Q&A
Sep 19, 2025
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Sophie Gatman, based in Auckland, New Zealand, shares her experience as a civil engineer as part of our 2025 JacobsGo! cohort – living and working in Dallas, Texas, U.S.
Why did you decide to apply for the program?
The JacobsGo! program was exactly what I was looking for at this stage in my career. I wanted to challenge myself by stepping outside my comfort zone, growing both professionally and personally and expanding my global network.
I saw it as a unique opportunity to work in a new environment, learn how different regions approach engineering challenges and contribute to projects in another country. I also recognized the long-term value of building connections with colleagues worldwide –gaining a perspective that’s hard to find any other way.
What were you most excited about?
I was excited to immerse myself in a completely new setting, both professionally and culturally. I chose Dallas specifically because it’s our global headquarters – offering a front-row seat to how the company operates at a strategic level. I was also eager to experience how projects are delivered in one of our largest markets and to grow by adapting to a place I had never been to before.
What kind of work are you doing in your JacobsGo! role?
I’ve been working on a major highway project in Dallas, focused on increasing capacity to support the city’s rapid growth. A key part of my role has been developing expertise in OpenRoads design software, which I’ve used to create detailed 3D models for client presentations.
More recently, I joined a feasibility study for a highway corridor in San Antonio. This project involves analyzing current and future transportation challenges and developing a strategic plan to meet the corridor’s evolving needs. I also had the opportunity to attend a public hearing in San Antonio, where I engaged with local residents and answered questions about the project.
What have you learned during your assignment?
In just three months, I’ve experienced significant growth across several areas: technical development, communication and global perspective.
Working on projects in Dallas has introduced me to new software tools and workflows. I’ve also had the chance to apply different transportation standards, which has broadened my understanding of international best practices in civil engineering.
Relocating to Dallas pushed me out of my comfort zone and helped me build new connections from scratch. I’ve improved how I share and receive information, while also developing my public speaking skills by presenting to colleagues, high school students at the Perot Museum and university students at Southern Methodist University. I’ve even picked up some local sayings – and shared a few Kiwi ones too!
Being based at our headquarters office has given me a deeper understanding of how a global company operates. I’ve learned how different regions tackle similar engineering challenges and shared insights about New Zealand’s culture and technical expertise with the Dallas team.
What’s been the best part of your JacobsGo! experience so far?
The best part has been the opportunity to grow in ways I never imagined – both professionally and personally.
I’ve built meaningful relationships with colleagues not just in Dallas, but across the U.S. and around the world. My team in the Dallas office – especially my manager, Doug – has been incredibly welcoming and supportive. These connections have opened doors for collaboration, knowledge sharing and friendships that I know will last well beyond this assignment.
