Erik MacDonald
PE | Partner
Erik MacDonald, PE serves as a Partner at DBR, with a special leadership role in the Higher Education market. After graduation, this proud Aggie joined DBR full-time in 2004.
Erik believes getting projects delivered on time and on budget are no-brainers. His true passion lies in coming up with solutions to various challenges that keep his clients up at night. Erik isn’t afraid to get his hands dirty and as the leader of his team of designers and engineers, Erik will rally alongside them and pick up the slack if ever there is a need.
When he is not cheering on Texas A&M sports teams, Erik spends his downtime hunting, golfing, and at one point even trained to become an Ironman in 2014. Erik is married to his wife, Amanda, and has a 10-year-old son, Liam who loves playing video games. Erik’s honesty and commitment to giving clients and their projects his full attention makes him a valued leader at DBR.
Q&A with Erik:
Q: As a Partner and leader in the firm, how do you mentor the designers of today to become better leaders for tomorrow?
A: I am a big believer in actions speak volumes over words. For me, that means not only “trying” to teach the younger engineers and designers but also setting a good example for them. When they face a challenge, I can give them advice on how I handled something similar in the past. It is also important to understand that learning never ends.
My son asked me one time, “Dad did you have a good day today?” He normally doesn’t ask that so it kind of caught me off guard. I told him, “Yes I did, I learned something today.” It doesn’t matter how big or small it is, it’s the process.
Q: What are some proven methodologies you have used to ensure DBR delivers projects that go above and beyond our client’s expectations?
A: Understanding the clients/owner’s needs for a project. You have to listen to them. If we provide something they don’t want or need, how are we helping them? Think outside of the box. Being innovative will challenge you on a professional level and provide a product that fits the needs of the client/owner.
Q: What do you love most about being an engineer?
A: HA! I love the challenges that we get to work on every day. And I love that we have something to show for our hard work. You know, the first project that I worked on (with a lot of help from Butch Gilbert, DBR’s electrical practice area leader) still makes me proud when I drive by it. I am sure my wife and son are tired of hearing about it because I let them know every single time.
Project Photo:
Texas A&M University – Bright Football Complex | HarrisonKornburg & Populous | College Station, Texas
Have questions? Give Erik a call:
Erik MacDonald, PE
Partner
713.914.0888
[email protected]