Better buildings through innovation and problem-solving

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Addressing the challenges of global environmentalism is a broad field that involves untold skills and research. Finding a niche in such a broad field is also a challenge, one that senior Jessica Schneider has discovered during her time at Western Michigan University.  

Schneider says she initially thought she would major in environmental studies at WMU. But the interconnection between the environment and building and construction led her to study civil engineering, adding the component of a climate change minor to pursue her dreams.  

“Civil engineering has such a high impact on the world around us,” says Schneider. “People no longer want to see buildings with excess energy waste and inefficient designs, but there’s a challenge in the transition to these new standards. I love the innovation and problem-solving that engineers face when trying to improve the environment we live in.” 

Schneider’s progress to her professional goals involves many aspects, all of which she embraces in her pursuit of better buildings.  

“My academic progress and career plans have been influenced by the different opportunities to get involved that helped me discover the type of engineer I want to be,” says Schneider. “This includes all my classes—including the ones I didn’t like so much—as well as involvement with student organizations and attending career events that helped me find my internships.” 

Those internships helped Schneider hone in on the area of civil engineering that most fits her goals. “My first two internships were not where I saw myself continuing, but the benefit of that alone made them worth it.” 

Then she landed a spot with dbHMS in Grand Rapids. “They work as Commissioning Engineers to benefit building efficiency and sustainability which is a huge passion of mine,” says Schneider, who is continuing her internship. “Their approach to building sustainability through commissioning and design is what I’ve been looking for in a career. Even on campus, dbHMS has been a part of the construction process for Arcadia Flats and the New Student Center to make WMU’s buildings as environmentally conscious and efficient as it can be. The commissioning process benefits WMU and its students, and I’m grateful to be a part of it.”  

Commissioning engineers are responsible for ensuring that mechanical, electrical, and other types of systems and equipment are properly installed, tested and functioning as intended. This role is not limited to civil engineers. “It’s an underrepresented path for engineers to go, yet it’s a great option for students and future professionals who want to be able to say they have a true impact on a community,” adds Schneider. "I am continuing my internship with them during the Fall ’23 semester and hope to continue working with them next summer.” 

As busy as she is with courses and internships, Schneider also works for the WMU Office for Sustainability is as a communication ambassador. “This work allows me to participate in sustainability as a hobby and generate job skills not touched on in conventional engineering internships,” explains Schneider who credits the office with solidifying her decision to attend WMU. “The Office for Sustainability boosts diversity and sustainability on campus which creates not only a fun and hardworking office environment, but also it boosts campus spirit.” 

And it doesn’t end there. She is a vice president of the WMU chapter of the American Society of Civil Engineers and captain of the WMU Concrete Canoe team.   

“I have experienced so much benefit in these organizations because I have found professional skills as well as a lot of new friends,” says Schneider. “Getting involved in student organizations has provided me with an entirely different hands-on experience that has made me more confident in my skills as an engineer. Concrete Canoe specifically has been a huge highlight of my involvement here. It has allowed me to work with a team to create a finalized product and compete against other schools to create memories I love and set myself apart as a leader.” 

Schneider encourages other students to also get involved in a variety of activities. “WMU offers so many resources to get involved on campus in what interests you. What you get involved in opens so many new doors and may be the key step in finding your place after graduation. Make the most of your time here!”

For more WMU news, arts and events, visit WMU News online.