Amanda DeCesare

Why did you decide to enter a technical career field?
My father is an engineer and worked in the civil engineering field for some time. After I was born, he took a job in the chemical engineering department at Michigan Tech. Throughout my childhood it was assumed that I would attend Michigan Tech, which is a strong engineering college. I choose the civil engineering/construction management field because I wanted a career that would allow me to work in the field.

What has been your career journey so far?
I joined CSX’s Design and Construction Department in 2007, a couple weeks after graduating from Michigan Tech. I completed the Engineering Management Trainee program in Atlanta with the incoming Roadmasters, and then became a full time Project Engineer in Richmond, VA, where I managed railroad construction projects in the field.  In 2012, I took on my current role as Project Manager – Public Projects in northern Kentucky. I work with local agencies and state DOTs to execute crossing signal, roadway, and bridge construction projects that impact CSX’s tracks across my 4 state territory.

What does a typical day involve for you?
Public Projects is a demanding field. I work with a team of consultants to manage hundreds of projects around my territory. These projects start as concepts that are cultivated into plans, estimates, agreements, and finally, construction. Some are as major as a $25M railroad-highway grade separation, and some are simple repaving jobs that are complete in a day. Every day is different- some days I spend in the field, planning new construction projects, and other days I spend in the office on the phone and replying to emails. That’s why I enjoy my role. If my current task becomes mundane, there’s always something different to do to change things up.

What aspects of that are the most challenging?
In a broader sense, I would like to discuss the challenges of being a mother and a railroader at the same time.  Before my first child was born, I thought I would simply take a 6 week vacation and stroll back into work refreshed and ready to go. When he actually arrived, reality was, of course, much different. Mothers have such a strong biological and emotional attachment to their babies that it makes it very hard to focus on work if you are worried about the baby. Find a childcare arrangement that you are comfortable with so you don’t worry about the baby when you’re at work. If you’re struggling with the work-life balance, talk to your manager about it one on one- don’t struggle alone. You can juggle working and motherhood if you are honest with yourself and your manager.  There will be days when your mother self will be at conflict with your career self, and only you will know what is best for you and your family. There will be sick days and doctors appointments that have to be juggled with conference calls and field visits. Focus on work when you’re at work, and family when you’re at home, and you’ll make it through both successfully.

What would be your advice to young women entering the industry?
Young women (and men) entering any industry should use their inexperience to their advantage. Take any opportunity available to learn how something works. If you’re given the opportunity to high-rail or ride a train, go along for the ride. If someone offers you the chance to sit with a dispatcher for a day, sit down and ask questions! Experienced railroaders want to pass on their knowledge to the future generation if you are genuinely interested in learning.  I think it takes about 2 years to get your feet on the ground in your railroad career- learn something new every day during those first couple years!

What are your interests/hobbies outside of work?
I am married with 3 boys, ages 9, 7, and 3. I spend a lot of time with their extracurricular activities. I am currently on our school’s PTSO board and our neighborhood HOA board. I also have a home business that I manage, and I assist my husband with his construction business. As a family, we enjoy outdoor activities (my middle son LOVES fishing) together. My husband and I like to do home improvement projects in our “free” time.

In your opinion, what is the recipe for success – for a team, career, or otherwise?
Be honest! If you don’t know the answer to something- admit that, and then learn the answer.