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July Spotlight: Andrea Dotolo

andrea dotolo july spotlight

Meet andrea dotolo

Occupation: Environmental Engineer & Ecologist

Organization: Trudell Consulting Engineers

1.  What motivated you to live and work in Vermont?

Vermont is home, it always has been and it always will be, and I grow to appreciate this place more and more every year. Vermont has such a strong sense of community filled with people who are deeply invested in the well-being of the State. I feel valued by this community and I look forward to continuing my career here and to continuing to enjoy all the beautiful recreation the State has to offer. Living and working in Vermont allows me to have an excellent balance of work and play, keeping me happy and healthy.

2. What is your favorite part of your job?

My favorite part of my job is the diverse exposure to both professionals and residents throughout the State. Working for a private engineering and environmental consulting company means working with officials within State agencies, City and Town officials, Development Review Boards, Conservation Commissions, Contractors, Architects, landowners, and the public, just to name a few. I truly enjoy discussing projects with all members of the community as each person offers a different perspective on development, conservation, and future planning within our small State.

3. What is the best career advice you have ever received?

The best career advice I have received was from a professor at UVM who told me that you might not love every moment of your career. That sometimes you will work on a project that you may not support, but to always strive to make that project the best it can be. She noted that if I wasn’t working on a project, someone else would be, and they probably wouldn’t be doing as good of a job. So keep your head up and do your best.

4. What advice would you give to someone who wants to work in your field?

Proposing development is much more than engineering and creating a good design, be prepared for regulations and politics associated with permitting to be a driving force. While you will use the mathematics and science that you learn in school, a majority or your time will be spent communicating with the many entities that may approve or deny a project. Be prepared to be patient, thorough and find creative channels within the restrictions.

5. Where do you see yourself professionally in the next 5-10 years? 

I am currently studying for my Professional Engineering license from the State of Vermont and looking forward to the responsibility that licensure brings. While I plan to continue to work under and learn from my mentors, I have a prospect of eventually starting my own consulting firm. I would like to more specifically focus on stormwater treatment as well as wetland and stream protection and restoration.

We are seeking nominations for our upcoming YP Spotlights! Know someone who is going above and beyond in their professional life? Someone who is a real shining star in our community? Nominate them, or yourself for a YP Spotlight.