Dallas SWE is pleased to recognize Jennifer Franklin as a Member of the Month for October 2022! With our Member of the Month program, Dallas SWE seeks to recognize some of our non-officer members whose technical contributions, leadership accomplishments, or SWE volunteer service are particularly noteworthy. If you would like to nominate a Dallas SWE member for his/her contributions, please email us at dallas.swe@gmail.com.
Check out Jenny’s story below!
Growing up, I always had an interest in math and science which lead me to pursue engineering. My engineering journey started at the University of Oklahoma. While there, I studied environmental engineering and was on the school’s rowing team. As a student athlete for all four years, I didn’t have much time to be an active member of SWE. However, I was still very lucky to be surrounded by an amazing group of women and coaches who inspired and supported me and my engineering goals. Four tough years and two Big XII Championships later, I graduated in 2016 with a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Engineering.
My passion for water resources eventually lead me to Quiddity Engineering, a Civil Engineering firm, in Houston, Texas. I started as a Design Engineer in 2017 in the Conveyance and Transmission Division of the Water Practice. I first obtained my certification as an Engineer-in-Training, and, more recently in 2021, became a licensed Professional Engineer in the State of Texas. While working as a Design Engineer and now a Project Engineer, I was able to grow my technical, project management, and leadership skills. My experience includes the design of wastewater transmission and collection lines, large diameter waterlines, water and wastewater utility replacements/rehabilitations, and water and wastewater system computer modeling and master planning. In my current role as a Project Engineer at Quiddity Engineering, I continue to work on water and wastewater infrastructure projects for public clients (i.e. Cities, Water Authorities, etc.). I love that the work I do can positively impact communities across Texas. Outside of work and SWE, I am involved with the American Water Works Association, Water Environment Association of Texas, and non-profit organizations including the Quiddity Foundation.
I officially joined SWE a few years ago while living and working in Houston, and I joined the Dallas Chapter after moving to Dallas about a year ago. This is my first year on the Membership Committee with Dallas SWE, and I am excited to get more involved. In the past few years, I’ve enjoyed being able to volunteer with SWE (Design Your World) and take part in the book clubs (previously in Houston and now Dallas). I am grateful for the opportunity to give back through SWE, and I am looking forward to connecting with and supporting more members while on the Membership Committee. Although I am newer to the Dallas Chapter, I’ve already witnessed how amazing and hardworking this group of members is.
The mentors and teammates I’ve had throughout my life, whether that’s been at home, school, or the office, have been invaluable, and I see how SWE is able to provide that mentorship and support for so many women. What I like most about SWE is the network of people it’s created who are passionate about uplifting and supporting girls and women in STEM. One thing I’ve learned, as an engineer and former rower, is how powerful a supportive team around you can be.
