Professional Engineers Day: A Passion and Pursuit of Greater Purpose

When the challenge is great and quality of life is at stake, engineers devise a solution. Society's most essential needs are met and greatest aspirations are made possible through thoughtful design. That's what Professional Engineers Day is all about.

From playing with Legos as a child to an affinity for math and science in school, for many engineers, what started as recreation or curiosity grows into an occupation greater than the sum of its parts. It makes the extra hours invested and many miles traveled worthwhile.

“Seeing the community participation in our projects makes me feel as if we are part of something bigger," says Ana Wadsworth, PE. "It’s not just about designing the project and getting a permit; it’s how it impacts the people around it and the economy.”

That impact is one that leaves a lasting impression for generations. After all, durable utility systems and transportation networks must provide capacity for future growth. Places of learning and other modern facilities must have systems that are sustainable.

“Solving problems is the most rewarding part of my work," says John Poetzsch, PE. "After nearly 50 years of engineering I can drive from the coast to the mountains and to the state borders and see projects that were completed based on our team's design services.”

Will Larsen, PE is Wooten's Greenville Regional Manager. He was raised in the small town of Rockingham near the South Carolina border and now works on community infrastructure projects in the state he has always called home.

“In the Boy Scouts of America, I learned a love of country, community and nature," he says. "Those experiences guided my decision to pursue a career that matches my desire to improve and serve my community while promoting and protecting its natural elements.”

Among engineers there is no shortage of ideas. And opportunities abound to enhance the built environment while valuing the organic one. Carrying this tradition of designing the future forward depends on an evolving exchange of seasoned pros and new talent.

Learn more about the National Society of Professional Engineers and Professional Engineers Day here.