The American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) recognized Bernard Smith, PE, PLS, with life member status at the Portland, Oregon meeting on June 18th. The prestigious recognition is awarded to civil engineers who’ve made a lifetime commitment to the profession and ASCE throughout their career. As a member for over 35 years, Bernard joined the organization after graduating from the University of Maine in 1977. He chose the profession because of the positive impact it has on communities and says, “good infrastructure makes all our lives better. Sewer, water, drainage, roads, sidewalks, a lot of places in the US and world don’t have these, and I’m grateful when I get to experience them.”

Bernard joined Westlake in 1999, was named Associate in 2006, and currently oversees a talented group of civil engineers that he also enjoys mentoring. Westlake EIT and Civil Engineering Designer Isaac McGraw says, “Bernard has been paramount to my development at Westlake. He is always there to lend an assisting hand and contribute advice on how to grow as a professional and as a person. Patient, kind, and knowledgeable, you can always count on Bernard to put forth his best efforts with whatever tasks or questions he may be presented with.”

Bernard has been influential in the lives of many in the industry. Ryan Crowther, who is now Capital Projects Manager at Marion County Public Works, started his engineering career at Westlake and earned his PE license while working with Smith. He says, “Bernard is extremely deserving of this award. He shaped the way I and many others approach the engineering profession and has made me a better engineer and project manager. The influence he had on my career will stick with me in any role I take in the civil engineering profession in the future.”

In addition to team leadership, Smith works with large, multi-disciplinary teams, public agencies, contractors, and clients. He’s also played an integral role on Westlake’s wind development team. When asked about a few of his favorite projects he’s worked on he says, “I’ve really enjoyed some of the large wind farm projects. Seeing a finished turbine up close allows me to see how large and majestic they truly are.” Smith is also an accomplished skier and says, “Years ago I helped lay out a ski chairlift. Every time I see it, I am reminded of the initial work, and how I helped direct the skiers to a place I helped design.”