiar challenge or something entirely new, I’ve 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’ve 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 — sometimes even on night shifts — 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 — but as a team committed to building a better world.

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

Across dam design projects, I’ve seen how collaboration drives better outcomes — 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’s structural subconsultant. The client was highly engaged, and during construction, we served as their on-site representative — 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 — 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 — 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 — 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 — 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 — owner, design team and contractor — 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’s odor control challenge — a key concern for the local community (the area is unofficially referred to as “Stench Creek”!). Through close collaboration, we’ve designed effective solutions that will improve air quality and enhance residents’ 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’s Hill public housing development in Fanling, where we faced the absence of a sewerage system. Collaborating with the Fanling North NDA and Queen’s 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’ve learned that regular, effective communication — whether through chat, video, or calls — 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’s 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’t just deliver technical solutions — 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’ve 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.

The post Together We Engineer: Celebrating Collaboration on INWED 2025 appeared first on Blog.

Eric’s lifelong passion for nature and the environment has shaped his career path. From childhood adventures like hiking and running through the woods, his appreciation for nature has only deepened. With extensive experience across various industries, including automotive, petroleum, pharmaceutical, food and beverage, steel, textiles and solid waste, Eric has integrated diverse teams spanning various engineering disciplines. As a result, he proudly calls himself a ‘Jack of all trades.’ His ability to collaborate with diverse teams and adapt to different roles makes him a versatile and invaluable asset.

Currently Eric is working on a number of landfill leachate management and treatment projects, a direct lithium extraction (DLE) front-end loading design (FEL-2) and wastewater upgrades at a nutritional supplement manufacturer.  Whether working on engineering or environmental aspects of these diverse projects, Eric’s dedication to preserving the environment and his love for the outdoors continue to inspire his work and life.

Tell us about what inspired you to join the industry

As a child, I loved taking things apart to see how they worked and then putting them back together. Usually, I was successful, and they still worked. This interest along with my love for nature encouraged me to pursue a career in engineering, with a particular focus on water-related fields.

During my graduate studies, I conducted extensive research on Onondaga Lake in Syracuse, New York, which is often identified as one of the most polluted lakes in the United States. My research focused on the release of phosphorus from sediments, which leads to algal blooms among other related concerns. The excessive phosphorus and other hazardous substances (such as mercury, lead, cadmium, chromium, nickel, benzene, and pesticides) present in Onondaga Lake were due to historical industrial pollution.

This experience, over 30 years ago, laid the foundation for my career during which I’ve combined my mechanical curiosity about how things work (engineering and manufacturing) with my passion for nature and environmental protection. Ultimately, I found a fulfilling career in engineering that aligns with both my technical interests and my commitment to preserving the environment.

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

For the past 17-18 years at ArchTam, I have been working with a nutritional supplement firm in West Michigan, primarily focusing on their wastewater facility. Increased manufacturing facility production and changing wastewater streams put stress on the wastewater treatment facility. This requires continual reevaluation, improvements and upgrades to the wastewater systems to ensure environmental compliance.  The current treatment process includes equalization of high strength wastewater followed by dissolved air flotation (DAF), biological treatment, clarification, filtration and UV disinfection prior to a surface water discharge.  

Over the years, I’ve collaborated with many of the client’s staff, becoming a steadfast presence and a vital repository of institutional knowledge. My extensive experience has empowered me to support the current team in planning and implementing system upgrades and process improvements. By leveraging my deep understanding of the client’s wastewater treatment system and operations, I’ve helped ensure the ongoing efficiency and effectiveness of their wastewater management.

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

One of the main products of this West Michigan-based nutritional supplement company is infant formula. During the early months of the COVID-19 pandemic, when West Michigan was largely shut down, I was responsible for an ongoing project at this facility that needed to be completed. Since the production of infant formula was deemed essential, the facility was allowed to continue operating.

I vividly remember those days, driving to the facility daily to oversee the construction of a new wastewater equalization tank. The typically very busy highways were almost empty, but our work had to continue to ensure the uninterrupted production of this essential product. This experience stands out to me as a significant effort to keep things moving and support the essential needs of people during a challenging time.

Share a piece of career advice.

Don’t be afraid to try new things. Every experience is a learning opportunity, and you never know where it might lead you or how it could shape your career.

The post People Spotlight: Meet Eric Van Orman appeared first on Blog.

Martin Garcia joined ArchTam five years ago after 34 successful years at Denver Water managing, designing and constructing a wide range of projects. His roles ranged from civil engineer to project manager, focusing on complex piping projects as well as tank, pump station and treatment plant projects. He was involved in the design and construction of a pipeline that connected the suburban enclave of Glendale to the Denver Water system, and he was part of the team that designed the 40-mile water transmission and distribution system from scratch for Denver International Airport (DEN). Following the opening of the airport, he was involved in its water distribution system expansion and upgrades over a 25-year period.  

After overseeing the design work for the Northwater Treatment Plant during his time at Denver Water, he took the opportunity to work at ArchTam and assist with technical support during the construction phase of the project.  

Tell us about what inspired you to join the industry. 

From a young age, I was always fascinated with infrastructure — highways, buildings and the layouts of cities. My father worked at Denver Water handling distribution system maintenance, so I was familiar with Denver Water from a young age. He worked there for 30 years, and our careers overlapped for about a year and a half.  When I was in high school, I learned that civil engineers are involved with infrastructure, and so I chose to study that subject in school. Then, I got a job in civil engineering after coming out of college, at a large oil refinery in southeast Texas. When there was a downturn in the oil industry in the mid-1980s, I got laid off. This gave me a chance to come back home to Denver, and to join Denver Water. I have worked in the water industry ever since, and now I also work in wastewater. 

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

All of my projects have been interesting, but the best I would have to say is the Salt Lake City Water Reclamation Facility because of the teamwork that the project required. In addition to half a dozen or more disciplines, there were many different offices involved from the United States and Canada. The process design for the project was done in Winnipeg, and we also had people working from Vancouver, Virginia, Ohio, California, and here in Denver — with each office contributing a different specialization. Winnipeg had a wastewater design center, Virginia handled specialty systems, Vancouver handled odor control, and here in Denver we did the yard piping along with plumbing and other building systems, and the architectural design. 

I was involved with the yard piping, because of my background from Denver Water. Since this was a wastewater plant, it was different for me — but it was still about moving water around. There were several different processes scattered all over the site and a lot of existing infrastructure that we had to navigate to get from point A to point B, and then from point B to point C. We had to move the water from one process to another, and I collaborated with civil engineers to coordinate all those different parts of the process. Each process engineer managed a specific section of the treatment process, and we coordinated with them as to where the pipe needed to connect into their building.  

The teamwork that occurred on the project among the different engineers, the offices across the United States and Canada, and the collaboration with the client made it very memorable for me. And we did it all remotely from our own offices, and from our homes even during the COVID-19 lockdown, using virtual collaboration tools.

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

When working on utilities and infrastructure, there’s always going to be an impact on the community. The Salt Lake City Water Reclamation Facility project will allow our client, the Salt Lake City Department of Public Utilities, to continue meeting their discharge requirements and support the rapid growth of the area. The population continues to grow in Salt Lake City, and this project will allow them to meet the rising demand and build capacity resilience for the future with a more reliable and efficient water reclamation facility. For example, there will be less nutrients in the discharge because of the updated processes designed by ArchTam. 

Share a piece of career advice. 

Don’t be afraid to ask questions. As a young engineer, you aren’t going to have the benefit of experience. But those who have gone before you will have that to share. As you progress through your career and gain that experience, you can then share it with those coming up behind you.  

When I started, there was a lot I didn’t know, especially about the water industry, so I asked a lot of questions. Now I’m on the other end of the spectrum, helping younger engineers here at ArchTam. I’m glad to help them out when they ask questions. That’s one of the things I like most about what I’m doing now — helping the younger engineers learn. 

The post People Spotlight: Meet Martin Garcia appeared first on Blog.