What inspired you to pursue a career in land surveying, and how has that evolved into supporting large-scale power and energy projects across the country?

My father was a professional land surveyor, and growing up around the profession gave me an early appreciation for the role surveyors play in shaping the built environment. As I got older, I realized surveying was a natural fit for my interests and strengths. I enjoyed mathematics, geodetic concepts, and problem solving, but I also loved being outdoors and working in different environments.

What really captured my imagination was the blend of science, history, and investigation. Particularly in cadastral surveying throughout the western United States, there is an element of archaeology and detective work involved. You’re retracing the footsteps of the original surveyors, interpreting historical records, recovering monuments, and piecing together evidence that may be over a century old.

My career evolved from solving technical challenges into leading teams and supporting large-scale power and energy projects all across the country. Today I’m motivated by developing people, advancing our profession, and helping build our nation’s critical energy infrastructure.

Tell us about what brought you to Atwell. What has stood out to you about the company’s culture and approach to solving client challenges?

I was drawn to the quality of people and opportunity for growth. Early on, I sat down with Matt Bissett (President and CEO) to discuss his vision for the future, centered on growth, innovation, and investing in people. It was clear that Atwell’s future would be people-driven, and that resonated with me. I’ve always believed that great companies are founded on great teams.

I’ve also been impressed with Atwell’s willingness to think creatively when solving client challenges. There is a strong entrepreneurial spirit throughout the company, combined with a collaborative culture across disciplines and geographies.

This is a new role at Atwell. What excites you most about the opportunity?

What excites me most is the opportunity to help build and scale a national surveying platform. As we continue to grow, there’s an opportunity to strengthen collaboration across regions, create consistency in service delivery, and ensure we continue providing an exceptional client experience.

What challenges come with serving clients and building teams on a national scale, and how do you navigate them?

One of the biggest challenges is maintaining consistency across multiple regions while still recognizing that every market and project has unique needs. Success depends on clear communication, strong quality standards, and a culture where teams openly share knowledge and support one another. Building that culture requires ongoing mentorship and investment in people.

How have emerging technologies changed the surveying industry during your career, and how has your role evolved alongside those changes?

The surveying industry has changed dramatically over the course of my career. These advancements have improved efficiency and expanded the amount of information we can deliver to clients. However, technology hasn’t replaced the need for experienced professionals. While collecting data is easier than ever, ensuring that data is accurate, reliable, and defensible still requires a strong understanding of surveying principles, geodetic concepts, coordinate systems, and sound professional judgment.

My role has evolved alongside those changes. Today, I work with leaders and teams across the country to establish standards, improve processes, and promote consistent execution across projects. As power, energy, and infrastructure projects become larger and more complex, I take pride in helping ensure our clients can rely on the survey data that serves as the foundation for critical decisions.

Looking ahead, where do you see the biggest opportunities for growth and innovation in the power and energy sector?

Demand for infrastructure, renewable energy, transmission, and grid modernization continues to grow, and surveyors will play a critical role in supporting those projects. As the complexity and scale of projects increase, the need for highly skilled survey professionals and reliable geospatial data will only become more important. One of my goals is to help develop programs and talent that make Atwell the unquestionable choice for land surveying services.

I also believe emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence (AI), present exciting opportunities for our profession. With the potential to improve efficiency, assist with data management, identify patterns, and help automate repetitive tasks, I view AI as a tool that should enhance our work and empower the critical thinking, judgment, and technical knowledge of our professionals. Organizations that combine strong fundamentals with thoughtful innovation will lead the future of our industry.

What is a career moment you’re particularly proud of, and why does it stand out?

While I’ve been fortunate to lead and support some very challenging and rewarding projects, I’m most proud of the impact I’ve had on people. The surveying profession has faced ongoing challenges in attracting and developing the next generation of surveyors, particularly younger professionals, women, and future licensed surveyors. I’ve had the opportunity to mentor and work alongside many talented professionals as they developed their technical skills and leadership abilities.

There is nothing more rewarding to me than seeing someone grow from an entry-level professional into a trusted leader, project manager, or licensed surveyor.

What do enjoy outside of work?

Family is my first priority. Spending time with family is incredibly important to me, and living in Wyoming gives us plenty of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors together through hunting, fishing, camping, and other outdoor activities. My daughter was just married, and I couldn’t be prouder of her.

During the winter months, my wife and I enjoy spending quality time together working on home improvement projects. She has a real talent for interior design, and I enjoy helping bring her ideas to life. It’s something we enjoy doing together and a great way to stay busy during the colder months.

And lastly, golf is probably my biggest personal passion. Golf is a game that constantly challenges you to improve, no matter how long you’ve been playing, and I think that’s one of the reasons I enjoy it so much.

The post Ken Schramm on leadership, innovation, and the future of surveying in the power and energy sector appeared first on Atwell.

We sat down with Tim Miller, Associate Director, Oil and Gas, to talk about what it means to teach at the prestigious Colorado School of Mines Natural Gas Processing Course and why the opportunity is meaningful to him. He shared his perspective on the industry, the importance of mentorship, and how he’s helping prepare the next generation of natural gas professionals.

What does it mean to you personally to be invited to teach in a program with nearly five decades of history? 

It’s a huge honor to be invited, and honestly, not something I ever expected would happen for me. This course has been a starting point for so many people in the Denver area, so being trusted to help introduce a new generation to the natural gas industry really means a lot.

How did this opportunity come about? Can you share some of your experience? 

Like most opportunities, this one came through staying connected and building on existing relationships. Tim Rollenhagen actually recruited me for my first role at URS, so we’ve known each other for quite a while. We reconnected at the National GPA midstream convention, where he brought up the course and asked if I’d be interested. From there, it all came together.

 Why is this short course so highly regarded in the gas processing industry? 

The course offers a really solid overview of the industry for a wide range of people. You’ll see a lot of executives or folks with nontechnical backgrounds who need to understand how the industry works, and it gives them that foundation without requiring engineering coursework. It also has a long history. The people who started it 50 years ago were true pioneers, and over time the instructors have continued that legacy. They’re leaders in their fields and often at the forefront of new technologies, which is a big part of what makes the course so well respected.

Which parts of the curriculum are you most excited to teach? 

I’m still figuring out exactly which sections I’ll be teaching, but it will likely focus on areas like compression, gas dehydration, and field operations.

From wellhead to market, where do you see the most innovation happening today? 

I’m seeing a lot of innovation around optimization and making better use of the technology we already have. It’s really about how we can put the right pieces together to deliver the same quality facilities in a more streamlined way, so they can get to market faster, more efficiently, and at a lower cost.

How does participating in a program like this strengthen relationships with clients and industry peers?

 It helps strengthen relationships in a lot of ways. Many of our clients take this course, so it’s a chance to show both my capabilities and Atwell’s technical expertise. But just as important is the time spent together. Whether it’s in the classroom, at dinners, or working through projects, those shared experiences go a long way in building stronger connections.

What has been the most influential mentorship moment in your own career, and how does that shape how you approach teaching? 

One of the most influential mentorship moments for me came early in my career with another process engineer. He really pushed me to look beyond what I was doing on paper and think about how it actually applies in the real world. Not just getting gas from point A to point B, but how it all comes together. What does it look like when it’s built? How will it be operated and maintained?
He encouraged me to spend time in the field, visit facilities, and talk with operations and other engineers to really understand how things work and how we can make projects better. It shifted my mindset to always ask how something will be implemented and whether it truly makes sense in practice.

That’s something I carry into how I teach as well. I encourage people to get out into the field and, once they’ve worked through a problem, take a step back and ask, “Does this actually make sense in the real world?” We have great tools and software that can give us answers, but if it doesn’t pass that gut check, then it’s worth digging deeper and figuring out how to make it work.

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Having joined the team as part of the Manhard integration, Jim brings deep roots in the Midwest market, a career shaped by economic cycles, and a passion for building the right teams. In this Q&A, he shares what drew him to civil engineering, the lessons that have stayed with him throughout his career, and what he sees ahead for Atwell.

What inspired you to pursue civil engineering and land development?

Growing up, I always liked Legos and taking things apart to figure out how they worked. I had a couple of uncles who were civil engineers, so the field was always somewhere in the back of my mind. The real clarity came in a freshman engineering class in college, where a civil engineer and a mechanical engineer each came in to talk about what their careers looked like. The mechanical engineer described everything from designing roller coaster components to refrigerator bolts. That didn’t appeal to me. What I liked about the civil side was that you can actually see the work: you can drive past it, point it out to your family, and say, “I worked on that.” That connection to the real world, to the places that people live and work, is ultimately what drew me to land development.

Tell us about your career journey leading to Atwell.

I started full-time in 2005 with a local firm of about 100 people. Those early years were a great foundation. When the recession hit after 2008, the firm went through some significant downsizing, but staying through that period made me a more well-rounded engineer. With lean teams, I had the opportunity to manage, design, and draft all at once. You learned everything. In 2011, our group merged with Manhard, and I spent the next 14 years there growing from project manager to Managing Director and Vice President, overseeing the Midwest region, and eventually helping lead operations in Texas . Now, as a VP at Atwell focused on the central region, I’m excited to bring that experience into a bigger, more nationally-scaled platform.

What excites you most about what’s ahead at Atwell and where do you see market opportunities?

A few things stand out. The strength of our teams has created a really strong, combined talent base, and we’re still in the process of getting to know each other and figuring out who can help where and how to build the best teams. That’s actually the fun part to me, connecting the dots between the relationships we have and the expanded services we can now offer. Capabilities like Atwell’s Power and Energy group and our national footprint open doors with existing clients that simply weren’t there before we joined forces.

On the market side, I see strong demand continuing in residential and industrial both in the Midwest and Texas. It seems like the industrial markets have definitely picked up. I would say Chicago has always been a big hub for industrial work and we do an excellent job in that space throughout the country. There’s always a need for industrial buildings and the distribution and distinct types of work that’s been out there which continues to be a strength for us.

Data centers and mission-critical facilities are certainly a significant growth area, and I think the Atwell team has a truly impressive resume there that we’re just beginning to leverage. We’re also working to build out our solar and renewable capabilities in a more focused way, which has real runway. The goal across all of it is to be a full service go-to firm and we have the talent to do that.

What is a career moment or project you’re most proud of?

My very first project out of college was D.R. Horton’s Carillon Club in Naperville. It’s a 220-acre active adult community with a golf course. I jumped in on day one and stayed with it for many years, from early design through completion. It was one plan set after another and an incredible learning opportunity. I still occasionally drive past it. I think about how formative it was to design a large project from start to finish so early in my career. It was also instrumental in learning how to build valuable relationships with our clients. A key component of our job that I tried to replicate with each new client.

More recently, wrapping up a 530-acre adult community for Pulte in Aurora was another highlight. It’s a great reminder of the scale and impact this work can have in the community with the residential and commercial components.

What are the biggest challenges in your work, and how do you navigate them?

In my experience, the hardest parts of the job are rarely the technical ones. They’re the people dynamics. The most rewarding relationships are with clients who treat you like a partner and trusted advisor and genuinely want you as part of their team. When a client calls you first about their next project, that means something. Those are the partnerships where you want to go the extra mile.

What do you enjoy outside of work?

I’ve been married since 2014, and we have two kids. I have an 8-year-old son and 6-year-old daughter. Between his soccer schedule and her gymnastics, our weekends are pretty well organized for us. I try to get out and golf in the summers when I can, though that gets harder as we get busier.

We’ve also made family travel a priority. Disney has become a regular destination over the last couple of years, and we’re trying to keep adding new experiences and locations each year. At this stage in life, most of the best moments happen around what the kids are doing, and that’s a good thing!

The post Midwest roots, national reach: Jim D’Alexander on growth, teams, and what’s ahead appeared first on Atwell.

Jesse Conrad brings nearly two decades of experience in land development and civil engineering to Atwell. Jesse now helps guide Atwell’s expanding Texas team while leveraging the firm’s broader national platform to pursue new opportunities. We sat down with Jesse to learn more about what drew him to the industry, what it takes to thrive in it, and what the integration of Manhard and Atwell means for the future.

What drew you to a career in real estate and land development?

It really comes down to family. My father worked in real estate, land development, and acquisition, and I had a lot of respect for what he did. Growing up, I spent time driving around half-built subdivisions on the way to and from sporting events. He was always working on something. I was always stronger in math and science and as I got older and learned more about what he did, I seriously considered pursuing it professionally.

I leaned into engineering for my degree, and while I always thought I’d eventually go back for an MBA or a law degree, I got into the industry and just kept learning. There was always something new to understand, something that challenged me. I never felt the pull to step away.

Tell us about your current role and what you’re focused on right now. 

My focus is really supporting our folks in Texas. A big part of that is leveraging the broader Atwell brand and expanded service offerings and geographic footprint alongside relationships I’ve built over nearly 20 years in the industry. On the local side, I’m often supporting team members day-to-day: reviewing proposals, assisting with client conversations, and helping kick off projects on the right foot. In terms of national efforts, I’m pursuing opportunities we simply couldn’t have gone after previously at Manhard, because we didn’t have the right personnel or service offering at the time. That’s been one of the most exciting parts of this chapter.

Share more about your experience with the integration of Manhard and Atwell.

It’s gone as well as it has because of alignment from the top down. Philosophically, both companies were aligned in terms of growth philosophy, on the type of associates we want, and on the type of clients we want to serve. The things Atwell has that Manhard didn’t are so genuinely complementary. It provides more robust opportunity for all our associates to grow within a bigger organization and reach milestones faster than we could have previously.

What are some of the most common challenges in land development, and how do you approach them?

On the client and project side, I always encourage coming in with an open mind and a genuine interest in win-win solutions. You need to understand what the end goal is for the client and for the community. Every community has its own drivers and own definition of success. Before you walk in with a project, especially one that will go through zoning, entitlements, or neighborhood meetings, you need to do your homework. You need to give people a real seat at the table, listen to their concerns, and understand their perspective. That groundwork is what sets up a project for long-term success.

Do you have a favorite phase of a project?

I’m a bit of a deal junkie, honestly. I love the initial stages. It’s creative problem-solving, finding solutions that work for the client and fit the community. But that creative energy shows up throughout a project, not just at the beginning. The ability to adapt on the fly, come up with solutions under pressure, and find those win-win moments, that’s what gets me out of bed.

What accomplishments are you most proud of in your career so far?

Without question, it’s the team we built in Texas over the last eight years. A lot went into that. It was a true team approach. Everyone played to their strengths and checked their egos at the door. Reflecting on it now, being able to support the team and their career journeys, watching the organization grow throughout the state of Texas, that’s the most rewarding thing. Even more than the great client work and exciting projects, it’s the people.

What skills do you think are most critical to success in this industry?

Continuous learning is at the top of the list. This industry evolves at a pace that keeps accelerating, and you have to be willing to constantly reassess your approach while staying grounded in the principles you learned early in your career.

Beyond that, communication is paramount. You simply cannot over-communicate in this industry. There are always opportunities to do it better and more frequently, both internally and externally.

And finally, self-awareness. Being able to honestly assess your own strengths and weaknesses, lean into your strengths, and be willing to be a little vulnerable about where you need to grow separates the people who plateau from the ones who keep developing.

What do the next three to five years look like for the team in Texas?

I think we’re just getting started. We’ve seen significant growth but there’s still enormous runway ahead. We have a strong footprint across North Texas, Austin, and Houston, and real opportunity to deepen our presence in Houston and San Antonio.

I think we could realistically double what we’re doing in Texas with the right people joining the team and giving the people we already have the chance to step into bigger roles. That’s the fun part: building it together.

Outside of work, how do you spend your time?

My kids are 13, seven, and five, so wherever they are, that’s where I am. Right now, the youngest is into monster trucks, so we just went to Monster Jam. The oldest plays baseball and does a lot of theater. We travel as a family as much as we can and really prioritize creating memories together.

Beyond family, I’m a huge sports fan. Born and raised in Chicago, so I’m still a loyal Chicago sports fan through and through. I’ve warmed up to the Rangers since Cubs fans and Rangers fans can coexist fine since they’re in different leagues  and I’ll cheer for the Stars while the Blackhawks rebuild. But I’m not quite ready to cheer for the Cowboys. That’s a line I haven’t crossed yet.

The post “Always something new”: Jesse Conrad on building teams, chasing deals, and what the Atwell-Manhard integration means for Texas appeared first on Atwell.

In honor of Black History Month, we sat down with some of our Black employees to discuss their backgrounds, how they pursued their current career paths, and what Black History Month means to them:

• Derrek Yates is a Senior Technology Specialist at Atwell
• Deshon Fox is a Director of Engineering at Atwell
• Maya Puller is a Senior Design Associate at RVi
• Kiara Warburton is a Civil Engineer at Atwell
• Merissa Martin is a Marketing Manager at RVi

What inspired you to pursue this career path? 

Derrek: I have always been passionate about technology and seeing things being built. Even from a young age, I enjoyed playing with Legos and game systems, and I think those interests have led me down this path.

Deshon: I enjoyed Physics in high school, and I loved the idea of designing things. This led me to pursue a career in Engineering. My second choice in college was architecture.

Maya: I have always had a passion for plants and thoughtfully designed outdoor spaces. I earned a degree in Plant Science with a focus on Horticulture and Design, which provided me with a solid foundation in plant science and landscape design fundamentals. Throughout college, I explored various career paths, but it wasn’t until my senior year—when I took a Landscape Design course—that everything clicked. This experience taught me how to merge my love for plants, creativity, and design into a meaningful career, ultimately inspiring me to pursue landscape architecture.

Kiara: From as early as fourth grade, I knew I wanted to be a civil engineer. In elementary school, I was selected for a special program for fourth and fifth graders that allowed us to attend classes at Northwestern University every Saturday for about two months. We explored various career paths through art, music, writing, and science classes. While I enjoyed several of these subjects, the computer and civil engineering classes stood out to me. As I continued to grow, my interest deepened by joining the National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE) and taking civil engineering classes in high school. This confirmed that civil engineering was the career I truly wanted to pursue.

Merissa: My favorite cousin, whom I have always admired, played a significant role in my decision to switch from civil engineering to marketing within the AEC industry. Through her, I realized that the marketing and business fields offer limitless career paths, allowing me to create the future I’ve always dreamed of.

What challenges have you faced along the way, and how did you overcome them? 

Derrek: One of the most difficult challenges I have faced in my career involved repeated encounters with racial profiling while commuting to work in Southern Maryland. A particular police officer regularly stopped me while I was riding my motorcycle or driving my car, often in the mornings on my way to the office. These stops became so frequent that I began leaving earlier than necessary, anticipating being pulled over and delayed. Each time, the explanation was simply, “Just checking to make sure everything is clean.”

Eventually, local police temporarily moved into our building, and the officer came to understand my role and why I was there each day. After that, the stops stopped entirely. Years later, the officer was promoted to a senior position within Maryland law enforcement and sent me a letter apologizing for his behavior. He acknowledged that the way I handled myself throughout those encounters helped him recognize and correct his own racial profiling.

Deshon: As a father of four, there were times when my children were younger that it was a challenge to balance work with parental obligations. Thanks to my wife, who has been an extraordinary mother, I was able to pursue new ventures while remaining grounded and connected to my household.

Maya: Coming into landscape architecture without a formal education in the field was initially challenging, as I often felt the need to work harder to bridge knowledge gaps. I overcame this by actively seeking opportunities to learn. I asked questions, welcomed feedback, and learned directly from highly experienced coworkers who were generous with their time and knowledge. Through collaboration, mentorship, and hands-on experience, I’ve slowly gained confidence in my abilities and developed a stronger sense of belonging within the profession.

Kiara: School was one of the most challenging parts of my journey to where I am today. To truly learn, you need teachers who are invested in your success, and for me, that support was not always there. Attending college during the COVID pandemic made things even more challenging, as many of my professors were not accustomed to teaching online. This set me back academically and required me to add two extra years to my college experience. Despite these challenges, I pushed through and got all the help I could get from outside resources, friends, and teaching assistants. I am proud of how far I have come and am deeply grateful to be where I am today.

Merissa: Unlike many of my colleagues and other young professionals, I did not have a formal mentor. As a result, I had to navigate challenges independently and make decisions with limited guidance. To overcome this, I became highly self-directed, seeking out available resources, asking questions, and learning by observing other leaders.

What has been one of the proudest moments in your career so far? 

Derrek: I’m proud of the work I do to improve myself and grow; this allows me to support and uplift my coworkers. I see our team as one big family that reaches almost every part of the globe. Witnessing the relief that comes from resolving issues is the greatest reward I could ask for.

Deshon: One of my proudest moments was opening my own firm in the Bahamas in 2010. The experience was deeply rewarding, and I valued every part of the journey, including the challenges that helped shape me as a professional.

Maya: One of my proudest moments was being recruited by Hitchcock Design Group prior to the RVi merger. While it may seem like a small milestone, being recognized by a respected firm was incredibly meaningful to me. It affirmed that my skills, background, and dedication were valued, and it gave me renewed confidence in my ability to grow and succeed in the landscape architecture industry.

Kiara: I am still at the beginning of my career, so I do not have many professional accomplishments yet. However, graduating from college is something I am extremely proud of, as it represents the hard work and perseverance it took to get me to this point.

Merissa: One of my proudest moments was in a previous role, when a long-standing client asked us to conduct staff surveys, followed by team workshops and a retreat informed by the findings. This type of engagement was a first for both the firm and me. As the marketing lead, I developed and compiled the proposal, and due to my background in HR, the Director of Learning and Organizational Development invited me to join the project team. Winning the project was especially meaningful, as it validated both my strategic leadership in securing the work and my ability to contribute beyond my core marketing role.

What does Black History Month mean to you personally or professionally? 

Derrek: For me, it is about awareness and creating space for others to see themselves reflected in these stories. When people hear these experiences from someone who looks like them, it can be a powerful reminder that they are not alone. Even if they are struggling in silence, our presence, resilience, and success show that we are here and thriving, regardless of our backgrounds or the narratives we carry.

Deshon: I see real value in taking time to reflect on the accomplishments, contributions, and progress of Black Americans. While I do not personally define myself by my skin color, I believe learning from this history is meaningful and important.

Maya: Black History Month reminds me of both the challenges and responsibilities that come with being a Black professional in landscape architecture, a field where representation remains limited. With only 2–3% of licensed landscape architects identifying as Black, I am motivated to take up space, contribute meaningfully, and help shape a profession that is more inclusive and reflective of diverse voices. This month is an opportunity to honor the progress made while actively working toward greater equity and representation in the future.

Kiara: Black History Month is both personal and professional for me. It is a time to reflect on the strength and resilience of those who came before me and created the opportunities that allow me to be where I am today. I have a fond memory of attending a conference and walking into an NSBE event. It was the first time I had seen so many members of the Black community represented within the industry. In that moment, I felt truly seen, represented, and welcomed, with an immediate and powerful sense of belonging. As a Black civil engineer early in my career, it reinforces that my journey matters and that representation truly makes a difference. It encouraged me to take pride in how far I have come and to be intentional in how I show up, contribute, and lead each day at work.

Merissa: It’s a time to reflect and honor Black pioneers who played a critical role in shaping the foundation of the world we live in today. Personally, it is important to me to acknowledge Black contributors and forefathers who laid the groundwork, ensuring their stories, sacrifices, and achievements are recognized and carried forward! My connection to Black History Month goes beyond reflection. It lives in my family. My aunt, Leah Sears Ward, is the first Black Supreme Court Justice in Georgia, and my great-uncle, Dabney Montgomery, served as a bodyguard for Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and was a Tuskegee Airman. I am incredibly proud to carry their legacy, to have their blood running through my veins, and to be connected to the history they helped shape.

The post Voices of impact: Black History Month employee spotlight appeared first on Atwell.

Matthew C. Bissett is our Chief Executive Officer and President of Atwell. He has been with the firm for 27 years, starting his career as an Atwell intern. During that time, he has distinguished himself as someone who is deeply committed to growth, business diversification, and driving the strategic goals of our company, while supporting our colleagues and clients.

In this interview, Matt reflects on Atwell’s growth in 2025 and the firm’s vision for 2026.

Reflecting on 2025, what moments do you feel best captured the evolution of Atwell’s business this year?

It’s been an exciting year for the Atwell Family of Companies. We’ve experienced significant growth, around a 20 to 30 percent increase in net revenue over the prior year, continuing our steady 15-year trend of double-digit growth. When we set our 2025 business plan, our focus was clear: invest in our people and strengthen our ability to grow alongside our clients. Every major decision we make ties back to two guiding principles: solving client problems and creating opportunities for our team.

One of the most transformative steps we took this year was our integration with Manhard Consulting. From the start, we saw strong alignment in culture, expertise, and client relationships. That partnership has already expanded our data center mission-critical work, deepened our relationships with clients, and enhanced our capabilities in renewable energy design.

We have also continued to prioritize organic growth while expanding our team through strategic hiring and professional development. Personally, having been with Atwell since 1998, it’s fulfilling to see so many of our people grow their careers here.

Atwell has had a monumental year in terms of growth. The Manhard Consulting acquisition was Atwell’s largest ever. What has been the biggest impact of this integration, both culturally and strategically?

The success of the Manhard integration comes down to alignment and cultural belief. Both firms share the same philosophy of supporting people, providing strong leadership, and creating opportunities for growth. That cultural connection made the partnership feel natural from day one.

Don Manhard Jr.’s approach mirrors ours: building lasting client relationships, solving complex challenges, and helping people advance. Together, our teams are expanding into new markets, strengthening technical expertise, and deepening relationships with national clients.

This integration has broadened opportunities for everyone and is a great example of what happens when two like-minded organizations come together. The result is one stronger, unified team with the ability to deliver more, grow faster, and make a greater impact.

As we look to 2026, how do you see Atwell continuing to balance organic growth and strategic acquisitions?

For me, organic growth is where I put most of my energy. It’s the part of the business I’m the most passionate about. I love bringing new talented professionals into the Atwell family. Helping people see how they can grow their careers here while being part of a supportive and innovative culture is incredibly rewarding.

Organic growth will continue to be a key focus for us. It’s simply the best way to grow: by developing people, deepening client relationships, and expanding our technical expertise. We now have more than 2,100 team members, and sustaining that momentum means staying aligned with our clients’ goals. Each year during business planning, we look closely at our clients’ growth strategies to make sure we’re adding resources and capabilities that help them succeed.

With new and expanded offices in Raleigh, Nashville, Reno, Chicago, and Southern California, what lessons have we learned about successful geographic growth?

Everything starts with our people. Our priority is to support the talented staff we already have by giving them the resources, leadership, and tools they need to succeed. We want every team member to have a clear roadmap for growth and the confidence to pursue bigger opportunities. Our focus this year has been on ensuring our teams have the proper leadership backing, technology, and operational support. When our people feel equipped and empowered, they start to think bigger about their clients, the projects they can take on, and the impact they can make. That confidence allows us to pursue larger and more complex projects than ever before.

How has Atwell’s diversification across areas like data centers, industrial onshoring, and energy helped strengthen our position in a changing market?

Major investments today are centered on technology. Companies like OpenAI, Amazon, Meta, and Google are driving data infrastructure and creating opportunities for firms like Atwell.

We’re deeply engaged in mission-critical industries that combine complexity, innovation, and scale. Projects like data centers leverage our full expertise, from land development and utilities to energy infrastructure. Our utility partnerships give us an edge in site selection, grid analysis, and power planning. Our teams also model energy solutions, from natural gas to renewables, optimizing performance and sustainability. What’s most rewarding is seeing our multidisciplinary teams collaborate seamlessly to solve client challenges. That unity and shared purpose define who we are at Atwell.

How does innovation, through tools like Power BI, Chat GPT, or digital project management, support Atwell’s growth and ability to stay ahead of client needs?

We’re using AI tools like Power BI, ChatGPT, and digital project management systems to improve how we manage projects and make real-time decisions about staffing, resources, and budgets. Strong financial management allows us to reinvest in our people and continue growing the firm. Our goal is to give every project manager the insight and tools to operate like the president of their own business, understanding costs, value, and performance at every stage.

Looking ahead, AI will play an even bigger role in bridging workforce gaps and streamlining complex work. By leveraging innovation, we can empower our teams and deliver smarter solutions for clients.

The launch of The Atwell Gives Foundation was a major milestone. What inspired its creation, and what impact do you hope it will have?

The Atwell Gives Foundation was created from our belief that success is about more than growth. It’s about giving back and creating opportunities for others.

Launched this year, the Foundation supports 501(c)(3) organizations focused on STEM education and youth development. Our partnership with Science Olympiad, where we serve as the first title sponsor of its Urban Schools Initiative, is helping expand STEM access for underrepresented students.

By inspiring young people to explore science, technology, engineering, and math, we’re helping shape the next generation of innovators, and perhaps future Atwell team members. It’s a reflection of who we are: driven by purpose, grounded in relationships, and committed to building a brighter future.

What excites you most about where Atwell is headed in 2026?

As we finalize business planning, we’ll target investments where they’ll have the greatest impact, whether that is through hiring, internships, or expanding in key markets.

We expect strong growth in data centers and energy, continued momentum in renewables, and new opportunities in high-growth regions, such as Texas. While residential markets may face some challenges, demand remains steady in the Sunbelt states.

Opportunities aren’t slowing; they’re shifting. We’re focused on deepening relationships with current clients and building relationships with emerging clients and industries that are driving investment in the years to come.

Atwell’s strength has always been in adapting and growing alongside our clients. When we build those relationships and help our partners succeed, we create new opportunities for our teams as well, and that’s what keeps this work meaningful.

The post CEO Matthew C. Bissett reflects on Atwell’s 2025 achievements and shares the firm’s vision for 2026 appeared first on Atwell.

Discipline Manager Preston Landry joined Atwell in 2024 and has been working as an important member of our Oil & Gas team, contributing to a wide range of work from managing our process mechanical groups, developing facilities projects, natural gas projects, and more. In this Q&A he shares more about his 13-year career in Oil & Gas, what sets Atwell apart as a company, and what strengths and skills a team needs to be successful in Oil & Gas.

What inspired you to pursue a career in AEC and specifically in the Oil & Gas Market?

Growing up in south Louisiana, we had plants and refineries all around us, so I was aware of the industry. In high school, my favorite subject was chemistry and I was naturally strong in math. Engineering felt like the perfect way to combine both. In college, I pursued biological engineering and interned in the Oil & Gas sector. That internship was a great experience and set me on this career path.

What do you do as a Discipline Manager at Atwell?

I serve as the manager of the process mechanical group, which keeps me very busy with a variety of projects ranging from natural gas projects, pipelines, carbon captures, metering, designing steam projects, and more. I work on a team of seven, and my role is to set the direction and coordinate assignments to keep projects moving smoothly. I also spend a good bit of my time working on facility design and development projects, since I bring solid experience in that area.

What made you choose Atwell?

A company like Atwell offers opportunities to work on such a variety of projects and responsibilities. I realized that I didn’t want to do one thing over and over again. Figuring out the best way to structure a project and different ways to solve problems is really exciting and fun to me. Atwell does so many interesting projects that make it a wonderful place to be for someone who likes doing different things each day.

What skills are critical to being successful in this industry, and how does your team exemplify those skills?

I think teamwork and strong communication skills are essential. We all bring our own strengths and operate independently, but in order to deliver the best outcomes for our clients, collaboration is key. Creativity in problem solving is also important, as well as enthusiasm to figure out a solution to different challenges. Sometimes we need to think creatively and come up with solutions, and doing that as a team is where we provide such value. Everyone is willing to help and jump in to deliver a great solution as a team.

What do you wish more people knew about the work your team does to help clients?

We have a dynamic team that can figure almost anything related to Oil & Gas. I believe that our engineers truly can solve anything that a client might face and we’re very proud of that mindset of determination to help our clients through any situation. As far as specific projects, we have long-standing strength in pipeline efforts, and we are really growing and doing great work on facilities projects as well, since several of us have that background and experience.

What is a career goal that you’ve set for yourself?

I’d like to continue to expand and build what the team is doing right now. I think we can continue to drive growth and tackle new types of projects well. In the longer term, I’d like to pursue more opportunities in project management and leadership that really enhance how I approach projects as I continue to grow in my career.

What is something your colleagues may not know about you?

I love being active and enjoy a lot of different sports and activities. I was actually offered a soccer scholarship for college and continue to play volleyball each week. I’ve also gotten more into golf and was extremely fortunate to attend the Masters Tournament down in Augusta, Georgia this year, and it was an amazing place to see.

The post Employee Spotlight: Preston Landry on his career, what makes a strong Oil & Gas team, and what sets Atwell’s team apart appeared first on Atwell.

This year, National Surveyors Week is March 16 – 22. March is also Women’s History Month, a time to celebrate the contributions women have made in history and our society. We took the opportunity to highlight three of our women surveyors to learn more about their work, their experiences as women surveyors, and the impact of surveying in our world. Read more about Atwell’s Project Surveyor Tori Aper, Surveying Technician Verena Lake, and Project Surveyor Julie Reincke.

How did you become interested in surveying, and what motivated you to pursue it as a career?

Tori: I became a surveyor by accident. I was teaching K-3 remedial reading with summers off. My husband Kurt (who others may know is now working at Atwell with me) told me about some administrative help needed at his then-employer’s office, so I volunteered. Once the admin tasks were completed, I picked up a self-guided tutorial for CAD and taught myself. I decided not to go back to teaching and moved into the survey department to start on houseline and topographic surveys.

Verena: I basically reverse-engineered my career path—I got my education before deciding what career I wanted, whereas most people choose a career then pick the best educational plan to achieve it. Geography and physics were my favorite subjects in school. When I started college, I wasn’t sure about my career path, so I focused on learning more about those subjects. As graduation approached, I began to research careers that aligned with the credentials I already had and landed on surveying.

Julie: I went to school for architecture and needed an internship to graduate. Atwell was looking for a CAD drafter in the survey department, which I got hired for. I didn’t know a lot about surveying yet, but I was happy to be doing CAD for a company. The more I did it, the more I understood surveying, and the more I came to love it. I’ve been at Atwell ever since.

What is your favorite part of this profession?

Tori: I learn something new every day. The technology changes so quickly that there is always something new to learn.

Verena: I love that I get to be outdoors and experience the multifaceted magnificence of nature. I love the entire process of how we support clients: taking measurements and data outdoors, seeing it processed in the office, using that to create high quality deliverables for our clients and making crucial decisions that affect communities and, in the case of construction surveying, produce a tangible structure.

Julie: Each day is different. Some days I work on construction projects, the next day it may be an energy project, and other days it’s a housing development. The variety is fun, and so are the challenges—especially the mathematical ones.

What has been your favorite or most memorable project?

Tori: I don’t have a favorite, but the large-scale projects are always fun and memorable. My first love will always be creating traditionally-shot topographic surveys and utilizing LiDAR or photogrammetry.

Verena: I did a job in Illinois, and it was the first job where I independently operated surveying equipment as a full-time surveyor. Though it’s a simple task of using a GNSS receiver to take elevation measurements, the vegetation was very thick, which made it really hard to traverse in most areas. It wasn’t necessarily my favorite project, but it was definitely the most memorable.

Julie: We got a new client a few years ago that came in with a lot of specific requirements. They had some out-of-the-box ideas, but after doing two or three projects for them, we began to understand them better. It felt really good when we got positive feedback from them. They enjoyed the way the survey looked, and they were impressed with the outcome and how well we handled and exceeded their expectations. That was pretty memorable.

What do you wish more people knew about women surveyors? Are there any surveying misconceptions you’d like to debunk?

Tori: A common misconception is that field crews require a lot of physical strength, and that’s not true—though you will be in much better shape after a few seasons in the field! I also think a lot of women in our field worry that they won’t be able to advance their careers and have a good work-life balance in this male-led industry. However, there are many successful women in surveying and if you can find the right company that aligns with your ideals and goals, they’ll support you along your career path, like Atwell has done for me.

Verena: I wish people knew that women surveyors do exist! Yes, it’s a male-dominated field, but there is space for us. Thankfully, Atwell is a place where I can just be myself and not worry about being treated differently due to my gender, race, or anything other than my talent.

Julie: I want people to know women surveyors are just as capable as men. A general misconception about surveying is that we are always out in the field, but the majority of my role is in the office working with CAD. Also, surveying is not just one thing; it’s a lot of little things. We are more involved in the structure, safety, and comfort of communities than people realize.

What impact do surveyors have on our world?

Tori: Surveyors influence a lot of our lives through mapping and cartography, natural resource management, infrastructure maintenance, and of course land and construction planning. We can be vital in legal disputes, acting as expert witnesses and using our surveys as legal documents for things like boundary disputes and easements.

Verena: Surveying is the unsung hero of society because it’s so vital, especially with the massive growth and structural improvements we’re experiencing. Unfortunately, many people don’t recognize that because many people don’t even know that we exist. We’re the cornerstone of every construction project, no matter the size. We’re everywhere in the background, working with other professionals to ensure the health, safety, and wellbeing of the communities that we serve.

Julie: Like Tori and Verena said, surveying is all around us. We see the landscape in unique ways that many others don’t think about, like water ownership on shorelines that cross international borders like the Great Lakes, or what is necessary for a home or business to extend its property.

Can you tell us something about yourself that your teammates may not know about you?

Tori: I joined the Navy right after high school, then went to college for sign language while caring for my two small children. I worked with many disabled and hearing-impaired people through local park districts, and now I sometimes dream in sign language.

Verena: I love baking. Recently, I made a vegan red velvet cake from scratch for the first time and really enjoyed the process. I’d love to learn how to make more creative desserts. I always entertain the thought that if I had to switch careers, or perhaps if I lived in another lifetime, I would be a pastry chef.

Julie: I grew up in Chicago and was a Chicago Hawks fan growing up, but then I moved to Detroit and I’m now a huge Red Wings fan—a big no-no for hockey fans that were around for the Hawks/Wings rivalry of the 90s. I also taught myself to sew and crochet as a kid, and make a lot of my own clothes.

The post National Surveyors Week 2025: The impact of women surveyors appeared first on Atwell.

Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) were established to provide higher education opportunities for Black students during segregation in the United States, and they continue to play a crucial role in fostering academic excellence, cultural pride, and professional development. Today, HBCUs remain vital by educating, training, and supporting people of all races, nationalities, and backgrounds, offering experiences that are unique to other schools and often leaving students feeling seen, valued, and appreciated.

This February, as part of Black History Month, we’re recognizing the importance of HBCUs in our industry by sharing the experiences of three Atwell employees who are HBCU alumni:

• Shanice Ouzts is a Planner and Designer who attended Morgan State University (Morgan) for two degrees, obtaining her bachelor’s degree in architecture & environmental design and her master’s degree in landscape architecture.
• Richmond Linard Calapano is an Engineer who attended the University of the District of Columbia (UDC), obtaining a degree in civil engineering.
• Shelton McGlory is an Engineer who attended Prairie View A&M University (Prairie View), obtaining a degree in mechanical engineering.

In this Q&A, they share how their HBCU experiences prepared them professionally, why aspiring science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) professionals should consider an HBCU education, and the value of HBCU graduates in the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry.

Why did you decide to attend your HBCU?

Shanice: I enjoyed the campus tour, and it was in-state. I had applied to mostly out-of-state schools, but as the time got closer, I realized I preferred being close to home. Morgan also offered a free summer program to help students adjust to college life.

Richmond: UDC was close to home with great scholarship opportunities. My sister had also graduated from there, so I was confident in the quality of education and the school’s ability to produce skillful students.

Shelton: I obtained my bachelor’s degree in Professional Resource and Land Management during the 2009 recession. I moved to Houston—the place to be for Oil & Gas careers—but it was hard to find a job. Since I wanted both management and technical skills, and I’d always been interested in engineering, I decided to pursue an engineering degree. I spoke to a few engineers who went to Prairie View and visited the school, where I immediately felt a difference from my first college. It was much more of an intimate family environment. I felt like people were invested in my success, instead of feeling like another number.

How did your education and experience at an HBCU prepare you for your career?

Shanice: I learned to be hardworking, what it takes to meet deadlines, and the importance of collaboration—all things that are vital to my job every day.

Richmond: As part of a smaller civil engineering class, I received personalized attention from professors who were invested in our success. We got hands-on lab work as well as opportunities to participate in organizations like American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) and American Concrete Institute (ACI), which helped me gain real-world experience before I even graduated.

Shelton: There were high expectations—if you slipped below a 3.0, you would be dropped from your major. It was also a very hands-on education, and they were willing to change and evolve with the times. For example, when they noticed a trend of engineers becoming project managers, they added project management courses so we would be competitive once we graduated. It was also a very diverse school, which taught me how to build relationships with people from different backgrounds.

What did you learn or experience at your university that you may not have experienced at another institution?

Shanice: I wouldn’t have experienced the same sense of belonging and community. There is something special about HBCUs—you feel seen and valued, like you aren’t just another number passing through.

Richmond: I experienced a strong sense of community and mentorship that I believe is unique. Professors and staff were genuinely invested in my success, and I felt supported academically and personally.

Shelton: I don’t think I would have experienced as many different cultures or such caring administration. The people, from students to faculty, were more aligned with me and my experiences. It makes a difference to feel like you can go to a teacher or an advisor and not feel like just a number.

Are you still involved with your alma mater today? If so, how?

Shanice: Yes, I attend alumni events, homecoming events, and have gone back to speak on a panel for women in construction.

Richmond: Not currently, but I would love to find opportunities to get more involved.

Shelton: I’m still close to many of the friends I made there, and a group of us plan to start a scholarship for the university’s STEM programs. There are people from all walks of life at all stages of life, and I know every little bit helps.

What is one of your proudest moments in your academic or professional career?

Shanice: My proudest moment was winning the graduate school’s Researchers Award for my master’s thesis. A close second would be presenting my thesis and defending my research.

Richmond: One of my proudest moments was leading the American Concrete Institute student organization, where I organized events and participated in competitions. This experience strengthened my leadership skills and reinforced the importance of collaboration and communication.

Shelton: Earning two degrees, especially considering my circumstances when I enrolled at Prairie View: I was a new grad with a very specific degree, no job, in a recession, pursuing another demanding degree while working three to five days a week as an engineering intern, driving more than 60 miles to my job and to school each day, all as a new father.

Was there a professor, coach, or mentor you met at your university who had a positive impact on your education or career? Who was it, and how were they a role model to you?

Shanice: Several professors had a huge impact on me. One was Professor Fraiser; she was a licensed architect. Any course she offered, I enrolled in it. She always emphasized the need to be the best and work harder because of the typical demographics of the engineering field that I didn’t fall under—white and male-dominated.

Richmond: Dr. Z. Ahmet Zeytinci had a profound impact on my education. He strongly encouraged his students to take the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam as early as possible, emphasizing how it could open doors to career opportunities. His guidance not only helped me build a strong foundation in engineering, but also motivated me to successfully pass the FE exam, setting me up for future success.

Shelton: There was a person in college who took a chance on me and offered me an internship. Not only did she extend the internship, but she let me do homework there and helped me with any questions I had. That internship led to my first job after gaining my engineering degree, and the person who helped me is now at Atwell, which is also why I decided to come to Atwell, too. So, a big thank you to Amy Bolin!

My mom is also another mentor of mine. She was the first in the family to go to college, and she also went to an HBCU. She set the bar for the rest of my family and our future generations, and we are following in her footsteps.

How did you first learn about Atwell?

Richmond: I first learned about Atwell while searching for job opportunities. During my interview, I was pleasantly surprised to discover that both the director and a senior project manager were alumni of my university. Since I attended a small school, this common connection led to a great conversation about our shared experiences, making the interview process even more engaging and meaningful.

Why should more companies pull from the talent pool at HBCUs?

Shanice: HBCUs are not inferior to other schools in any way, shape, or form. A student from an HBCU is already acclimated to the odds of the professional environment, so it gives them extra drive and motivation to succeed.

Richmond: HBCUs produce highly skilled graduates who bring unique perspectives to the workforce. Many HBCU students gain hands-on experience, leadership skills, and a strong work ethic, making them valuable assets to any company.

Shelton: There is a lot of talent at HBCUs, but we’re often overlooked. Once I joined Atwell, more recruiting was done at Prairie View. I would love for that to happen with other HBCUs, whether or not the alumni are at Atwell.

What is one thing you wish more people knew about the HBCU experience?

Shanice: I wish more people knew that HBCUs are really diverse! I went to school with people from various nationalities; traditional students and non-traditional students; and people transitioning careers. It gave me the opportunity to learn about different walks of life while maintaining respect for people that aren’t like me.

Richmond: As someone of Filipino descent, I truly felt a sense of belonging at my HBCU. I wish people knew how welcoming HBCUs are to individuals from other backgrounds.

Shelton: Going to an HBCU was the best decision I made in my academic career. Without the patience, guidance, opportunities, and relationships I built there, I wouldn’t be where I am today.

The post How the unique experience of an HBCU education prepares students for careers in AEC and STEM appeared first on Atwell.

In honor of National Engineers Week, we sat down with a few of our engineers to discuss their love of their work and the advice they’d give to future engineers.

Rachel Sutherland is an Associate Project Manager who has been practicing plan development for three-and-a-half years; Lindsay Galarza is a project engineer in a managing position, working with Atwell for the last six months; and Ray Holliday is a discipline manager in our Oil & Gas division who has been practicing in the industry for more than a decade.

Tell us about your journey to engineering and why you decided to pursue it as a career.

Rachel: My dad has a background in mining engineering. From a young age, he inspired a love of science and math in me. I have a lot of fun memories of doing science projects and math problems with my dad at our kitchen table. Those early experiences geared me toward a STEM-related field. I chose to pursue civil engineering specifically because of a project in my freshman year of college where I got to participate in an asphalt design competition. That project showed me the real-life impacts my career could have on my community, and I found that very exciting.

Lindsay: I attended an underfunded school after my family left Mexico, so I didn’t have many resources growing up. Despite this, my elementary school offered a class aimed at getting students involved in STEM. My parents enrolled me, and I excelled—so much so that I had the opportunity to transfer to a better school for middle school. I continued following my passion for math and robotics throughout high school; it felt like I was developing a love for math and a curiosity for engineering. I received a scholarship to college where I attended a career fair and learned about civil engineering. That sparked my passion even further and I’ve been following it ever since.

Ray: I was inspired to pursue engineering by my mom, who is also an engineer, and seeing her passion for the field growing up. I’ve always enjoyed problem-solving, and engineering felt like a great way to apply that in the working world.

What do you love about being an engineer?

Rachel: Every day is different! I’ve met engineers who’ve been doing this for 40-plus years, and they still run into things every day that they’ve never seen before. There are a lot of opportunities for new experiences and growth within the field, and it never really gets boring. I love that’s there’s always something new to learn.

Lindsay: I enjoy taking an idea and turning it into something real. In this field, I get to see projects move from an idea to something in real life; that’s my favorite part. I also like that engineering constantly evolves. It’s never going to stay stationary. You’re always going to learn something new. Knowing we’re building an impact that will last into the next generation is fulfilling.

Ray: I like taking problems, solving them, and seeing real-world results. It’s fun to create designs, send out the plans, and then get a call from the contractor saying they found something underground that presents another challenge to be resolved. A lot of pipelines are underground, so you never really know what lies underneath until you start digging. So, you’re creating a plan and adjusting as new challenges arise. In the end, you get a successful project and the satisfaction of a job well done.

What’s a common misconception about engineering that you would like to debunk?

Rachel: I would like to dispel the myth that engineering is a man’s world. I think anyone can be successful in this field if they put their mind to it, regardless of identity. There’s room for everyone; if someone wants to be an engineer, they should do it!

Lindsay:  Engineering is evolving and there’s room for everyone.  Another misconception would be that engineering is just math. There’s so much more to it. In my experience, you must be creative and collaborative, not just a mathematician.

Ray: I think there is a misconception that all engineers are reclusive. I know quite a few very outgoing engineers, many of whom must give presentations to clients and think outside the box to win work as project managers. Everyone thinks engineering is just sitting behind a computer making calculations, but you’re problem-solving on the fly, out in the field, and face-to-face with clients. You can’t be hidden behind a desk.

Do you have a favorite engineering-related mantra or quote that keeps you motivated or inspires you?

Rachel: One of my all-time favorites is Bill Nye’s quote, “Every single person you meet knows something you don’t.”  I think it’s a great way to approach life. With that mindset, you can approach problems and your colleagues with a kind of sponge-like attitude. You can come with curiosity rather than a fixed perspective.

Lindsay: Two things truly get me through most things in life, work included. I’m always thinking, “Just do it,” because I want it done more than I want to find a way out of doing the work. Second, I like to remind myself, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” (Philippians 4:13) Engineering is not an easy job, but it is rewarding. In the difficult moments, those two mantras keep me going.

Ray: I’m a big sports fan, specifically basketball, and my favorite athlete is Michael Jordan. His quote was, “Talent wins games, but teamwork and intelligence win championships.”  You can have all the talent in the world, but if you don’t have a good team around you and you’re not smart about it, then you’re likely to fail. Understanding that you must work together to be successful is key.

What is special about being an engineer at Atwell specifically?

Rachel: Atwell has a lot of different markets that we serve, so the opportunities within land development are plenty. For example, you can get a diverse project list, or you can move up into a management position if that’s something you’re passionate about. I was able to make that advancement and feel supported in the process. Being a larger company has given me opportunities to work with people all over the country, who are in different states and have different local requirements, and I’m able to learn from all of them and expand my breadth of knowledge.

Lindsay: I appreciate the collaboration at Atwell. I’m more collaborative with my team since working remotely than I was in an in-person environment. We’re always on Microsoft Teams talking to each other, and one-on-one time with leadership is prioritized. I’ve had the opportunity to meet and connect with people from various places, regularly engaging in conversations with colleagues from different regions. I’ve appreciated the chance to learn from colleagues across the country and get to know new faces I wouldn’t otherwise see.

Ray:  What makes being an engineer at Atwell special is the amazing people I get to work with every day. I came to Atwell because of the people I met through my interview process and people that I already knew at Atwell. The people I’ve met since joining the company have been immensely helpful and supportive. The teamwork, support, and collaborative environment make it a great place to grow and tackle exciting projects together. It’s a company I’d want to bring my network into, too.

What advice would you give to young people interested in becoming engineers?

Rachel: Be curious! Join organizations and groups that you know you’re interested in, then engage as much as you can. Take advantage of STEM-related opportunities at your school and within your community and explore different types of engineering. Also, having a mentor can make a world of a difference in any stage of your life. I know that has made a huge difference for me and my career.

Lindsay:  Don’t be intimidated by the math and science of things, embrace the challenge and lean into your creative side. Be persistent, lead with your passion, and, as Rachel said, get involved and get a mentor who can guide and support you along the way.

Ray: My advice is to dive in. Engineers come out of college wanting everything to be perfect. Once you get into the industry, it’s OK to make mistakes. There are experienced engineers who can catch those mistakes and mentor you along the way. Don’t be afraid to ask questions.  There’s so much wisdom and experience out there, and most engineers want to share, so don’t be afraid to ask questions.  As Lindsay and Rachel said, a good mentor is helpful, but don’t be afraid to dive in and make mistakes.

The post Solving problems, changing lives: What it means to be an engineer appeared first on Atwell.