News | Jun 05, 2023 | Anne Keener
Employee Spotlight: Emma Downey, Mechanical Designer
1. How did you come to do what you do?
I’ve always enjoyed math and science and took advanced level classes in high school. The projects and assignments I worked on only furthered my interest, and I decided to major in Mechanical Engineering in college. At the time I wasn’t exactly sure what I wanted to pursue as a career and took courses ranging from robotics to alternative energy sources to engineering entrepreneurship. After I graduated, I wanted to come back closer to home, and I found Arora Engineers just one town over from where I grew up! I had taken and enjoyed several courses on fluid dynamics, so a plumbing designer position was a great fit for me.
2. What are your favorite types of projects to work on?
Research laboratories are interesting because I learn about the different types of specialized equipment that is needed for the work they do. It’s also neat to work on transportation projects and know that these buildings serve thousands of people each day. Every project has its own set of struggles and victories, and I feel a sense of pride for all the different types of projects I’ve been able to work on.
3. What is the best career lesson you’ve learned so far?
Ask questions. I feel schooling prepares us well for individual responsibilities with tests where you have to know it all. However, some of our careers will be closer to the experience of group projects. While it’s important to be confident and knowledgeable on your own, it’s also important to seek out additional knowledge and be open to advice from others. A second opinion may help you understand something better or give you a new angle to look at when you need to problem solve. Learning is constant, and working with a team allows you the opportunity to learn from each other.
4. What do you enjoy most about working at Arora?
I enjoy the people I work with and the general company culture. From friendly greetings in the hallway to attending our Arbor Day event a few weeks ago, I feel Arora fosters a positive environment to work in—and positive change for the environment outdoors! And while I personally work in the office most days, I appreciate the hybrid model that allows for the option to work from home.
5. Outside of work, what do you like to do for fun?
Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with family, friends, and my cats. I knit, crochet, and sew, and I’ve also been making the effort to read more this year. I’ve played the flute for over a decade, and I hope to find a community band to join in the near future. Video games have been a constant in my life for as long as I can remember, and I’m very excited for the new Legend of Zelda game coming out this month!