Lisa Wells
Administrative Assistant – Prescott
Where did you attend college, and what did you study?
I studied Geology (B.S.), Geophysics & Music at Alfred University in New York.
What drew you to working for Civiltec? What do you like best about working at Civiltec (so far)?
After a long time of not working, my confidence was low about returning to the workplace. A friend of mine knew Civiltec Engineering by professional affiliation. She said to me: “I can think of one right off the top of my head that I would encourage you to look at. They are just great people. I’m not sure if they need someone right now, but if I were looking, I’d start with them.”
What is one of your favorite things about your role?
One of my favorite components of what I do is the opportunity to help everyone in Arizona. Occasionally, I have the opportunity to help people in Monrovia also. I find it rewarding when, on any given day, I can help everyone in the office in some capacity and make their lives a little easier. Assisting with deliverables is a favorite. I also enjoy helping to get a big proposal out the door. Helping the Peoria office is a blessing, particularly in the winter months.
When you’re not working, how do you like to spend your time?
When I’m not working, I am the original homebody. My solitude is precious. I have a variety of interests that I can enjoy while at home (wildlife photography, assisting neighbors with livestock care & training, gardening, music or a good book on the front porch to name a few). I am an animal lover. That’s not to say I don’t enjoy desert exploration. Sometimes I hit the open road to see the beautiful Southwest just because it’s there.
Is there a particular hobby, interest or skill you have that other employees might not know about?
There are two things that I enjoy and excelled at over my life: music and driving. I began driving farm equipment at around 8 years old. By the time I was 14, I could operate all the farm machinery: a backhoe, bulldozer, skidsteer, loader and tractor trailer. Any machinery I’ve attempted to operate, I’ve been successful at learning. Driving fast was a passion, though. At age 15, I was winning the adult snowmobile races (I grew up in upstate NY). My uncle was a race car driver. He taught me a few things. I’ve always had a need for speed. I briefly entertained the idea of becoming a professional race car driver. I really enjoy fast motoring. A woman doing these things is not unusual today. In the 70s, it was a little unusual. And for those of you wondering: Yes, I’ve had two speeding tickets in 40+ years of driving.
I’ve loved music for as long as I can remember. In college, I had the good fortune to study with one of Benny Goodman’s proteges. He taught me so much. He encouraged my passion for creating and performing big band, classic jazz & blues with my clarinet & tenor sax. I enjoy many genres of music. For me, music is therapeutic.
