Board Member Spotlight August-September 2019
As part of our new Board Member Appreciation Program, we are showcasing a board member in our bimonthly Board Member Spotlight. Our board member spotlight recognizes board members of outstanding contributions to the profession and our local communities. For any questions regarding the program please contact the Past President PastPresident@ymf-oc.org.
For the August-September 2019 Spotlight, we would like to introduce...
JARED LINDO
We asked him to state his name, company, and position(s) in ASCE:
Jared Lindo, EIT.
Transportation Engineer in Project Management, Caltrans District 12 in Orange County
K-12 Outreach Co-Chair
We also asked him a few questions about the following:
PERSONAL LIFE
Where did you grow up?
I grew up in Gustine, a small farming community of 4,000 people located in the central valley of California.
What made you want to become an engineer?
I grew up helping my father build and remodel homes.
Favorite hobbies, sports, and interests outside of engineering?
I enjoy all things that have to do with classic cars, motorcycles and whiskey distilling.
Finish this sentence: On Sunday mornings, you can usually find me...
... playing with my 8 year old daughter in the park.
What college(s) did you attend? Can you list your degrees, any honors, and involvement in engineering organizations during school?
I attended Fresno State College and hold a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering and a minor in mathematics. In College I was the ASCE student chapter Treasurer, Chi Epsilon President (Engineering Honor Fraternity), and College of Engineering Clubs Council President.
WORK & PROFESSIONAL LIFE
Describe your responsibilities and some significant projects.
I provide support, and project management related activities on any project located on state routes 22, 72, 90, 142 and 605 within Orange County. I am currently working on 27 projects; the most recognizable is the widening of the SR 22 Horseshoe connector, connecting the EB 22 to the 5 and 57 freeways, this project is currently in construction. My responsibilities include supporting the design, traffic operations, environmental, local agencies coordination, public outreach and the overall planning, scheduling, funding and budgeting needs for all of the projects
What is your favorite part about being a Civil Engineer?
The most enjoyable part about being a Civil Engineer is being able to listen to the communities transportation concerns and issues, and help be a part of the solution in a diverse and challenging field.
What skills do you find most valuable to focus on in your career?
The skills I find most valuable to focus on for me are my soft skills, primarily communication. It’s always important when working with a very diverse team and complex projects, to listen and understand each individual team members needs and issues. Project Issues and opportunities are surfaced early on when teams communicate effectively. A successful project will be determined by the success of the team.
What drew you to your specific career path? If you could start your career differently, what would you do differently?
My father always told me to work with your mind not your back, with that in mind and always enjoying being involved in the construction field, engineering was a natural path. I continue to work in a field where I can create, build, and design but in a capacity that challenges me mentally. If I were to start over again I don’t think I would change a thing. I am truly happy with my journey through surveying, design, and project management.
ASCE & PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
How/Why did you get involved? Why did you choose to stay involved?
I got involved in ASCE in college joining in with my friends to get to know the other engineering students and occasionally enjoy some free pizza. I chose to stay involved because I realized how much I benefited by having a community of like minded engineers helping one another to succeed and that I truly look forward to giving back in the same way.
How has ASCE impacted your work and/or what is your favorite benefit of your involvement?
Through ASCE I have met many other wonderful individuals that I know on a personal basis that I now have the pleasure of working with on projects. I have also made many life long friends that will forever leave a positive impact in my life.
Who is someone you admire and why?
I admire my grandfather, Ernest Lindo, first generation immigrant, no formal education, and both of his parents passed away by the time he was one. He was raised by his uncle and left home to work full time at the age of 13. He is the hardest working, kindest, honest, and just had the biggest heart. I admire him because of all he achieved in life, with all odds against him, and how along the way he gave back and helped whenever he could. He told me a story of the great depression, how he grew up in the rural coast near San Francisco and how he would go hunting for deer and other animals to help feed the communities.
If you have one piece of advice to give to young professionals what would it be?
Never grow complacent in life, continually challenge yourself and never be scared of change.
Lastly, what would be your personal motto?
“Measure Twice, Cut Once”
If you missed the last (July-August 2019) Board Member Spotlight, Victor Aguirre, you can click here to read her article.
To view the archive of all past Member Spotlights, click here.
