Alec has been a part of the bridge team as a bridge designer at Carpenter Marty Transportation for 14 years. He works to transform concepts into functional, lasting structures that people rely on every day. For Alec, bridge engineering was the perfect fit, an opportunity to blend art and mathematics while creating something both practical and visually impactful.

Early Inspiration

Alec’s path into engineering was driven by a desire to combine technical skill with creative expression. He was drawn to the idea of designing structures that are not only functional but also serve as landmarks within their communities. Bridge engineering offered exactly that balance, allowing him to apply both analytical thinking and an eye for aesthetics in his work.

Favorite Project: Brighton Approach Bridge

One of Alec’s favorite projects to date has been the Brighton Approach Bridge Replacement. The project stood out due to its unique combination of historical context, complex geometry, and an emphasis on visual design. It challenged him to think beyond standard solutions and pay close attention to every detail.

“The most important thing I learned is that every little detail matters,” Alec notes. After thorough consideration of four alternatives, Carpenter Marty Transportation decided the best course of action was a full bridge replacement. Carpenter Marty Transportation handled the bridge’s replacement design, pedestrian safety analysis, and retaining wall design. The experience also came with an unexpected bonus, learning that Cincinnati is home to an abandoned subway system, adding another layer of intrigue to the project’s setting. Brighton Approach Bridge recently completed construction and is now open to the public.

Life Outside of Work

Outside the office, Alec enjoys spending time with his kids and his old dog, often focusing on home improvement projects around the house. He also likes attending concerts, golfing, and taking family vacations to the beach.

Life at CM

Alec values both the diversity of projects like bridge replacements and rehabilitation as well as the people he works alongside. The variety keeps the work engaging, while the team environment adds to the overall experience. He finds it rewarding to merge his passion for art and mathematics and to create designs that have a lasting impact on the community. What Alec enjoys most about his career is the tangible nature of the work. “I enjoy the tangible aspect of seeing what we design become reality.” Seeing a bridge move from design plans into a real, physical structure is one of the most rewarding aspects of what he does. It’s a process that turns ideas on paper into something people interact with every day.