Biography
I have worked in municipal engineering for over 26 years. I have also worked in the private sector in addition to owning and operating a consultant firm. I obtained by BS in Civil Engineering from the University of Texas at Arlington in 1994 and my ME in Engineering Management from CU in 2015. I am registered PE in CO and TX. Currently, I lead a team of 36 staff members at the City of Richardson, TX (first ring City outside of Dallas). Our department is responsible for delivering the capital projects for the City in addition to overseeing all facilities, managing the City right-of-way, floodplain, and storm drainage program.
Q&A
What made you decide to pursue a degree or certificate in Engineering Management?
I wanted to expand my knowledge on leadership and management to prepare me for leading people and serving others to reach my goal of becoming a department Director. Now that that goal has been reached, I would like to use my degree to become an assistant City Manager and on to City Manager.
Why did you choose the Engineering Management Program at CU Boulder?
I am originally from Greeley, CO and CU has always been a school I wanted to attend and become a Forever Buff. However, I researched several schools on their MPA and MBA programs but CU stood out with their ME curriculum when it came to all aspects of management (leadership, finance, project management, etc.). Another important factor was the online program and processes.
How did the program help you in your career?
The Program taught me how to be successful as a leader. Shortly after graduating, I became a Director of a City department.
What was your favorite graduate EMEN class/professor? Why?
This is a tough question because I enjoyed all of them! It truly is a toss up between Dr. Luftig and Dr. Moore. I really enjoyed their personal experiences and contributions they made in their respective industries. Both of them were not afraid to discuss their failures and lessons they learned from them as well. I really enjoyed their entertaining stories too!
What advice would you give a new student in the program?
Make sure you attend every class in person and if you are remote, take the classes synchronously as much as you can. Be engaged yet know the right time to speak. Don't just get by with barely completing assignments - go the extra mile to make them robust especially on topics you are not too familiar with.
How would you summarize your experience with the program?聽
I found it to be two of my greatest learning years of my life. I truly miss it and it made me appreciate learning, reading and writing more than ever.