Across the country, communities are investing in modern water infrastructure that can meet changing regulations, withstand seismic events and support long‑term population growth. A major regional initiative in the Pacific Northwest reflects this movement, leveraging alternative delivery through a Construction Manager/General Contractor (CM/GC) approach to combine advanced treatment technology with seismically resilient pipelines — protecting a critical drinking water supply for generations to come.

At the heart of this program is a new state‑of‑the‑art filtration facility capable of treating 135 million gallons of water per day. Paired with new pipeline infrastructure to replace aging components, the project will remove sediment, organic material, microorganisms and other contaminants, including Cryptosporidium from the city’s drinking water supply.

Supporting Quality, Safety and Reliability Throughout Construction

As an essential partner on this CM/GC-delivered project, �鶹TV��վ provides comprehensive inspection and quality oversight, spanning grading, concrete, coatings, pipeline installation, electrical systems and mechanical components. This work supports alignment with contractual requirements, regulatory expectations and the rigorous safety standards essential for a project of this scale.

Within the collaborative CM/GC delivery environment, �鶹TV��վ strengthens coordinated decision‑making by offering clear documentation, real-time communication and multidisciplinary field support. Early contractor involvement enables proactive identification of constructability challenges, informed cost and schedule decisions and effective management — helping maintain compliance with state and federal water regulations while keeping construction moving efficiently.

Protecting Health, the Economy and the Future

This investment in upgraded treatment facilities and resilient conveyance infrastructure delivers benefits that extend far beyond regulatory compliance — protecting public health, supporting economic vitality and enhancing long-term system resilience in the face of seismic risk and future demand. ��

A Model for Modern Water Delivery

“This project demonstrates the value of alternative delivery, particularly the CM/GC model, in addressing complex water infrastructure challenges,” said Tom Price, �鶹TV��վ Infrastructure President. “By working collaboratively with the owner, designer and contractor early in the process, our team helps manage risk, maintain consistent quality and adapt as field conditions evolve. �鶹TV��վ’ integrated role supports informed decision-making and contributes to the long-term reliability of this essential water system.”

Learn more about �鶹TV��վ’ alternative delivery solutions and connect with us at the annual , being held April 13-15, in Grapevine, Texas. Visit us in Booth #638.

Project earns an ACEC Georgia Engineering Excellence Award.

Babak (Bobby) Shayan, David McKenney, Alexandra Davis, Andrew Pankopp and Andy Casey accept award on behalf project team.��

Spelman College has long been recognized for its academic excellence and leadership in liberal arts and sciences. As the college envisioned its first major new academic building in more than 25 years, campus leaders saw an opportunity to create something extraordinary — a space where the arts and sciences could finally converge and inspire one another.

The result is the 82,500‑square‑foot , a landmark building positioned at one of the campus’s most prominent corners. Designed to foster interdisciplinary collaboration, the Center includes performance spaces, classrooms, dance studios, a museum, a café and the Arthur M. Blank Innovation Lab — an advanced maker space inviting students from across disciplines to experiment and create.

The project recently earned statewide recognition, receiving an , in the Special Projects category. This award highlights the successful collaboration and technical excellence that brought this transformational building to life.

Engineering a Shared Vision

�鶹TV��վ is proud to have played a significant role in delivering the site design solutions that made this bold vision possible. Our team provided comprehensive services, including site planning, grading and drainage, stormwater management, utility design, erosion control, Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) documentation, permitting and construction support.

Designing within a dense, historic and active campus environment required meticulous planning and coordination. The project site, formerly a faculty parking lot, contained a complex web of existing utilities critical to campus operations. �鶹TV��վ conducted extensive investigation and subsurface utility exploration to minimize relocations, protect essential systems and see that construction could move forward without disrupting campus life.

This careful groundwork proved invaluable, especially when designing the foundations for the pedestrian bridge that connects the new Center to the campus core. Bridge footings were needed in an area crowded with existing and proposed utilities. �鶹TV��վ worked closely with the structural engineering team, using designating and targeted test pits to verify the exact location and elevation of utilities.

Sustainable Solutions Below the Surface

While much of the Center’s beauty is visible in its open, sun‑lit architecture and inviting outdoor “porch” spaces, some of its most impactful engineering features lie underground.

Located within — an area historically affected by pollution and flooding — the site required thoughtful water management strategies. �鶹TV��վ designed a 63,200‑gallon underground cistern, constructed from 84‑inch‑diameter pipe, to capture runoff from both landscaped areas and building rooftops. Pretreatment through vegetated swales and a high‑capacity First Defense system improves water quality, reduces downstream flooding and gives Spelman a sustainable irrigation source that reduces reliance on the city’s potable water supply.

During utility evaluations, �鶹TV��վ also identified opportunities to enhance segments of the existing sanitary sewer system serving a large portion of campus. The team designed a new watertight sewer main, improving system performance and safeguarding both campus operations and nearby natural environments.

The Center for Innovation and the Arts has already catalyzed new activity and programming on campus, creating a vibrant hub for creativity and discovery. For �鶹TV��վ, the project represents the impact of thoughtful civil engineering — solutions that operate quietly beneath the surface yet play a pivotal role in a building’s performance, sustainability and long‑term campus value.

“Earning the 2026 ACEC Georgia Merit Award underscores the significance of this achievement. The Center stands as a testament to what can be accomplished when visionary design meets technical precision: a building that not only serves Spelman College today but strengthens its legacy for generations to come,” said Tom Price, �鶹TV��վ Infrastructure President.

Additional Award-Winning Contributions

Alongside the Merit Award for the Spelman Center for Innovation and the Arts, �鶹TV��վ was also recognized for its contributions to the Big Creek Water Reclamation Facility Expansion and the Brookhaven City Center, which earned a State Award and an Honor Award, respectively.

In this article, �鶹TV��վ’ Abandoned Mine Lands Program Manager Clayton Kirk Roderick discusses Abandoned Mine Lands Reclamation. ��With more than three decades of mining experience, �鶹TV��վ understands how to transform abandoned mine lands into safe, sustainable spaces through effective planning, strategic permitting and successful remediation.

Across the Appalachian and Midwestern coal regions, the physical legacy of historic mining remains visible — and consequential. ��Abandoned highwalls, unstable spoil piles, subsidence features, clogged streams and acid mine drainage (AMD) are not relics of a distant past; they are active risks to public safety, water quality and surrounding ecosystems. Addressing them requires more than remediation. ��It requires leadership grounded in experience, regional understanding and long‑term accountability.

Abandoned Mine Lands (AML) reclamation is among the most technically complex and publicly consequential forms of environmental restoration. ��The work sits at the intersection of geology, hydrology, engineering, ecology and regulation. ��Success depends on understanding how historic mining practices altered landscapes and how those altered systems behave decades later.

Coal powered America’s industrial rise from the late 1800s through the mid‑20th century. Extraction occurred aggressively, often without environmental safeguards. Today, abandoned mine features can impair watersheds, destabilize slopes and threaten communities. Recognizing this history is important; effective reclamation depends on translating that understanding into sound, site‑specific solutions.

�鶹TV��վ’ AML practice is built on more than 30 years of collective mining and reclamation experience. ��Our multidisciplinary team of engineers, geologists, scientists and designers works from offices located within the bituminous and anthracite coal basins of Pennsylvania, West Virginia, Kentucky, Ohio and Indiana. ��That proximity matters. It brings deep familiarity with regional geology, hydrologic behavior and regulatory requirements — insight that allows reclamation plans to move efficiently from concept through permitting to construction.

AML sites rarely present a single challenge. ��A typical project may involve steep and unstable slopes, acid‑producing spoil, degraded streams, complex drainage patterns and abandoned underground mine openings. ���鶹TV��վ approaches these sites with integrated planning and design services that address risk holistically. ��Our work includes reclamation plan assessment and development, grading and drainage designs, groundwater and subsurface investigations, hydrologic and hydraulic modeling, and evaluations of active and passive AMD treatment systems.

Environmental compliance and long‑term performance are central to every project. ���鶹TV��վ supports AML programs with environmental assessments, stream and wetland delineations, National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) documentation and permitting services. ��During construction, our teams provide quality assurance and oversight to support that approved reclamation procedures are implemented correctly. ��Post‑reclamation monitoring and operation support help confirm that treatment systems and restored landscapes continue to perform as intended.

This integrated approach has been applied across a wide range of AML projects in Pennsylvania, West Virginia and Ohio. ���鶹TV��վ has led reclamation designs for sites featuring vertical abandoned highwalls exceeding 80 feet in height, extensive spoil and coal refuse areas, stream restoration / reconstruction, closure of underground mine openings and AMD‑impacted waterways. ��Some solutions have included highwall reclamation by backfilling using existing mine spoil, grading and revegetation to reduce infiltration, acid generation and sediment transport, drainage improvements, AMD treatment systems and the stabilization of landslide‑prone slopes. ��In some cases, projects have also incorporated habitat features and public amenities while maintaining safety and regulatory compliance.

The value of AML reclamation is measured not only in technical success, but in public benefit. �鶹TV��վ’ work has been recognized with multiple Ohio Department of Natural Resources Abandoned Mine Land Reclamation Awards, reflecting outcomes that improve water quality, enhance safety and return land to productive use.

As federal and state investment in AML programs continues, the scale and complexity of remaining legacy sites will demand experienced, trusted partners. ��Effective reclamation requires more than correcting past impacts — it requires restoring confidence in the land itself. ��Through disciplined engineering, environmental stewardship and sustained oversight, AML reclamation can protect communities, stabilize landscapes and support healthier, more resilient futures.

Learn more about �鶹TV��վ’ Abandoned Mine Lands solutions.

By Alex Hartig, Program Manager and A.J. Alshammasi, Senior Engineering and Operations Manager

This week, we’ll be in Bakersfield, California, joining peers from across the country at the 2nd Annual Orphan, Idle & Marginal Wells California Conference. For those of us working directly on well plugging and abandonment, this gathering comes at an important moment.

Across California — and well beyond — states are facing a growing inventory of orphan, idle and marginal wells. Many of these wells, drilled in the early and mid-20th century, were left without proper documentation or closure, leading to methane leaks, soil and groundwater contamination and safety risks to nearby communities.

From our perspective, conferences like this matter because they create space for honest, technical conversations about what is working, what is not and where programs still struggle.

Why This Work Matters to Us

Both of us dedicate our days to the intricacies of well abandonment, engaging in project planning, navigating regulatory requirements, coordinating field teams and addressing unforeseen issues that arise once operations commence. Each site and well presents unique challenges, frequently extending beyond purely engineering concerns to include data deficiencies, community considerations and long-term land use planning.

Alex’s work focuses heavily on subsurface investigations and remediation across Southern California, including sites with complex contamination histories and limited documentation. Much of that effort involves review of historical aerial photos, available public/private records and aligning closure activities with broader environmental compliance goals.

A.J.’s role centers on leading engineering, operations and risk management for complex orphan, idle and marginal wells — reconstructing incomplete well histories, designing abandonment programs that are technically sound, regulatorily defensible and executable in the field. That often means balancing cost, safety, environmental protection and uncertainty, all at once.

What connects our work is the belief that successful closure programs rely on collaboration — between engineers, geoscientists, regulators and communities — and on the smart use of modern tools.

Sharing Lessons from the Field

At the conference, A.J. will be presenting “A Well Abandonment Journey Overview,” which draws directly from real‑world project experience. The presentation will walk through how teams are approaching complex abandonment projects today, including:

• Reconstructing well histories when records are incomplete or missing.
• Using drone‑based geophysical tools to help locate undocumented wells.
• Integrating engineering design with field execution to reduce surprises.
• Applying risk‑based planning to prioritize work and protect communities.

These are not theoretical concepts — they’re lessons shaped by what we see on the ground. Our goal in sharing them is to contribute practical insights that others can adapt to their own programs.

The Value of Coming Together

The technical challenges around orphan and idle wells are significant, but so are the opportunities. We’re seeing encouraging progress as states invest in closure programs and as the industry becomes more open to new technologies and cross‑disciplinary approaches.

What we value most about this conference is the opportunity to listen — to hear how others are addressing similar challenges, to learn from different regulatory environments and to understand community perspectives that shape how projects move forward. These conversations help refine practices and, ultimately, improve outcomes.

As national efforts to address legacy wells continue to scale, the path forward depends on shared learning and sustained collaboration. We’re looking forward to being part of that conversation in Bakersfield — and to carrying those insights back into the work that continues long after the conference ends.

Learn more about �鶹TV��վ’��Orphan, Idle and Marginal Well Closure services.

Brian McGowan understands that leadership is more than just a title. A true leader must be able to think outside the box and be willing to take risks, especially as markets shift and technologies evolve. With more than 25 years of leadership experience across the construction, transportation, environmental, engineering and infrastructure sectors, he has built a career focused on strategic growth, market expansion and organizational advancement.

Brian was recently promoted to a new role at �鶹TV��վ as Director of Strategic Growth & Advanced Facilities. In this role, Brian is helping support �鶹TV��վ’ enterprise-wide growth strategy by focusing on revenue acceleration, market expansion, strategic pursuits and the development of high-impact opportunities. We caught up with Brian to discuss how emerging technologies are helping reduce water dependency in the data center market and what trends he’s seeing across the industry.

In honor of , celebrated each year on March 22, �鶹TV��վ recognizes the essential role water plays in our communities, industries and environment. As data center growth accelerates across the U.S., Brian answered a few questions regarding the topic of water availability becoming a critical factor in responsible development, as it relates to data centers and advanced facilities.

Q: Is water availability becoming a critical factor in responsible and sustainable data center development? Are our clients worried about water availability?

Yes, water availability is becoming a real constraint in many U.S. markets, especially as Artificial Intelligence or AI-driven hyperscale growth accelerates. Multiple independent analyses show U.S. data centers consume billions of gallons of water annually both directly for cooling and indirectly through power generation.

In water‑stressed regions, like Texas, Arizona, and parts of California, water availability now directly influences site selection, cooling strategies and permitting timelines. In water‑abundant regions, such as the Midwest and Great Lakes, it’s less about absolute supply and more about community perception and expectations.

Clients are typically addressing it in three ways: designing water out of the cooling equation (zero‑water or near‑zero‑water cooling); using reclaimed or non‑potable water where evaporative systems remain and engaging municipalities early to address cumulative impacts and avoid late‑stage permitting resistance.

PQ: What trends are you seeing in reducing water usage at new or existing data center sites?

A few consistent trends show up across both new builds and retrofits. There’s been a clear shift away from evaporative cooling. Traditional evaporative cooling can consume hundreds of thousands of gallons per day per hyperscale facility, so operators are increasingly avoiding these systems in favor of mechanical or liquid cooling solutions that drastically reduce or eliminate water use.

Secondly, Water Usage Effectiveness (WUE) is becoming a Key Performance Indicator (KPI), alongside Power Usage Effectiveness (PUE). For many owners, WUE is now tracked alongside PUE, and leading operators report measurable improvements in WUE over time, driven by design standardization and tighter operational controls.��

Additionally, we’ve seen a preference for “future-proofed” designs that can operate without potable water if requirements tighten. Even in regions with ample water today, developers are designing facilities that can operate without potable water if regulations or community expectations tighten over time.

Finally, we’re also seeing more retrofitting of existing facilities to reduce ongoing water draw, most often through hybrid retrofits like dry coolers plus limited liquid cooling, improved controls and leak detection, as well as seasonal switching between cooling modes to minimize water draw during peak demand.

Q: What technologies are being implemented to reduce water usage?

Several technologies are moving from pilot to mainstream deployment:

• Closed-loop liquid cooling (chip-level) — uses a sealed system that recirculates coolant without evaporation. Once filled during construction, it typically requires little to no ongoing water input.��
• Air-cooled and dry-cooler systems — can consume zero water, typically with higher energy tradeoffs. They are becoming increasingly viable when paired with advanced controls and when regional climate conditions are favorable.
• Immersion cooling — servers are submerged in engineered fluids, which can be extremely efficient for high‑density AI racks. It’s still an emerging technology, but it is gaining traction where water and space constraints are severe.��
• Smart water-management platforms — enable real‑time monitoring of WUE, leaks and cooling performance and support continuous optimization rather than static design assumptions.

Q: From a development and permitting standpoint, how is water stewardship becoming critical?

Water stewardship has become central to entitlement risk management. Municipalities and utilities increasingly require disclosure of projected water use and contingency plans. In some jurisdictions, approvals are being conditioned on measures such as use of reclaimed water, zero‑water cooling commitments and long‑term monitoring and reporting.

Community scrutiny has also intensified. High‑profile cases where data centers consumed a material share of local water supply have made transparency non‑negotiable in many markets. This has led to some hyperscalers to issue a community data center pledge reinforcing their commitment to protecting watersheds and water supply.

From a practical standpoint, projects that address water early move faster, while projects that treat water reactively face delays, opposition or redesign.

Q: Looking ahead, what’s one emerging technology that will define water-efficient data center development in the next five years — and what will be transformative over the next decade?

Over the next five years, I’d point to closed-loop, chip-level liquid cooling. This technology is the near‑term inflection point because it eliminates evaporative water use, scales effectively with AI rack densities and is already being standardized by hyperscalers.��

The biggest transformation won’t be a single device; it will be systems thinking: water‑free cooling paired with low‑water power generation, AI‑driven optimization of cooling, energy and water simultaneously, as well as facilities designed to be net‑neutral or net‑positive in local water impact through reuse and watershed investment.

Q: What’s the bottom line you want stakeholders to remember?

Water has moved from a supporting utility to a strategic constraint and a differentiator in data center development. Owners who can demonstrate credible, technically sound water stewardship are earning faster approvals, stronger community trust and more resilient assets.

As we recognize World Water Day, it’s clear that water stewardship is no longer optional — it’s foundational to sustainable, future‑ready data‑center development. Brian’s insights highlight not only the challenges ahead but also the promising innovations shaping a more resilient and resource‑efficient digital infrastructure.

, recognized March 15-21, celebrates the essential role surveyors play in measuring, mapping and understanding our world. LiDAR and drone-based technologies represent the next evolution of this profession, giving surveyors new tools that dramatically enhance accuracy, safety and efficiency. This year’s theme, “Celebrating 250 Years of Mapping America,” gives a nod to the surveyors that explored, documented and defined the land that became the United States. In honor of this special week, we connected with �鶹TV��վ Practice Team Manager for Survey Mapping & Geomatics Todd Harris and Geophysics Practice Team Manager and Project Geophysicist Ty Atmaca to learn more about Aerial LiDAR and drone geophysics technologies — how they work, the types of projects they can be used on, their benefits and more.��

While traditional surveying required crews to physically access sites and manually gather data points — often over multiple days or even weeks — LiDAR, or Light Detection and Ranging, now enables surveyors to capture millions of data points in a single scan, producing highly precise 3D models of real-world environments.

These advancements reflect the same core mission that National Surveyors Week celebrates —delivering reliable, precise and meaningful spatial information. Although National Surveyor Week highlights the heritage and importance of the surveying profession, LiDAR and drone-based survey technologies showcase how the profession continues to innovate, evolve and expand its impact today. The methods may have changed over the years, but the technology being used today enables surveyors to accomplish the same goal in a more efficient and arguably safer way.

• Safer: Today’s technology reduces the need for surveyors to enter hazardous or hard-to-reach areas like levees, bridge piles, unstable terrain or inaccessible industrial structures.
• Faster: Ariel and terrestrial LiDAR make it possible to collect data in days, as opposed to weeks or months.
• Smarter: LiDAR makes it possible to generate richer datasets that support better planning, engineering and environmental decisions.

Q: How did your background lead you into LiDAR data collection and drone-based surveying? ��

Todd: I spent most of my career performing conventional surveys for transportation, commercial, industrial and residential projects — everything from right-of-way and boundary work to processing topographic data and supporting construction staking. Through that work, I frequently collaborated with the Advanced Measurements team, gaining experience with both aerial and terrestrial LiDAR capabilities.

In 2023, I earned my FAA Part 107 UAS license and completed LiDAR technician training, learning the full workflow from data capture to data processing to 3D model production across projects, including Federal Highway Administration bridge inspections, site development and topographic surveys.

Ty: My introduction to drone-based geophysics began in 2024 when our team was awarded a major project. That experience opened my eyes to the potential of drone geophysics, and I quickly became fascinated by the idea that you can fly a drone, apply geophysical methods and gain insight into what lies beneath the ground.

Motivated by that project, I earned my drone pilot license and began combining my geophysics background with drone-based surveying technologies. Since then, I have attended numerous drone geophysics conferences and presented several case studies highlighting �鶹TV��վ’ work.

As a geophysicist, it’s exciting to see how much capability drones bring into the field. They enable the efficient collection of high-resolution data and offer new ways to investigate the subsurface — approaches that were difficult or impossible to achieve using traditional methods alone.

Q: What do you consider the biggest advantages of drone-based survey technologies and LiDAR?

Ty: I have had the opportunity to present on this topic numerous times, and I always highlight that drone-based technologies offer several major advantages over traditional ground surveys. Most important, they significantly improve safety by eliminating the need for field staff to enter hazardous or hard-to-reach terrain. Drones can easily access areas that would otherwise be unsafe or inaccessible.

Drone surveys can also be conducted at ultra-low altitudes, enabling the collection of extremely high-resolution data with improved spatial density and stronger signal quality. This leads to better coverage and more detailed mapping of the surface and subsurface conditions. They are also faster and more cost-efficient, allowing projects to be completed more quickly while reducing the risk of property disturbance or damage.

Another important advantage is the ability to repeat surveys over time. This capability makes it possible to track landscape or subsurface changes and detect temporal variations that might otherwise go undetected. Overall, drone-based surveying allows rapid data collection and delivers high-quality results with quick turnaround.

Like any technology, drones have limitations. Weather, airspace restrictions and flight endurance can all affect operations. In some cases, the best outcomes are achieved by pairing drone surveys with traditional ground-based methods to achieve the most comprehensive results.

Todd: The most dramatic advantage of LiDAR is the speed and efficiency of collecting data. A conventional survey might collect approximately 2,000 points in the time it takes LiDAR to collect 500 million. Projects that previously required more than 10 days can now be completed in just two — one for data collection and one for processing. Large-area surveys that once took months are now finished in days.

LiDAR also excels in challenging or hazardous environments, such as levees, inaccessible dock/fender systems on major waterways, steep terrain, unstable ground or high-traffic zones. It reduces the need for crews to physically enter dangerous or hard-to-reach areas.

Cagatay “Ty” Atmaca

Q: What kinds of projects are best suited for LiDAR and drone-based surveying? Where has �鶹TV��վ applied this technology so far?

Ty: At �鶹TV��վ, our drone-based surveying program is particularly well suited for environmental and energy-related investigations. One of our primary applications is orphan well locating, where we use drone-mounted magnetometers, such as the IF1200A platform equipped with the MagArrow II system, to detect buried well casings and other ferrous infrastructure. This approach allows us to efficiently survey large areas and identify wells that may not be visible at the surface, helping agencies address environmental and safety concerns associated with undocumented or abandoned wells.

Another important application is methane gas detection. Drones enable rapid scanning of wide areas to identify potential gas emissions, which is particularly valuable for landfill monitoring, where detecting methane leaks and monitoring emission patterns are critical for environmental compliance and safety.

Drone-based technologies are also highly effective for landfill characterization and monitoring. By flying at ultra-low altitudes, we can collect high-resolution geophysical and spatial data to map site conditions, detect subsurface anomalies and support environmental assessments – all while improving safety, efficiency and coverage compared to traditional ground-based surveys.

By integrating advanced drone platforms like the IF1200A with the MagArrow II magnetometer, �鶹TV��վ delivers rapid, high-resolution data for projects involving orphan well detection, methane monitoring and landfill investigations.

Todd: Additionally, LiDAR is ideal for any project that requires high-precision spatial data and strong visual documentation. �鶹TV��վ uses LiDAR across a wide range of project types, from coastal protection and site development to agricultural fields, transportation corridors and landfills. It also supports applications like methane monitoring, orphan well locating, residential planning, stockpile measurements and structural analysis of existing facilities.

Beyond these applications, LiDAR is exceptionally effective for drainage analysis, where understanding terrain and subtle elevation changes is essential. By generating a digital terrain model (DTM), teams can proactively identify and address potential drainage issues before construction begins.

Q: Can you describe a recent high-impact project where LiDAR and drone technology made a meaningful difference?

Ty: One recent example involved a project focused on orphan well locating and methane gas detection in a remote, mountainous area. The client provided coordinates for a potential well site located at the top of a mountain — an unexpected location that initially left many of us skeptical that an orphan well would be present there.

After flying our drone equipped with a magnetometer, however, we detected a clear magnetic anomaly consistent with a buried well casing. The data allowed us to pinpoint the likely location of the well, and the client was very pleased with the results. It was a strong demonstration of how drone-based geophysics can reveal subsurface features that would be very difficult to identify through traditional methods.

Another impactful finding from the same project involved detecting a fully buried orphan well that was actively leaking gas. By integrating drone-based geophysics with ground-based geophysical surveys, we were able to accurately locate and confirm the well’s position. This combined approach enabled us to efficiently identify environmental hazards and provide our clients with clear, actionable information.

Todd: We utilized the aerial LiDAR system on an 850-acre site where the client planned to develop a 245 MW AI data center. Instead of the data collection phase taking months using conventional GPS technology, we gathered all terrain data in three days, processed and quality-checked the data in two weeks and delivered the surface (DTM) model to the client well ahead of schedule. The high level of detail captured by the aerial system clearly represented the numerous bluffs and drainage features across the property — features that would have been very difficult for conventional field crews to locate, access or traverse.

Q: Have you run into challenges using drone-based technology, and how did �鶹TV��վ overcome them?

Ty: One of the main challenges we encounter on drone-based projects involves site conditions, access limitations and permitting requirements. Many of the areas we survey are remote, environmentally sensitive or located near regulated airspace, all of which require careful planning before any flights can occur.

For example, during a project in Arizona, we needed to secure multiple permits and approvals before completing the survey. This included coordination with the local airport, military authorities, border patrol, the city and the landowner. Managing these approvals required extensive communication and detailed planning.

Despite the complexity, our team successfully navigated all requirements and completed the project. Experiences like this have strengthened our expertise in regulatory coordination and operational planning, enabling �鶹TV��վ to conduct drone surveys safely and efficiently even in highly regulated environments.

Q: Beyond environmental and industrial applications, where else has LiDAR proven valuable at �鶹TV��վ so far?

Ty: Beyond traditional environmental and industrial applications, LiDAR and drone-based technologies have also proven highly valuable for landfill investigations and geohazard studies. We frequently use drone platforms to support landfill projects, where high-resolution surface mapping and geophysical data can help evaluate site conditions, monitor changes over time and guide environmental management efforts.

We have also explored drone-based geophysics for lava tube detection. Lava tubes often produce measurable magnetic anomalies due to variations in the surrounding volcanic rock, and drone-mounted magnetometers can efficiently identify these signals across large areas. By flying at low altitudes and collecting dense datasets, drones offer a promising method for detecting and mapping potential subsurface voids, such as lava tubes.

Together, these applications demonstrate how integrating LiDAR with drone-based geophysical sensors can extend far beyond traditional uses, supporting innovative approaches to geological and environmental investigations.

Todd: On another key project, �鶹TV��վ supported survey control, geotechnical investigations, aerial LiDAR for design and aerial LiDAR-based earthwork quantity tracking for the development of a new nuclear power facility. Because the site is located within an 800-square-mile area managed by federal authorities, all unmanned aerial system (UAS) operations required extensive coordination to obtain flight permission. With numerous unmanned aircraft activities occurring within the restricted airspace, �鶹TV��վ worked closely with site representatives and pilots to maintain safe, compliant and well-coordinated operations throughout the project.����

Michelle Lynch
�鶹TV��վ 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 �鶹TV��վ’ 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: �鶹TV��վ’ 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, �鶹TV��վ 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 �鶹TV��վ, we strive to live by our core values of Life, Heart, Mastery and Trust. When I think of cultivating culture at �鶹TV��վ, 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 �鶹TV��վ.

�鶹TV��վ’ Francis Mouafong, PE, MBA is a Senior Project Manager at �鶹TV��վ 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 �鶹TV��վ’ 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.