After graduating from Clarkson University with a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering, Olivia joined PC as an office engineer and quickly progressed through an engineer-in-training program. Now a project manager, Olivia has grasped the opportunity to learn the intricate details of PC’s diverse markets – from education, health care and resort work to water and wastewater treatment construction.
Reflecting on all the projects she’s worked on, there’s no question which was her favorite: the BETA Technologies Manufacturing and Assembly Facility in South Burlington, Vermont.
“The BETA project was completed on an incredibly accelerated schedule,” said Olivia. “We delivered the project just 2.5 years after kickoff, which included six months for early design packages and six months for permitting. Imagine, a 188,500-square-foot facility going from the first concrete placement to the owner installing equipment in less than one year – that is truly incredible!”
The high-bay facility, located next to the Patrick Leahy Burlington International Airport runways, includes aircraft manufacture and assembly space, office space and support areas. Work on the 40-acre former brownfield site included substantial site preparation, including blasting and excavation, installation of a parking lot and a utility road, and installation of a 2.7-acre geothermal field, which is one of the largest in New England.
“I learned so much working on this project. The pace, the people, the sheer size and scope of the facility, the complexity, and the all-in effort from every member of the team made every day exciting.”
What contributes to Olivia’s success?
When the time came to start seriously thinking about a career path, Olivia knew math and science were her strengths. She thought maybe education would be a good choice but her aunt, a respected math teacher, said: “When I was your age, I was told the only thing I could do in the math field was teach. So you go be an engineer.” She took those words to heart.
“I started exploring engineering as a major and became completely fascinated by the idea that I could go to school and learn how a bridge or a building is structurally engineered,” said Olivia. “And then I fell in love with the idea of being a part of a team that actually builds them.”
At the end of the day, she really enjoys problem solving and being part of building something new that will have lasting community impact. “Achieving a milestone – whether large or small, on my own or as part of a team – is so incredibly motivating.”
Olivia is now leading the charge on a large hotel addition just a mile down the road from the BETA project. She has a commanding presence combined with a fun personality that draws in a team like no other. We are lucky and proud to have Olivia as a PC Construction leader and employee owner.