Civiltech staff are often asked to speak at their alma maters. These opportunities are encouraged and supported by Civiltech as a meaningful way to inspire future engineers!
Recently Jake Rytina, a Phase II Design Engineer, was invited to speak to several math classes at Harry D. Jacobs High School in Algonquin. As an alum of the school, Jake was asked by his former pre-calculus teacher, Mr. Alexander Fischer, to share his experience in a STEM-related career.
In his presentation, Jake spoke on his experience with Civil Engineering both as his college major, as his profession, and as it relates to STEM. He explained why he chose Civil over other types of engineering, and he shared information on his role at Civiltech. Jake answered questions including his recommendations for choosing a company to work for, how pursuing a STEM-related career factored into his college choice, and how he applies his high school math skills in his daily life as an engineer. 
In summing up the experience, Jake stated that he spoke with students after his presentation that said they appreciated hearing about the field of civil Engineering because it’s not something you are normally exposed to in high school. He also enjoyed sharing lunch and speaking with both Mr. Fischer and other former teachers.