Celebrating Engineers Week: Meet an Engineer!

Happy Engineers Week! 

This year, Engineers Week takes place from February 16–22, highlighting the vital role engineers play in building a more sustainable future. From designing efficient waste and resource management systems to advancing energy, water, and transportation infrastructure, engineers are at the forefront of sustainability efforts.

To celebrate, SWANA interviewed four of its engineer members—meet them below!

Ravi Kadambala, Ph.D., P.E., BCEE

Division Director, Miami-Dade County Department of Solid Waste Management

How long have you been in the engineering industry? 

I have been in the environmental industry for 20 years.

In a few words, can you describe what your day-to-day at work entails?

My work entails managing compliance, engineering and construction teams as well as the operations of home chemicals collection centers. This includes maintaining environmental compliance of our facilities, planning and executing various capital improvement plan (CIP) projects, solving operational challenges, and management of household hazard waste for the County.  

What do you enjoy the most about being an engineer?

I enjoy solving complex technical and non-technical problems on projects and making a significant impact in the community that I live.

What are you most excited about in the future of engineering?

I am really excited about our industry moving towards sustainable materials management.

What advice would you give to engineering students or those just starting out in the industry?

I would encourage every engineer starting out in the industry to spend more time in the field, learning all aspects of solid waste management.

Lynsey Baer, PE, BCEE

Chief of Engineering, Delaware Solid Waste Authority & Treasurer of SWANA's Board of Directors

How long have you been in the engineering industry?

Approximately 25 years.

What do you enjoy the most about being an engineer?

I love that I do not have a mundane job and I am constantly challenging my brain. It is such an enjoyment that things are constantly changing and evolving over time. Even after 25 years, I continue to learn new and exciting things every single day. There are constantly new challenges and problems that arise that I have not encountered before. You are continuously soaking up new knowledge.    

What advice would you give to engineering students or those just starting out in the industry?  

Get involved. Join any clubs, groups, or associations that you gain additional education from.  Look for any opportunity or experience that will enhance your knowledge and skillset. Even if you think you are too young or new to the industry, just volunteer to be involved.  This will help to enhance your professional circle of colleagues that you can learn and grow from. It’s these connections that you will lean on for the rest of your career.

Sonia Samir, PE, PhD

Civil Project Manager, Parkhill

How long have you been in the engineering industry?
I have been in the engineering industry for over a decade, specializing in civil and environmental engineering, with a focus on solid waste engineering, permitting, design, and construction projects.

In a few words, can you describe what your day-to-day at work entails?
My day-to-day work involves a mix of problem-solving, project management, and collaboration. I oversee design, permitting, and construction administration for solid waste projects, coordinate with contractors and regulatory agencies, and ensure that engineering solutions are efficient, sustainable, and compliant with regulations.

What do you enjoy the most about being an engineer?
I love the problem-solving aspect of engineering—taking challenges and finding practical solutions. Seeing a project go from concept to completion is incredibly rewarding, especially when it impacts our communities. I also enjoy the collaborative nature of the field.

What are you most excited about in the future of engineering?
I am excited about the growing integration of technology in engineering, particularly in sustainability, automation, and data-driven decision-making. The use of AI, drones, and advanced materials is transforming how we design and build infrastructure, making projects more efficient, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly. The emphasis on resilient and sustainable solutions is shaping a future where engineering plays a crucial role in climate adaptation and resource conservation.

What advice would you give to engineering students or those just starting out in the industry? 

Get hands-on experience—internships, fieldwork, and networking will help you bridge the gap between theory and practice. Find mentors—learning from experienced professionals can provide valuable guidance and career growth opportunities. Stay resilient—engineering challenges can be tough, but problem-solving is what makes the work truly rewarding. And most importantly, never stop learning—engineering is constantly evolving, and staying curious will keep you ahead in the field.

Dana L. Blumberg, PE, BCEE

Vice President, SCS Engineers

How long have you been in the engineering industry?

I have been in the industry for 30 years.

What do you enjoy the most about being an engineer?

The thing I enjoy most is collaborating with my colleagues to solve our clients’ problems.

What are you most excited about in the future of engineering?

One of the things I am most excited about is seeing how many more women are in our industry and how many more women are engineers.

Thank you to the engineers who shared their insights with us and to all engineers for your dedication to advancing infrastructure and sustainability.