Mark Myers, Senior Designer in Prescott, has more than 38 years of experience in the civil engineering profession and has been an essential part of Civiltec for the past 15 years. With expertise spanning roadway design, drainage, water, wastewater, and surveying, Mark is also a skilled specialist and part of Civiltec’s Civil 3D development and training team. Beyond his technical contributions, Mark brings his creativity, precision, and a collaborative spirit to every project he touches.
What first attracted you to join Civiltec 15 years ago, and what has kept you here?
As this area was coming out of a recession, the need for employment was vital. However, I knew Civiltec’s reputation was really good. I had met Rick Shroads and Ray Buettner before, and I knew what to expect. I kept pursuing Civiltec until they welcomed me in. Thanks Rick (and Chris).
The relationships here at Civiltec have kept me here for sure. The difference between 15 years ago and now is quite extreme. The offices have become “one” and so has the culture. I’ve worked with different personnel across company lines.
How has your role as a Senior Designer evolved during your time with Civiltec?
My role has grown for sure over the past 15 years. While maintaining quite a bit of design and plan preparation for site, grading, road and utility designs, I’ve also jumped into a lot of project and task management. In addition, being involved on various tank projects has been quite interesting.
Lastly, I’ve provided quite a bit of technical training for the company in the realm of Civil 3D and all of its many features.
You’ve worked on a wide range of projects — from subdivisions to roadways to reservoirs. Which project has been your favorite and why?
Roadways have always been my favorite. Being able to model the designs and have automatic updates for revisions and additions is always satisfying, though challenging at the same time for sight distance parameters and its relationship with speed limit.
With over 37 years in the civil engineering industry, what is one piece of advice you’d offer to newer designers just starting out?
Use as many of the new tools available that you can get your hands on. This will help to do your tasks more efficiently.
What’s one design project or challenge that taught you the most during your career?
A long time ago, in a galaxy far, far away……. CA. I did the site design for a clubhouse and restaurant as part of an overall golf course project. Matching the surrounding terrain with the site itself was a challenge. Also, identifying the various utilities on site, architect’s building revisions, parking lot revisions, and our own in-house revisions taught me a lot about task management and keeping records of all parts of the project that were and were not in scope.
You have extensive experience across multiple fields of discipline — drainage, water, wastewater, and transportation. Which area do you feel most connected to and why?
Transportation. I’ve prepared many road designs along with signing and striping plans for various agencies over the years. Like I mentioned above, the automation that I’ve come to know is standard everyday practice.
You’ve also had an impressive musical side, performing in an Eagles Tribute band! How has music influenced your approach to engineering or teamwork?
Well, thank you! I’ve read that math, music, and astronomy (which I also enjoy) share a profound and intertwined relationship, rooted in the idea that the universe is fundamentally mathematical and that music is a reflection of those mathematical principles. Makes perfect sense for working in the engineering field.
Being in a band however is just like all the rumors, difficult! Much easier to work with Civiltec staff than band members.
What are you most excited about as you look toward the future of civil engineering and Civiltec’s growth?
I believe we have a great ownership team. The vision that this company has is really hitting strides, professionally and culturally. I see where we are becoming more new school (like I prefer). Many of my coworkers are coming to me for training.
After 15 years with Civiltec, what does this milestone mean to you personally and professionally?
It either means I don’t like change, or I’m very dedicated. Ok, both! Our staff works very well together. I also like the training aspects.
Spending time outdoors and exploring new interests seems important to you. What’s a personal achievement or adventure outside of work that you’re especially proud of?
Yes! Mountain biking is a lifestyle. In addition, I like hiking, fishing and glamping (RV glamorous camping). I rode in my first race here in Prescott. It was the Whiskey Off-Road 19.5-mile ride. I placed 138th out of over 210 entries. I did have a nasty cramping session on a well-known climb that bears that name “Cramp Hill”. I lost about 10 minutes and 20 or so slots in the race. It was a great experience.
