I have over 14 years of engineering experience with the Maine Department of Transportation. Over this time period, I have honed my skills through a variety of roles and expectations.I began my career as an inspector on highway construction jobs, which immediately allowed me to observe the real-world applications of engineering for my chosen career path. Being in the field on projects taught me the value of paying attention to detail. This became a critical skill when measuring or documenting work being done by the contractor and putting together payment estimates. Working together with contractors, other inspectors, and Resident Engineers also gave me valuable experience working as a team.At the end of the construction season, my obligations shifted to putting together cost estimates for upcoming projects. I also got my first taste of design work, which is a role I would continue to pursue with great interest over the years. Estimating and design allowed me to see the other side of the total process associated with construction jobs. Having a well-rounded understanding of construction work provided me with a solid foundation of confidence early in my career.I eventually grew into the role of Resident Engineer on projects in the field, however I soon realized that my greatest passion seemed to reside with doing design work. In 2013, I was offered a role of full-time designer to assist the lead highway designer in our region and I eventually assumed the role of lead highway designer in 2015. In 2017 I passed the PE Exam, which allowed me to approve and stamp designed plans for projects in which I have direct involvement with.I am currently still the lead highway designer for MaineDOT's eastern region (Region 4). I enjoy the challenges and satisfaction of designing projects and putting them together from start to finish. I feel like design work allows me to reach my full creative potential as an engineer.