I noted in my work diary: “The most important achievement is to do our public job, with a good conscience … Integrity is essential, we must do what is right not whatever “works” to get by. Our success is not measured in financial and economic terms, but by the respect, trust, and credibility we earn every day, on every project…”

Successful public engineers need many skills and qualities to excel. First, the engineer should be decisive and confident in his work as a team member or as a leader, and second, be open-minded and work effectively with other engineering or administrative persons. Finally, the engineer must have the solid technical knowledge and background which allow him/her to become a problem-solver.

In the following table, I summarize the key personal and technical habits of a professional:

PERSONAL
• Guide and discuss with an open mind.

• Keep good records and personal notes.

• Focus on big tasks and finish them step by step.

• Use in-house capabilities before outsourced help.

• Be proactive, friendly, and stay Positive!

TECHNICAL
• Implement and control new Technology and Techniques.

• Use State and Federal specialized resources (Training, Manuals, reviews, …)

• Retain the Basics and learn new Skills; knowledge building-blocks.

• Prepare Office designs and plans, but complete them with Field observations and inspections.