Feb. 16-22, 2025, is Engineers Week. Join us as we spotlight some of the people behind the design, construction, and record-keeping of our city's streets, bridges, and water and sewer systems.
Meet Christian Allwardt! A graduate of the Maple Valley School District, Christian holds a Bachelor of Science in project management from Colorado Technical University and an associate in science in construction technologies from the Community College of the Air Force. He is also a certified survey technician through the National Society of Professional Surveyors.
In his role as a civil engineering tech for the city of Battle Creek, Christian oversees road construction design and inspection, project management, contract management, and contractor and interagency coordination.
What’s the best part of your job?
Project management and construction inspection.
What’s a recent project that gave you a great sense of accomplishment? What made it special?
The Skyline Drive/Hill Brady Road roundabout, as it included several different types of construction, as well as its own set of challenges to overcome. The Department of Public Works ultimately received a Project of the Year Award from the American Public Works Association, Southwest Michigan Branch for this project.
What emerging technologies are you most excited about, and how do you see them impacting your work?
There are too many to name them. Civil engineering is constantly changing and that changes the way we design and inspect projects every year.
What role do you think engineers will play in addressing future challenges in Battle Creek?
Introducing new technologies to improve the infrastructure within the City of Battle Creek.
What do you like to do in your free time when you’re not working?
Reading, watching movies, and spending time with my family.
If you could have any superpower to help you in your job, what would it be and why?
Teleportation. That way I could jump from project to project without needing to take more time to travel.
What skills and qualities do you think are essential for someone in your position?
The willingness to constantly learn new things, decisiveness, and problem-solving skills.
What advice would you give to young aspiring engineers who want to make a difference in the Battle Creek community?
Keep learning. Keep an eye out for the engineering division internship program in the spring. Stop in and ask questions.
