Category: Alumni

Department of Civil, Environmental, and Geospatial Engineering Welcomes Nine Members to the Academy

Published November 30, 2023

News

Academy Inductee Leanne H. Panduren, PE, F.NSP

Michigan Tech’s Department of Civil, Environmental, and Geospatial Engineering proudly announced the induction of nine distinguished individuals into its prestigious Academy. Established in 1993, the Academy was created to honor outstanding graduates and distinguished friends of the Department of Civil, Environmental, and Geospatial Engineering. Election to the Academy recognizes excellence and leadership in one’s career as well as professional and community service shaping the world.

Academy member plaques during induction ceremony held on October 5, 2023

The purpose of the Academy is to honor outstanding graduates and distinguished friends of the Michigan Tech Department of Civil, Environmental, and Geospatial Engineering. Election to the Academy recognizes excellence and leadership in engineering and civil affairs. Our membership is heavily invested in giving back to the University, students, faculty, and the community at large.

Nominations come from faculty and current Academy members based on a record of outstanding achievement in their field; demonstrated commitment to service and leadership in their profession; demonstrated commitment to service and leadership in their community; support of the CEGE department or university as a whole via demonstrated actions.

The Academy Induction was held on Thursday, October 5, 2023 at the Rosza Center.

Elected Members of the Academy:

Wayne Bergstrom, Ph.D., P.E., D.GE., F.ASCE, F.ABET:

Wayne Bergstrom, a distinguished Michigan Tech alumnus from the class of 1976, has accumulated over 45 years of experience in civil and geotechnical engineering. With roles in consulting, industry, and governmental service across six continents, Bergstrom has been instrumental in adapting civil infrastructure projects to various geologic environments. He is currently a Principal Engineer at Bechtel Infrastructure and Power and has received prestigious honors, including the Bechtel Distinguished Engineer in 2013 and Bechtel Fellow in 2020. Active in professional societies, Bergstrom served as the President of ABET, Inc. in 2016-17, accrediting college programs globally.

David M. Thomson, PE ‘83:

Originally from Kodiak, Alaska, David Thomson switched from metallurgical to civil engineering at Michigan Tech, driven by a passion for big equipment and construction. His diverse career includes leadership roles at Burlington Northern Railroad, STV, Inc., and his consulting practice focused on private industrial clients. Thomson’s commitment to service is evident through his involvement with the Rail Transportation Advisory Board and the Civil and Environmental Professional Academic Advisory Committee. He received a departmental alumni service award in 2019, recognizing his dedication.

David W. Hand, PhD, BCEE ‘80:

David Hand’s journey with Michigan Tech began in 1982, leading to a distinguished career in environmental engineering. Joining as an assistant research engineer, he eventually became a professor and served as the Chair of the Department of Civil & Environmental Engineering. Hand’s accolades include the Rudolph Hering Medal and the 2000 AEESP Landmark Achievement Award. His contributions span over fifty funded environmental engineering research projects, numerous awards, and a significant body of published work.

Emmanuel U. Nzewi, Ph.D, P.E., M.ASCE ‘80:

Emmanuel Nzewi, a 1980 civil engineering graduate from Michigan Tech, has made significant contributions to academia and research. With a Ph.D. from Purdue University, he served in leadership roles at multiple universities, conducting research on sustainable water resource systems and transportation accessibility in rural communities. Active in ASCE, Nzewi received the 2013 Outstanding Service Award and continues to explore engineering education through natural language processing models.

Michael Paddock ’87, ’88:

With bachelor degrees in surveying (’87) and civil engineering (’88) from Michigan Tech, Michael Paddock has left a lasting impact in the field. His career at CH2M HILL included managing transportation megaprojects, exemplified by the successful reconstruction of major interchanges and highways. Paddock’s dedication extends beyond his professional endeavors, with full-time volunteering for Engineers Without Borders, earning him the EWB-USA Founders Award in 2009. Recognized as the Humanitarian Award recipient from Michigan Tech in 2020, Paddock and his wife generously support the university.

Leanne H. Panduren, PE, F.NSPE:

Leanne Panduren, a 1993 civil engineering graduate, has showcased exceptional leadership throughout her career at ROWE Professional Services Company. Progressing from Assistant Project Engineer to President and CEO, Panduren actively promotes excellence and education in engineering. Her contributions extend beyond her professional realm, with active involvement in professional engineering societies and various philanthropic and economic development roles in her community.

Steven Tomaszewski, ‘91:

Steven Tomaszewski, a 1991 environmental engineering graduate, has ascended to the role of Global Director of Environmental Strategies & Operations at General Motors Company. His career at GM spans various locations globally, contributing significantly to facility management, crisis management, and the transition to electric vehicles. A dedicated Michigan Tech supporter, Tomaszewski serves on the Board of Trustees and has been recognized with the Michigan Tech Young Alumni Award in 1999.

Thomas M. Keranen, P.E., Esq.:

Thomas Keranen, graduating in 1972 with a BSCE, has seamlessly merged engineering and law throughout his career. Starting as a civil engineer, Keranen obtained a law degree and transitioned into construction law, becoming a respected figure in the field. Active in construction industry associations and educational programs, Keranen’s contributions extend to serving on the Civil and Environmental Engineering Professional Advisory Committee at Michigan Tech.

Zachary Grasley, PE, PhD ’01:

Zachary Grasley, a Summa Cum Laude graduate from Michigan Tech in 2001, currently heads the Department of Civil & Environmental Engineering at Texas A&M University. His prolific research career, marked by awards like the NSF CAREER Award and Fellowships in prestigious engineering societies, has significantly impacted the field. Grasley’s dedication to advancing civil and environmental engineering is evident in his role as a Presidential Impact Fellow at Texas A&M, guiding the department’s substantial student body and research programs.

The new inductees showcase diverse achievements, embodying the spirit of leadership, service, and excellence that defines the Michigan Tech Department of Civil, Environmental, and Geospatial Engineering.

New Faculty Spotlight: Kerri Sleeman

Published October 3, 2023

By Kim Geiger

Kerri Sleeman, CEGE Professor of Practice, was born and raised in the Houghton area. Over the years she has held a number of different positions at Tech, most recently in various positions with Facilities Management. Before that, she worked in the automotive and construction industries as an engineer. She earned both her degrees at Michigan Tech, a BS in Mechanical Engineering and an MS in Engineering.

What drew you to Michigan Tech?

“My husband and I have made this place our home for over 20 years, which coincidentally is when I first came to work at Michigan Tech. I originally came to Tech in order to move back home full-time. The amazing outdoor opportunities in the Keweenaw, and the sense of community on campus have kept me here.

What do you consider an important long-term goal for your teaching, or outreach?

I am very excited to be able to work as a full-time faculty member. The students are the whole reason Michigan Tech exists! I have taught as an adjunct faculty member over the years while working at Tech. It always helped me keep the larger picture of the University in focus. I look forward to bringing my industry experience to students in the Construction Management Program. Another goal is to increase our sustainable construction course offerings for students.

“Sustainability has become such a large part of what the students will need to understand in their work.”
Kerri Sleeman

What do you like to do in your spare time?

I love to get outside in all our seasons! Having a puppy, my husband and I go hiking and snowshoeing all the time. We also love to snowmobile, downhill ski, and play pick-up hockey. We build a rink we build on the lake behind our house each winter. I also like to garden and try to run a half marathon or two each year.

Any favorite spots on campus, in Houghton, or in the UP?

I love it all! There is something for everyone.

Getting out on the water with is a favorite pastime, with Larken, of course!

Any advice for incoming students?

Don’t be afraid to ask for help. There are so many resources at Michigan Tech. Please use them!

“Don’t be afraid to ask for help.”
Advice for incoming students, from Kerri Sleeman

Linda D. Phillips ’77 ’84 to be Honored with Humanitarian Award

Published June 19, 2023

By College of Engineering

News

The greatest measure of any school is the quality of graduates it sends into the world, and Michigan Tech has the best of the best. The Alumni Board of Directors is excited to announce the 2023 Alumni Award recipients and looks forward to honoring them at the 2023 Alumni Awards Ceremony during Reunion Weekend.

Among the award recipients is Linda Phillips, who has been selected to receive the Humanitarian Award for 2023.

“Volunteer leadership or service that has improved or enriched the lives of others and the welfare of humanity, and whose accomplishments reflect admirably on or bring honor to their Alma Mater.”
Office of Alumni Engagement

Linda D. Phillips earned a baccalaureate degree in civil engineering with honor in 1977 and a master’s degree in civil engineering in 1984, both from Michigan Tech. While at MTU, she participated in ASCE student chapter, Chi Epsilon, Society of Women Engineers, and was counselor for the Women in Engineering program

Ryan Sherman ’07 Selected for Award by Steel Bridge Task Force

Published February 23, 2023

By College of Engineering

News

The Steel Bridge Task Force has selected Ryan J. Sherman, PhD, PE, Assistant Professor in the School of Civil and Environmental Engineering at the Georgia Institute of Technology, as the recipient of the 2023 Robert J. Dexter Memorial Award Lecture

The Steel Bridge Task Force consists of the American Iron and Steel Institute (AISI), the National Steel Bridge Alliance (NSBA), and the American Association of State and Highway Transportation Officials (AASHTO) T-14 Technical Committee for Structural Steel Design. The program was instituted in 2005 in memory of Robert J. Dexter, an associate professor of civil engineering at the University of Minnesota, who was an internationally recognized expert on steel fracture and fatigue problems in bridges.

Sherman joined the faculty in the School of Civil and Environmental Engineering at Georgia Institute of Technology as an assistant professor in 2019. He earned his BS degree in Civil Engineering from Michigan Technological University and his MS degree and PhD in Civil Engineering from Purdue University.

Feldhausen to Chair CEGE’s Professional Advisory Board

Published February 20, 2023

By College of Engineering

News

Benjamin M. Feldhausen has been elected to chair the Professional Advisory Board for the Department of Civil, Environmental, and Geospatial Engineering at Michigan Technological University.

A graduate of Iron Mountain High School and dual baccalaureate honors graduate in surveying and civil engineering of Michigan Tech, Feldhausen is licensed as both a professional engineer and professional surveyor. While attending MTU, he spent several years as an undergraduate teaching assistant, a peer mentoring advisor, a tutor and was also a member of the National Civil Engineering Honor Society, Chi Epsilon.

Congratulations to the Fall 2022 Graduates

Published December 15, 2022

By Angela Keranen

News

The Department of Civil, Environmental, and Geospatial Engineering would like to congratulate our fall graduates and raise you up for all to see. We are proud of you and want to wish you the best of luck in your next chapter.

Presenting Our Fall 2022 Graduates:

Hailey Bedard

Hailey is graduating with a BS in civil and mechanical engineering. She says she will miss many things about Michigan Tech, but among them are all of the outdoor activities that the Keweenaw has to offer, Winter Carnival and statue building, and having the majority of her friends close by. Hailey is thankful for all the friends she has met along the way and the amazing community she has been able to be a part of. Hailey states “I would like to thank my parents, Jack and Cindy, who have supported me and encouraged me to chase my dreams every step of the way.”

Abbie Bethune

Abbie is graduating with a BS in civil engineering. She will be moving to Denver Colorado to work for GE Johnson as a Project Engineer after graduation. Abbie says she will miss the people at Michigan Tech “Michigan Tech has become my home away from home and I have been incredibly lucky with the support and community that has been a part of my experience here”. She says she is thankful to Michigan Tech for “Opportunity, from internships to sorority life I feel I have been able to have a world-class education because of MTU. I look back to the beginning of my college career here and I am amazed at how much I have grown and learned because of the opportunities Michigan tech has to offer.”

Aynaz Biniyaz

Aynaz is graduating with a PhD in civil engineering. After graduation, she will be moving to Oregon to start working full-time at Jacobs. Aynaz says she will miss Winter Carnival. She says she is grateful to Michigan Tech for providing her with the opportunities to grow in her career and would like to recognize Karen Wade from CDI as someone who made a difference to her while at Michigan Tech. Aynaz says “I would like to thank all the beautiful people from Michigan Tech who supported me during this journey.”

Gabe Bollinger

Gabe is graduating with a BS in civil engineering. He will begin working as an Associate Geotechnical Designer at Gannett Fleming in Harrisburg, PA after graduation. Gabe says that he will miss Winter Carnival and ice fishing and is thankful to Michigan Tech for challenging him in the classroom.

Sean Bonner

Sean is graduating with a BS in civil engineering. After graduation, he will be working for KPFF Consulting Engineers as a structural design engineer. He is also being commissioned into the US Army as a 2nd Lieutenant to serve in the Tennessee Army National Guard. Sean says he will miss just about everything the Keweenaw has to offer. He says “I’d like to thank Michigan Tech for giving me the opportunity to gain a world-class engineering education while funding my room and board to commission as an Army officer. I’d like to thank Dr. Kris Mattila for challenging me and making class enjoyable. I’d also like to recognize Dr. Daniel Dowden and Dr. Tess Ahlborn for sparking my passion for structural engineering.”

Curtis Byrns

Curtis is graduating with a BS in civil engineering. He will begin working for Kiewit Infrastructure Company after graduation. Curtis says he will miss the area once he leaves Michigan Tech.

Donavon Free

Donovan is graduating with a BS in civil engineering. After graduation, he will join the Army. Donavon says he is thankful for and will miss his friends at Michigan Tech and would like to recognize Jimmy Buffet as someone who made a difference to him while at Tech.

Rob Froelich

Rob is graduating with a BS in civil engineering. He will be starting his career with DAAR Engineering after graduation. Rob says he will miss the Rugby Team (Go SledDogs) and is thankful to Tech for making him more resilient.

Katherine Gallarno

Katherine is graduating with a BS in environmental engineering. After graduation, she is moving to New York to start her career working for Holcim as an environmental engineer. She plans to spend her free time traveling and exploring the state. Katherine says she will miss being a part of such a caring community that supports and encourages their peers. She is thankful to Michigan Tech for providing her with the opportunities to learn and grow as a student and as a person. When asked who she would like to recognize, she says “My family. They were my biggest supporters and I wouldn’t have made it through my degree without their constant encouragement and advice.”

Malina Gallmeyer

Malina is graduating with a BS in environmental engineering. She plans to go back downstate and work as an Engineer in Training at Fleis & Vandenbrink after graduation – “I am excited for this great opportunity and, even though I will have just graduated, I know there will be lots of learning as I start my career.” Malina said she is going to miss her St. Al’s friends so much – “Since no one goes home on the weekends, we have become like a family, and because of that leaving them behind is going to be one of the hardest things I will ever do. Even though it’s tough, I know we will all grow from the experience, and, in the end, they will only be a 9-hour car ride away.” She is thankful to Michigan Tech for the opportunities it gave her personally and professionally – “With so many clubs and organizations, I was able to find a home away from home. This made the long winter nights a little brighter and a little warmer. Professionally, the career fairs were incredible opportunities to network and meet people from many different companies.” When asked who she would like to recognize as someone who made a difference to her while at Tech “Julie Ross was amazing when figuring out how to arrange my classes to check all requirements. Coming into college with a lot of AP credit was great but I didn’t know how to use it until I met with Julie. She really walked me through everything from the beginning of my time here at Tech up until my last scheduling night. Carlos Amador was also an incredible professor. His passion for teaching Spanish and working with university students was apparent in every class. I remember meeting him before I decided on Tech and his enthusiasm and interest in what I had to say made me feel welcome. That interaction helped me to decide on Tech as my school. Now I am a Husky forever!” She ends with “Moving on from Tech is the greatest challenge yet, but, as I have learned from my time here, I should face this challenge head-on and dive into it with everything I’ve got.”

Carter Ghiringhelli

Carter is graduating with a BS in construction management. After graduation, he will be working full-time for Catamount Constructors in Denver, Colorado. Carter says he will miss the small community environment that is Michigan Tech. He is thankful to Tech for hiring great professors that care about their students’ education. Carter wanted to recognize David Nelson as someone who made a difference to him while at Tech – “He was a great professor who I enjoyed learning from in the classes I had with him.”

Sean Gulbranson

Sean is graduating with an MS in civil engineering from the online structural engineering program. Sean will continue working for Meyer Borgman Johnson, a structural engineering design and consulting firm located in Minneapolis. He says “I’m looking forward to giving back to the community by joining a planning commission in local government.” Sean says he is thankful to Tech for “the years of dedication to being a leading civil and environmental engineering school. I have been continuously impressed by the research and civil engagement that comes out of MTU every year.”

John Hardy

John is graduating with a BS in civil engineering. After graduation, John plans to start working in industry. He will miss Winter Carnival and is thankful to the Michigan Tech Football Team.

Benjamin Holland

Ben is graduating with an MS in environmental engineering. He will begin work as a Land Development Drainage Engineer for Kimley Horn in Boise, ID after graduation. Ben says he will miss the cheap housing and all the snow for great skiing and also the trails for running/biking. He says he is thankful for the CEGE Department and how great everyone is here – “I came in very interested in Water Resources and so many different people helped aid in developing significant knowledge related to my passion.” When asked if he would like to recognize someone who made a difference, Ben says “Melanie Kueber Watkins!!! Melanie is awesome! She shares a great interest in how theoretical engineering applies in industry. She tells me of her experience in work to help me get an idea for what to expect in my next steps and she greatly respects the work I do. In many different tasks, she has sent my way, she tells me I know a lot more than her (doubtful) which is at least a polite thing to say. Working under her in research over my master’s degree has been awesome because I can work on a variety of projects depending on what needs to be done and when. She gave me an experience similar to consulting as it is done in industry so she is amazing at preparing the 90% of students who graduate and leave academia for industry.”

Julia Jenaway

Julia is graduating with an MS in civil engineering. She will start working at WJE in Bingham Farms, Michigan in February 2023. Julia says she will miss the snow and the easy access to nature. She says she is thankful to have received a great education while being in a beautiful place.

Kelly Livingston

Kelly is graduating with a BS in environmental engineering. After graduation, she will move to Alaska for an environmental consulting job. Kelly says she will miss the snow is thankful to Michigan Tech for being a small campus, so walking from end to end is not hard. She would like to recognize all the professors from the CEGE department, especially Dr. Becker and Dr. Seagren.

Nathan Machiorlatti

Nathan is graduating with an MS in civil engineering from the online structural engineering program. He plans to take a few months off and then start working for a structural design engineering company. Nathan says he is thankful for all the hard work each of his professors put into teaching him and developing course content clearly and concisely. “Dr. Dai, Dr. Ahlborn, Dr. Swartz, Dr. Morse, and Dr. Webster, I appreciate all of your hard work! Thank you! Also, thank you for taking zoom meetings outside of regular office hours to answer questions that I had on class material. I appreciate Michigan Tech taking the time to create an online master’s in structural engineering which has allowed me to advance in education while being flexible on the location. I hope that the program gains further traction, and continues to enhance students’ knowledge and understanding of the structural engineering field.”

Owen Mattila

Owen is graduating with an MS in civil engineering. After graduation, he will be moving to Baraboo, WI to work as a Graduate Engineer at MSA Professional Services. Owen says he will miss reviewing homework with friends and interacting with all the professors. He says he is thankful to Tech for everyone he has met during his time here. When asked who he would like to recognize as someone who made a difference during his time at Tech, Owen says “Thanks to my dad (Dr. Kris Mattila) for all your support and encouragement.”

Jonah Meyer

Jonah is graduating with a BS in environmental engineering. He will begin work as a Public Works Engineer in Cedar Rapids, IA after graduation. Jonah says he will miss the snow and Lake Superior and is thankful to Tech for the amazing CEGE faculty and The Army ROTC Department for personal and professional development.

Benjamin Mohrhardt

Benjamin is graduating with an MS in environmental engineering. After graduation, he plans to go to Utah for the winter and then will most like come back to MTU to pursue his PhD. Ben says he will miss the snow and is thankful for all the support in obtaining his education and research goals. He would like to recognize Dr. Daisuke Minkata and Dave Perram as people who made a difference to him while at Michigan Tech.

Srujana Neyikapula

Srujana is graduating with an MS in environmental engineering. She is looking forward to working as an environmental engineer after graduation. Srujana will miss the beautiful campus, great lake, faculty, and her friends. She says “I am thankful for all the knowledge, experience, and support I have gained from Michigan Tech. Additionally, I am thankful for all the wonderful moments and memories that I have experienced as a Tech student. I would like to recognize Dr. Audra Morse for supporting me as an advisor. I truly enjoyed being a student at Michigan Technological University. I have gained great knowledge and expertise in my domain. I will cherish the memories I had as a student at Tech. I will definitely miss being at school (especially DOW & GLRC).”

Kait Pascoe

Kait is graduating with a BS in civil engineering. After graduation, she will be working a full-time position at GEI Consultants. Kait will miss the people she has met and the nature that has surrounded her during her time at Tech. She is thankful for all the connections she has made and the Michigan Tech Concrete Canoe Club.

Theresa Passe

Theresa is graduating with an MS in environmental engineering. She will begin work as a water engineer at Carollo Engineers in Boise, Idaho after graduation. Theresa will miss the snowy walks to class and is thankful o the CEGE department for helping her grow and learn. When asked if she would like to recognize someone who made a difference during her time at Tech, Theresa says “Thank you to Dr. Becker!”

Mariah Sheeler

Mariah is graduating with a BS in civil engineering. After graduating, she will start a job at UP Engineers and Architects. Mariah will miss playing on the Rugby team and is thankful for the community of students at Michigan Tech. She would like to recognize the whole membership of Alpha Delta Alpha for making a difference to her while she was at Tech. She ends with “Shoutout to the Math Lab for being an awesome place to work for the last 3 years!”

Carlin Wong

Carlin is graduating with a BS in environmental engineering. He plans to take a trip to Asia before starting work back home in Seattle for Arcardis after graduation. Carlin will miss the Keweenaw and all its beauty. He is thankful to Tech for all the great professors that care about their students’ success. “There are so many people who have helped me, but without Dr. Ross my journey at Tech would have been much longer/chaotic. I couldn’t have done it without her help. My dad received his undergraduate degree at MTU in the Spring of 1988. I cannot wait for my turn in Winter 2022.”

Scout Wunder

Scout is graduating with a BS in construction management. After graduation, he will begin working as an Assistant Project Manager for Michels Construction. Scout says he will miss being able to snowboard at any moment and all the friends he has made during his time at Tech. He is thankful to Michigan Tech for showing him how hard work can pay off in the end. “Michigan Tech has been such a great chapter in my life and I’m looking forward to what the future holds.”

Graduates Not Pictured Above

BS in Civil Engineering

Adam Bau

Christian Benson

Allyson Goff

Adam Grady

Drew Heinonen

Ethan Kangas

Jonathan Lobsinger

Mark Luebke

Scott Marvel

Kevin Tran

BS in Construction Management

Marcus Hillstrom

Troy Manthei

Graduate Certificate in Water Resource Modeling

Lauryn Roberts

BS in Environmental Engineering

Edziu Kosiara

Margaret Purvis

MS in Civil Engineering

Michael Abosede

Maria Schadow

Michael Turner

PhD in Environmental Engineering

Emily Shaw

CEGE Seeking Corporate Sponsors for Mobile Interactive Displays

Published November 14, 2022

By Angela Keranen

The Department of Civil, Environmental, and Geospatial Engineering is seeking corporate sponsors for three Mobile Displays. The purpose of the Mobile Displays is to provide opportunities for prospective students, K-12 students, families, friends, and visitors to campus to experience civil, environmental, and geospatial engineering.

The Mobile Displays will be in prominent locations throughout Dillman Hall and Dow Engineering and Experimental Sciences Building so that prospective students on a campus tour can learn about our programs through hands-on activities and connections to real-world engineering. Being mobile, the displays will be used during K-12 Outreach events, Career Fairs at area schools, and travel with our Geospatial Engineering Trailer, which supports K-12 outreach to students in Michigan and beyond. Of course, the Mobile Displays will be deployed in our own classrooms as demonstrations faculty use to emphasize key principles to future engineers. Each Mobile Display is based on a key principle essential to the discipline and the degree program.

The key principle demonstrated in the Civil Engineering Mobile display is stress. Stress is the result of when a force like tension or compression acts on a material or body. Stress is measured as a ratio of force over area (e.g., lb/in², N/m²). The higher the force, the higher the stress—or the smaller the area the higher the stress. All materials have a “stress limit” that, if reached, will fail said material or body. Stress on a bridge beam being “loaded” by moving traffic can be controlled by changing the area moment of inertia, I, which is defined by the geometrical cross-section of the beam. The higher the moment of inertia the less stress a beam will experience. The beauty of the engineering design process in this simple case is best explained by considering that a pipe (which is hollow) will have a bigger area moment of inertia than a rod (which is solid) using the same amount of material. This Engineering Mobile Display demonstrates how a specific load (or a specific deflection) can affect the stress on a beam based on its cross-sectional shape. The many “mini beams” represent real-world structural sections currently used by industry. Students and visitors can see the interaction of loads, deflections, stresses, materials, shapes, and even failures with hands-on “interplay” and real-time calculations. The almost seemingly rudimentary principles of the ancient tried-and-true engineering process is easily explained and is sure to capture the interest, and spark curiosity, in all folks that stop by to play with us.

Concentration is the key principle demonstrated through the Environmental Engineering Mobile Display. Using their own breath, students can see the impact of the amount of CO₂ they release when they breathe in their environment. Those CO₂ concentrations are then connected to current and past atmospheric CO₂ concentration data. Concentration is a fundamental way in which we express the amount of substances in our water, air and soil environments. Helping our students experience firsthand the concept of concentration can draw them into the field.

Location is the fundamental principle demonstration in the Geospatial Engineering Mobile Display. Location is the basis of positioning, where a person, place or thing is identified in three-dimensional space. We all occupy space and location is where we are at any given point in time. This location can be quantified by measurements that ultimately identify position. Geospatial Engineers use a multitude of tools that include electronic total stations, 3D scanners, UAV’s, and GPS to precisely and accurately measure position to determine location. Look around you. There is literally nothing that has been constructed, placed, erected, or removed without first knowing its location. Location is where we are and will always be. Designed with sustainability and accessibility for all in mind, the Mobile Displays are easily transportable and easy for children of all ages to explore. Sponsorships are available for each Mobile Display. To become a CEGE Mobile Display sponsor, please contact Audra Morse at anmorse@mtu.edu or 906-487-3240.

CEGE Academy 2022

Published July 8, 2022

By Angela Keranen

News

The Department of Civil, Environmental, and Geospatial Engineering inducted four new members to the Academy at a ceremony held Thursday, March 24, 2022. The Academy was established in 1993 to recognize excellence and leadership in engineering and civic affairs of outstanding graduates and friends of the Civil, Environmental, and Geospatial Engineering Department.

Russ Becker, PE, ‘89, ‘91

Russell (Russ) Becker completed his baccalaureate (1989) and master’s (1991) degrees in civil engineering at Michigan Tech. He is the Chief Executive Officer and President of APi Group, one of the largest providers of specialty services in North America and the largest provider of life safety services in the world. Russ’ continued commitment to overall excellence has inspired APi Group to create a culture of leadership by building an exceptional learning and development program, a highly selective Leader Development Program, and an award-winning veteran’s hiring program.
Russ began his career as a field engineer with Cherne Contracting. He moved on to become a project manager for Ryan Companies during the construction of the Greenfield Recycled Paper Mill project for Liberty Paper. Upon completion of this project he joined APi Group’s subsidiary, The Jamar Company, in Duluth, Minnesota. He started as manager of construction and was named president in 1998, where he served until joining APi Group as president in 2002.
He previously served as a member of Dunwoody Institute’s board of trustees. He is the former chair of the Children’s Hospitals and Clinics of Minnesota board of directors and Children’s Hospitals and Clinics of Minnesota Foundation board of directors. He currently serves on the Children’s Foundation board of directors, the Liberty Diversified Industries board of directors, and the Marvin Companies board of directors. He also serves on the advisory board for the College of Engineering at Michigan Technological University and the board for the Construction Industry Round Table (CIRT). Russ is an active member of the Young Presidents’ Organization and the Minnesota Business Partnership. Russ resides with his wife, Trish, and three sons in Dellwood, Minnesota.

Michael Drewyor P.E., P.S. ‘72, ‘74

Michael Drewyor received his baccalaureate (1972) and master’s degrees (1974) in civil engineering from Michigan Tech. He was an owner and partner with Robert Hitch at Hitch Inc. for 30 years where he provided architectural, civil/structural and surveying services for private, industrial and government clients. The business was sold in 2007 to Orchard, Hiltz and McCliment, Inc of Livonia, Michigan
Drewyor retired from Michigan Tech in 2020 as the Roland A. Mariucci Professor of Practice where he taught for the previous 13 years. His teaching assignments included courses in Construction Management, and senior capstone courses. He was also an advisor for the Associated Schools of Construction estimating team.
Drewyor has also been active in alumni activities, serving on the Alumni Board of Directors in the 90’s, local alumni chapter president in the 00’s and Sigma Rho Fraternity, Inc board since graduation. He is a member and supporter of the Huskies Club.
Drewyor serves as a National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES) emeritus member from both the Michigan State Board of Professional Engineers and the Michigan State Board of Professional Surveyors. He previously served 8 years on both Michigan Boards. He received his commission as NCEES Central Zone vice president in 2020. As the vice president, Drewyor serves on the NCEES board of directors and as the zone’s administrative officer through 2022. He is also a current candidate for the NCEES position of President-Elect. This three-year cycle will run through August 2025.
Mike and Judy reside in Houghton, MI and have two children, Jennifer (Houghton) and Adam (Colorado).

Jennifer Hartfelder, PE, PMP ‘90

Jenny Hartfelder completed her civil engineering degree from Michigan Tech (90) and went on to complete a master’s degree in civil engineering at the University of Colorado, Denver. She is Vice President of Stantec, a top-tier global design and delivery firm. Based in Denver, Colorado, Hartfelder has over 30 years of experience providing project management and engineering design for municipal and federal clients. Her water and wastewater treatment plant experience includes the preparation of master plans, preliminary and detailed designs, and engineering services during construction. She has managed water and wastewater projects up to $10M with numerous small business subcontractors. She has extensive experience in the evaluation and design of wastewater disinfection systems, as well as business management including mentoring and leading staff, project delivery, client service management, and business development. Jenny previously served as a Strategic Campaign Manager for Stantec’s Water business leading top marketing campaigns across North America. She was responsible for leading the local pursuit teams to perform client account analyses; develop campaign plans and sales messages; and prepare statement of qualifications, proposals, and interviews. She was responsible for securing $10 to $20 million in sales per year.

She is a past president of the Water Environment Federation (WEF) and of the Rocky Mountain Water Environment Association. In 2021 she was named a WEF Fellow, one of the industry’s highest honors. She is a registered professional engineer in Colorado and Washington and Project Management Professional.

John Van Huis, PE ‘76

John Van Huis completed his baccalaureate degree in civil engineering at Michigan Tech in 1976. Upon graduation, he joined the Chicago & Northwestern Railroad (CNW) in the Chicago offices as a Structural Engineer. He went on to be Engineer of Coal Line bridges for the new Powder River Basin coal fields in Wyoming and then Bridge Engineer for the entire CNW system.

In 1987, he joined the investment group of CNW employees who purchased the Soo Line RR assets in the state of Wisconsin and Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. The Wisconsin Central Transportation Company (WCL) went on to own railroads in New Zealand and Australia where he oversaw bridge replacements and construction. While at WCL, he earned an MBA from the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh. In 1999 he joined Radtke Contractors and formed their railroad bridge and construction division. In 2009 he finished his railroad career with Alfred Benesch as Sr. Project Manager Railroads and Vice-President Wisconsin Division and retired in 2016.

Mr. Van Huis is a registered engineer in the State of Wisconsin. He has been involved in many national railroad associations over the years. He was a member of the American Railroad Engineering Association (AREA), Roadmasters and Maintenance of Way Association and American Railway Bridge and Building Association where he served as President in 1994. All three of the organizations were merged to form into what is now known as the American Railway and Engineering Association (AREMA).

John and his wife Suzanne reside in Winneconne, Wisconsin. They have two sons and one grandchild. They have both been deeply involved in their sons’ lives coaching youth hockey, soccer, and volunteering for the Oshkosh YMCA swim team. They are also supporters of the late great singer-songwriter Dan Fogelberg Prostate Cancer Foundation. In retirement, John enjoys substitute teaching in the local school systems, gardening, and international and domestic travel.

Civil, Environmental, and Geospatial Engineering 2022 Department Awards

Published May 3, 2022

By Angela Keranen

News

Undergraduate Student Awards

Nicole Bloom Award for Environmental Sustainability

This award is made annually to an undergraduate civil or environmental engineering student who has demonstrated leadership, passion, and activism for effecting environmental sustainability at the local, national, or global level.

Brian Goldberg has been selected for the 2022 Nicole Bloom Award – Brian is the current co-president of the Green Campus Enterprise. Brian was nominated for this award by Robert Handler, advisor for the Green Campus Enterprise and adjunct faculty in the CEGE Department. The Green Campus Enterprise works to design and assess projects that could have a meaningful impact on the environmental footprint of the Michigan Tech campus. Brian has been instrumental in developing new campus projects for the Green Campus Enterprise. His leadership has helped move the Green Campus Enterprise in the right direction.

The Nicole Bloom award is accompanied by the Pati and Soumitri Reddy $1000 endowed scholarship.

Department Scholar

Thomas Pastell was selected to represent the Department of Civil, Environmental, and Geospatial Engineering as our 2022 Department Scholar and to be considered for the Provost’s Award for Scholarship. Thomas is civil engineering major that exemplifies the intellectual curiosity and creativity that are the hallmarks of a high achieving student and scholar, additionally, he is extremely conscientious, honest, and hardworking. Thomas is captain of the Steel Bridge team and he is using his steel bridge activities to participate in the Built World Enterprise. He is also a trailblazer as he thought to combine the two experiential learning activities.

The Department Scholar recognition is accompanied by a $500 scholarship.

David W. Hand Environmental Process Engineering Award

This award is named after Professor Emeritus David Hand who designed the environmental engineering process lab and taught the class for over 15 years. Dr. Hand is internationally known for his expertise in water treatment.

This award recognizes a team of students from the CEE 4509 capstone environmental engineering class for: outstanding technical skills in the laboratory, outstanding teamwork and professionalism, effective oral and written communications, and excellence in safety protocol as recognized by your peers and supported by the instructor.

This year there were two teams that Dr. Jennifer Becker and Dr. Eric Seagren found best embodied the spirit of this award and both will be recognized.

Aden Clark
Margaret Purvis
Evan Rye

Malina Gallmeyer
Jack Hoffman
Anabel Needham

Each team member will receive a $100 scholarship from the CEE Department.

Graduate Student Awards

Danielle Ladwig Award for Graduate Excellence

The Danielle Ladwig Award is made annually to a graduate-level student in civil or environmental engineering in recognition of outstanding achievement in academics, research, and service, in memory of our friend and colleague, Danielle Ladwig.

This year Rose Daily was selected for the 2022 Danielle Ladwig Award. She was nominated for the award by Joan Chadde who highlighted her admirable record of service accomplishments. Rose has been especially active in promoting sustainable solutions for campus and the local community. She has been involved in numerous ways with outreach and has presented to Grade 4-12 students through the Water Festival and the Lake Superior Youth Symposium as well as career path presentations on environmental engineering for local high school students. In the past academic year, Rose has been expanding her expertise in sustainable systems at Instituto Monteverde in Costa Rica. There she has been working on a project to construct a rainwater collection system for a local K-12 school (Monteverde Friends School) and designing a constructed wetland to treat all of the grey water leaving another local K-12 school (Cloud Forest School). Rose was the recipient of an NSF GRFP Fellowship which has funded her work in Costa Rica.

This award is accompanied by the Pati and Soumitri Reddy $1000 endowed fellowship.

Wilbur Haas Graduate Research Excellence Award

The Graduate Research Excellence Award is made annually to a graduate-level student in civil or environmental engineering to recognize outstanding student scholarship and research contributions.

This year Dongzhao Jin and Yunxiang Ma have both been selected for recognition with the 2022 Graduate Research Excellence Award. The quality of their research and publications is very deserving of recognition.

Dongzhao (Kobe) Jin is a civil engineering doctoral candidate advised by Dr. Zhanping You. He is researching sustainable asphalt pavements. To date, his research has led to a number of papers including 15 published peer-reviewed journal papers, 2 conference proceedings, and 1 under-review paper. His strong track record is equivalent to those of many assistant professors in well-known institutions. In addition to his publications, he has also been very active to help seek funding and preparing proposals for my research group. He is enthusiastically preparing himself to become a future researcher to develop sustainable construction materials. His efforts in teaching made him earn the Outstanding Graduate Student Teaching Award in 2020. He also received the 2022 Graduate Student Government Exceptional Student Scholar Award.

Yunxiang Ma is a civil engineering doctoral candidate advised by Dr. Qingli Dai. He is researching the mechanical behavior of CLT walls and wind and seismic performance of CLT shear wall structures. Mr. Ma has dedicated his research to developing the research results on performance evaluation of CLT panels and resilient CLT shear wall structures. His research has resulted in 8 journal papers, 2 under second-review papers, and 1 to-be-submitted manuscript. It is noted that he has published papers in several high-impacted journals (in our field) including the Journal of Cleaner Production (IF: 7.246), the Journal of Construction and Building Materials (IF: 4.419), and ASCE Journal of Structure Engineering (IF: 2.528). These three journals are the most highly rated in the field of construction materials and structural engineering, respectively. He has also worked collaboratively with the scientists in the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Forest product Lab and Colorado School of Mines for different research projects. He is the recipient of the Graduate School Finishing Fellowship and the 2022 Department Outstanding Scholarship Award.

This award is accompanied by a $1000 Wilbur Haas Memorial Fellowship.

Department Citizenship Award

The Department Citizenship Award recognizes a faculty and staff member that ‘goes the extra mile whether it be in representing the Department, helping colleagues, or participating at events. The award is decided by the Department Chair and is accompanied by a $1000 to a faculty IRAD or staff extra compensation.

This was a tough decision as so many have stepped up to ensure our teaching, research and service activities excelled during the last year, despite shrinking budgets, colleague departures, and challenges created because of COVID.

Jeffery Hollingsworth is being recognized for his incredible service this year. Jeffery is recognized for stepping up following a sudden departure of a faculty member, filling in for a faculty member who was having health problems, and for serving on the faculty search committee. In addition to all that, Jeffery has actively participated in the recruitment process, kept up with binder changes on behalf of the geospatial program, leading the departmental assessment activities, and is participating in teacher and K-12 outreach events this summer. Thank you Jeffery for your service to your colleagues, our students, and prospective students.

Due to the sudden departure of Dave Perram and the retirement of Chris Wojick, a huge void was created in the CEGE safety program. Kiko (aka Henrique de Melo e Silva) is receiving the Departmental Citizen Award for willingly stepping up to fill the vacancy and subsequently leading safety activities at the college and university level. Thank you for being willing to grow in taking on this role.

Student Voted Awards

Faculty of the Year – and GTA of the Year

The CEGE Department has two awards that are voted on by the departmental students, the GTA of the Year and the Faculty of the Year Award. We appreciate the work of Chi Epsilon and their advisor, Stephen Morse, for conducting the voting.

The Faculty of the Year award will recognize two faculty – the top voted faculty from the Civil/Geospatial Engineering specialties and the top voted faculty from the Environmental/Water Resources Engineering specialties. This award will be accompanied by a $1000 transfer to the faculty IRAD index.

Stan Vitton

Dr. Stan Vitton joined the faculty of the Department of Civil, Environmental, and Geospatial Engineering in 1994. Over the years he has shared his knowledge with CEGE students on a wide variety of engineering topics as well as his industrial engineering experience with Shell Oil. He has instructed numerous courses in the geotechnical engineering specialty. His research has been in the area of geotechnical materials and during his twenty-eight years at Michigan Tech, he had 31 peer-reviewed publications, 20 peer-reviewed conference proceedings, 27 reports, 4 book chapters, 61 professional presentations, 2 U.S. and international patents, and a total research funding of $6.3 million with $2.3 million directly attributed to Dr. Vitton. In June 2022, Stan will retire from the CEGE Department.

Noel Urban

Dr. Urban joined the faculty of the Department of Civil, Environmental, and Geospatial Engineering in 1995. His teaching interests are in the environmental engineering domain and include: Environmental Engineering Chemical Processes, Surface Water Quality Engineering, and Global Biogeochemistry. He has an active research program and has interests in wetland biogeochemistry, sediment diagenesis, and the environmental impact and fate of pollutants.

GTA of the Year Award

The GTA of the Year award recognizes the top voted graduate teaching assistant from all the Department’s specialty areas. This award will be accompanied by a $500 fellowship.

Tyler LeMahieu is the 2022 GTA of the year. He was a GTA for CEE 3620, Water Resources Engineering.

Congratulations to the Spring 2022 Graduates

Published April 28, 2022

By Angela Keranen

News

The Department of Civil, Environmental, and Geospatial Engineering would like to congratulate our spring and summer graduates and raise you up for all to see. We are proud of you and want to wish you the best of luck in your next chapter.

Lindsey Anderson

Lindsey will graduate with a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering. She will be working full-time at Harmon, Inc. and attending the online master’s program part-time at Michigan Tech after graduation. Lindsey will miss the beautiful Copper Country and is thankful for Tech for giving her the opportunity to be a part of a wonderful community with her fellow Huskies.

Elizabeth Beckas

Elizabeth is graduating with her bachelor’s degree in civil engineering. After graduation, she will be working at Ames Construction. Elizabeth says she will miss her friends and old hallmates and is thankful to Tech for all the opportunities. She would like to recognize Joseph Foster and David Nelson as faculty that made a difference to her while at Michigan Tech.

Annika Bergstrom

Annika is graduating with a bachelor’s degree in environmental engineering. Annika will move to Minneapolis, Minnesota after graduation where she will have a position as a civil engineer at Black & Veatch. Her team will be focused on all things water – treatment, supply, and conveyance. She says she looks forward to playing recreational sports (softball and bromball), continuing to play trombone, and volunteering in her community. Annika says she will miss all of the snow that we get at Tech -“It can be a pain at times, but overwhelmingly it provides a lot of beauty and fun!” She is thankful for the knowledge and experiences she has gained, saying “I’ve learned a lot about my field as well as how to work in teams, how to be a leader, and how to be a good friend. I would like to recognize my peer and good friend Danielle. We were roommates our freshman year, and we’ve been great friends ever since. She has pushed me to be a better person and student, and we’ve shared lots of great memories together.”

Emily Berkompas

Emily will graduate with a master’s degree in civil engineering. After graduation, she will work for OHM Advisors in Petoskey, Michigan. Emily says she will miss broomball, Winter Carnival and her friends. When asked if she would like to recognize someone for making a difference while at Michigan Tech, Emily states “The CEE Department is amazing; I have felt so well-supported throughout my time at Tech.”

Audra Bialik

Audra is graduating with a bachelor’s degree in environmental engineering. This summer she will be a Water Resources Engineering Intern at Westwood Professional Services and will return to Michigan Tech in the fall to pursue her master’s degree in environmental engineering. Audra says she will miss playing ultimate frisbee with Superior Mas and is thankful for the beauty of the Upper Penninsula; specifically the geographic wonders of the Keweenaw. She would like to recognize Dr. Laura Kasson Fiss for always giving her insightful guidance during her experience of her undergrad.

Joshua Bregger

Joshua is graduating with a graduate certificate in geospatial data science as well as a master’s in geology. After graduation, he will begin a summer internship working as the Minerals and Geology Assitant with the Caribou-Targhee National Forest. Beyond that, would like to utilize the geospatial knowledge and skills he has gained to research geohazards. Joshua is thankful to Michigan Tech for connecting him with knowledgeable faculty and providing opportunities to connect with potential employers. He would like to thank Greg Waite and Luke Bowman for their advisement and guidance throughout the completion of his degree.

Skylar Callis

Skylar will graduate with a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering and applied mathematics. After graduation, Skylar will participate in the Los Alamos National Laboratory’s Dynamic Summer School (LADSS) from June-August and then transition to their post-baccalaureate program. Skylar will miss the sense of community that comes from living in a very snowy landscape far away from everything and is thankful for the opportunity to do research as an undergrad through the enterprise program. Dr. Kelly Steelman and David Olson are two people that Skylar would like to recognize for making a difference while at Michigan Tech. “The most valuable part of my education was not any of the technical skills, but the problem-solving, teamwork, and technical writing that Tech was able to integrate throughout my education.”

Aden Clark

Aden is graduating with a bachelor’s degree in environmental engineering. After graduation, she will be working as an environmental engineer in Madison, Wisconsin for Tetra Tech. Aden says she will miss the people at Michigan Tech and is thankful for the teachers that are more than just instructors. She would like to recognize Emma Melchiori as someone who made a difference during her time at Michigan Tech.

Katherine Cruickshank

Katherine will be graduating with a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering. She will be commissioned into the United States Air Force after graduation. Katherine will be heading south after graduation and will miss the winter weather. She is thankful to Michigan Tech for giving her the opportunity to join a tight-knit group of individuals who have become her second family. Katherine says “Shout out to Ally Noles for keeping me sane for the last five years.”

Kelton Czyzio

Kelton is graduating with a master’s degree in civil engineering. After graduation, he will move to Whitefish, Montana to work for Eclipse Engineering. Kelton says he will miss Mont Ripley and is thankful to Michigan Tech for the opportunities to meet a ton of new people and the knowledge he has gained from professors and students. He would like to thank all his professors that have helped him along his journey at Michigan Tech, with special recognition to Dr. Kris Mattila and Dr. Tess Ahlborn.

Kyle Danko

Kyle is graduating with a master’s degree in environmental engineering. He will be working for the consulting firm Wade Trim in Detroit after graduation. Kyle says he will miss many things about Michigan Tech; however, he will most importantly miss the incredible atmosphere around campus. He says he is thankful to Tech for providing the necessary resources and giving him an opportunity to develop, not only as a student but as a budding professional. Kyle would like to thank his advisor Dr. Melanie Kueber Watkins for being an outstanding professor, and even better advisor. – “She let me follow my own path, and helped me achieve my goals every step along the way. Deciding to go to Michigan Tech back in 2016 was the best decision I have ever made, and I’m definitely going to be visiting often! Go Huskies!”

Danielle Demorest

Danielle is graduating with a bachelor’s degree in environmental engineering. She says she will miss the community at Michigan Tech and is thankful for being pushed past her comfort zone.

Davis Dietel

Davis will graduate with a bachelor’s degree in environmental engineering. After graduating, he will be commissioned into the US Air Force. Davis will miss the area the most – “Being able to drive 20 minutes and go for a hike or see a waterfall isn’t something you get to do everywhere.” He says he is thankful for the teachers and all of the great opportunities they provided and the knowledge they gave him.

Chiarra Elkort-Wickboldt

Chiarra is graduating with a master’s degree in environmental engineering. After graduation, she will be working for Ford Motor Company. Chiarra says she will miss all the snow-related activities the Houghton area has to offer.

Allyson Fenton

Allyson is graduating with a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering. She will work for Westwood Professional Services as a civil engineering intern for the summer and will return to Michigan Tech in the fall to pursue her MS degree in environmental engineering. Allyson says she will miss getting to live in such a beautiful area and doing countless outdoor activities, especially with all the snow we get. She will also miss getting to walk through campus and watch the seasons change. She says she is thankful for all the instructors and professors she has had over the years that truly cared about her learning and taught her everything they could in each class – especially those in the CEGE Department. When asked if she would like to recognize someone for making a difference during her time at Michigan Tech, Allyson says “I would like to congratulate Dr. Vitton on his retirement. I would also like to thank him for sharing his love of soil and rocks with me and guiding me through the world of academia. I would also like to thank Julie Ross for always being able to conceptualize my continually changing interests over the years into viable course plans, allowing me to explore my passions and get the most out of my degree.”

Amanda Freele

Amanda will graduate with a master’s degree in environmental engineering. She will be doing work in consulting after graduation.

Maya Geiselhart

Maya is graduating with a bachelor’s degree in environmental engineering. After graduation, she will be moving to Minneapolis, MN to work for Barr Engineering as an environmental engineer in their assessment & remediation business unit. May will miss the surrounding nature and the ability to always go hiking/snowshoeing/etc. As a member of the rowing club, she even got to take full advantage of access to the Portage (when it isn’t frozen). Maya is thankful for all of the people who have helped her throughout her college career, from her sorority sisters to other students to a handful of staff/faculty, She states she received a lot of support whenever she needed it and was able to make a community for herself. When asked if she would like to recognize someone who made a difference to her while at Michigan Tech, she states “Dr. Audra Morse significantly impacted me throughout my college career. Through my participation in Built World Enterprise, I spent a lot of time meeting with Dr. Morse and her insights and encouragements have been deeply valuable to me. As ready as I am to graduate, I have really loved my undergrad experience in the CEGE department and will miss many people here!”

Ryan Glatz

Ryan will graduate with a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering. Ryan will be working for Applied Science, Inc. as one of their staff engineers after graduation. He says he’ll miss being able to walk his dog around campus and all the trails in the area. Ryan says he is thankful for the dedication of the CEGE department and the feeling that professors care about the success of students. He would like to recognize Dr. Melanie Watkins and her instruction on various modeling software as it allowed him to stand out during the interview process and secure employment.

Charlie Gotta

Charlie is graduating with a master’s degree in civil engineering. He will move to Colorado to begin work in structural engineering after graduation. Charlie says he will miss the tight-knit community at Michigan Tech. He says he is thankful for all the opportunities and advancement provided for student development and would like to recognize all of the CEGE department for making a difference while he was at Tech.

Braden Gunderson

Braden will graduate with his bachelor’s degree in civil engineering. After graduation, he plans to work. Braden says he will miss the scenery and the town and is thankful to Michigan Tech for getting him outside in a wonderful part of Michigan. He would like to recognize Dr. Kris Mattila as someone who made a difference to him while at Michigan Tech.

Trevor Harrison

Trevor is graduating with a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering. He will be working at G2 Consulting as a Staff Engineer after graduation. Trevors says he will miss the friends that he has made in the past 5 years at Tech and the UP outdoors. He says he is thankful to Michigan Tech for giving him the opportunities that he wouldn’t experience anywhere else. When asked if he would like to recognize anyone, he named Dr. Stan Vitton, saying “Dr. Stanley Vitton, great professor and he has given me great pointers that I can see being very helpful in industry.”

Colton Heikkinen

Colton is graduating with a master’s degree in civil engineering. After graduation, Colton will be working as a Structural Engineer at Fire Tower Engineered in Calumet, Michigan. He says he will miss the friends that he has made and attending Tech hockey games. Colton says he is thankful to Michigan Tech for giving him a quality education and providing him with multiple different paths for his career. When asked if would like to recognize someone who made a difference during his time at Tech, he says “Dr. Tess Ahlborn made the most difference in my life at Tech. If it wasn’t for her pushing me and challenging me, I never would have discovered that I enjoyed Structural Engineering and it was because of her that I was able to obtain the job I have after graduation.”

Jack Hoffman

Jack will graduate with a bachelor’s degree in environmental engineering. He says he will hopefully find a good job after graduation. Jack will miss all his friends at St. Al’s, the snow, and the whole Keweenaw and is thankful to Michigan Tech for the rigorous and challenging classes and the professors who make sure they are available to help student’s succeed.

Mack Hull

Mack is graduating with a bachelor’s degree in construction management. He has accepted a job at the company he has always wanted to work for and will begin after graduation. Mack says that he is thankful to Michigan Tech for the chance to meet so many new people from all over the world.

Sean Hurst

Sean will graduate with this master’s degree in Integrated Geospatial Technology. Sean says he will hopefully move to where he has a job once graduating. He says he will miss all the wonderful staff and the outdoor opportunities. Sean is thankful to Tech for giving him more knowledge about the surveying side of GIS and would like to recognize Dr. Eugene Levin as someone who made a difference to him while studying at Michigan Tech.

Samantha Johnson

Samantha is graduating with a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering. After graduation, she will be pursuing her master’s degree in civil engineering at Michigan Tech. Samantha says she will miss the snow, but will not miss the cold weather that comes with it. She is thankful to Michigan Tech for expanding her mind, not just in the classroom but in her life in general, stating she will be graduating a much more confident, open-minded, and fulfilled person. She says “I would like to thank my other half, Andrew, who has made my college experience all the more memorable and exciting. I would also like to thank my parents, Dalene and Athol, who have supported me and encouraged me to chase my dreams every step of the way.”

Nick Kampfschulte

Nick is graduating with a bachelor’s degree in environmental engineering. After graduation, he plans to pursue a graduate degree while working in the field. Nick says he will certainly not miss the cold but is thankful for the departmental community and would like to recognize Dr. Cory McDonald as someone who made a difference to him while at Michigan Tech.

Shaelyn Koleber

Shaelyn will graduate with a bachelor’s degree in environmental engineering. After graduation, she will be moving to Cincinnati to work for Stantec as a Water Resources Designer. When asked what she will miss about Michigan Tech she says “There’s a lot to miss about Michigan Tech… but mostly I love the location and the environment it’s in: study breaks on Breakers beach, skiing at Mont Ripley at sunset, watching Isle Royale sea planes take off and land on the portage, and jumping into icy cold Lake Superior. It is such a unique college experience and I will cherish it forever.” Shaelyn says she is thankful that Michigan Tech offers the opportunity for enterprise, saying it has changed her entire outlook on her career and that many schools do not have anything comparable to it. Because of this, it has been a huge talking point on job applications and in interviews because there is so much knowledge and real-world experience gained. Say that thhe program is set up where you have easy access to resources, have the freedom to work with industry, and are able to apply knowledge from classes to something tangible. When asked to recognize someone who has made a difference while at Tech, Shaelyn says “Dr. Roman Sidortsov has been the best mentor for me this last year. The work that he does is admirable, and I was lucky enough to have the opportunity to work with him on the KETL team. It is obvious that Dr. Sidortsov cares for his students because he always made time to meet with me even with his hectic schedule. I think he has made such a positive impact on the world (me included) and is one of the most respected individuals on this campus. I am sure Dr. Sidortsov has made an impact on many Huskies, but I wanted to recognize him because he has gone above and beyond to support me this last year. I am excited to stay in contact with him following graduation.”

Rachelle Krieger

Rachelle is graduating with a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering. She has a job lined up to start after graduation.

Yunxiang Ma

Yunxiang is graduating with PhD in civil engineering. He plans on going into industry for first-hand experience after graduating. Ma says he will miss the peaceful small town of Houghton and all the friendly staff and faculty. He says that he is thankful for Michigan Tech always being thoughtful for everything student’s need – especially IPS. He would like to recognize every staff and faculty that helped him during his time at Michigan Tech – “All thoughtful and warm hearted.”

Kate Mahonen

Kate will graduate with a bachelor’s degree in environmental engineering. After graduation, she will be moving to Minneapolis to work at Bolton and Menk on municipal water and wastewater treatment projects. Kate says she will miss Winter Carnival the most “Campus comes together to work on snow statues, spend time on campus and enjoy being a tech student!” She says she is thankful for to Michigan Tech because she never though that she would be able to graduate with an engineering degree. “The faculty and fellow students helped me get to where I am today. I could not have asked for a better college experience.”

Derek Mahoski

Derek is graduating with a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering. After graduation, he will begin working at Coleman Engineering. Derek says he will miss the city of Houghton and is thankful to Michigan Tech for giving him a great education.

Isabel Manson

Isabel will graduate with a bachelor’s degree in environmental engineering. She will be taking the summer off to travel and re-charge while she applies for jobs all over. Isabel says “I’ll sorely miss having the Keweenaw as my playground. This place is magic. I’m thankful to Michigan Tech for supporting adaptive and capable women like myself. To all my friends who know who they are, I love you!”

Rachel May

Rachel is graduating with a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering. After graduation, she plans to work full-time at Barton Marlow while also pursuing her MS in civil engineering. Rachel says she will most miss interacting with students and faculty. She says she is thankful to the Michigan Tech faculty, saying she has learned a lot throughout her four years and it was all due to the wonderful professors she had. Rachel would like to recognize Dr. Ahlborn for helping her figure out how to pursue her MS and also exciting her to enter the Civil Engineering Field. “I am grateful to have been able to obtain my BS from Michigan Tech! I could not have imagined going anywhere else!”

Sydney Mukavetz

Sydney is graduating with a master’s degree in civil engineering. She will move to Colorado to begin work with RS&H after graduation. Sydney says she will miss the natural beauty of the campus and the Keweenaw and is thankful for the opportunities that Michigan Tech was able to open up for her, whether in her professional life or her social life.

Sabrina Nystrom

Sabrina is graduating with a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering. She will be joining Delta Airport Consultants through their Launch Program after graduation. Sabrina says she will miss how close the Tech community is as well as living with the same bunches of people and growing up with them for four years. She says she is thankful for “How lively a bunch of mentally and physically tired a bunch of nerds can be over hockey and snow. I would like to recognize many people, but especially those that helped me through troubled waters. Starting with professors, Dr. Mattila and Dr. Hein. Your support did wonders for my confidence. Following them, my dear friends Josh, Jonah, Ian, the ‘Rumpets, and Huskies Pep Band. Thank you all. We certainly are crazy smart. Crazy comma smart.”

Clinton Ottman

Clinton will graduate with his master’s degree in environmental engineering. After graduation, he will work in industry for at least a few years and then possibly go back to school to get his PhD, if that is the right decision for him to do. Clinton says he will miss the sense of community that MTU has between its students, faculty, and staff. He is thankful for the type of education he received at MTU. “The classes pushed me to think outside of what I previously knew and challenged me which will make me a better engineer – “I would like to recognize all of the faculty and staff that I had the pleasure of working with and receiving instruction and advice from during my time at MTU. I would especially like to recognize the three amazing people I got the opportunity to work with through my two on-campus jobs: Dr. Audra Morse, Julie Ross, and Dr. Gretchen Hein.”

Bailey Papes

Bailey is graduating with a master’s degree in environmental engineering. She has accepted a water and wastewater engineer position with Fishbeck in Grand Rapids, Michigan that she will start after graduation. Bailey says she thinks living in Houghton is what she will miss the most as it is a beautiful area. She is thankful for all the research opportunities she was able to be a part of.

John Paramski

John will graduate with a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering. He will begin his career as a civil engineer after graduation. John says he will miss the Football Boys and is thankful to Michigan Tech for teaching him that $2 Miller High-Life is never worth it. He would like to recognize Gordon L. Marcinak as someone who made a difference to him while at Michigan Tech.

Ben Passolt

Ben is graduating with a bachelor’s in civil engineering. After graduation, he will work for Westwood Professional Services in Minnetonka, Minnesota. Ben says he will miss morning shakeout runs on Maasto. He is thankful to Michigan Tech for providing lots of opportunity to prepare him for industry and would like to recognize Dr. Kris Mattila and Dr. Stan Vitton for teaching him “more than a degree’s worth of wisdom.”

Maggie Peterson

Maggie will graduate with a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering. She will further her education at Michigan Tech in the MBA program and then pursue a career in civil engineering after graduation. Maggie says she will miss the community and the people.

Brock Petrak

Brock is graduating with a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering. He will work as a structural or marine engineer after graduation. Brock says he will miss the snow, Mont Ripley and the Portage Lake Golf Course.

Spencer Plummer

Spencer will graduate with a bachelor’s in surveying engineering. After graduation, he will begin working for MDOT in Saginaw, Michigan. Spencer says he will miss all of the friends he has made over the years and is thankful to Michigan Tech for giving him the chance to become the best person he can be. Spencer says “I would like to recognize Joseph Foster for being a great mentor, and also Trevor Maizland, Kaden Arsenault, and the rest of my Brothers at Sigma Rho for being my support these past five years.”

Erik Puskala

Erik is graduating with a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering. He will be working for Cleveland Cliffs in Minnesota for the summer but will be back on campus in the fall to pursue his MBA. Erik says he is thankful for all the free learning centers that helped him a lot as a first and second-year student.

Maddie Reitz

Maddie is graduating with a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering. She will attend graduate school to broaden her knowledge base after graduation. Maddy will miss the husky spirit, the memories made at MUB events, and most of all the people she has met while at Tech, both professors and peers. She is incredibly grateful for not only the connections she has made while here but the lessons learned about overcoming hardship and perseverance. When asked if she would like to recognize someone who made a difference during her time at Tech, Maddie says “This list would be a mile long but if I had to choose just one, it would be Jessie Stapleton. I’ve learned a lot through my coursework at Michigan Tech, but even more than that, I’ve gained a plethora of professional skills. Most of those were from Jessie. She’s taught me not only how to manage conflict, but how to have hard conversations, manage a team, delegate, and rekindle my passion for an organization. Her dedication to MUB Board continues to inspire me every day. We are certainly lucky to have her.”

Brian Rivers

Brian will graduate with his master’s degree in environmental engineering. After graduation, he plans a bike tour and will return to Peru. Brian says he will miss Write-D and is thankful to Michigan Tech for the very helpful faculty and staff – “I certainly wouldn’t have been able to complete my report without the numerous, generous, and enthusiastic donations of time, assistance, and patience. Dr. David Watkins for being an exemplary advisor and challenging me to push my academic boundaries. Dr. Barkdoll and Dr. Webster for being outstanding professors and reviewing my research. Christian Sheja, Hunter King, and Kenny Larsen for their friendship and support. Rob Fritz and Tom Polkinghorn for their help throughout my research Bailey Papes for letting me vent all my Peace Corps stories and gladly helping with any academic question. Jessica Daignault for setting me up for success in my second year Dr. Audra Morse for offering me many co-curricular opportunities The Write-D CEGE group! Shelle and Angela for opening my office door countless times Keweenaw Running Group and Red Jacket Cycling Club for keeping me sane (and fit).”

Autumn Sanford

Autumn is graduating with a bachelor’s degree in environmental engineering. She has been accepted as a full-time Application Engineer with Voith Meri Environmental Solutions and will start after graduation. Autumn will miss being five minutes away from her friends at Tech and is thankful that she met so many wonderful people. Autumns ask for Tech to “Please expand the vegan food provided at MTU and promote reducing the consumption of animal products for MTU’s current and future students‘ health and Planet.”

Zach Servinski

Zach will graduate with a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering. He will go to work after graduation and will miss the people at Michigan Tech.

Darud Sheefa

Sheefa will graduate with a PhD in civil engineering with a water resources emphasis. After graduation, she will join Wood, Dallas office as a Technical Professional 3. Sheefa says she ill miss all the friendly faces, her office in Dow, the husky statue, snowy weather, and the beautiful summer. She is thankful to Michigan Tech for providing her a friendly environment and sufficient support and guidance throughout her PhD journey. When asked if she would like to recognize someone who has made a difference to her at Tech, Sheefa says “I would like to especially thank my advisor Dr. Brian Barkdoll. He was always a guardian to me in this foreign land. He never pushed me for anything rather he always inspired and appreciated me in such a way that I, myself felt the urge to finish my work on time. He regularly used to ask about my family and personal life which made me feel at home all the time.”

Preston Smith

Preston is graduating with a bachelor’s degree in construction management. He will be a USAF Air Battle Manager at Tyndall AFB after graduation. Preston says he will miss being part of the fishing club and fly fishing all the rivers and streams in the area. He says he is thankful for the outdoor opportunities and adventures Michigan Tech provided. “This school taught me great lessons in perseverance, determination, and working towards your goals.”

Jacob Stewart

Jacob is graduating with a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering. After graduation, he will be working full-time at Spicer Group out of Saginaw, MI while working towards his master’s degree. Jacob says he will miss the beauty of the landscape of the Keweenaw. He is thankful to Michigan Tech for the rigorous classes that prove that real-world work is not nearly as stressful and would like to recognize Dr. Kris Mattila as someone who made ad difference to him during his time at Tech.

Taylor Stewart

Taylor is graduating with a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering. After graduating, he plans to join Canadian Pacific Railway as a Civil Engineer-in-Training. Taylor says he will miss the great friends at Tech, saying “It’s home to many memories. I hope that as we all move away, we can stay connected. Thank you to my parents and grandparents who were always there to talk with and support me throughout my education. Thank you to all the people who made the past four years not only rewarding but enjoyable.”

Chloe Strach

Chloe will graduate with a bachelor’s in environmental engineering. She will begin working for Spicer Group after graduation. Chloe says she will miss the Tech trails once she leaves Michigan Tech.

Maddy Tata

Maddy is graduating with a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering. After graduation, she will be moving downstate to start her job with ITC. Maddy says she will really miss all of the amazing activities the Keweenaw has to offer and is thankful for all the wonderful people she has met throughout her time at Michigan Tech.

Jemel Thompson

Jemel will graduate with a bachelor’s degree in environmental engineering. He will miss the supportive community that he was able to find at Michigan Tech and is thankful for all the leadership development and opportunities he was able to participate in, the ability to strengthen his value of community, and making an engineer out of a music major. Jemel would like to recognize Rachel Jones, Alexandra Marshall, and Susan Liebau for people who made difference to him while at Michigan Tech.

Lucinda Toppen

Lucy will graduate with a bachelor’s degree in environmental engineering. She will pursue her PhD in environmental engineering at the University of Vermont after graduation. Lucy will miss “the access to the outdoors. Being able to ski two spots in the same day is incredible. Mont Ripley has been an awesome way to make friends and get outside during the cold and school work heavy winter months. All of the waterfalls and mine ruins offer a rich and dense natural areas that are so unique to the Keweenaw. Exploring the Keweenaw with my friends are some of my most cherished memories of my time at Tech.”

Something she is thankful for is the wonderful faculty and staff that are always willing to help students achieve their academic and professional goals. She was able to pursue two undergraduate research projects and was even fortunate enough to work with a team that published an academic paper during her Junior year, setting her up for the future work she intends to do. “Dr. Audra Morse was the first professor I sat down to talk with my Senior year of high school on my first visit to Michigan Tech. A year later she became my enterprise advisor and mentor. Working with her as my enterprise advisor and department chair has been inspiring and has allowed me to develop project skills I would not have otherwise.”

Isabel Valencia

Isabel is graduating with a bachelor’s degree in environmental engineering. She will continue on for her accelerated master’s at Tech in the fall. Isabel is thankful to Michigan Tech for preparing her for future opportunities in her field and providing great opportunities in her classes and extracurricular activities.

Jordan Wheeler

Jordan will graduate with a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering. He will move to start his career at Northfolk Southern after graduation. Jordan says he will miss his friends and is thankful for the Rail Transportation Program for offering a unique set of courses.

Dean Wozniak

Dean is graduating with a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering. After graduation, he will be working for the city of Ann Arbor over the summer and potentially returning to Michigan Tech in the fall to pursue his accelerated master’s degree in civil engineering. Dean says of his time at Michigan Tech “The sense of community is greater here than any other place I have lived. I’ll also miss the fall colors, rock picking, and the ability to go skiing whenever I have the time. I’m thankful that I’ve gotten the chance to learn from some amazing and extremely smart professors. They have gone above and beyond to provide the support I needed to succeed! I would like to recognize the professors who have gone out of their way to help me with the day-to-day struggles of the past few years. These professors cultivated a classroom environment that was warm, welcoming, and where I wasn’t afraid to ask questions or make mistakes. Those individuals are Dr. Melanie Kueber-Watkins, Dr. John Gierke, Dr. Kris Mattila, and Dr. Gretchen Hein.”

Graduates Not Pictured Above

BS in Civil Engineering

Casey Abel

Trent Bell

Stephanie Bobo

Zach Bormet

Jason Cinader

Luciano Cistaro

Lauren Cole

Corey Curtis

Grant Freudenstein

Drew Heinonen

Wade Impola

Jacob Johns

Stephen McGregor

Travis Meyette

Mary Ollis

Greg Porcaro

Morgan Raley

Stanton Schmitz

Brandon Schultz

Marc Shean

Jake Tallon

Brendan Varga

Andrew Vega

Rayanne Williams

Nathan Willour

Casey Wioskowski

Victor Yousof

BS in Construction Management

Wyatt Bisballe

Corey Cotey

Jack Lacy

Chase Noykos

Brad Rievert

BS in Environmental Engineering

Katie Adair

Michelle Bollini

Rachel Fuller

Jenna Kivela-Heinz

Skyler Kruger

Max McGuire

Nicole Mielcarek

Ally Noles

Nick Portwine

Joseph Primeau

Evan Rye

Madison Seymour

Lily Sparks

Travis Yell

BS in Geospatial Engineering

Connor Welling

MS in Civil Engineering

Cooper Ryan

Michael Turner

Alex Weitermann

MS in Environmental Engineering

Benjamin Mohrhardt

MS in Integrated Geospatial Technology

John Lutchko

Andrew Jolman

Samuel Shumaker

PhD in Civil Engineering

Behnam Azmoon

Reihaneh Samsami

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