Jega Jeganathan Career Profile
Three key pillars — Approachable People, Proven Capabilities, and Global Experience — are the foundation of the TYLin brand and the reason for our success.
In this new series, Connection Builders, we highlight some of our 3,000 talented professionals. They will share their motivation, perspectives, and the reasons for their success at TYLin as they strive to achieve our Vision to design solutions that enhance how people, places, and communities connect.
In this first installment of Connection Builders, we spoke to Jega Jeganathan, Ph.D., P.Eng., Senior Project Manager and key member of our Water Sector.
What or who inspired you to pursue a career in water engineering?
Like others, I’m concerned about growing environmental issues around the globe, particularly those affecting our precious water resources. By working on projects that directly impact local communities, I feel I’m contributing to solutions that improve people’s lives.
At this point in your career, what keeps you motivated?
I’m motivated by challenges — the ones that come with the projects I work on. Identifying and implementing hard-to-find solutions is gratifying for me personally and professionally knowing that I’m helping clients and their key stakeholders. I also find satisfaction in meeting deadlines and achieving project goals and objectives.
If you were offered a $1M investment to solve a major environmental engineering challenge, what problem would you tackle?
That’s an intriguing question. With $1 million, I’d search for a solution to address water pollution, especially runoff from industry, agriculture, and urban sources in a particularly hard-hit community.
What has been the defining moment of your experience at TYLin?
I’ve had many memorable moments during my time at TYLin, particularly as they relate to projects I’ve worked on. But one of the accomplishments I’m most proud of is when I became the chair of the Collection Committee of Water Environment Association of Ontario in 2018. I’d like to think that my project work at TYLin helped qualify me for this prestigious industry position.
What have been the skills/strengths that have helped you succeed most in your career thus far?
I’m one of those people who has a thirst for knowledge, so I’d say that staying on topic of technical developments and trends within your area of expertise is critical. I’ve also found that efficient time management, the ability to seamlessly transition from task to task, and being self-motivated have also served me well.
What are your professional goals and where do you see yourself at TYLin in five years?
I want to continue contributing to TYLin’s success by working on increasingly complex and challenging projects that help people and communities connect and thrive. In the next five years, I hope to be in a leadership position in our wastewater group.
What do you enjoy most about working at TYLin?
One word — flexibility — is the simple answer, but it’s multi-faceted. I particularly enjoy the flexibility of where I can work from and the types of projects that I get to work on. Flexibility and variety keep my days interesting.
What’s one piece of advice you’d give to others about their careers?
Being technically proficient is the “cost of entry” for career success. But there are other, less tangible traits people need to demonstrate. No matter what is asked of you, set an example for others by showing up early and always completing your assigned tasks on time.
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Midhurst Wastewater Treatment Plant
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Friday Harbour Resort
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Pine Valley North Sewage Pumping Station and Pedestrian Utility Bridges
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Yonge Street and Scott Street Watermain and Sewer Improvements
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Accelerated Water Main Replacements and Sewer Rehabilitation and Replacements
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