Hamilton High School students had the opportunity to learn firsthand about civil engineering careers from representatives of two major industry organizations. The presenters’ personal connections to the Hamilton School District made the impactful presentation all the more meaningful.
“Hearing directly from professionals in civil engineering and transportation really helps our students see how their classroom learning connects to the real world,” explains Hamilton High School Business and Information Technology Teacher and Youth Apprenticeship Coordinator Sheila Frafjord. “This presentation offers students a window into the diverse and meaningful work happening in civil engineering. We deeply appreciate the time and support from HNTB and WTBA. They truly helped our students imagine what’s possible,” adds Frafjord.
“Personally, I loved hearing from real professionals in the civil engineering industry and thought it was generally awesome and informative,” shares Hamilton High School Junior Jonathan Nguyen. “It was helpful because they have first-hand experience as engineers and are able to actually reveal what goes on behind the curtains.”
Presenters included Mike Ernst and Josh Depies from HNTB Corporation, along with Matt Grove from Wisconsin Transportation Builders Association (WTBA). All three speakers share personal ties to the Hamilton School District, having either graduated from Hamilton High School or currently having children enrolled in district school.
”Civil engineers design and build the infrastructure that shapes our communities,” says Ernst. “This initiative provides high school students the opportunity to explore civil engineering and discover the broad range of career paths within the industry. Through our relationship with Hamilton High School, HNTB is working to spark interest in the field of engineering so that together we can create a culture of growth that promotes learning, development and fosters success,” adds Ernst.
Hamilton High School Sophomore Evelyn Starrett enjoyed the presentation. “It was helpful to hear from professionals because they have real world experience,” explains Starrett.
“I was surprised that the planning process takes years,” explains Hamilton High School Junior Samuel Schmitt who calls the presentation informative. “It’s helpful to hear from these professionals about how they are looking for new people, which I think makes it easier to see this as an actual career that can begin right away after college,” he adds.
HNTB is a nationally recognized civil engineering firm with offices in Milwaukee, Madison and Green Bay. The firm has played a key role in many of Wisconsin’s most prominent infrastructure projects. During their visit, HNTB representatives provided students with insight into civil engineering and urban planning careers, highlighting the many pathways available in designing, improving and maintaining public infrastructure. Wisconsin Transportation Builders Association is a statewide organization representing the companies responsible for building and maintaining Wisconsin’s transportation systems. WTBA shared perspectives from the construction side of large-scale transportation projects and emphasized the broad range of career opportunities available within the industry.
Hamilton High School is grateful to HNTB and WTBA for investing their time and expertise to inspire the next generation of engineers and infrastructure professionals.