Pennoni’s Employee Spotlight series gives you a behind-the-scenes look at the talented individuals who make our company thrive. Each month, we highlight a team member’s journey, their passion for engineering and innovation, and the unique impact they’re making at Pennoni.
This month, we’re featuring Austin Spencer, PE, geotechnical project manager in our Newark, DE, office. Austin is a licensed professional engineer with over six years of experience. A 2019 graduate of the University of Delaware with a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering, Austin specializes in the areas of geotechnical engineering analysis and testing. His responsibilities include the review and coordination of subsurface explorations and preparation of reports of geotechnical engineering analysis for bridge foundations, buildings, stormwater management, retaining walls, and slopes associated with infrastructure development. Austin is a leader in Pennoni’s geophysical group performing ground penetrating radar surveys and assessments.
You’ve been with Pennoni since your internship and worked your way up to geotechnical project manager – how has your role evolved over time, and what’s made the journey meaningful for you? What has kept you growing here?
When I first started with Pennoni as an intern, I was out in the field 95% of the time, which then transitioned into the first few years full time. The day-to-day work generally consisted of either staffing a drill rig or conducting construction inspections that varied from nuclear density testing of fill material, concrete testing, or miscellaneous deep foundation systems. In the last few years, I have transitioned into an oversight role on projects, with less time spent in the field. One of my main focuses is now the design and calculation of our multiple projects. One of the most meaningful things I have experienced is seeing a project from start to finish. Nothing is more rewarding to see a project you have been working on go from concept to design and through construction. It’s a bit eye opening to see the scale of some projects you are designing and how they translate to out in the field. I like to think that every day is a new day, and with that you are trying to solve a new problem. I am constantly learning something new each day and growing from project to project.
You’re a certified FAA drone pilot—how are drones changing the game in geotechnical field work, and how have you used them on Pennoni projects? What drew you to that skillset, and have you been able to apply it in creative or unexpected ways on the job?
Drones are a great tool for any discipline, not just geotechnical. Recently, we have been using drones for condition assessments, especially on our yearly dam inspections. Being able to fly the same flight plan each year allows us to see any changes year to year that may not be noticeable while walking the site. The applications for drones are endless, and there are always creative ways to apply their capabilities. Last year, I had the opportunity to assist the City of Clearwater with hurricane damage assessments after Hurricane Helene. We were able to document damage to sea walls, marinas, piers, and jetties. Additionally, with the use of the drone we were able to assist a hotel and determine how much sand they lost along their strip of beach due to the hurricane.
What does a great day at work look like for you—whether you’re in the office or out in the field?
I enjoy getting into the nitty gritty and finite points. Engineering is more about problem solving than anything else. A great day in the office is being able to run final checks on a bridge foundation design that has been weeks in the making or piecing together historical information and project information to come to sound conclusions. One thing I like about my job is the traveling that it allows for. I’ve been to jobsites up and down the east coast from New York to Florida and as west as Ohio. Exploring new areas keeps the job fresh and exciting.
What’s something you’ve learned from a colleague or mentor at Pennoni that’s stuck with you?
Two things that have really stuck with me are paying attention to details and “excellent service, on time, and on budget” – Dr. Ted Thomson. At the end of the day, we are a people business trying to solve people’s problems or assist with their development. Now that I have transitioned more into an office role and working with clients, we want to make sure we are providing a service that has clients coming back.
What’s one piece of advice you’d give to an intern or recent grad just starting out in their engineering career?
Do not be afraid to try new things and put yourself out there. As an intern, I said yes to as many things as possible to learn new things and travel to new locations. You will not know if you like or don’t like something if you never try it out. Once I started full-time, I had opportunities to go and present at conferences, which in itself can be intimidating for anyone, let alone someone new to the industry. Looking back, presenting at conferences has been a rewarding experience and a great way to network and learn about different projects across the country.