Full Steam Ahead: On the Fast Track to Success
Three key pillars — Approachable People, Proven Capabilities, and Global Experience — are the foundation of the TYLin brand and the reason for our success.
Guided by curiosity, inspired by impact, and driven by a vision of a better tomorrow, Vanessa Eslava, Assistant Engineer, Rail and Transit, embodies the spirit of engineering excellence. From her initial spark of interest to her role in shaping the future of transportation and infrastructure, Vanessa's story is a testament to the power of dedication and the boundless potential of a single individual to influence and innovate within their industry.
What or who inspired your pursuit of a career in transportation engineering?
A family friend recommended that I pursue a degree in engineering since they knew I enjoyed math and science in high school. In my first semester of college, I took an Introduction to Engineering course. I liked Civil Engineering the most because the projects impact everyday life.
What keeps you motivated at this point in your career?
With the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), I am motivated to be a part of an industry that is a critical factor in improving the infrastructure around us.
What industry trend will impact your field the most significantly in the next decade?
Although I don’t fully understand all aspects of Artificial Intelligence (AI), I believe it will impact our industry in many ways.
What impact do you hope to make in the next five years of your career?
I want to impact the incoming younger generation of engineers by mentoring and supporting them to succeed in their careers and by continuing to advocate for more people to be interested in our industry.
If provided $1M investment to solve a major challenge within transportation, what problem would you tackle?
While $1M may not entirely solve significant challenges in Rail and Transit, it can contribute towards improving the aging infrastructure that needs repairs and maintenance. Additionally, the funding can go towards educational workshops to engage the public to give feedback and promote an increase in ridership.
What has been the defining moment of your experience at TYLin?
A defining moment in my experience at TYLin has been the development of the BUILD group (TYLin’s DEI program). Through the creation of BUILD, I have connected with many others throughout the company who are passionate and want to work toward creating a positive impact within our industry.
What have been the skills/strengths that have helped you succeed most in your career thus far?
It is not only the technical experience that can help anyone achieve their career goals. What has helped me succeed is also incorporating soft skills. Regularly attending conferences and presentations led by local professional organizations has helped build my professional network and grow meaningful relationships within my network.
What are your professional goals? Where do you see yourself at TYLin in 5 years?
In the next five years, I envision myself excelling as a project engineer and leading a team of upcoming engineers. I hope to take on increasingly challenging transportation projects and gain expertise in improving infrastructure through innovative solutions.
Recently, TYLin unveiled a new brand position – Connecting people, places and ideas. How does this apply to the work you do?
As a transportation engineer in the Rail + Transit Sector, I design systems that create connections to get people to the places they need to go, which directly ties into the new brand position.
What’s one piece of advice you’d give to others about their careers?
One piece of advice that someone gave me that I continue to share with others is “be a sponge” – take it all in and learn from everyone around you, ask many questions, and never stop learning.