In celebration of Engineers Week during February 20-26, we asked our St. Louis Branch Manager, J.R. Landeck, PE, PLS, to share his thoughts about the world of engineering and the positive contributions and opportunities within the industry:

What inspired you to become an engineer?
Since I was a young child, I have always had a curiosity on how things worked. I would take things apart just to find out how they worked; however, I didn’t always know how it all came back together. I also had a passion to build things, such as Legos, Lincoln Log structures, tree houses, and furniture to name a few. I also enjoyed drawing and sketching. One would say I enjoyed working with my hands. When I was about 10 years old, my great grandmother said I should become an engineer. At 10, I was not so sure about driving a train!

Why is Engineers Week important to you and your profession?
Engineer’s week is important to me because it helps promote what we do to improve our communities and environment. It may also bring awareness about the engineering field to those who may not otherwise know what careers are available to them. I’m particularly interested in teaching children and sharing with them what an engineer does and hoping that may spark an interest for them.

This year’s Engineers Week theme is Reimagining the Possible. What does that mean to you?
It means taking a different or new look at something that may seem impossible in my or someone’s future and making it possible. With new technologies constantly evolving, it’s an exciting time to be an engineer.

What project or projects are you most proud of being involved with or having worked on in a team?
That’s a tough question because there are many projects I’m proud of working on throughout my career. The ones that come to mind in particular are ones that have the most impact on a community. I see the potential they have to drive positive outcomes that enhance the well-being of communities, quality of life, and the environment.

How would you help inspire future engineers?
I would like to help by becoming involved with elementary and middle school students. That is the perfect time where engagement and mentoring begins.

What new possibilities do you see happening in the engineering industry?
The world is evolving with the advancements in technology in how we live and work. What’s fascinating is how engineering plays a critical role in how our world will be shaped in the future. The possibilities of engineering and how it develops will be endless and it’s exciting to be a part of this rewarding profession!

To learn more about Civil Engineering and career opportunities, visit the Jobs at TWM page.