As part of National Engineers Week, a celebration commenced to honor thousands of engineers across California and the country. This initiative, which started back in 1951 by the National Society of Professional Engineers, serves not just to applaud the work of engineers but to also light a spark in future innovators who will continue shaping our world.
Highlighting the impact that engineers have on our everyday lives, Jorge Oregel, El Paso District Assistant West Area Engineer with over 26 years of experience, shared his passion with TxDOT. "What I enjoy most about being an engineer is the ability to bring complex projects to life, turning designs and plans into tangible infrastructure that improves communities," Oregel mentioned. His tenure has been marked by seeing plans transform into critical structures that aid the public.
For young talents like Raymond Salazar, an engineering assistant in El Paso's maintenance section, the path to engineering was paved with a hands-on experience while working for Habitat for Humanity during his student years. "After that, I finished college and got my first job doing utility coordination and design," Salazar told TxDOT. He underscored how civil engineering not only shaped his professional trajectory but also its far-reaching implications for broader society.
To promote this message and cultivate the next generation of engineers, TxDOT has established a supportive infrastructure, including year-round internships, educational assistance, and positions tailored for engineering assistants. Such efforts are crucial in ushering a diversity of new talents into the field, with a special shoutout to "Girl Day," dedicated specifically to encourage future female engineers during the weeklong celebration (Feb. 16-22).
This year, the El Paso District is collaborating with The University of Texas at El Paso and El Paso Electric to illuminate the city's landmarks in engineering green, in a tradition spanning over five years. These cross-industry partnerships exemplify the communal spirit needed to foster educational growth and professional opportunities in the engineering domain.
