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Ep 32 – Growing Engineers, Building Culture Minisode (2/3)

Episode 32

Ep 32 – Growing Engineers, Building Culture Minisode (2/3)

What does it really take to turn a co-op or internship into a long-term engineering career, and why does it matter more than ever in today’s competitive talent industry? 

In part two of our culture series, we explore the early-career experience at B&N — from first-day impressions to taking on meaningful work and building confidence as a young professional. Emily Poach shares her journey as an early career engineer and a co-op supervisor, while Ashley Williston and Mark Hutson offer perspectives on how supervisors and leaders help foster those experiences across teams and locations. 

This episode also takes a deeper look at mentorship at B&N, including how long-standing informal mentorship has evolved into a more intentional program in the Great Lakes region. We explore why mentorship matters, how it supports early-career growth and how it connects back to B&N’s broader people-focused strategy. 

Mark Hutson, PE, Operations Division Director

Mark Hutson, PE 
Operations Division Director

Director of the Great Lakes Region at B&N, Mark Hutson brings over 25 years of experience in civil engineering, leading the design and construction of water and wastewater treatment facilities, pump stations and utility infrastructure. Mark is known for connecting technical projects with community impact, promoting strong client relationships and mentoring multidisciplinary teams. As an advocate for professional culture, Mark has presented at industry events and regularly conducts check-ins with staff to foster collaboration and growth within B&N’s teams.

Ashley Williston, PE, Project Manager

Ashley Williston, PE 
Project Manager

Ashley Williston is a Project Manager at B&N with a strong background in water and wastewater projects. Since joining B&N in 2015, she has managed projects from the study phase through construction. including the development of design plans, specifications, cost estimates and technical reports. Her background encompasses utility infrastructure projects for municipalities, including water and wastewater planning, treatment, and distribution/collection projects. She has been responsible for facilitating workshops, report writing, developing capital improvement plans, design plans, specifications and cost estimates, completing utility rate studies and managing construction services. Ashley holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Civil and Environmental Engineering from the University of Dayton and is known for her commitment to communication, teamwork and delivering tailored solutions for clients.

Emily Poach, PE, Environmental Engineer

Emily Poach, PE 
Environmental Engineer

Emily Poach is an Environmental Engineer at B&N with experience in municipal water and wastewater collection, distribution and treatment. She has contributed to projects involving water and wastewater treatment plant design, water lines, pump stations, gravity sewers and force mains. Emily’s project roles include designing sanitary sewer systems, coordinating with multidisciplinary teams and supporting environmental permitting and construction services. Emily holds a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Engineering from Gannon University and is an active member of the American Water Works Association and the Society of Women Engineers.

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