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MEMBER SPOTLIGHT
As part of our Member Appreciation Program, we are showcasing a member in our bi-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.
October
2021
INTRODUCING
Lydia Chun
EIT
Transportation Engineer
Iteris, Inc.
Mentorship Program Co-Chair
ASCE Orange County Younger Member Forum
PERSONAL LIFE
Where did you grow up?
Fremont, CA
What made you want to become an engineer?
I knew I wanted to do something that involved designing and helping the public. Transportation allows me to make a (hopefully) positive impact on peoples’ daily lives.
Favorite hobbies, sports, and interests outside of engineering?
Bouldering, camping (both in tents and cars!), playing PC games, board games, and painting.
Finish this sentence: On Sunday mornings, you can usually find me...
in bed… because sleep 😊
What college(s) did you attend? Can you list your degrees, any honors, and involvement in engineering organizations during school?
B.S. from UCI (2017), Chi Epsilon, ASCE, ITE
WORK & PROFESSIONAL LIFE
Describe your responsibilities and some significant projects.
I recently began managing smaller scale projects which have definitely been a learning experience. Now, I do the design, but I also review others’ work, supervise others, and interact with clients directly.
What project are you currently working on and what have you accomplished/what are your tasks?
N/A
What is your favorite part about being a Civil Engineer?
Helping our local communities through innovative solutions!
What skills do you find most valuable to focus on in your career?
Effective communication with your clients, your peers, and your supervisors. It’s important to clearly get your point across whether that be for an interview or asking for a promotion.
What drew you to your specific career path? If you could start your career differently, what would you do differently?
I wanted a stable job that involved some sort of design and interaction with the public. If I could, I’d go back and take my time with certain things like technical skills or management. I think slowing down to make sure I understand everything and having a strong foundation would have been very beneficial.
ASCE & PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
How/Why did you get involved? Why did you choose to stay involved?
Back in college, I was attracted to the Mentorship Program and the Steel Bridge competition. ASCE is a great way to network with other professionals, learn from others, and everyone is awesome!
How has ASCE impacted your work and/or what is your favorite benefit of your involvement?
I’ve met many great young professionals who have a passion for what we do. I’ve had the opportunity to network and learned many skills as the Mentorship Program Co-chair that I can translate into my job (i.e. managing budget, public speaking, organization).
Who is someone you Admire and Why?
Shoutout to my unofficial mentor, Charles Askar, who taught me a lot when I first joined the industry and that I still carry with me now. To be detail-oriented and strive to produce the best possible quality you can. Most importantly, to never stop improving yourself.
If you have one piece of advice to give to young professionals what would it be?
Do your best and work hard, but don’t forget that there is a life outside of work.
Lastly, what would be your personal motto?
Take care of yourself physically and mentally! I remind myself to take a breath and take things one step at a time.
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