What It Takes to Lead Complex Underground Engineering Projects

Key Concepts

• Underground construction and tunneling
• Trenchless technology
• Project management in civil engineering
• Leadership in engineering
• Importance of the "why" behind projects
• Engineers Without Borders
• Underground Construction Association (UCA)
• Down for That initiative
• Professional development
• Mentorship
• Communication in the workplace

Early Influences and Career Path

• Childhood Exploration: Everett Littton's early interest in engineering stemmed from playing in nature, building dams and forts in a wooded area with a creek. This fostered a connection to the environment and construction.
• Construction Work: Working commercial construction as a teenager alongside electricians, carpenters, and his father (a painter) exposed him to the practical aspects of building and design.
• Academic Inclination: He was naturally talented in math and science, making engineering a fitting career path.
• Summer Internship (2007): A summer internship in Kansas City involving rock core drilling for tunneling projects in Las Vegas solidified his interest in underground construction. He found the culture inviting, niche, and artistic, unlike purely code-driven engineering fields.

Exciting Projects and Core Values

• Focus on the "Why": Littton prioritizes understanding the fundamental purpose behind a project before delving into technical details.
• Environmental Stewardship: He enjoys projects that contribute to environmental cleanup, such as improving rivers and streams.
• Global Impact: His experiences with Engineers Without Borders (EWB) in Bolivia and Nicaragua highlighted the importance of addressing basic human needs and giving back to disadvantaged communities.
  • Bolivia Project (2013): He helped build a sanitary system for a community in the Andes Mountains, working with Engineers in Action. The project involved water quality sampling, designing, and implementing a gravity distribution system to bring taps to 150 homeowners.
• Minimizing Environmental Impact: He emphasizes minimizing the environmental impact of projects and improving lives.

Managing Complex Underground Construction Efforts

• Universal Principle: The "why" remains a constant regardless of the project's location, client, or geological conditions.
• Technical Basics: Start with fundamental technical considerations, acknowledging that specific requirements vary by project and client.
• True North: Having a clear "true north" focused on improving humanity helps maintain focus amidst project complexities and challenges.

UCA's Down for That Initiative

• Goal: Aims to attract students to the underground construction industry by providing exposure and opportunities.
• Reach: Targets approximately 180 universities in the US and Canada.
• Activities: Offers students opportunities to attend conferences, visit underground construction sites, and interact with industry professionals.
• Addressing Recruitment Challenges: Acknowledges the challenges in recruiting for the industry and seeks to diversify the recruitment pool.

Involvement in Industry Groups (UCA, NAST, EWB)

• Professional Growth: Littton attributes a significant portion of his career growth to involvement in professional organizations.
• Networking: These organizations facilitate the development of lasting relationships that extend beyond company affiliations.
• Encouragement for Young Engineers: Recommends that young engineers join and actively participate in industry groups to expand their knowledge and build connections.
• Engineers Club of St. Louis: Helped Littton get engaged at a very local level

Advice for Civil Engineers

• Be Humble and Bold: Balance humility with boldness in sharing ideas and perspectives.
• Have Fun: Seek enjoyment in the work and pivot if necessary.
• Mentorship: Find a mentor or multiple mentors.
• Speaking Up: Young engineers should speak up when they have a good idea while remaining respectful.
• Hard Work: Nothing beats good hard work

CE Hot Seat: Daily Rituals, Book Recommendations, and Advice

• Daily Rituals:
  • Taking walks during lunchtime to break up the day and explore.
  • Stretching and meditation in the morning.
  • Non-traditional workday with a break in the afternoon.
• Book Recommendation:
  • The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen Covey.
  • Works by Adam Grant, Simon Sinek, and Malcolm Gladwell.
• Favorite Managers:
  • Open and honest communication.
  • Constructive criticism.
  • Willingness to share strategy and business insights.
• Elevator Advice:
  • Work hard, be humble, be kind, and opportunities will arise.

Synthesis/Conclusion

Everett Littton's journey in civil engineering, particularly in underground construction, highlights the importance of understanding the core purpose ("why") behind projects, prioritizing environmental stewardship and global impact, and actively engaging in industry organizations. His advice to young engineers emphasizes humility, boldness, the pursuit of enjoyment in their work, and the value of mentorship. His experiences with Engineers Without Borders and UCA, coupled with his focus on communication and continuous learning, provide a comprehensive framework for professional growth and leadership in the field.