Let’s hear it for the girls

This week is Engineers Week, an event that celebrates the profession’s accomplishments and inspires children to dream big. Each day represents one initiative, and today is Introduce a Girl to Engineering Day. So, in honor of Engineers Week Girl Day, we asked two of our leading women for some words of advice.

Julia Algeo

Julia Algeo is a Senior Principal and Project Manager for our civil/site group. After graduating from Rutgers University with her bachelor’s in environmental engineering, she went on to obtain her professional engineer, professional planner and certified municipal engineer licenses.

Who or what inspired you to pursue a STEM career?  My teachers instilled upon me a love of math and sciences and the idea that I can be anything that I choose.

What is your favorite aspect of your current position?  I truly enjoy the blend of art and science that is a major facet of the Civil Site Engineering field.

If you could give a younger version of yourself  advice, what would it be?  Don’t get discouraged if things don’t always work out as you plan. Keep your eyes and ears wide open for opportunity!

Debbie Lawlor

Senior Associate and Planning Discipline Leader Debbie Lawlor graduated from Cook College before getting her Master’s in geography from Rutgers University. Debbie is a professional planner and is the president of the American Institute of Certified Planners.

Who or what inspired you to pursue a STEM career? In high school, I liked sciences and commercial art. A guidance counselor told me about Environmental Planning, where I could combine both interests into a career.

What is your favorite aspect of your current position? I like the creative, big picture aspect of planning – master planning, redevelopment, regional planning studies. I like working with the clients and community to turn their ideas into real plans.

If you could give a younger version of yourself advice, what would it be? Be passionate about what you do, surround yourself with people who have positive energy, and never stop learning.

Whether you’re an engineer, educator, parent or engineering hopeful, we hope you’ll join us in celebrating the achievements made in the name of engineering.

For more information on Engineers Week, click here.