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Ajai Whitby, serving as the Lead Civil Engineer for projects within the Civil Works Branch in the Engineering Division of the United States Army Corps of Engineers, Baltimore District. was selected as a “Technology Rising Star” and honored in the 29th Annual Women of Color STEM Conference on October 3-5. The award recognizes young women with 21 or fewer years in the workforce who are actively shaping the future of technology through their technical accomplishments and leadership.
As a Lead Civil Engineer, Whitby manages projects within Baltimore District’s Engineering Division focusing on infrastructure development and accessibility. Her selection as a Rising Star acknowledges her technical expertise and contributions to the field of civil engineering.
Civil Engineering Section Chief Andrew Orlovsky outlines Whitby's responsibilities: "Ms. Whitby manages key technical responsibilities in our Levee Safety Mission, leading inspections for major levee projects across New York, Pennsylvania, and Virginia. She builds and leads teams of younger engineers, technicians, and geographers, ensuring quality inspection reports crucial for levee maintenance."
Orlovsky notes that Whitby's work includes the Plum Creek Stream Restoration Project in Adams County, Pennsylvania, and the Anacostia River Watershed Stream Restoration Project in Montgomery County, Maryland. She now leads the second round of Levee Screening Risk Assessments, overseeing approximately 80 levee systems spanning 160 miles.
"Ajai took initiative by being the first engineer in the District to enroll in training for the Corps' new software tool," Orlovsky adds. "She then successfully taught her teammates how to use the tool, multiplying its impact across the organization."
In this Q&A, Whitby shares her journey, insights, and vision for the future of civil engineering.
Q: What inspired you to pursue a career in civil engineering?
A: I excelled in mathematics and science growing up and I knew that I wanted to be in the STEM field. I decided to look into engineering and civil engineering stood out to me for a few reasons. A civil engineer works for everyone and so this field provides me the opportunity to help the greater good. Secondly, I like being outdoors and nature and as a civil engineer I can enjoy time outside. Lastly, my mother has inspired me. My mother has a disability and growing up she has shown me the importance of Universal Design. I will ensure that every item I will design in the future is accessible to every single person to use.
Q: What advice would you give younger women of color entering a male-dominated STEM field?
A: Firstly, understand that you belong. Your background, knowledge and experience are a valuable asset to this field. Secondly, stay resilient and committed to your goals. Understand that challenges are a part of the journey; do not let them break you. Lastly, always celebrate your successes no matter how small. It's the small wins that keeps you motivated to continue.
Q: Can you share a particular achievement you're most proud of in your work with the Civil Works Branch?
A: I am proud of my effort with the ongoing Screening Level Risk Assessments within the Levee Safety Program. I volunteered to attend a training in 2023 to learn the new screening tool and I have been teaching my fellow coworkers how to use the tool to conduct their own Screening Level Risk Assessments. My efforts with this project have led to my nomination and selection for the Women of Color Technology Rising Star Award.
Q: How do you think the field of civil engineering will evolve in the coming years?
A: I believe we will see an increase of technology use in this field with AI and various types of smart technology. AI can help streamline our current design processes and project management practices. Smart technology can help with monitoring, maintaining and even building certain projects.
Q: What role has mentorship played in your career development?
A: I am truly grateful for the mentors that I have; both within and outside of engineering. My mentors have helped me navigate challenges and offer a different perspective on how to overcome the challenges. I am truly grateful for the support my mentors have given me and the encouragement to continue along this journey.
Q: What passions or hobbies do you pursue in your time off?
A: I am a proud member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Incorporated. I love to participate in various community service activities with my Chapter and give back to the City of Baltimore. I also enjoy hiking, music, traveling and participating in painting activities with my close friends.
Q: Is there anything you'd like to add?
A: I am honored to be featured in this article. I hope my story can inspire another. Thank you.
Whitby continues her work leading levee safety inspections and stream restoration projects at the Army Corps' Baltimore District, while mentoring younger engineers and implementing new technologies. For information about engineering careers with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, visit https://www.nab.usace.army.mil/Careers/Search-Opportunities/.
| Date Taken: | 11.06.2024 |
| Date Posted: | 11.13.2024 07:29 |
| Story ID: | 484783 |
| Location: | BALTIMORE, MARYLAND, US |
| Web Views: | 85 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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