Tell us a little about yourself.
I grew up in Baltimore, playing in the stream at the Patapsco Valley State Park with my little sisters. We used to rearrange the stones in the channel to make miniature waterfalls. Ironically, I ended up with a career that involved moving much larger stones in stream channels. I graduated from the University of Maryland with a Bachelor of Science, concentration Ecological Technology Design. I started out as a Foreman here at EQR and after 2 years I moved into the Project Management role, where I’ve been for about 5 years.
What is your role at EQR?
My role at EQR is a Project Manager. I manage stream restoration, stormwater management and LID projects, ranging in size and magnitude. As a project manager, I direct construction work on several diverse projects running concurrently, I do material sourcing, coordinate project activities, do subcontractor management, project budgeting, and construction project management (CPM) scheduling. It's a lot of work, but so rewarding!
What drew you to EQR originally? And how has EQR changed since?
Honestly, I thought EQR was still a Design Build firm when I applied for a job. I was hoping to get the best of both worlds, but when I got out to a job site, I was learning so much and still had interaction with designers so that was enough for me. I’ve grown to prefer the construction side. It’s really rewarding to be a part of the actual installation process, taking it from paper to reality. Physically being on the ground, in the mud building it has greatly increased my knowledge and understanding of the design and function of streams, wetlands, and storm water facilities that we work on.
What has been your favorite project at EQR?
My favorite project at EQR so far is a stream restoration project in Alger Park (first picture), which is located in South East DC. The design incorporated regenerative stormwater conveyance and natural channel design to fill a massive gorge that had formed in the middle of the park. The magnitude of erosion pre-construction was unimaginable. Pictures don’t even do it justice. We restored years of damage and now the park is used by the local resident dog walkers.
Slideshow: Alger Park, Jones Falls Project Meeting, 2014 Company Picnic, German Landscape, Karly Enjoying a pretzel at Oktoberfest in Munich.
What are your hobbies outside of work?
I enjoy gardening inside and outside of the house. Soon I’ll own a house and can start a vegetable garden.
What is your favorite place you’ve traveled to?
I really enjoyed traveling through Germany last Fall. Such great food and drink!
What is your proudest moment at EQR?
My proudest moments at EQR are going to college career fairs and recruiting. Its so rewarding to talk about our company and what we do for the environment and the communities in which we work. It always reminds me why I’m here and that I’m proud to be a part of this team. #EQRCareers #ProjectManagement #EcologicalRestoration #Internships #StormwaterManagement