Employee Spotlight – Juan Podesta

Getting to know Juan Podesta, Senior Project Engineer

Q: How long have you been with the company?

A: I joined PES in August 2021. I have 26 years of experience building bridges and structures.

Q: What does your job entail?

A: As a Project Engineer, I ensure that the plans, construction quality and specifications of a project are followed. I also answer questions, solve problems, perform onsite inspections, and inform my superiors about issues that arise in the field.

Q: In terms of successes, which accomplishments are you most proud of?

1)   I completed my Bachelor of Civil Engineering at the University of Minnesota while working full time and raising young children. It was a proud moment to have my children attend my commencement.

2)  I am very proud of my work on the St. Corix Crossing project, being on the team from start to finish. I enjoy seeing the finished product on an occasional visit to Stillwater.

Q: What are the toughest challenges you’ve had at work?

A: Being the lead on the construction side of the St. Croix Crossing bridge, it was challenging to deal with many different activities happening at the same time in multiple locations, as well as, communicating with many stakeholders, including contractors, engineers, coworkers, and construction workers.

Q: How have you grown professionally while on our team?

A: I am grateful to have had the opportunity to work on Light Rail and the Metro Gold Line Bus Rapid Transit projects, both new systems for me. These projects have given me the opportunity to work for the first time with Metropolitan Council leadership.

Q: What’s a passion you have outside of work?

A: I recently discovered the fun of playing pickle ball with friends and can’t get enough of it.