8 Years
8 Years
Daniel is a hydrotechnical engineer with an interest in complex and multidisciplinary hydrotechnical design and analysis projects. He has diverse experience in hydraulic design, flood hazard mitigation, dam safety, numerical modelling, physical modelling and field assessment, and has worked with a variety of clients including crown corporations, municipalities, First Nation communities, other consultants and private landowners.
We recently sat down with Dan to learn more about what drew him to hydrotechnical engineering, how his career has developed, and what a typical day in his role looks like. Here’s what he had to say:
What inspired you to pursue this career?
“I got here by following my interests. I enjoyed my fluid mechanics courses during my civil engineering undergraduate degree and had the opportunity to join NHC for an 8 month-long co-op placement. During my co-op, I mainly worked in the physical modelling lab. NHC’s lab blew me away – we were using intricate scale models to explore the finer details of hydraulics and could quickly test design iterations and visualize results. I was surrounded by a team of individuals who were earnest, smart, passionate, and collaborative. NHC seemed like a great place to work, and I was lucky to come back full-time after graduating. Several years later, what I appreciated then about NHC continues to be true. I have been able to pursue my passions, working closely with amazing colleagues and clients.”
What is your educational background?
“I have an undergraduate degree in Civil Engineering from the University of British Columbia and returned to UBC while working full-time at NHC to complete a master’s degree in Hydrotechnical Engineering. Prior to my time in engineering, I did a Bachelor of Arts degree in psychology and worked in human resources. While the switch to engineering may seem like an odd change of course, my motivation through all my education was to better understand the world around me, whether physical or human. My favourite projects now are ones with a societal focus, where people are central.”
What is a typical day like for you?
“My day will depend on what’s happening on my projects and what problems need to be solved. It might include meeting with clients, conducting a site visit, undertaking technical tasks such as numerical hydraulic modelling, calculations and design, writing reports, or collaborating and discussing work with our team. I am someone who enjoys variety, and there is no shortage of it in my role.”
