Ever since I was little, even before I could properly read, I was the kid who took things apart just to see how they worked. This wasn't just a phase; it was the beginning of a lifelong fascination with understanding how things work. This natural curiosity eventually evolved into a deep passion for technology, guiding me towards a career in engineering.
My academic journey at George Mason University in Fairfax, Virginia, was more than just a pursuit of a degree; it was the practical application of my childhood curiosity. While studying there, I interned with Urban Engineering in Annandale, VA, getting my hands dirty in the world of residential lot grading design and permitting across Prince William, Loudoun, and Fairfax counties. This experience wasn't just a job; it was the practical groundwork that deepened my understanding of the Land Development engineering process.
After graduating from GMU and a brief stint at Urban as a full-time Project Engineer, a serendipitous LinkedIn message from a Bohler recruiter presented an unexpected opportunity. The offer to join Bohler's Raleigh, NC, office as a Staff Engineer was a leap into the unknown. Having grown up in the DC suburbs after my early years in Bolivia, Raleigh was a mystery to me. Yet, it was this sense of starting afresh in an 'Up and Coming' city that drew me in. I took the plunge, and it turned out to be a life-changing decision
(Thank you Heather!).
At Bohler, the vibe was electric, akin to a startup. I soaked in everything I could, rapidly climbing the ranks. As our office evolved, so did my responsibilities, starting from conceptual through construction design as a Design Engineer, client and jurisdictional coordination as an Assistant Project Manager, all the way to leading our diverse staff and fostering growth as a Project Manager. My involvement in a wide array of projects, from residential, industrial, commercial, mixed-use, and public site developments, honed my understanding of the project lifecycle from multiple perspectives.
During my time at Bohler, my childhood curiosity in technology continued to thrive. The field's ongoing advancements, particularly in machine learning models, computer science, and technology at large, further fueled my intrinsic passion for innovation. I was actively engaged in exploring new ways to improve efficiency and simplify workflows, all while maintaining a quality product and a happy team.
It was in this environment of constant learning and growth that I achieved a significant professional milestone. In 2019, I received my Professional Engineer (PE) certification, a proud accomplishment that underscored my dedication and expertise in civil engineering. This achievement wasn't just a personal triumph; it was a clear indication that I was poised for even greater challenges and responsibilities. Following this milestone, my role at Bohler evolved, eventually leading me to the position of Project Manager, where I could apply my skills and insights on a larger scale.
As I was navigating these professional advancements, a pivotal personal milestone coincided. My wife (then fiancée) received a job offer in Central Illinois, and together, we recognized this as the signal for our next big adventure. In August 2023, with a blend of my engineering acumen and unwavering passion for technology, I embarked on a new venture, founding PMA Research Labs.
PMA Research Labs represents the convergence of my career journey and personal aspirations. Here, my extensive experience in civil engineering and my lifelong enthusiasm for technology come together, aiming to revolutionize efficiency and precision in engineering workflows.
Paul Asche, P.E.