Our People: Lena Barone

What do you find most fulfilling about this industry?

One of the most fulfilling aspects of this industry is seeing your projects built. You start with a blank piece of paper and at the end of the process, there is an actual land development project. Whether its buildings, streets, etc., there is something tangible in front of you. It’s sometimes a stressful and frustrating process, but it’s worth it, when your project is finally built.

What has been your best experience working as an engineer?

It’s changed throughout the years. Currently, my most rewarding aspect of my work is coaching and mentoring the more inexperienced engineers and seeing them grow into their roles. I really enjoy that.

What are some of the most memorable projects you have worked on? Which ones are you particularly proud of?

Sometimes the most memorable ones are because of the complexity of the designs or the difficulty of obtaining approvals for a project. It’s a proud moment when finally, after many years, the project is built. Some of the standouts are some of the larger apartment projects I’ve worked on over the years. These were often very contentious and difficult to get approved from a regulation standpoint. There was often a lot of public opposition   to the projects, which caused additional issues in the approval process.

What are the most important lessons you have learned throughout your career so far?

Probably that it’s such a relationships-based and people-based business. I think a lot of people, including myself, go into engineering because they like math and science. Then, after you are already in the business, you realize how important people skills are. It is important to develop relationships, because the people you know will help you advance your career.

What advice would you give to young engineers who are just starting their careers in the industry?

My advice is to get out there and get as much experience as you can, in a variety of civil engineering fields. Figure out what it is that you like the best, and then keep learning and gaining as much technical knowledge as possible. That will give you a really solid foundation, so that later on, when you get into project management, you really know what you’re talking about. That’s when clients and business will come your way because you will be an expert in your field.

In what ways do you believe your work positively impacts FPA and their clients?

In our line of business, the end product, the project, whether it is the buildings, hospitals, roads, utilities, etc. they are all a public benefit. You are creating something that people need. It is a direct result of our work that somebody can move into that new house or apartment, or someone can open their business in a shopping center, or someone will get an upgraded road. The work benefits the community, advances our client’s goals, benefits FPA and also advances the profession.

What do you enjoy most about working for FPA?

I like the people here. The company is a good size. FPA is big enough to provide support to get your work done, but it’s also small enough that you get to know everybody.

Looking ahead, what excites you most about the future of FPA?

It’s exciting to be part of the company growth. We have a variety of work and lots of opportunities for personal growth and development. I enjoy meeting new people and working with them. That is the exciting part for me.

Can you share a fun fact about yourself that your colleagues might not know?

I’m originally from Croatia. I came here by myself when I was 17. My family is still in Croatia, so I go and visit a lot.