Technical Resources Manager, American Concrete Pipe Association
Margarita Takou is responsible for ACPA’s quality control program (QCast) and the ANSI accreditation associated with QCast. She also assists with developing appropriate standards for buried structures, developing software used to design these structures and helping engineers with technical questions. Margarita says she owes everything she has achieved to her mother, who has always inspired her by example. “It is now my turn to inspire my son to chase his dreams.”
What’s your favorite thing about being an engineer?
It is a very rewarding job because engineers design and create products and structures that constantly improve the lives of people around the world.
What do you like most about working in the concrete pipe industry?
Contributing to society with continuous improvement in every aspect related to the production and design of precast culvert products, which are an integral part of every city, small town, suburban area, etc. The footprint and impact of our work is reflected around the globe, and I feel very inspired to keep contributing to the improvement of our industry. I am also inspired by the people I work with. There is a lot of support for young professionals and space for them to grow in the industry.
How did you get started in the industry?
My doctorate research was on buried pipes. While working on my research, I started enjoying this field. After graduation, I was fortunate to start working as a technical resources manager at ACPA.
What’s one lesson you’ve learned in this industry that’s stuck with you?
All details matter and nothing should be neglected. Therefore, I try to be very diligent about my job to avoid failures and mistakes that can possibly have negative effects in other people’s lives.
What’s your most memorable project?
Part of my doctorate studies was a field study on deflection measurements of a buried steel culvert and associating that with my finite element analysis. I never realized how much work is put into coordinating these projects, but that experience enhanced my project management skills.
If you were talking to a group of high school girls, what would you say to encourage them to become an engineer?
If they want a challenging and creative job, then engineering should be their choice. The engineering field enables you to provide solutions to problems and invent products that make our lives easier. Cars, aircraft, buildings are all created by engineers, and nobody can imagine living without them.