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With more than 33 years of experience serving Georgia’s transportation industry, Monica Flournoy, PE, has helped shape programs, mentor future leaders and advance practices that continue to influence the profession today. Following her recognition as one of , Monica reflected on the people, experiences and opportunities that have defined her career and the importance of helping the next generation of engineers succeed.

Monica Flournoy, PE (left) with Atlas’ Sally Riker, F. SAME (right), who was named in 2025 and 2026 among Georgia Engineering’s Top Most 100 Influential Women.

Congratulations on being named one of Engineering Georgia’s Top Most 100 Influential Women. What does this recognition mean to you?

I am deeply honored to receive this recognition and to be included among so many accomplished women who have contributed to advancing the engineering profession. While the award bears my name, it reflects the collective efforts of the mentors, colleagues, clients and teams who have supported and challenged me throughout my career. I have been fortunate to work alongside exceptional professionals at both GDOT and Atlas, and this recognition is really a testament to what can be achieved through collaboration, trust and a shared commitment to public service. It is also meaningful because it highlights the impact women continue to make in shaping transportation infrastructure and creating opportunities for future generations of engineers.

Over the course of more than 33 years in transportation engineering, you’ve led programs, influenced policy and developed teams. When you reflect on your career, what are you most proud of?

What makes me most proud is knowing that many of the improvements, processes and people I helped develop continue to make a difference today. Throughout my career, I had opportunities to lead initiatives that improved efficiency, strengthened quality and enhanced collaboration across Georgia’s transportation industry. Whether implementing statewide systems such as SiteManager and the AASHTOWare Project, advancing paperless contracting, modernizing materials and construction processes or refining consultant management practices, my focus was always on creating sustainable improvements that would continue delivering value long after implementation. Equally important are the people I have mentored over the years. Seeing engineers, inspectors and technical professionals grow into leadership roles and make meaningful contributions to our industry is one of the most rewarding measures of success.

Today, you oversee field operations supporting transportation programs across Georgia. What excites you most about your current role?

Without question, the people. My role allows me to work with talented engineers, inspectors, technicians, project managers and support staff who are dedicated to serving our clients and improving transportation infrastructure throughout the Southeast. I enjoy helping teams solve challenges, identifying opportunities for professional growth and making sure our staff have the resources and support they need to succeed. Every project presents unique challenges, and it is rewarding to see multidisciplinary teams come together to deliver quality solutions while developing the next generation of industry leaders. Watching others grow professionally and achieve their goals is one of the most fulfilling parts of my job.

You’ve successfully led organizations, programs and teams of significant scale throughout your career. What leadership lessons have stayed with you over the years?

One of the most important lessons I have learned is that leadership is fundamentally about people. Technical expertise is important, but trust, communication and integrity are what enable teams to perform at their highest level. I have found that people are most successful when they understand the purpose behind their work, feel respected and know their contributions matter. Effective leaders listen, remain accessible and create opportunities for others to grow.

I have also learned the importance of adaptability. The transportation industry continues to evolve, and leaders must be willing to embrace change, learn continuously and help their teams navigate challenges while maintaining a clear focus on quality and service.

Throughout your career, you’ve been active in organizations such as WTS International, National Society of Women Engineers (SWE), National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE), ASTM International and American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO), while also supporting STEM outreach and mentorship programs. Why is that work important to you?

I believe engineering is about more than the projects we deliver; it is also about strengthening the profession and investing in future generations. Professional organizations provide opportunities to share knowledge, contribute to industry advancements and collaborate with peers who are facing similar challenges. My involvement with organizations such as WTS, SWE, NSBE, ASTM and AASHTO has allowed me to participate in conversations that help shape industry practices, standards and policies.

Equally important is mentorship. Throughout my career, I benefited from leaders who invested in my development, and I have always felt a responsibility to do the same for others. Through STEM outreach, school mentoring programs and initiatives such as Introduce a Girl to Engineering Day, I hope to encourage young people, particularly women and underrepresented students, to see the opportunities available within our profession.

Many people would describe your influence through the programs you’ve managed or the teams you’ve led. How do you define influence?

To me, influence is not defined by a title or position. Influence is measured by the positive impact you leave behind. It is improving a process, helping an organization become more effective, mentoring someone who later becomes a leader or creating opportunities that enable others to succeed. Projects eventually get completed, but the knowledge shared, relationships built and people developed can continue making a difference for years. If the organizations, programs and individuals around you are stronger because of your contributions, then you have had a meaningful influence.

What advice would you give to the next generation of engineering leaders?

Stay curious, remain humble and never stop learning. Some of the most valuable opportunities in my career came from stepping outside my comfort zone and taking on responsibilities that initially seemed challenging. Be willing to ask questions, seek out mentors and embrace experiences that broaden your perspective. Technical competence will always matter, but long-term success depends just as much on your ability to communicate, build relationships and support those around you. Focus on serving your team, maintaining your integrity and continuously improving. If you commit to learning and helping others succeed, leadership opportunities will naturally follow.

Monica’s influence extends far beyond the projects she has supported. Through leadership, mentorship and a commitment to continuous improvement, she has helped shape programs, teams and careers across Georgia’s transportation industry.

Learn more about Atlas’ transportation services or explore opportunities to join our growing team.