top of page
%20(1).png)
MEMBER SPOTLIGHT
As part of our Member Appreciation Program, we are showcasing a member in our bi-monthly Board Member Spotlight. Our member spotlight recognizes members for their outstanding contributions to the profession and our local communities. For any questions regarding the program please email PastPresident@ymf-oc.org.
January/February
2025
INTRODUCING
Karen Luong
EIT
Transportation Civil Analyst
Kimley-Horn
Professional-at-Large (PAL)
ASCE Orange County Younger Member Forum
PERSONAL LIFE
Where did you grow up?
I grew up in Anaheim most of my life but lived in Lake Elsinore for 6 years.
What made you want to become an engineer?
In high school, I attended an event hosted by WTS called Girls Engineering Day. From that event I learned about the different types of engineering and how so many women succeeded in their careers as engineers. I was also heavily involved in numerous clubs and went out to do community service almost every weekend. After doing more research in the different types of engineering and wanting to continue giving back to my community in some way, I settled with Civil Engineering!
Favorite hobbies, sports, and interests outside of engineering?
I love playing tennis and badminton. While I don't find myself on the courts too often anymore, I try to take advantage of any chance I can get. I taught myself how to crochet and knit over Youtube videos during COVID, so I like to occasionally spend time making coasters as gifts.
Finish this sentence: On Sunday mornings, you can usually find me...
Sleeping in and attempting to train our new puppy!
What college(s) did you attend? Can you list your degrees, any honors, and involvement in engineering organizations during school?
University of California, Irvine, B.S. Civil Engineering. ASCE UCI Chapter.
WORK & PROFESSIONAL LIFE
Describe your responsibilities and some significant projects.
I work as a Civil Analyst on our Transportation team where my responsibilities consist mainly of coordination with other teams and the production of plans and reports. I produce traffic impact analysis reports, traffic signal plans, traffic control plans, and so much more in the area of traffic!
What project are you currently working on and what have you accomplished/what are your tasks?
Currently, I am drafting street lighting plans for the modification of an existing warehouse in the City of Perris. I used a lighting simulation software called AGi to model the illumination of the roadway and ensure it meets the City’s standards.
What is your favorite part about being a Civil Engineer?
Getting to work on things that I see and use everyday!
What skills do you find most valuable to focus on in your career?
Good and effective communication! It’s something I am still building and find important in every occasion.
What drew you to your specific career path? If you could start your career differently, what would you do differently?
My transportation courses in school and my two internship experiences in roadway design and traffic lead me to pursue the traffic route. If I could start differently, I would have tried to gain more internship experience earlier on in my education.
ASCE & PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
How/Why did you get involved? Why did you choose to stay involved?
I was involved in the UC Irvine ASCE Student Chapter all four years in college. I stayed involved before and after COVID, building my way up to External Vice President and President my junior and senior year. I transitioned into the UCI Liaison in the University Outreach Committee, because I wanted to continue helping my peers even after graduating. I initially joined ASCE my first quarter in college to meet more people going down the same career route as myself. I am still involved to this day for the same reason and to lead my peers in the same way my mentors have guided me.
How has ASCE impacted your work and/or what is your favorite benefit of your involvement?
I have met more people in my office just because I’m involved with ASCE! I have been able to share my experiences and encourage others to join the organization. This also ties into my favorite benefit and that is meeting and getting to know so many engineers in the industry!
Who is someone you Admire and Why?
I admire my parents! They are a smart and resilient pair. I have learned so much from them and continue to do so as we all change and grow with time.
If you have one piece of advice to give to young professionals what would it be?
Your career path will not look the same as any one else’s, take as much time as you need.
Lastly, what would be your personal motto?
“After every storm there’s a rainbow, no matter how long it takes to show up.” (Grace V., Ohio, Dove Chocolate Wrapper)
bottom of page