Hard work and dedication define my everyday work as an AECOM project manager and environmental scientist. I work closely with our Army National Guard (ARNG) and US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) clients on a variety of military munitions and Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) investigation and remediation projects. I started with AECOM (legacy URS) in 2013. At the time, I’d been working as a research assistant with a local university, but I still yearned for an opportunity to diversify my career path and expand my technical knowledge. I had no experience working for a consulting company and knew little about working for a global, multi-disciplinary engineering firm. It didn’t take long to learn what exciting opportunities awaited me. I was exposed to a variety of projects right away. Within my first two years, I became a Deputy Project Manager of two large military munitions projects. Now, I am a certified AECOM project manager and manage a large, multi-year ARNG remedial investigation through decision document project for sites in four different states. I am also a key manager within a highly specialized team that manages the investigation of PFAS at over 180 facilities. Throughout my time at AECOM, I have been involved with the company’s development programs and I currently serve as a local quality manager in the Germantown, MD office. I have always enjoyed helping and serving others, which led me to become involved with the Society of American Military Engineers (SAME). I jumped at the chance to participate in their 2019 Leadership and Mentoring Program through the DC and Northern Virginia Posts. The program opened my eyes to the greater SAME community and helped frame my leadership style and approach. After graduating from the program, I was honored and excited to accept the challenge of serving as the Young Member Chair for the SAME Mid-Maryland Post. I am looking forward to being able to contribute to the SAME community in this new role and hope to bring value to the Post.