Alumni Profile
Amanda Sheridan
One of the most satisfying parts of being an engineer is seeing your projects come to life. Once I became experienced enough to be the lead engineer in plan production, I had the opportunity to see a Runway Rehabilitation that I had designed, be constructed at McKinnon - St. Simons Island Airport in Georgia."
Where I've Been
Cities
- Buffalo, NY
- Jacksonville, FL
- Washington, DC
Organizations
- RS&H
Positions
- Aviation Engineer I
- Aviation Engineer II
What I've Done
What types of work have you performed? What projects have you worked on?
As a civil engineer at RS&H, I work specifically on airfield projects. This includes the design of runways, taxiways, aprons, etc. Pretty much anything on an airport. I've helped design several runway and taxiways at airports across the US. I have also served as an inspector, overseeing the construction of an apron rehab at Manassas Airport in Virginia.
What have been some favorite aspects of your work?
I have several favorite aspects. Everyday is new and challenging. I rarely feel bored, and as I gain experience, there are more opportunities for face to face client interaction. RS&H is also a wonderful company to work for.
What was one of your most satisfying days as an engineer?
One of the most satisfying parts of being an engineer is seeing your projects come to life. Once I became experienced enough to be the lead engineer in plan production, I had the opportunity to see a Runway Rehabilitation that I had designed, be constructed at McKinnon - St. Simons Island Airport in Georgia.
Was it worth it? What has your engineering background made possible for you? What value has it added to your overall life?
Absolutely. My hard work in college has more than paid off several times over. I love my job, and I get paid good money to do what I do. There is always room for growth, and you spend your days around like minded people that continue to challenge you. If I could go back and do it all over again, I would do it all exactly the same (Ok, maybe I would try to get better grades ;) ). Being an engineer allows me to do what I want, maintain great work hours, and have flexibility to live anywhere I want. In fact, a couple years ago, I moved to DC with my company, decided I didn't like the city, and just recently moved back to Florida. Additionally, there are so many types of engineering within each engineering specialty, that I believe it is almost impossible to not be able to find something you enjoy.
Why it Matters
What would you say to the first-year students currently sitting in your shoes?
EAS199 was one of my favorite and most informative classes of college. My advice is this: pay attention. This class will help you decide which type of engineering you'd like to be involved in. Also, STUDY! All of my life, I had taken advanced placement classes which the teachers told us would be difficult, and they never turned out to be. So when I got to college, I didn't believe the professors when they told us that we would need to study more than ever before. I was wrong. Just know that from the get-go and don't make the mistakes that so many of us do! You've only got 4 years and then you never have to study again (well, except for when you take your PE). Take advantage of the study groups and office hours. And lastly, enjoy it! The professors and SLs work hard to make sure EAS199 is not only educational, but fun as well. Good luck!!!!