“I really like being in the field and getting my hands on equipment—it’s also fun to explore parts of the building I wouldn’t otherwise get to see.”
How long have you been with NWESI?
I started in 2012 so approaching 8 years.
What is your primary role at NWESI, and what does it cover?
For the last 6 years I’ve been the Cx tech, assisting the project managing Cx Authorities. When it comes to the CxT—they look, listen, and report back to the CxA. The level of involvement on projects is limited, so you have to be prepared to get up to speed quickly, perform the assigned task, and move on.
What kind of work did you do before?
I went to school with a plan to earn a degree in engineering. It didn’t seem like the right fit so I switched to forestry. The forestry industry was in a rough time and a lot of the available work was further away than I wanted to go. I ended up working at a production brewery training on all the equipment and processes involved. After that I got the job with NorthWest Engineering.
What was the process in switching fields like?
Being new to the industry, I was just trying to learn as much as possible. Everything was new. I had never seen the types of drawing sets or mechanical spaces that are typical of the job. Working with a variety of project managers on various projects has allowed me to gain a lot of knowledge and experience.
What has been a professional growth that’s happened since you’ve been here?
Adaptability. While we’re striving for similar results on each project, adaptability is necessary to navigate the unique set of challenges presented by each project.
If there’s a favorite part of your work, what is it, and why?
I really like being in the field and getting my hands on equipment—pushing buttons, testing sensors, setting off safety devices, and verifying responses—trying to figure out if things are working how they’re supposed to. It’s also fun to explore parts of the building I wouldn’t otherwise get to see.
Do you have any outside hobbies? If so, what draws you to them?
Most of my hobbies involve being active outside. I like playing outside with the kids, working on the yard, walking the dog, hiking, biking, paddle boarding, skiing, snowboarding, camping. I enjoy fresh air, and believe it’s important to try and gain a better understanding of the world we call our own.
