Vu Tran
Year Graduated: 
2017

Process Engineer

River's Bend Engineering

Job Description

Design and implementation of industrial wastewater treatment processes, control systems, and environmental compliance. The main focus of the job is to design treatment systems using chemical/biological remediation techniques to get wastewater effluent within regulatory standards. Embedded in this process is the design and consultation stage where communication with the client, vendors, and regulatory agencies coalesce to a singular treatment process that fulfill the client's needs while falling within the limits set by the regulatory agencies. The next step involves creating computer models, drafting construction plans, and programming the control system. Additional projects include designing storage/treatment lagoons, groundwater remediation efforts, and regulation consultation.

Why did you choose this program?

I had an interest in the environment in high school and initially wanted to become an environmental scientist. I choose to switch majors to environmental engineering as I felt it was more satisfying to be involved in the implementation of environmental policy.

How did this program prepare you for your job?

Besides teaching the basics, the ERE program grooms students to think critically and to apply problem solving skills to any situation.

What did you enjoy most about the program?

The interaction between fellow students, staff, and faculty. Questions are encouraged and cooperation between students is a mainstay of the program.

What would you say to prospective students who are thinking about applying to this program?

Come into the program with the right mindset. I was kicked out of HSU and the ERE program early in my college years due to a lack of motivation and outright laziness. I still made plenty of mistakes after I was readmitted to the ERE program, but there is a strong support system comprising of fellow students and professors. Enjoy the ride, actively engage with the lesson plan, talk to the professors, make friends with classmates, work hard and earn the diploma in spite of the all nighters and last minute homework hussle. Have fun prospective ERE students, the journey will definitely be worth it.

Other comments?

Go to the annual ERE rafting trip and ride at the front of the raft!!!