Rod Wilburn
Year Graduated: 
2000

Regnional Manager/Vice President of Engineering

LACO Associates

Job Description

I'm responsible for managing all aspects of LACO's Ukiah Office with a total of 30 full and part time employees. Our office has a variety of disciplines including engineering, geology, planning, grant writing and surveying. I'm also responsible for the engineering department practices and procedures for the company.

Why did you choose this program?

I wanted a combination of water and natural resources management combined with the mathematics involved with engineering. My intersted was primarily based on the desire to spend more time in the field than in the office.

How did this program prepare you for your job?

I came away with the ability to solve problems and write technical documents that can easily understood by any audience.

What did you enjoy most about the program?

The professors, the water/wastewater classes and the location.

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

This program will give you the foundation and then you have to figure out how to apply what you've learned. If you feel like the end seems too far away or unachievable, step back, reassess and then reapply yourself. Even if you have to take a semester to do so - just remember that it's not a race. It's worth the effort so enjoy the journey.