Our People: Suzanne Sleeman

Can you briefly describe your role and responsibilities at FPA?

My official title is CADD System Administrator. That involves all things CAD, from handling and maintaining our software and its licensing to providing help desk support to the CAD using staff to providing graphics (both engineering and presentation) and design assistance on projects as needed. Handling the administration and maintenance of the plotters and the copiers/printers, NearMap and Digital Signatures are also a big part of my daily responsibilities.  

Can you share your journey and what motivated you to join FPA?

I joined French & Parrello in April 1982. At the time, there was a downturn in the industry and the firm I worked for was affected by what was happening in the industry. The partners of the firm knew Larry and arranged for me to interview with what was at the time Raamot Associates and the minority run business EFP (Echaniz, French & Parrello).  Both firms specialized in Geotechnical and Environmental services and fared better during the industry downturn. I started a week later as a Field Technician/Draftsperson working for EFP. There were about 10 employees between the 2 firms. Once FPA was established I was moved to FPA.

What do you find most fulfilling about this industry?

I enjoy problem solving and coming up with solutions. During my early years at French & Parello I got to work with the Chief Design Engineer (Sam K). We worked on projects that were unique, and we were always blazing new trails. It was very rewarding to work on these types of projects. I feel very fortunate that I got to experience this industry before the age of computers and to still be part of it now working alongside many talented people.    

Have you had any influential mentors or role models? If so, how have they impacted your career?

I got into engineering when I was a senior in high school. I was an apprentice through a work-study program working for a local engineering firm. The two old timers I worked with taught me all the shortcuts when it came to design and hand drafting. They were great mentors providing me with real insight into the engineering field. I will always remember that. They really took the time to teach me how things get done. Also, while at FPA working with Sam, the chief design engineer, I got to learn so much. There have been many others throughout my tenure at FPA that have been great role models.

What has been your best experience working in your career? Can you share some highlights from your career?

 I think the highlight of my career is probably mentoring high school students. Giving back by teaching young students what it is like to work in this industry is very rewarding. I’ve got to work on some great projects through the years and it is great when you get to see them built. One moment that sticks out for me was when a plan I hand drafted just as the industry was going to CAD was mistaken for being done using Computer Aided Drafting. I felt proud of my work, unfortunately it wasn’t as easy to edit a hand drafted plan as it is using the computer.

Can you tell me about a project or accomplishment that you’re particularly proud of in your career?

Seeing the jobs that you’ve worked on going from concept to reality. Another accomplishment is when I was mentoring new engineers, and they have that aha moment and say they’re getting the hang of it, and they go on to do great things.

What are some of the most memorable projects you’ve worked on?

Most recently, the South Amboy Ferry. Also, a lot of the school projects. In 42 years, I’ve got to work on so many wonderful engineering and graphical projects.

One of my favorite and most frustrating projects was the Grove Street Bridge. We worked on this bridge forever with lots of ups and downs, and many design changes.  When I finally got to drive over the bridge I remember saying, “that was the Grove Street Bridge??” I think it was bigger on paper!! I had a good laugh.

How have you seen the engineering industry change/evolve over the course of your career?

I watched the evolution of going from the pre-computer age to computer-age. You had to change everything you did. I used to draw with pen on mylar, and now you do everything on the computer. We, me, and the couple others here, had the opportunity to grow through all those changes. I feel very fortunate that was part of that evolution and even more fortunate to still be part of it now.

What advice would you give to young individuals who are just starting their careers in the STEM field?

I’d say focus on what you want to do, and then realize that it’s a world of problem solving. Think about how to approach a problem and what you would do to solve it. Think it through.

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

Watching it grow. I’ve been here from the beginning. It is so much fun to watch how it has and continues to evolve.

What do you enjoy most about working at FPA?

It’s a family.

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

I was one of the first to use CAD (Computer Aided Drafting) in the company when FPA made the leap into the change in the industry.