Weston Stidham is a dedicated civil engineer and family man from Birmingham, Alabama, known for his significant contributions to urban development and community service. Graduating from the University of Alabama at Birmingham with both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in civil engineering, he is passionately working towards his Professional Engineer license. Beyond his professional endeavors, Weston finds joy in volunteering, particularly with Little Hands Serving Hearts, demonstrating his commitment to making a positive impact. Balancing a demanding career with a rich family life and personal interests, Weston exemplifies the essence of a well-rounded individual driven by integrity, innovation, and compassion.
Q&A with Weston Stidham
Reflecting on your childhood in Birmingham, how did those early experiences shape your aspirations?
My upbringing in Birmingham instilled in me a strong sense of community and the value of making a tangible impact. As the youngest in a close-knit family, the principles of support, resilience, and striving for excellence became the cornerstones of my life. These ideals naturally steered me toward a career where I could apply those principles daily, leading me to civil engineering – a field where I could contribute to the welfare of my community through problem-solving and innovation.
What drove you to specialize in civil engineering, and can you share insights into your academic path?
A blend of curiosity about the built environment and a desire to contribute to societal progress nudged me towards civil engineering. My academic journey at the University of Alabama at Birmingham was both challenging and rewarding, equipping me with not just technical knowledge but also a deeper understanding of the environmental and social implications of engineering projects. The pursuit of my Professional Engineer license is the next step in my commitment to upholding the highest standards in my work.
How do you intertwine your role as a family man with your professional responsibilities?
For me, family is the anchor that keeps me grounded. Juggling professional responsibilities with family time is an art that requires flexibility and mindfulness. I strive to be fully present in whatever I’m doing, whether I’m at work solving complex problems or at home sharing moments with my family. It’s about quality time, not just quantity, ensuring that my family feels valued and loved.
With such a diverse range of interests, how do you manage to integrate your hobbies into your busy life?
I view my hobbies as essential, not optional. They’re vital for my mental and physical well-being. I schedule time for these activities just like any other appointment. It’s about finding balance and recognizing that taking time for myself allows me to return to my family and my work refreshed and more productive. Each hobby, whether it’s a fitness regimen, a DIY project, or gaming, adds a unique layer to my life, enriching it in multiple dimensions.
Can you delve deeper into your passion for volunteering and your choice of Little Hands Serving Hearts?
Volunteering offers me a profound sense of fulfillment. With Little Hands Serving Hearts, I was drawn to their mission of engaging young minds in service. It’s about planting seeds of compassion and community service in the younger generation. My involvement allows me to blend my professional skills with my desire to contribute positively to society, offering a hands-on example to my children and others on the importance of giving back.
Reflecting on your achievements and experiences, what fills you with pride, and what visions do you have for your future?
Looking back, I’m most proud of how I’ve managed to weave together a meaningful career, a nurturing family life, and a commitment to service. Each facet of my life informs and enriches the others. Moving forward, my goal is to secure my Professional Engineer license, continuing my journey of professional development while deepening my commitment to my family and extending my community service. I aim to inspire others to find their own paths to fulfillment through a blend of professional success, personal joy, and community involvement.
Finally, what does success look like to you?
To me, success in my career means seeing the projects I work on come to life and knowing they’re making a real difference. It’s not just about the big milestones, like finishing a major construction or earning my Professional Engineer license, although those are important. Success is also in the day-to-day improvements, like solving a tough problem, making processes more efficient, or mentoring a younger colleague. It’s about knowing that through my work, I’m helping build safer, better, and more sustainable communities.
Key Takeaways
- Integration of Personal Values with Professional Life: Weston emphasizes the importance of blending personal values such as community service, family commitment, and lifelong learning with his professional career in civil engineering, highlighting a holistic approach to success.
- Prioritization of Well-being Through Hobbies: He underlines the significance of balancing work with personal interests and hobbies, showcasing how they contribute to overall well-being, creativity, and productivity in his professional life.
- Mentorship and Positive Impact: Weston places a strong emphasis on mentoring and making a tangible difference in his community and field, defining professional success not just by personal achievements but by the ability to inspire and uplift others.