2012 40 Under Forty: Ian Catlow

Catlow

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PROJECT MANAGER, Tighe & Bond

Company location: Worcester

Residence: Fitchburg

Favorite movie: "The Shawshank Redemption"

Career highlights: After graduating from WPI in 1998, I took a job with Tetra Tech in Framingham, where I was involved in the design of the first large-scale water reuse system in the state for Gillette Stadium. In 2005, I switched jobs to be closer to home, and found a great career at Tighe & Bond. Since then, I've led the design of numerous water and wastewater projects.

Community involvement: Over the last couple of years I've been mentoring young civil engineers at WPI as they complete their senior design project. I think the creativity and curiosity I see in these students is more inspiring to me than the guidance I give them.

Biggest success: One of my biggest career successes has been to serve as the project manager for the high-profile Sturbridge Wastewater Treatment Plant upgrade. This will be the first full-scale BioMag wastewater system in the state, and second in the nation, when the upgrades are completed later this year.

Biggest challenge: As an engineer who works extensively in the public arena, I'm constantly trying to convey complex technical information to decision makers and the public in an unbiased and easy-to-understand manner. Sometimes this is easier said than done, but when you see the light bulb go on with your audience, it feels great.

Mentors: My parents have been the most instrumental in getting me to where I am today. As a fellow engineer, my dad has helped me see the science in everyday things, as well as the importance of truly listening to others. As a former teacher, my mom has given me a great appreciation for lifelong learning and perseverance.

Hidden talent: I'm a pretty good cook, but my 2-year-old sons still throw half the food I make on the floor. The fact that they eat anything besides bananas and Goldfish crackers is a testament to my skills.

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