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MEMBER SPOTLIGHT
As part of our Member Appreciation Program, we are showcasing a member in our monthly Board Member Spotlight. Our member spotlight recognizes members for their outstanding contributions to the profession and our local communities. For any questions regarding the program please email PastPresident@ymf-oc.org.
December
2025
INTRODUCING
Kyra Tan
EIT
Civil Engineer Associate II
LA Department of Water and Power
Website Co-Chair
ASCE Orange County Younger Member Forum
PERSONAL LIFE
Where did you grow up?
Long Beach, CA
What made you want to become an engineer?
Growing up, my dad always involved me with his home projects. As soon as he trusted me with a drill, I knew my destiny to be an engineer was set.
Favorite hobbies, sports, and interests outside of engineering?
I like building legos, playing video games, bouldering, and going to concerts!
Finish this sentence: On Sunday mornings, you can usually find me...
At church, sleeping, or studying.
What college(s) did you attend? Can you list your degrees, any honors, and involvement in engineering organizations during school?
I attended Cal State Long Beach and earned my B.S. in Civil Engineering and Mathematics. I was involved with the CSULB ASCE student chapter and served as co-president my 4th year. I am currently attending USC studying for my Masters in Construction Management.
WORK & PROFESSIONAL LIFE
Describe your responsibilities and some significant projects.
I am part of LADWP's Power System's Right-of-Way Engineering group. My responsibilities include providing LADWP's input for projects submitted from private citizens to government agencies, processing real estate agreements, and coordinating construction activities within LADWP's right-of-way.
What project are you currently working on and what have you accomplished/what are your tasks?
I am currently facilitating LADWP Power System's involvement with LA Metro upcoming project, Sepulveda Transit Corridor Project. I coordinated LADWP's review and comments for the Project draft EIR and currently collaborating with LA Metro for design input.
What is your favorite part about being a Civil Engineer?
Learning the means and methods other disciplines or fields utilize and collaborating with said groups to design an improved and safer method.
What skills do you find most valuable to focus on in your career?
Communication skills between multiple groups and formal and concise writing.
What drew you to your specific career path? If you could start your career differently, what would you do differently?
In college, I really enjoyed working in a group setting and collaborating with different minds to reach a common goal. If I could start over, I'd try out a more design based path to be more knowledgeable in different design programs.
ASCE & PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
How/Why did you get involved? Why did you choose to stay involved?
I first got involved my freshmen year of college when I joined the Concrete Canoe team. I thought it was cool to see concrete being used for something other than buildings. From there I continued ASCE because of the networking opportunities, career building and development, and the overall friendly community I've gained.
How has ASCE impacted your work and/or what is your favorite benefit of your involvement?
Although I work for the public sector, ASCE has managed to wiggle into my work space when I see my fellow private sector colleagues cc'd on an email for a project I'm working on. It's a fun moment seeing a recognizable name in the most unexpected way and reminds me that ASCE is a small world.
Who is someone you Admire and Why?
My mom. Her perseverance to enjoy and live life even in the most distraught moments gives me motivation to keep pushing even when life feels too overwhelming.
If you have one piece of advice to give to young professionals what would it be?
Don't be afraid to show your personality when networking, but of course keep it professional.
Lastly, what would be your personal motto?
Everything falls into place.
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