Amanda Melendez
Supporting Team Member
Amanda Melendez is an Engineer-in-Training and serves as a Civil Associate – Structural Bridge out of Michael Baker’s Chicago, Illinois, office. Before moving to Chicago two years ago, she was an intern in Michael Baker’s Louisville, Kentucky, office for two summers while earning her Bachelor of Science and Master of Science degrees in Civil Engineering with a structural emphasis from the University of Kentucky.
Amanda’s interest in Bridges to Prosperity comes from the passion she has for vulnerable communities and resilient infrastructure. The work being done resonates with her because both of her parents come from small rural towns in Mexico that require transportation upgrades. She also hopes to set an example for young women who are thinking of pursuing a career in engineering. Amanda is an avid volunteer with Habitat for Humanity and serves as a mentor for ACE Mentor Program of Chicago, an after-school program for high school students. She is a food fanatic, enjoys being outdoors and plays intermural soccer.
What have you learned from working and interacting with members of the community?
The community members of Jomba and Muringa will always remain my heart. I learned that verbal communication is not the only way to communicate or teach someone something. Actions speak louder, whether that be a smile or a demonstration on how to properly install a deck panel. The community members trusted us in helping to build the bridge they will continue to use every day, and I believe we gained more from them than they did from us.
