College of Engineering News • Iowa State University

Nicole Martindale: Outstanding senior in civil engineering

A personal goal I have as an engineer is to apply the knowledge and skills I acquire through my experiences to help society and the environment. Working within the water and wastewater industry is an area of civil engineering that provides endless opportunities for improvement.”

Hometown: Gretna, Nebraska

Clubs and activities: Society of Women Engineers (career development chair), American Society of Civil Engineers, Chi Epsilon Civil Engineering Honor Society, Tau Beta Pi Engineering Honor Society (chapter survey officer), Running Club, and a local church. I am also a former athlete on the Iowa State women’s soccer team and served as the treasurer and secretary for the NCAA Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC).

Valuable hands-on learning opportunities: Interning at FOX Engineering Associates, Inc. in Ames, Iowa, and working as a student operator at the Ames Water Treatment Plant. For the past two summers, I have assisted engineers at FOX Engineering with a wide range of water and wastewater improvement projects and attended various site visits.

As an Ames Water Treatment Plant student operator, I have had the opportunity to acquire firsthand experience in the role of an operator. This provides me with a unique perspective and background within water treatment design.

Influential mentor: Over the years, Chris Rehmann, associate professor of civil, construction and environmental engineering, has provided me with a valuable source of guidance and advice as both a student and future civil engineer. He has also encouraged me to pursue graduate school at Iowa State after I graduate.

Plans after graduation: I will be staying at Iowa State to work on a master’s degree in civil engineering with a focus area of environmental engineering. I will also be working as a graduate research assistant and continue as a student operator at the Ames Water Treatment Plant. After graduate school, I plan to work as a consultant engineer for the design of water and wastewater treatment plants.

Leaving my mark: A personal goal I have as an engineer is to apply the knowledge and skills I acquire through my experiences to help society and the environment. Working within the water and wastewater industry is an area of civil engineering that provides endless opportunities for improvement. Acquiring a minor in sustainability at Iowa State has enabled me to solidify my passion for protecting future generations.

Engineering like a Cyclone Engineer: My favorite aspect of being a Cyclone Engineer are the endless opportunities available to find your interests and develop life-long memories and relationships.

Ever since my freshman year, I was immediately involved in a variety of clubs, organizations, and campus events. Throughout my experiences, I have realized my passion for serving the community and the importance of always being willing to learn new things.

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