Education: Civil Engineer BSc; Lima, Peru (Pontificia Universidad Catolica del Peru), Civil Engineer MSc; Ft Collins, Colorado (Colorado State University)
Job Overview: I am a Principal Engineer working on mining, dams and hydropower, and oil & gas projects. I have specialized experience in hydraulics, hydrology, river engineering, water resources and dam safety having served as a team leader, supervising the engineering analysis and designs for diversion structures, water containment and associated facilities. I also lead water-related projects in different geographies establishing best practices for clients and communities facing water challenges, including scarcity, management and environmental concerns.
As an ambassador for MWH technical expertise, I support the company’s commitment to technical distinction worldwide and the adaptation to a dynamic market.
How I ended up at MWH: I was back in Peru after Graduate School and had an opportunity to interview with MWH in Denver, Colorado. While preparing for the interview and carefully checking the MWH website I found out the company’s vision and goals aligned with my own. After the interview, I liked the idea of being part of a company where I would have the opportunity to travel and work for different geographies and industries.
What is on my desk right now: This week I have been working in Project Permitting. I am also wrapping up a report for a US project (A Dam Design Project). Additionally, I am working on three proposals for projects in Peru, Chile and Canada.
Free time activities: Yoga, Dancing, Reading Magazines (Business and Leisure), Watching Movies, Wine tasting
Best career advice I’ve ever received: Several ones… but probably two that I always keep in my mind. The first one is from somebody I look up to: “You should choose and create your own career path”. And my grandmother’s saying: “The knowledge you will acquire is a fine jewel that neither time will deteriorate nor anybody in the world would steal from you”. These advices keep me eager to continuously look to learn something new each day.
Experiences at MWH: What I like the most are the challenges of working in a global context. It is great to be part of MWH because the geography footprint it serves involves great challenges from a geographic and cultural perspective. An integrated global workforce allows us to learn from each other and be more competitive. When we work together as a team we not only bring different approaches but more than one solution to the table. A diverse workforce helps not only the company to move forward but it also help us to better understand our clients with global operations and their needs.
Story to tell: As Latin women who moved to the USA and traveled around the world, I have gained a lot of experience and understanding of the different cultures we serve. One experience I will never forget was In 2012. I traveled to Arequipa city (Peru) to help with a presentation for the permitting process of one of the largest tailings dams MWH has worked on (more than 300 meters high). The day of the presentation happened to be the same day of “The International Women Day”. While we were presenting, every time a woman asked a question or answered questions (like me), all the audience in the room clapped and cheered us up. It felt good to be there not only because we were presenting such a big project but also because I was part of an event that made time to congratulate and recognize the important role women play in society.
