David W. Arnott, P.E.
client team leader, senior project manager
“We’re a very creative firm. We look for more than an out-of-the-box solution and think about our projects from all angles so we can come up with the best possible answer. We view our projects holistically; What are the social implications? What are the political aspects? There’s a lot more to think about than just the technical work and cost, especially when working in water and wastewater. ”
Why did you decide to become an engineer?
I really enjoy solving technical problems and wrapping my head around all the things that go into addressing a challenge. I like being methodical and working my way through the different steps necessary to find the right solution. In college, I wasn’t sure what kind of engineer I wanted to be at first, but after learning a little bit more as a freshman I decided I was very interested in water and wastewater, so I chose to focus on civil engineering.
How long have you been with R/M?
21 years as of April 26th. The time has flown by. I really enjoy what I do, so my time here has gone by so quickly.
What is the best part of your job?
I love the variety of my day-to-day. You never know what’s going to pop-up. I get to work with all kinds of different people, and there’s always different challenges to overcome. I also really enjoy the technical aspect of engineering. I appreciate the work in and of itself.
What do you think differentiates R/M from other firms?
We’re a very creative firm. We look for more than an out-of-the-box solution and think about our projects from all angles so we can come up with the best possible answer. We view our projects holistically; What are the social implications? What are the political aspects? There’s a lot more to think about than just the technical work and cost, especially when working in water and wastewater.
We’re also creative when it comes to technology, and our tech advancements in SCADA, GIS, and Survey really set us apart.
If you could go back in time and give your 18-year-old self one piece of advice, what would it be?
Probably to not take myself too seriously. I’d tell myself it’s all going to work out, and to recognize that other people are struggling with the same things you are
What are you up to when you’re not at work?
I like to stay active. My wife and I like to go for walks, and I enjoy biking and running. I also like to play golf and tennis. When I’m home, now that it’s warm, I do a little gardening and enjoy spending time in the yard.
What is your favorite food right now?
We have been making a lot of chicken cordon bleu at home lately, and that’s been great. We make it with smashed baked potatoes that are delicious. That’s probably my favorite right now.
