Technical Resource Engineer, Forterra Pipe & Precast
Liza Kirk provides technical marketing for Forterra’s concrete pipe and precast products in the Houston, Beaumont and Bryan/College Station areas of Texas. Underground utilities are her passion, but she says many people are surprised to learn she’s an engineer: “There are many ways to practice engineering. There is a human element; it isn’t just about calculations and designs.”
What’s your favorite thing about being an engineer?
The opportunities! While on vacation in Germany, once they learned I was an engineer, I was offered a tour of a concrete research institute that was not normally open to the public. I also took a behind-the-scenes tour of a massive pumping station at the Public Works Museum in Baltimore; again, once they learned I was an engineer. I’ve met with political leaders—legislators, mayors, governors—through involvement in professional and technical organizations. Thanks to my network and connections, I’ve tested my skills at operating a backhoe and even judged a Heavy Equipment “Roadeo.” You never know what doors engineering can open for you.
What do you like most about working in the concrete pipe industry?
I really enjoy the variety in my day-to-day work, which includes the flexibility to creatively market products and educate engineers. Some days, I am at the plant leading tours. Other days, I provide education to engineers in their offices. I participate in professional and technical organizations. I also travel to jobsites to troubleshoot issues and work with engineers on their projects.
How did you get started in the industry?
My network! I had a friend in the industry who suggested that I would be the perfect fit for this position. My 20 years of experience as a consultant in the public works industry provided a technical background that is respected by my clients. Having worked in the same market for two decades, my extensive network includes all levels of the engineering community. Never disregard the connections you make—you never know where they may lead!
What’s one lesson you’ve learned in this industry that’s stuck with you?
There is nothing that can replace the hands-on experience provided by a plant tour. Tours aren’t just for new college graduates beginning their careers; plant tours are educational for experienced engineers, as well. Visitors observe the quality and repeatability in the manufacture of precast components that they can use in their engineering projects. Also, no two plant tours are ever alike. Every time I tour the plant, there is always something new to observe or learn.
What’s your most memorable project?
My current focus is on education, and my most memorable presentation is titled “Manhole Wars.” Yes, there is a Star Wars theme. Yes, you learn about the manufacture and use of precast manholes—and which manholes you arelooking for. And yes, everyone who takes the class becomes a Precast Jedi.
If you were talking to a group of high school girls, what would you say to encourage them to become an engineer?
Engineering is incredibly diverse and provides opportunities to see and do things like no other profession. The discipline requires research, field work, designs, calculations, project management, training, technical marketing and customer support. There are many fields of engineering and new ones being developed. As Engineers, we create a better, safer and healthier world.