Who is Mike Anderson?

I’m the Owner and Lead Civil Engineer for Van Atta Engineering. I started working here as a young engineer in March of 2000 and grown my career through this company for the past 21 years.

What are your favorite things outside of the office?

I enjoy spending time with my family. I have two boys that keep us really busy. I also enjoy listening to live music when I get some extra time.

Why did you decide to work in civil engineering?

I decided to work in Civil Engineering during my time at the University of Toledo. I was looking for a challenging career where I wouldn’t necessarily be tied to a desk each day. Site visits are essential to developing an understanding of what we need to design as Civil Engineers.

What is an important project that you feel like shaped your career?

The development of the Austin Landing infrastructure and storm water control measures. This was a large commercial development where we needed to account for hundreds of acres of drainage and infrastructure design. I was the lead designer with regard to storm water.

What do you value the most about the culture at Van Atta Engineering?

We have worked hard to create a casual work environment with emphasis on servicing our clients. We are small and the “family” atmosphere is something that I really strive to maintain as we head into the future.

What do you hope to accomplish in 2022?

We have multiple large commercial and residential projects currently in house to design. Getting these projects approved and into construction is our goal every year at Van Atta Engineering.

How do you see Van Atta changing in the next few years and how do you see yourself creating that change?

I see us incorporating new staff and with that new perspectives on the work we do every day. I really look forward to developing a team that will lead us into the next phase of growth for this company.

What advice do you have to a young engineer looking to follow in your footsteps?

Work hard, while striving to achieve a work life balance that fits you. Start thinking of where you would like to be in the next 10 years and try to surround yourself with people that can help you get there.

What animal represents the culture of Van Atta Engineering and why?

This is kind of silly question but I’ll play along....VAE is probably most like a really good sled dog. We work hard when its time to work and we are able to carry a heavy load with a small team. But when its time to play....we know how to get that done as well.