Entry Level Sanitary Designer:
Erin Depew
College:
Bucknell University
Degree:
B.S., Civil Engineering
What is a typical day at HRG like for you?
Every day is different. Some days, I ‘m out meeting with clients, or I’m in the field walking alignments or doing testing. Other days, I work on reports, planning documents, or designs in the office.
What brought you to HRG?
The location and the people brought me here. HRG was, by far, my most relaxed interview during the job-seeking process, and afterwards I felt like I would really fit in here. Also, I grew up in central PA, so I knew that working at HRG would allow me to stay near my family and friends.
What has been your favorite project so far, and what responsibilities did you have on this project?
My favorite project so far would have to be the Act 537 Plan that I’m working on for Penn Township, Cumberland County. It is one of the projects that I was given in my first month here, and the first where I feel a sense of ownership. I enjoy this project because it combines report writing, conceptual design and problem-solving all in one. Also, there has been a lot of client interaction and input, which is an interesting and challenging aspect of the project. My responsibilities thus far have included production of the report itself, input on the conceptual designs, and attending client and DEP meetings throughout the project.
What do you like best about your job?
The people that I work with are the best part of my job. In my five and a half months here, my co-workers have taught me so much, and done so very patiently. After the first few weeks, I knew I had made the right decision.
What skills have you gained since you began working at HRG?
Since I began working at HRG, I have gained a lot of practical knowledge and skills. In my four years of school, I was taught mostly conceptual engineering, but in my first few months here I have learned how that conceptual engineering applies in the “real world”. I have had the opportunity to work on water and wastewater projects in both the private and public sector. Through these projects, I have learned about the DEP permitting processes, about determining the availability of public water at a particular connection point, and about the design of both gravity and low-pressure sewer systems. I have also had the opportunity to utilize Bentley Water CAD and FlowMaster Software.
In which areas do you wish to grow?
I wish to grow in all areas of environmental engineering. I hope to continue to become more confident in my skills as an engineer, and I hope to learn how the engineer interacts with clients.
What would you tell upcoming graduates is the best reason to work for HRG?
The best reason to work for HRG as an entry-level professional is the ease of transition from the college-world to the working-world. Personally, I was nervous for my first days of work, but the transition wasn’t as tough as I expected because of the supportive and understanding environment here. All of my co-workers were more than willing to answer all of my questions, and they made me feel more confident in my abilities. |
