Amanda Kessler, P.E.

Why did you decide to enter a technical career field?
I fell into Engineering by chance. I applied to college as a communications major, but when I visited Northeastern after being accepted, I was told that I had a strong math and science background, so I should consider something in one of those fields. No one had ever mentioned that to me before, so I gave it some thought and upon visiting the engineering department I was slightly intimidated, but I also knew instantly that was where I belonged.

What has been your career journey so far?
I started my career as a civil engineer in highway design/transportation planning. I mostly worked on roadway design projects, traffic management planning, and small traffic studies. I always knew I was interested in public transportation so after I obtained my PE license I started looking into rail design jobs. A friend passed along a posting for Amtrak’s Management Associate Program, so I jumped at the chance to apply for the job. I was in the program for 2 ½ years when I was offered a position in the Track Geometry department. I have now been in this group for 4 years and have received two promotions in that timespan.

Please describe your current role.
My current job is to manage the implementation of a railroad maintenance procedure called Reference Surfacing. The goal is to utilize the GPS network to integrate survey, design, and execution of maintenance and construction of Amtrak’s track infrastructure. I coordinate with consultants, vendors, and our internal project management team to ensure that this project is meeting its goals and will be implemented in a timely manner. On any given day I could be in meetings, participating in field visits, performing data analysis, reviewing papers, or researching new technology.

What does a typical day involve for you?
Some days I am in meetings, on the phone and sending emails for a good portion of the day. Other days I am engrossed in Matlab code and spreadsheets. Occasionally I will spend an overnight shift with one of our High Speed Surfacing gangs, and I attend field visits for track condition assessments (often on the hottest and coldest days of the year). There really is no typical day, which is what makes my job so interesting.

What do you like most about your job?
I love the variety. Every day I come to work and I know my day is not going to be the same as yesterday. I never look at the clock and think “oh gosh, it’s only 1pm?!”

What motivates you to put forward your greatest effort?
Working for the railroad is exciting, but I also truly believe in its importance to America and our economy. One of the things I love about civil engineering is that you have an impact on the public’s daily life without them ever realizing it.

Who inspired you during your career and why?
My manager at my first job provided most of the advice that I still utilize today. He taught me how to be a good designer, a good learner, and most importantly, a good manager.

What would be your advice to young women entering the industry?
Do a self-assessment and try to learn what are your strongest skills, then apply those. You might be surprised by what you do best. It might not take you on the path you were planning, but you will more likely succeed if you are utilizing your best skills and are happy doing that work. And always make time for your personal life. Those relationships are the most important.

Never be afraid to ask questions or speak up. Your voice will not be heard unless you use it. Be kind and humble but also strong and self-assured.

What are your interests/hobbies outside of work?
I have a 4-year-old and a 2-year-old, so my hobbies are cleaning dishes and doing laundry 😊 I have never really been one for hobbies as I always want to try everything, but I do enjoy running, bike riding, and toiling with essential oils.

In your opinion, what is the recipe for success – for a team, career, or otherwise?
Career – Don’t be afraid to be in a role that is slightly above your comfort zone. A job that is challenging will help you grow both personally and professionally. Try to plan out a career path, but at the same time, be open to unexpected opportunities.

Amanda Kessler

Amanda Kessler

Manager Reference Surfacing

Amtrak
Philadelphia, PA