Kimberly Holmes is a hydraulic engineer at the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT), performing hydrologic and hydraulic analyses for MDOT’s culverts, bridges, and storm conveyance systems. Her primary responsibility is reviewing hydraulic connections from tributary properties to MDOT Right-of-Way, ensuring MDOT drainage standards are met.
Kim has worked at MDOT for 14 years, both as a hydraulic engineer and environmental contamination specialist. She has previously held positions at the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in the Divisions of Surface Water, Hazardous Waste Management, and Air Pollution Control.
Kim earned a degree in civil engineering (with emphasis in environmental engineering) from the University of Akron, and a degree in hazardous materials management from the University of Findlay.
2. What does a typical work day look like?
75% Office Work – calculate and review hydrologic/hydraulic data needed to approve or deny hydraulic connections to or through MDOT Right-of-Way (ROW) and ensure that the drainage capacity of the conveyance system is adequate for MDOT’s use; consult with region permit staff, consulting engineers, and other government agencies to ensure MDOT drainage criteria are met; provide guidance and technical expertise on MDOT drainage requirements as well as hydraulic calculation methodologies; calculate and review the hydrologic/hydraulic data needed to design or analyze the hydraulic capacity of transportation facilities such as culverts, bridges, storm sewers and storm water storage.
25% Field Work – collect data for design of culverts, bridges, and stormwater management systems.
3. What are other career paths in your field?
Civil/environmental engineers have a number of career paths to choose from in the transportation engineering field, including road, bridge, hydraulic, and geotechnical engineering.
4. When you were a college freshman or sophomore, did you see yourself doing what you are doing today? No. If not, then what led you to what you are doing now?
My introduction to state government was a civil engineering co-op position with Ohio EPA, Surface Water Division. After graduating with my civil engineering degree, I joined Ohio EPA full time, working mostly with environmental regulatory compliance in the Hazardous Waste Management and Air Pollution Control Divisions. I continued to work in regulatory compliance after moving to Michigan, joining MDOT’s Environmental Services Division. It wasn’t until after working 20+ years with environmental regulatory compliance that I realized I needed a change. I missed applying my knowledge of engineering principles and performing mathematical computations. That’s when, approximately four years ago, I applied for my current position as a hydraulic engineer.
5. For students with little or no work-related experience, how can they grow their resumes?
Work as an intern for the State of Michigan. MDOT’s Internship Program (formerly MDOT Co-op Program) offers undergraduate/graduate students interested in civil engineering, civil technology, construction management and land surveying the opportunity to gain work experience, develop professional competence and long-range career goals, integrate work experiences with academic knowledge, and establish a professional network.
https://www.michigan.gov/mdot/0,4616,7-151-9623_38029_38058—,00.html
https://www.michigan.gov/mdot/0,4616,7-151-9623_38029_57100—,00.html
6. What are some essential skills that employers are looking for?
Critical thinking, technical writing and the ability to communicate effectively with others, and computer skills including Excel and CAD/Microstation.
7. What advice do you have for young college students who are uncertain about their career paths?
It might take a few tries before finding the right career path, but it’s never too late. Get as much hands-on experience as possible, and know that the bravest thing you can do is to fail at something you love.