Since joining SWCA in 2017, Jen has exemplified our core values by being a trusted advisor to colleagues and clients, and the go-to expert in technology integration. With a strong background in environmental science and a seamless transition into a role focused on compliance and policy, Jen’s expertise unites many facets of SWCA’s work under one umbrella. Her dedication to collaboration and excellence embodies the #OneSWCA spirit.
SCIENTIFIC EXCELLENCE AND LEADERSHIP
Starting at SWCA as a Project Coordinator in the Portland office, Jen supported NEPA projects and quickly became known for her willingness to jump wherever needed.
Jen has always been a natural resources (NR) enthusiast at heart. While no longer in a technical science role, Jen’s roots in environmental science and her understanding of the boots-on-the-ground perspective allow her to apply that lens to the systems, tools, and processes used daily.
One of the most fun and memorable experiences at SWCA for Jen was tagging along on a wetland delineation early in her career. Visiting sites around the Portland metro area, she soaked up knowledge from Mirth Walker, a phenomenal scientist and mentor. Another early-career highlight was working on the Port of Portland’s-streaked horned lark HCP project with Amanda Childs and Amanda Glenn. Deeply involved in the public involvement components, Jennifer gained an inside look at how policy, stakeholder engagement, and project science come together.
“It was a valuable learning experience and set the stage for a love of collaborative problem-solving,” said Jen.
TEAM BUILDING AND CURIOSITY
In her current role on the technological side, a standout moment for Jen was helping implement Zoom across the company just in time for the pandemic. It was a high-stakes, high-impact rollout, and equipping teams to stay connected during uncertain times was incredibly rewarding.
Jen also loved working with operational leaders to develop virtual public engagement tools, ensuring commitments to public involvement were met during the lockdowns.
For Jen, the highlights that stick most aren’t just about projects, they are about learning, collaboration, and solving real business problems so teams can keep doing great work for clients and communities.
Jen’s advice to all SWCA employees is to stay curious and open. “There are many paths you can take here, and many people willing to help you explore them. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, reach out to people doing work you’re interested in, or raise your hand for something new. Shadow someone in the field. Join a technical practice group. Even if it’s outside your immediate role, there’s value in seeing how different parts of the company operate.”
“We talk a lot about technical excellence, and it’s not just a buzzword, it’s a culture. If you’re passionate about something, chances are there’s a place for it here. And if there isn’t yet, you might just be the one to build it.”
The quarterly Lawrence S. Semo Scientific Achievement Award rewards individuals for demonstrating passion, creativity, and scientific excellence in a manner that advances SWCA’s purpose, mission, vision, and values. The award is in honor of Larry Semo, who began working as a biologist for SWCA in Austin in 1993 and transferred to Denver in 1999. A respected and widely published ornithologist and all-around naturalist, Larry had an insatiable desire to learn and a great love for the outdoors until his untimely passing in 2011.