What started as a simple idea from a Dallas TxDOT engineer has grown over nearly twenty years into a successful statewide program aimed at developing top-notch engineers. The TxDOT Engineering Assistant Career Development Program now showcases Texas' dedication to growing its young talent in transportation engineering.
Throughout Texas, from its busy cities to its more tranquil areas, the 25 TxDOT districts and five divisions are nurturing the development of 472 active engineering assistants. This initiative, as noted in a TxDOT report, originated from former chief engineer Kelly Selman's insight that "An engineer that likes what he’s doing is going to be a lot more productive."
The goal of this initiative is to build the most skilled transportation workforce in the U.S. by providing intentional job rotations, sponsored training, and focused exam preparation. Over a four-year period, these engineers gain experience in three key areas: design, construction, and maintenance.
Mo Bur, TxDOT’s director of project development, hinted at the program’s core philosophy, emphasizing that it provides a framework where "You’re constantly learning from the feedback from your supervisor, your mentors and doing hands-on work yourself." This philosophy appears to be effective, as demonstrated by Ashton Strong, a 2006 EA program graduate who now serves as deputy director of transportation, planning, and development for the Dallas District, according to TxDOT.
