Michelle Lynch
Atlas Engineer

Q: What does the WIC Week theme “Level Up. Build Strong.” mean to you as a woman working in construction sector?

To me, “Level Up. Build Strong.” means continually raising the bar on myself, the quality of our work and how we support one another in this industry. From the beginning of my career supporting complex projects like the San Francisco–Oakland Bay Bridge, I learned that success requires constant growth, including refining how I document contract records, improving communication and mastering the details that drive infrastructure forward.

Attention to detail means anticipating potential issues, making informed decisions and adapting quickly to evolving project needs. It is this commitment — to both communication and detail — that elevates the professionalism of the construction industry, allows teams to learn from past projects and helps each project contribute to lasting progress.

Q: How has your career given you opportunities to build stronger communities?

Much of my work directly impacts community safety and mobility. For example, on the Los Angeles Metro (LA Metro) inspection project where our team is evaluating 235 structures, including tunnels, aerial stations, bridges and underground platforms, I coordinate inspection schedules, organize operational documents and manage communications across multiple agencies and departments. This work requires a high degree of collaboration and meticulous planning due to the complexity and scale of the transit system. My role involves not only making sure that inspections are conducted efficiently and thoroughly but also that each assessment meets stringent safety and quality standards. By coordinating with engineers, project managers and local authorities, I help identify and address potential issues before they can affect service or rider safety. This proactive approach is essential in a system as heavily used as LA Metro, where even minor disruptions can have significant ripple effects on the community.

Ultimately, all these efforts contribute to building public trust in the transportation network, supporting the mobility needs of Los Angeles residents and enhancing the overall quality of life in the region. Every inspection is an opportunity to not only maintain but also improve the infrastructure, making sure the transit system is safe for the millions who depend on it every day.

Q: In what ways have you had to level up throughout your career?

Early on, working on federal and state projects required me to quickly develop a deep understanding of quality assurance, federal specifications, progress payment systems and contract closeout procedures. My roles supporting the Federal Highway Administration required me to review construction contract records, perform detailed Quality Assurance (QA) reviews, reconcile project documentation and communicate findings clearly to the construction support team. I had to level up my performance by taking on several tasks simultaneously, learning complex systems and consistently meeting deadlines across multiple active contracts. Those experiences built both my confidence and capabilities.

Q: Do you have a special mentor that has influenced your career? How do you hope to make a lasting impact on the construction industry?

I’ve been fortunate to work with leaders who modeled professionalism and helped me grow, from reviewing detailed contract claims to drafting final payment packages and organizing project systems to meet federal compliance standards.

��I want to help build a future where our work continues to strengthen the communities around us and provide meaningful careers.

I believe that this year’s theme, “Level Up. Build Strong.” serves as a reminder that every project, every inspection and every contract review is an opportunity to strengthen something bigger than ourselves. When women lead in construction and support the bigger initiative, we strengthen:

• Communities, by improving the safety and reliability of transportation networks.
• Careers, by opening doors for others and raising the standards of practice.
• Futures, by ensuring the next generation inherits infrastructure and an industry that is better than what we found.

We are building more than bridges and tunnels. We are building possibility, and that might be the ultimate level up.

Theodora Onwunyiri
Construction Materials Testing (CMT) Lab Manager��

Q: Theodora, you play a critical role in the day-to-day activities at one of Atlas’ laboratories. How did you become interested in materials testing or what inspired you to pursue a career in this field?

What sparked my interest in materials testing was the realization that every test I conduct has a profound impact on the safety and durability of the structures all around us. I’m inspired to know that my meticulous attention to detail plays an important role in making sure buildings, bridges and vital infrastructure are built to last and that they protect the communities they serve. There’s a deep sense of pride and responsibility that comes from knowing the work I do contributes directly to the foundation of our everyday lives.

Q: Atlas’ New Jersey lab handles significant cylinder break volume, as well as aggregate/concrete��and soils��testing. What does a typical day in the lab look like for you?

For me, a typical day involves making sure all laboratory activities are performed according to strict standards and safety protocols. I focus heavily on accuracy and timeliness —making certain that test reports are correct, equipment is well maintained and the lab environment is functioning at peak performance. This work is essential because the quality and reliability of these tests directly impact the safety and longevity of the structures built with the materials we examine. By upholding rigorous testing practices and upholding compliance standards, I help prevent costly construction errors, support the integrity of critical infrastructure and ultimately protect the communities who depend on these projects every day. ��

Q: What kind of material testing do you perform, and what aspect of your job do you enjoy best? How does your role directly support major infrastructure projects?

I work frequently with concrete, masonry materials (mortar and grout) and soil samples collected from construction sites. I enjoy testing these materials because each sample tells a story about the project’s requirements. Comparing the test results to specifications helps confirm whether a structure is built to last.

Good quality assurance and quality control (QA/QC) practices help make sure the materials used in construction meet design expectations. My work supports the safety, reliability and long‑term performance of finished structures. It’s a critical component of delivering value for our clients, while also protecting the communities who benefit from the built infrastructure.

For example, my lab worked on a renewable energy project that supports an offshore wind energy generation hub. Serving as the Special Inspection agency, Atlas provided QA/QC services to evaluate the construction processes and activities and make sure they are performed in accordance with the approved construction documents and/or design. I take significant pride knowing my work supports quality assurance and is making an impact on the world.

Q: Is there anything about your job that might surprise people?

Many people may not realize how essential materials testing is to overall construction quality. It’s not just a behind-the-scenes function; it’s a cornerstone of safe and successful construction. In fact, every test conducted plays a direct role in determining whether the structures we depend on — such as buildings, bridges and roads — are built to withstand the demands of everyday use and environmental challenges. Materials testing ensures that components like concrete, masonry and soils meet stringent quality and safety standards before they become part of a finished project. By identifying potential weaknesses, verifying compliance with design specifications and catching issues early, this process helps prevent costly errors, structural failures and safety hazards. Ultimately, materials testing supports the reliability, durability and longevity of infrastructure, providing confidence not only to clients but also to the communities that rely on these structures for their safety and well-being.

Q: What does WIC Week mean to you? How has being a woman in this field shaped your experience?

WIC Week was established to help break the misconception that construction is strictly a man’s field. By highlighting the achievements of women in the industry, WIC Week inspires young women to pursue their dreams and explore construction‑related careers.

Working in a construction materials testing lab has reinforced what my parents always taught me — that gender should not limit our goals or our ability to achieve anything we set our minds to. My work experience has strengthened my confidence and resilience.

Q: What advice would you offer young women interested in construction or materials testing?

See construction as a viable career option without limitations. It’s your interest, dedication and expertise that matter.

I would also remind young women that you can have a career and fulfill traditional female roles, including being a mother. I am a mother to a lovely son, and he is an important part of my life that brings me great joy.

Q: What do you hope to see for the future of women in construction, especially in technical or lab roles?

I hope to see more women managing CMT laboratories. Increasing female leadership in technical areas will continue to open doors for the next generation.

Jacqueline (Jacque) Hinman
Chief Executive Officer

Q: Jacque, you’ve spent more than 35 years working in the engineering and construction industry, including leading a Fortune 500 company. How has that shaped the way you think about leadership — especially for women?

My career has taught me that leadership starts with foundational values, basic things like communicate simply, be trustworthy, do what you say you are going to do and strive to understand the viewpoints of others. These are things we learned in kindergarten that evolve through the people who influence us along the way. Trust, human connection and clarity have guided me throughout my journey. ��

For women in construction, an industry where women have historically been underrepresented, these values can provide a strong foundation for success. Leadership becomes not just about delivering projects, but about connecting with others, modeling resilience and shaping environments where women and men can thrive.

Q: You’ve talked about culture as a journey, not a destination. What does that mean in the context of women in construction?

Culture doesn’t change because we write a new mission statement. It changes by people acting consistently and making intentional choices. The construction industry has opened its doors wider to women, but meaningful cultural change occurs when leaders, especially those in senior roles, intentionally foster an environment where everyone feels valued and respected.

I believe culture is built in moments, habits and everyday interactions. When leaders embrace that, they create workplaces where all people are heard, supported and empowered. ��

At Atlas, we strive to live by our core values of Life, Heart, Mastery and Trust. When I think of cultivating culture at Atlas, I think of a quote I read once, “Happiness is not a state to arrive at, but a method of traveling.” To me, culture is how you feel along the ride, not just the stops you make along the way. As the CEO, it is my job to see that everyone feels empowered to contribute at their highest capacity and that we each have the tools and resources needed to be successful at our job.

Q: Mentorship is critical to helping women and men advance in the construction industry. What role has mentorship played in your own advancement, and why is it so important in this field?

The relationships I built early in my career no doubt helped shape my career path. My mentors were people I could turn to for advice. Mentors can help you develop both technical and softer skills. Personally, I learned by asking questions: How did you think about that? How did you have that conversation? Why did you design it that way? For me, mentorship is more about people, emotion and judgment.

I recall my first job out of college; I worked as a construction manager. While I don’t believe this would happen today, the team did not initially trust me because I was a young woman and lacked the construction experience they expected in the independent construction manager. I knew to be successful, I had to earn their trust, so to gain their respect, I asked the site foreman for help. Although it required vulnerability, I was not afraid to admit what I did not know and was willing to put in the extra time to learn and earn the team’s trust.

For several weeks, I stayed late after work at the construction site, and the foreman taught me how to operate a grader machine. One day, I had to challenge grading that did not conform to the plans. The lead equipment operator told me that it was sufficient, and if I was so sure about the error, I could show them how to re-grade it. So, I got into the machine and spent about 20 minutes modifying the drainage ditch in question. Thankfully, I was able to make the necessary change. You can imagine their surprise when I finished — I got along well with the team after that!�� ��

I would encourage everyone, no matter what level you are at in your career, to find good mentors or be willing to ask questions when you don’t know all the answers. Remember that mentors don’t always come in the package you are expecting, either. It does not matter how much education you have or what position you hold, you may be able to teach another a valuable skill that helps them be successful.

Q: The industry is undergoing rapid change, from technology to workforce expectations. How can women contribute to leading through this transformation?

One thing I have learned is that people can adapt to change better than they think. Sometimes it is the thought of change that is the hardest part. Today, we are in a period of accelerated change driven by innovation and shifting societal needs. Leadership requires clarity of purpose, adaptability and human-centered decision making. Women often bring these strengths naturally because many have spent their careers navigating complexity and proving themselves, with a lot of change along the way.

Q: You have embraced a purpose-driven leadership model. How does your leadership style translate into advice for women advancing in the field?

Purpose-driven leadership means remembering that our work should contribute to something larger than ourselves. In construction, we literally build communities, but we also build future leaders and shape the experiences of those around us.

For both women and men, my advice is this: Lead with authenticity, stand firm in your values and communicate simply and transparently. Your path may not resemble anyone else’s, and that’s okay. Be your own unique version of you. What matters is the impact you leave behind.

Q: If you could leave women in construction with a final thought, what would it be?

Leadership is stewardship. Every project, every person you mentor, every solution you imagine contributes to a legacy far greater than the work itself. The construction industry needs your perspective, your ideas, your leadership. When you lead with purpose, you help shape a culture where the next generation does not just join the industry, they help transform it.

Jacqueline Hinman is the Chief Executive Officer at Atlas.

Atlas’ Francis Mouafong, PE, MBA is a Senior Project Manager at Atlas and currently works as a Construction Quality Assurance Manager on Georgia’s I-285/I-20 East Interchange project. He shares why he loves working as an engineer, helping oversee the various aspects of transportation systems that play such an important role in connecting people.

Engineers play a critical role in helping communities flourish by creating the systems that connect people. Nowhere is that impact more visible than in the transportation industry. Thoughtfully designed roads, bridges, transit systems, trails and other transportation networks form the backbone of a thriving community. ��

For Atlas’ Francis Mouafong, engineering is about more than just building roads or seeing that specifications are met on paper. To him, engineering is an act of stewardship and a commitment to creating environments where people can flourish and communities can thrive. Throughout his career, Francis has contributed to several high‑impact transportation projects across Georgia, including:

• I‑285/I‑20 East Interchange project, a major mobility project being done for the Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) that involves reconstructing the I-285/I-20 East Interchange ramps with more direct alignments, constructing new lanes, adding auxiliary lanes, replacing bridges and constructing new noise barriers.
• Harbins Road Interchange project, an interchange project that involved bridges, box culvert extensions, retaining walls, ramps, storm drainage, grading, graded aggregate base (GAB) placement, asphalt paving, concrete flatwork, traffic signal installation and more.
• Northwest Corridor project, a transformative design-build regional mobility initiative that consisted of building 30 miles of reversible toll lanes and the construction of bridges and walls.
• Gwinnett County SPLOST Road Program, a program that is designed to support the county’s growing population and address its infrastructure needs.

These projects not only improve travel efficiency—they increase economic opportunity, enhance safety and reduce congestion for millions of commuters.

In his current role as Construction Quality Assurance Manager on Georgia’s I-285/I-20 East Interchange project, Francis is helping to see that one of the state’s busiest and most complex transportation upgrades is built to the highest standards. When completed, this transformative project aims to improve traffic flow and safety at what has long been considered one of the region’s most congested bottlenecks.

Safeguarding quality on such a project means that Francis sees that designs are implemented correctly, safety standards are met, future failures are avoided and the impacted infrastructure remains accessible to everyone.

A Commitment to Growth, Learning and Leadership

With more than 33 years of roadway and bridge construction experience, Francis has learned many lessons along the way and honed his leadership style. Today, he carries forward a key lesson on every project. Projects might look similar, but they are different. You cannot simply ‘copy and paste’ because a one size fits all solution does not always solve the problem. Rather, engineers must adapt to the specifics of each one.

This mindset reflects his dedication to thoughtful, context‑driven engineering. It also informs how he mentors others. Francis is grateful for the supervisors who have helped shape his career, and he truly understands the importance of paying it forward to engineers just starting out. Leadership, to Francis, is not about titles—it’s about integrity, ownership and a commitment to excellence for the sake of the communities served.

Through Francis’ technical expertise, principled leadership and a deep sense of responsibility, his work as an engineer is about bridging gaps:

• Between design and implementation.
• Between present needs and future resilience.
• Between infrastructure and the people it serves.

His work ensures that communities are not just connected—but empowered to flourish and thrive. For Francis, “Bridging the Gap” is not a metaphor—it is a daily responsibility. He describes it as the essential work of aligning plans, specifications and field conditions during construction to ensure that what is designed is what is faithfully and safely delivered.

This alignment matters because infrastructure is more than concrete and steel—it directly shapes the lived experience of communities. The integrity of a bridge, road or interchange impacts safety, mobility and access. Ensuring that designs translate accurately into reality is how Francis helps close the gap between vision and impact.

Atlas’ Mike Filmyer reflects on his 40‑year engineering journey in water, wastewater and stormwater infrastructure. Mike highlights some of the memorable projects he has been involved in and offers advice to up and coming engineers who are interested in making a difference to protect public health, preserve natural resources and help communities flourish and thrive.

For more than four decades, I have had the privilege of contributing to the design, management and improvement of water, wastewater and stormwater systems that millions of people rely on every day.

These essential yet often unseen systems form the backbone of healthy, sustainable and resilient communities. My journey in engineering has been shaped by a deep belief that infrastructure is more than pipes, pumps, tanks and treatment processes — it is about protecting public health, preserving natural resources and ensuring that communities can thrive.

A Dual Foundation in Biology and Engineering

My path into engineering began with a strong grounding in biology from St. Joseph’s University, followed by a second degree in Environmental Engineering Technology from Temple University.

The combination of biological insight and engineering rigor helped me understand not only how infrastructure works, but why it matters — especially when dealing with water quality, ecological health and regulatory compliance. Early in my career, this interdisciplinary knowledge proved invaluable as I began working in Baltimore before returning to my hometown of Glenside, Pennsylvania, where my roots and career both continued to grow.

Engineering in Service of Communities

Across my career, I’ve worked on hundreds of projects spanning water treatment plants, wastewater facilities, stormwater systems, pump stations, force mains, storage tanks and complex regulatory programs.

Each project brought its own unique challenges, but the most rewarding aspect has always been the impact on the communities we serve. Some of the highlights that continue to make me proud include:��

• An Anaerobic Digestion & Cogeneration Facility, where waste biogas was transformed into renewable energy for the community.
• An 18-inch force main installed via Horizontal Directional Drilling under the Lehigh River, a technically complex project that protected both infrastructure and the river ecosystem.
• A 3.4-million-gallon underground Combined Sewer Overflow storage facility, which eliminated millions of gallons of polluted discharges into local waterways. This tank was placed under a local university’s tennis courts, which were replaced as part of the project.

These projects, and many others like them, illustrate the critical role engineers play in public safety and environmental stewardship.

Technology as a Transformational Force

Over the past 40 years, technology has continually reshaped how we design and operate infrastructure. I’ve seen firsthand how advanced SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) systems, new materials, better treatment technologies and improved hydraulic modeling have expanded what’s possible. My work on SCADA upgrades for regional authorities brought real‑time system visibility and operational reliability to facilities that previously operated with limited monitoring.

Technology has enabled us to make systems smarter, safer and more sustainable, and it will continue to drive the future of engineering.

Sustainability and Environmental Responsibility

Sustainability has been a thread running through my entire career, long before it was a buzzword. Whether designing Best Management Practices (BMPs) to reduce pollutant loads, preparing National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit renewals or implementing stormwater reduction plans, I have seen how thoughtful engineering can dramatically improve environmental outcomes.

Projects such as stormwater BMPs, streambank restoration efforts or regenerative stormwater conveyance systems illustrate how engineered solutions can harmonize with natural systems.

Our responsibility as engineers is not only to solve today’s problems, but to protect ecosystems for generations to come.

Advice to the Next Generation of Engineers

One unique aspect of my career is the long-standing relationships I’ve built with my colleagues, many of whom I’ve worked with for decades. That continuity of people, knowledge and a shared mission has allowed us to take on increasingly complex challenges with confidence and collaboration.

To those entering the profession, or early in your careers, I offer a few guiding principles:

• Stay curious. Engineering changes constantly; lifelong learning is essential.
• Remember who you serve. Infrastructure exists for people and the environment, so keep communities at the center of every design.
• Embrace the details. In our field, precision saves money, prevents risk and protects lives.
• Seek mentors and be a mentor. Much of what I know came from generous colleagues who shared their expertise.
• Stand proudly in the impact you make. Engineers often work behind the scenes, but our work shapes the world.

A Career Built on Purpose

From wastewater treatment plants to pump stations, SCADA systems to stormwater BMPs, my career has been shaped by the belief that engineering is a public trust. Every design, every calculation and every decision carries with it the responsibility to safeguard communities and the environment.

As I reflect on more than 40 years in this profession, I am grateful for the opportunities I’ve had, the people I’ve worked with and the communities our work has contributed to. And as new generations begin to lead, I am confident the future of engineering will continue to bring innovative, resilient and sustainable solutions to the challenges ahead.

Hillary Hagen-Peter is a Senior Engineering Geologist at Atlas, currently working on Oklo Inc.’s Aurora powerhouse project at Idaho National Laboratory near Idaho Falls. As fieldwork lead and now project manager, Hillary is helping assess and prepare this Aurora powerhouse site, which supports advanced reactor technology designed to deliver low to near‑zero emission energy. Hillary explains how geoscience bridges the environmental challenges of past energy practices with the sustainable, low‑carbon solutions needed for the future.

“I am deeply passionate about my work on the Oklo Aurora powerhouse project and other advanced nuclear initiatives that are opening doors to a cleaner energy future. With today’s��ability to recycle and reuse spent fuel through advanced nuclear technologies, I see this work as a vital bridge between the environmental impacts of past energy practices and the sustainable, low‑carbon solutions we need moving forward.” –Hillary Hagen-Peter

My path into geology began long before my professional career. I was inspired by my older brother, whose undergraduate and graduate fieldwork took him from Mongolia and Italy all the way to Antarctica. Hearing his stories about working in remote, rugged places sparked my curiosity about a field that blends science, exploration and global travel. I signed up for an introductory geology course soon after and was immediately hooked. The combination of fieldwork, problem‑solving and understanding how the Earth shapes our infrastructure and communities set me on the path I’m on today.

So far, my work as a geologist has taken me across the Pacific Northwest, where I’ve led complex geotechnical and geohazard evaluation programs for nuclear and technology infrastructure projects throughout the United States and Canada. Whether hiking through steep terrain, flying by helicopter to remote sites or working in extreme weather, including temperatures dropping to –40°F (the rare point where Fahrenheit and Celsius finally agree), each location brings its own challenges and a distinct set of potential geohazards.

At Atlas, I’ve managed large scale geotechnical programs involving comprehensive hazard assessments. One of the most meaningful has been leading geotechnical work for the Oklo Aurora powerhouse project at the Idaho National Laboratory in Idaho Falls. This project is advancing a more resilient and sustainable energy future, and I’m proud to contribute to efforts that support the broader transition to clean, reliable nuclear energy.

On this project, I started out as a Fieldwork Lead for subsurface drilling and geophysical investigations before moving into full project management, overseeing drilling operations, laboratory testing and final reporting, all in compliance with the American Society of Mechanical Engineers Nuclear Quality Assurance (ASME NQA1) requirements. This work is meticulous and often challenging, but it is foundational to building safe, sustainable infrastructure.

Through both my studies and field experience, I have seen how geoscience directly shapes the success of advanced nuclear projects, helping see that innovative clean‑energy technologies are built on safe and resilient ground. From evaluating hazards such as flooding, expansive and collapsible soils, landslides, faulting, seismicity and volcanic activity, to leading subsurface drilling and geophysical investigations, geoscientists provide the critical data that informs design, safety and long‑term performance.

I’m especially inspired by the nuclear sector’s ability to recycle and reuse spent fuel through advanced nuclear technologies. This capability represents a vital bridge: connecting the environmental impacts of past energy practices with the low‑carbon solutions we need moving forward. When paired with renewable sources like solar and wind, advanced nuclear energy becomes part of a resilient, diversified path toward achieving the United Nation’s global goal of net‑zero carbon emissions by 2050.

Across all of these efforts, I am reminded that sustainable energy isn’t just a technological challenge; it’s a geotechnical one. The future we build must stand on solid ground, and I’m proud to help ensure that the next generation of clean‑energy infrastructure is resilient, responsible and built to support communities for decades to come.

Engineering for Impact: Leadership, Innovation and the Future of Infrastructure

Atlas’ Sector Lead & Director of Operations – New York & New Jersey, Angel Cambero, P.E., MSI shares how his parents inspired him to become an engineer and how he finds meaning in serving his community through his engineering profession.

For me, engineering has always been more than a profession—it’s a legacy. Growing up with two civil-engineer parents, I learned early how ideas on paper become real structures that shape people’s daily lives. That exposure gave me a deep respect for the discipline and ultimately guided me toward a career where creativity, logic and community impact intersect.

Today, in my role leading operations across the New York and New Jersey regions at Atlas, I still approach challenges the way I did as a young engineer: with curiosity, precision and a commitment to quality. While my focus now spans strategy, financial performance and team leadership, the engineer in me remains central. A technical mindset enables better decisions, supports our project teams and ensures that quality isn’t a goal—it’s a standard.

One of the most meaningful projects I’ve led is our work at the South Brooklyn Marine Terminal. This project is part of a multi‑billion-dollar investment in renewable energy and represents exactly where the industry is headed. Our team oversaw the special inspections and materials testing across a 73‑acre offshore wind hub, ensuring structural integrity and safety for infrastructure that will power New York’s clean energy future. It was a reminder that engineering isn’t just about building structures; it’s about building progress.

Technology is accelerating that progress at an unprecedented pace. Tasks that once required days of manual calculations can now be completed in minutes from a mobile device. Digital reporting, real‑time data tools and advanced testing equipment are transforming how we deliver projects, enabling greater accuracy and faster, more informed decision‑making. As these tools evolve, engineers will spend less time processing information and more time interpreting it—shaping outcomes instead of reacting to them.

Yet despite the rapid pace of innovation, the fundamentals remain unchanged. Field experience, humility and collaboration continue to define exceptional engineers. My advice to aspiring engineers is simple: stay curious, ask questions and embrace every opportunity to learn. The field will teach you as much as the classroom ever will, and each role—no matter how small—gives you a new lens through which to understand the built world.

At Atlas, engineers play a vital role in ensuring public safety and the resilience of our infrastructure. Whether through inspections, materials testing or technical guidance, our work directly affects the communities we serve. That responsibility is both grounding and motivating. It reminds us that engineering will always matter, no matter how much technology evolves.

A century ago, the challenges were different, but the mission was the same: build safely, wisely and for the future. This Engineers Week, I’m proud of the work Atlas is doing to help transform the future and enable our communities to flourish and thrive. As we look ahead, I’m excited to help shape what the next century of engineering will look like—and to support the next generation of engineers who will carry that mission forward.

When Alexandra Davis volunteered to write her first National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) document, she didn’t realize she was stepping into a new future. Before that, she’d been digging deep — literally. Trained as an archaeologist, Alexandra spent years unearthing human history at excavation sites in Malawi, Africa, contributing to discoveries featured in The New York Times.����

That one document marked a turning point, shifting her focus from uncovering the past to shaping the future. Now, as NEPA Services Lead at Atlas, Alexandra helps navigate federal requirements that determine whether critical infrastructure improvements can proceed, analyzing everything from wetland impacts to community displacement to ensure Georgia’s transportation improvements protect both people and natural resources.����

Her work sits at the intersection of science, policy and community advocacy, influencing the infrastructure that connects Georgia’s communities. Recently, this impactful work earned Alexandra recognition as one of Engineering Georgia Magazine’s 2025 “35 Under 35 Women to Know,” an honor celebrating young leaders who are redefining the future of engineering.����

Q: Let’s go back to the moment you first said yes to writing a National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) document. What were you thinking, and did you know then it would change everything?��

I was only 24 when I was offered the opportunity to work on NEPA documents, and honestly, at the time, I was just focused on staying employed and continuing to learn. It was right at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, so job security was at the front of my mind. I figured if I could cross-train and make myself valuable to the team, I’d have a better shot at holding onto my position. It wasn’t an immediate career-defining moment. It took about two years of working in NEPA and three years at Atlas for me to realize that this path was going to reshape my career in ways I hadn’t expected. And I’m so grateful I said yes to that opportunity.��

Q: You started your career excavating ancient remains in Africa. How did that path lead you to shaping policy through NEPA at Atlas?

As an archaeologist, my work required not only excavating ancient remains but also being a strong technical writer and researcher, digging up information about the past, analyzing complex data and translating those findings into detailed reports. Those skills transferred directly to environmental consulting work. About a year after I started at Atlas, my manager offered me the opportunity to begin authoring NEPA documents. I’ve always been eager to learn and grow, so I jumped at the chance. In addition to writing, I began coordinating with the Georgia Department of Transportation as a NEPA Analyst. It didn’t take long for me to realize that I had a real love for Environmental Project Management and, surprisingly, for the fast-paced, ever-changing nature of juggling multiple projects at different stages. While it might seem like a big shift from excavating ancient remains, both roles require attention to detail, problem-solving and a deep respect for our environment and history.��

Q: As NEPA Services Lead, what major projects or initiatives have you led since your promotion?����

Since my promotion, I’ve taken on leadership of all NEPA projects in Georgia, overseeing environmental compliance for more than 75 transportation projects. One of the most notable efforts has been managing and coordinating nine GDOT bridge replacement projects, which have required near-daily coordination and problem-solving. A major challenge on that effort was receiving Notice to Proceed later than expected and having to recover the schedule. This meant accelerating the environmental process for archaeology, history and ecology without compromising our quality standards. This experience showed me how important it is to build flexibility into our environmental review processes and maintain careful oversight. Beyond project work, I’ve also been leading initiatives within Atlas’ Southeast region to strengthen connections between young professionals and current college students.��

Q: How do you balance protecting the environment with supporting the needs of the communities connected to it?����

On our larger GDOT projects, especially those involving new location roadways and potential displacements, it takes a lot of public involvement and coordination to address community concerns. In some cases, this has even led to redesigning project alignments to better serve the environment and the people impacted. Balancing these priorities requires constant, open communication between the design team, including the project manager, lead designer, traffic engineers and the environmental team. On the other hand, many of our bridge replacement projects tend to have minimal environmental impact and generally receive strong community support, which makes those collaborations much smoother.��

Q: You’ve been named one of Georgia’s 35 Women to Know. What do you hope stands out about how you lead and connect with others?��

My goal is to lead with kindness, empathy and flexibility. It’s important to me that the people I work with feel supported, heard and valued. I always want to be the kind of leader who makes time for questions, concerns, or just a quick conversation. I also believe work should be enjoyable. I truly love what I do at Atlas and the people I work with, and I want my team to feel that same sense of purpose and enjoyment in their roles.��

Alexandra’s career may have started with a shovel in the ground, but her greatest impact may lie in what she is building — collaborative teams, thoughtful policies and space for more voices to shape the future. Her story reminds us that engineering is about more than equations or approvals. It’s about people, purpose and vision.����

Discover how our environmental services can support your next project, or follow Alexandra’s lead and join our growing team.��

Sally Riker, F. SAME, didn’t set out to become one of the most influential figures in Georgia’s engineering and infrastructure space — but with more than two decades of impact, recognition is well earned. As Atlas’ Southeast Regional Vice President for Strategy and Growth, she brings a rare blend of operational insight, civic leadership and mentorship to everything she touches.����

Named one of Engineering Georgia Magazine’s “100 Influential Women in Georgia Engineering” for the seventh consecutive year, Sally continues to shape the future of architecture, engineering and construction through strategic vision and dedicated service. Her leadership spans project delivery, community development and the forward-thinking that defines industry transformation.��

Q: You’ve spent more than 25 years in the AEC industry and continue to shape its future. What keeps you energized and inspired to lead in new ways?��

Honestly, people and relationships. I’m lucky to work in an industry where purpose and passion intersect. We get to shape communities, solve real challenges and build for the future. Every project is different, every client is unique, and the pace of change keeps me learning. I’m energized by big-picture thinking — strategy, growth and connecting dots across sectors — but what inspires me most are people.��

Q: Your involvement with the Society of American Military Engineers (SAME), Urban Land Institute (ULI), and the Council for Quality Growth reflects a strong commitment to civic and professional leadership. How have these experiences influenced your values and approach to leadership?��

These organizations have provided me with the space to grow as a leader beyond my technical work. Through SAME, I’ve developed a deep appreciation for service and mission-driven partnerships. The organization’s focus on supporting our military and building resilient infrastructure has taught me that leadership means serving something bigger than yourself. ULI challenges me to think about how we plan for resilient, inclusive communities by addressing today’s needs and tomorrow’s possibilities. The Council for Quality Growth consistently reminds me that policy and infrastructure are inseparable. These experiences have shaped me into a more intentional leader — one who leads with purpose and listens before acting.��

Q: What brought you to Atlas, and how do you envision shaping growth in the Southeast region?��

I came to Atlas because it felt like a natural fit: a company focused on integrity, innovation, and community. I saw an opportunity to help connect strategy with delivery and to build bridges across markets, people and ideas. The Southeast is growing fast, and I believe growth should be thoughtful, equitable and resilient. My focus is on positioning Atlas as a trusted partner — one that not only delivers but also listens, adapts and adds real value to our clients and communities.��

Q: Being recognized among “100 Influential Women in Georgia Engineering” reflects your professional contributions, but what moments have reinforced your core values or changed how you see leadership?��

Some of the most defining moments haven’t come with a title or recognition. They’ve emerged during challenges. Leading through tough transitions, coaching others through uncertainty, or simply being the one to ask the hard question in a room full of silence. Those are the moments that test your values and reveal what kind of leader you really are. Over time, I’ve learned that leadership is far more about service, trust and consistency than it is about control or having all the answers. Influence means creating space for others to thrive and grow beyond what they thought possible. The most rewarding part of leadership is watching others succeed.����

Q: When you think about the next generation of engineers and infrastructure leaders, what would you most want them to know or believe is possible?��

I’d want them to know that there is no single path, and that’s a good thing. This industry needs creative thinkers, good communicators and people who can collaborate across disciplines and perspectives. I want them to believe that their voice matters, even in the early stages of their careers, and that they don’t have to wait for permission to lead or innovate. Most importantly, I’d remind them that leadership isn’t a title — it’s how you show up. If you lead with curiosity, integrity and heart, you’ll go further than you ever imagined.��

Sally’s influence extends beyond any single project or recognition. Through strategic thinking, authentic leadership, and unwavering commitment to developing others, she exemplifies how engineering leadership can shape entire communities and careers. Her story reminds us that true influence comes not from commanding attention, but from consistently creating value for others.����

Follow Sally’s lead and explore opportunities to grow with our team.����