Gerald B.

Gerald B.

Water Resource Engineer

Baltimore, MD

Quotation Mark
My favorite thing about TranSystems is the “All In” mindset. At TranSystems we make the conscious choice to take on grand challenges and complete projects that result in a positive impact. Amidst these grand challenges, above all the teams I’ve worked with value a few key things: communication, teamwork, solution-oriented thinking, upholding a strong ethical code, and getting the job done right. It’s a commitment to engineering excellence every engineering team deserves.
Quotation Mark

About Me

Alma Mater: University of Maryland – A. James Clark School of Engineering, Civil & Environmental Engineering, Environmental/Water Resources

Hobbies: I am big into doing activities that move my body. But Mainly I focus on 3 hobbies: Powerlifting, Photography, and Reading. I also enjoy new cityscapes and time with friends and family.

Career Q&A

  • I chose to pursue a career as a Water Resource Engineer because…

    After witnessing the devastating impacts of flooding in Ellicott City, I was inspired to something about it. I decided become a steward that protects the environment, human lives, and property. This led me to the Civil and Environmental Engineering program at the University of Maryland where I specialized In Environmental and Water Resources. Here I explored the intersection of urban development and water quantity and quality. It is an integral topic that I get to explore everyday now!

  • The thing I love most about my job is…

    The people. The people. The people. As a early career engineer having an office full of individuals willing to collaborate, provide guidance, and support is essential for growth. I get that every day. Moreover, there is something special about seeing the relief on a local resident’s face when they hear “I’m investigating the problem, and I’m working to find a solution.”

  • My favorite thing about TranSystems is…

    The “All In” mindset. At TranSystems we make the conscious choice to take on grand challenges and complete projects that result in a positive impact. Amidst these grand challenges, above all the teams I’ve worked with value a few key things: communication, teamwork, solution-oriented thinking, upholding a strong ethical code, and getting the job done right. It’s a commitment to engineering excellence every engineering team deserves.

  • Since joining TranSystems…

    The Future feels like a boundless capacity to grow into existing and new roles. In my time since joining TranSystems, I have been able step up to the plate in the projects that I am involved in and grow as an engineer. The freedom and flexibility to do this look towards a bright future on enhancing my knowledge and capacity to manage projects.

My Day

7 – 9 AM – Log on and Check Emails

I typically start my day around 7 am and start brewing a cup of tea. I kick the day of with two actions. 1. I make a list of what I need to work on for the week. This is high level. I mark down deadlines and specific coordination items that would aid my success for the week! Checking Emails Typically happens around 9 am. At this point, I’ll typically start receiving emails. I typically fire up a couple of programs including Microstation/InROADs, HydroCAD and Excel.

9 – 11 AM – Work on Current Projects

I am currently working on projects that focus on drainage remediation throughout Central Maryland. I am also working on a project as built. Typically, I have recurring meetings with Clients to be able to provide report outs or ask questions. These typically happen weekly to monthly. Throughout the day I can expect sometimes get calls from clients regarding urgent needs.

Some other recurring items on my to-do list include things like, Hydrologic/Hydraulic Modeling, CAD Drafting, Generating Comment Response Letters, Generating Meeting notes, Treated Impervious Area computations, and project completion tracking.

drainage

11 AM – 12 PM – Check in with Team and Mentors

I work closely with team members in the Baltimore Water Resources department (Ryan, Damir, Sam). I also work closely with our Baltimore and Virgina Highways teams.

I typically check in with Ryan Burdette (Water Resources AVP) or Damir Grljevic (Water Resources PM) to get design guidance and advice throughout the day! I also have mentors and advisors through NSBE that I get advice and perspectives from other disciplines!

group of people

12 – 1 PM – Lunch Break

Typically, I stop for lunch 30-60 minutes. I might read, take a short walk, or edit personal photos, however, if a deadline is highly pressing, I will work through lunch.

1 – 4 PM – Continue Working on Daily Tasks

I just recently closed out a Design-Build Project with VDOT. It was a great learning experience. I was a great learning experience digging into the design manuals and requirements for a different date. I have recently relaunched a MDOT State Highway Administration project. I have about 20 Stormwater Management Facilities that I am responsible for designing and ensuring that we achieve adequate Impervious Area treatment.

4 PM – Sign off

Typically, I stop working around 4 pm. I typically then good to the gym and get a good strength work out in. However, from time to time, I do go to happy hour! The Baltimore office has a happy hour once a month.

In The Future

In the near future, I am looking forward to taking my Professional Engineers Exam to take the next steps towards a Professional Engineers License. Additional training is also on the horizon!

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