Kelsey Kern, EIT

What do you love most about your job? 

“I love that each project presents an opportunity to educate people about the importance of our environment, infrastructure, and how we all impact one another. Civil engineering is an under-appreciated profession. The average person does not realize all the things that civil engineers have done well, but when civil infrastructure fails it has a direct impact on our daily lives. Engineers can be advocates for new, sustainable, and resilient infrastructure that benefits both people and the environment!” 

What drew you to working in civil engineering and planning? 

“I knew in middle school I wanted to be a landscape architect, so that was my first passion – to create memorable spaces and preserve landscapes people love. As a landscape architecture student, I found I had a skill for the engineering aspects of design. Later, I decided to pursue a degree in civil engineering to focus on green infrastructure applications of stormwater management. I love being at the intersection of two wonderful professions! Two different thought processes, but with common goals.” 

What are you passionate about outside of work? 

“My sassy Australian Shepherd, Echo, keeps me busy! I moved to Massachusetts from Omaha, Nebraska in the summer of 2020, so I have enjoyed meeting new people, exploring new places, practicing town name pronunciations, and eating lobster rolls. I really enjoy helping organize events for the Worcester office and Resilience Planning & Design team. I also love to sew dresses and am always planning my next Halloween costume!”