From technical engineer to project manager, Erica Aghagholizadeh’s passion exists at the intersection of people, problem-solving, and client service. In this interview, she shares how mentorship, onsite client experience, and a willingness to embrace new challenges helped shape her transition into project management and leadership. Today, she leads projects and teams across Southern California while helping others discover their own path in the water industry.

What first inspired you to pursue engineering, and how did you find your way into the water industry?

Erica: I've always loved math and chemistry, and that combination naturally led me toward engineering. Environmental engineering stood out because it connected those interests with something I cared deeply about: protecting the environment. During my undergrad, I had the opportunity to work in a water treatment research lab. I loved the mix of laboratory work, fieldwork, pilot testing, and problem-solving, which led me to receive my master’s in environmental engineering.

Early in my career at Brown and Caldwell, I had the chance to work on several biosolids-related projects with our incredible team. I enjoyed the work, but just as importantly, I enjoyed working with the people. One project led to another, and over time I became more involved in biosolids planning and implementation efforts, eventually growing into leadership roles on our teams.

Erica working in graduate school lab

You continue to rise in leadership roles. Is that something you've always envisioned?

Erica: Definitely. Leadership has always felt like a natural fit. As my career progressed, leading projects, supporting teams, and helping others develop their careers has continued to inspire and motivate me.

What has it been like to transition your career into project management?

Erica: For most of my career, I focused almost entirely on technical engineering work. Now, project management makes up the majority of what I do. It's been a great experience to lean into these roles.

A big reason the transition has gone so well is the mentorship I've received. People like Tom Chapman, Jen Thompson, and Steve Hirai have set incredible examples of what strong project management looks like. They are leaders who set a tone of curiosity and collaboration. If challenges arise, they focus on understanding the issue, finding solutions, and helping the team move forward together. I carry what they embody forward in my own work.

"As her mentor, I've seen firsthand that everything Erica works on, she's 110% committed to. She's also one of the most organized project managers I've worked with. Erica has a very detailed, strategic approach to managing information, tracking decisions, and following through, which helps everyone around her be more effective. Erica’s commitment, organization, and passion for project management are key reasons why the projects she works on are so successful."
- Steve Hirai, Vice President Business Development, Brown and Caldwell

What excites you most about project management?

Erica: Project management is a little like solving a puzzle. There are so many moving pieces, and it’s a rewarding challenge to deliver great work while managing schedule, budget, and client needs. What I enjoy most is bringing together different groups of people—making sure everyone has the support, information, and resources they need to be successful.

Erica (right) in the field with Preeti Thimmaraju (left)

What have you learned from working closely with clients?

Erica: One of the most rewarding parts of consulting is building relationships with clients. Earlier in my career, I did a year of staff augmentation—full-time, onsite—with a Los Angeles-area client. I got to work alongside client staff and help manage projects for their wastewater facilities. That experience gave me a deep understanding of their organization, processes, and priorities. Being on the client side helped me see what clients need to be successful and how consultants can deliver solutions that align with how they actually operate.

What impact are you most proud of making through your work?

Erica: One of the things that excites me most about our industry is that we're helping utilities navigate significant challenges that are rapidly changing, especially here in Southern California. Regulatory requirements, legislation, and community needs continue to evolve, and utilities are looking for trusted guidance. It’s rewarding to being part of this larger team helping communities address these complex challenges and plan for the future.

Water, wastewater, and biosolids management touch our everyday lives. Whether you're at work or out in the community, you're constantly reminded of how essential these services are.

You’ve spoken about the influence of mentors throughout your career. How do you approach mentoring the next generation?

Erica: For me, leadership is about sharing guidance and opportunities so each person can grow and succeed. Everyone learns differently, and everyone has different strengths. In working with our team, ask myself, “where can this person excel?”

It's important to help people discover where they'll thrive. Early in someone's career, there are opportunities to explore different project types, technical areas, and work environments. I encourage people to embrace those opportunities, because it's much easier to find the path that excites you when you're willing to experiment and learn.

Outside of work, what helps you recharge?

Erica:  Spending time with family & friends, traveling, hiking, journaling, and doing puzzles. I love exploring new places and experiencing the outdoors. Some of my favorite moments are spent hiking in the San Gabriel Mountains and simply enjoying nature. I’m actively involved with the local Audubon Society and genuinely enjoy observing wildlife of all kinds.  

Erica enjoying the coastal wildlife in Monterey

What has Brown and Caldwell made possible for you?

Erica: The biggest thing is: opportunity. I've been fortunate to work with leaders who not only provide guidance but actively encourage people to step outside their comfort zones and grow. My mentors have trusted me to lead project tasks, discussions, take ownership of important project work, as well as present to clients so I could develop and grow as a project manager and leader. 

I’m an amalgamation of everything I’ve learned from my mentors. Now, I get to pass on what I’ve learned onto the next generation of water and wastewater engineers, guiding and empowering them so that they can excel in their careers.