ISL Young Professionals – Tiffany Tam

As a Civil Design Technologist, I contribute to the planning and design of transportation infrastructure projects and municipal projects. My role involves creating detailed design drawings using Civil3D for roads, intersection, roundabouts and active transportation facilities. I support engineers by preparing documentations, performing quantity take-offs and ensuring designs meet design standards like TAC or MOTI guidelines. Any transportation comments will have to go through people above me, not me 😉

Lots of soul searching. I originally wanted to become a physiotherapist, but life had other plans. I went through some major ups and downs with my mental health, and during that time – I met so many different people. One of those random connections introduced me to civil engineering and it just clicked. Thanks to BCIT’s complimentary technology entry program, it encouraged me to go back to school. I went from failing 4/5 midterms to passing 8/9 courses per semester. So, I guess that shows anything is possible when it is meant to be. ¯\_(ツ)_/¯

Growing up, I was surrounded by people who were interested in medical and not engineering. Hence before entering ISL, I barely/never used skills that I now use daily. I have developed technical and professional skills such as Civil3D proficiency, plan production, quantity take-offs, cost estimating, traffic design, and project coordination. I learned how to coordinate with different teams, manage timelines and adapt to changing project scopes.

My favourite project so far has been the Fraser Valley Highway 1 Corridor Improvement project. It was the most exhausting, yet also the most exhilarating and rewarding experience I’ve had. It was also my first project working in the engineering field, which made it even more meaningful. I learned so much, pushed myself outside of my comfort zone, and got to be part of something that had a real impact. It is a project that will always hold a special place in my heart.

I love to see my work impact on our everyday lives. Whether it’s designing roads to improve its ability, it’s rewarding to know that I can make a difference in people’s daily lives. I also love the variety of projects. There are no projects that are the same, so there’s always a challenge to concur. It keeps my brain in check!

One of my ISL highlights has been playing in Langley Dodgeball league with Langley office! It is such a fun way to bond outside of work, blow off some steam and enjoy each other’s company. It makes work feel more like a community that I can comfortable go back to.

I don’t like lifting heavy things unless it’s a barbell.

Unless you have done it before, don’t ever reject any new and different opportunities. Always be willing to stay out of your comfort zone.