The Basics
Division: Project Delivery
How long have you been at City Light? 9 years and 8 months
Tell us about your role. I’m the Civil Engineer Supervisor in the Construction Management group, where I work closely with resident engineers (primarily from City Light) and inspectors to ensure high performance regarding contract administration. My focus is on making sure the contractor’s work complies with project plans and specifications, tracking construction schedules, maintaining records, communicating project-related issues, managing risks, and overseeing the project budget.
When issues arise, I collaborate with my support staff, contractors, and various stakeholders within the teams to provide solutions and to keep the project moving forward with little or no delays. I thoroughly enjoy my job because at the end of the project, a brand-new product is installed that benefits the city. Finally, I am constantly learning, building relationships, embracing team member differences, and celebrating successes.
Background
Hometown: Shoreline, Washington
Alma mater: University of Washington
Discipline/Trade of study: Principles and Practice of Engineering (PE) license in civil engineering
Tell us about your family/pets: My husband and I are getting close to becoming empty nesters. Our youngest is a freshman at the University of Washington and is living at home. He picked electrical engineering for his major and civil engineering for his minor. I guess he is following in his mother’s footsteps. My other children have all graduated and are either married or living with partners. I became a grandmother a few months ago and am enjoying our new grandson. I plan on spoiling my grandson and returning him to his parents when he gets naughty.
Just for Fun
What is your hidden talent or hobby? I can take leftovers and make a brand-new meal. I’m also learning how to make different ethnic foods.
What would people never guess that you do in your role? People often wouldn’t guess that I am a construction project supervisor, especially as a petite Asian woman. I usually sit back and observe, which has led to me being mistaken for a secretary. But when issues arise, I step up and lead. It’s a male-dominated field, but I hold my own.
What’s your favorite book and why? I love fantasy and science fiction books. In this universe, there are more planets than sand on earth, and maybe some of those planets have more technology, magic, or mythical creatures. These books help me go on adventures and relax my mind.
What was your first job and what did you do? I was a paper route girl when I was 9 years old. I worked with my older brother after school or woke up around 4a.m. on the weekends to help deliver papers.
What’s something that has made you smile recently? Seeing my grandson growing and developing. Seeing him smile and try to communicate makes me feel warm inside.
The big game is on – what sport are you watching and who are you rooting for? I love football (Seahawks and UW), basketball (Seattle Storm), baseball (Mariners), soccer (Seattle Reign), track and field, water polo, and most sports. I root for the home team of course.
What is your favorite local activity? My favorite local activities are hanging out at a local coffee shop with my girlfriends, walking or hiking with my husband daily, and having wonderful home-cooked meals with family and friends.