Matthew Mester

Life/Culture at Degenkolb:

Why did you choose Degenkolb?
Degenkolb is recognized as one of the top structural engineering firms. It feels great to work with some of the best engineers in the world doing expert structural engineering. I have worked alongside everyone from the engineers sitting next to me in the office to the CEO and Senior Principals in San Francisco on my projects. Everyone in the company wants to help each other succeed in running our business. The enthusiasm makes coming to work a pleasure every day.

Career:

How does Degenkolb support you in your career goals?
Degenkolb has allowed me to grow as an engineer in my profession. Since I started working here just over three years ago, Degenkolb has provided the resources for me to take my career to the next level. I am currently licensed as a Civil Engineer in California and a LEED Accredited Professional because of the support of Degenkolb. I have also been involved with internal committees related to Building Information Modeling and Sustainability at Degenkolb. Finally, I have always wanted to get involved in teaching at a university. Degenkolb has encouraged me to be involved, and I now teach Structural Steel Design at a local university. There are very few places that give you the freedom and encouragement to pursue your passions that exist at Degenkolb. It is one of the many reasons I enjoy working here.

Passion:

How do you stay engaged? What are your passions? Does Degenkolb support your passions?
Outside of work, I am really involved in a few activities away from engineering. During the summers, I spend a few weekend days each year lifeguarding the beaches of LA County. But, my biggest passion since high school has been water polo. I played for several years in high school and college and coached for a few summers. Currently though, I stay involved by officiating water polo, an activity I have been doing for 9 years. I referee at all ages groups from the beginner 10 year olds, through high school, college, and even national team officiating. It is an exciting sport and even more difficult one to referee on the pool deck. Degenkolb gives me the flexibility to spend time away from the office doing something that I love (on the short Fridays and weekends of course).

On the job:

What does an average day at Degenkolb look like?
An average day at Degenkolb consists of answers a few RFI’s for contractors, having direct contact with your clients and principals on projects, attending lunchtime seminars and committee meetings, working with drafters and engineers to figure out solutions on conflicts that arise on your projects, going on a coffee break with coworkers in the afternoon, and having a great end to your day when you get to go home to your wife and dog who are excited to see you at home.