“Dreamers are mocked as impractical. The truth is they are the most practical, as their innovations lead to progress and a better way of life for all of us.” - Robin S. Sharma
Simply put, engineering is the backbone of society. Many can and will argue that other fields are just as or more important, but I became an engineer because of the reputation and importance that they hold regarding the safety and well-being of the public. I want to be involved in the forward movement of humanity and technological achievement.
Hello, my name is Austin Dada.
The moment that I decided to become a civil/structural engineer was a veritable epiphany. As I drove through the streets of Birmingham, AL during my Driver’s Education course in high school (passing with not-so-flying colors might I add…I had a little bit of a ‘lead foot’), I observed so many individuals doing so many seemingly unconnected jobs that contributed to a wider and greater infrastructure. I became fascinated with this concept and decided that I wanted to be a part of a process that takes the upkeep of urban infrastructure into account. This is when I decided to become a civil engineer.
Now, about 18 years later, I find myself in a position that allows me to work on technical projects in the bridge infrastructure and transportation as a structural engineer. I’ve always been interested in the human side of all fields of work, including technical fields, and I’m very set on finding opportunities at companies that exhibit a culture of excellence, innovation, and productivity while understanding that there is a noble obligation that engineers must hold dear, to hold the safety and well-being of the public paramount above all else and hopefully to promote social and environmental stewardship in the process. This is my personal philosophy in everything that I do.
I’ll never forget what a mentor of mine told me in high school. He said that a moth searches for the moonlight to find its way home, but we see many moths chasing after artificial lights, lamps, candles, etc., thinking that these sources are the moonlight. I believe that public service through engineering is my true moonlight. I want to be able to help humanity and assist in the great infrastructural challenges that so many societies face in the 21st century around the world.
My Blog
Find out about my personal thoughts on sustainability, engineering, and career.