Meet MSPE Member David Desrosiers, PE
David Desrosiers, PE is a DPW Director for the Town of Granby, MA. An MSPE member since 1981, David also volunteers as the Connecticut Valley Chapter Coordinator for MSPE’S key outreach program, MATHCOUNTS. (mspe.com/mathcounts) David has answered the questions below so we may know him better. Thank you, David, for your long-time Society membership and your generous support of MATHCOUNTS.
Q: Why did you join MSPE?
A: I was encouraged to join NSPE shortly after I began my first job working as an engineer in Florida. My boss and the firm supported and encouraged participation and networking in many professional organizations. Keep in mind this was before the Internet, at a time when networking was done face to face. The parent organization NSPE provided networking opportunities and many beneficial programs such as continuing education. After moving back to Massachusetts, I saw the value of maintaining these connections and continued membership in NSPE.
Q: What are your goals as an engineer?
A: As with most engineers, I love to solve problems. My goals as an engineer have always been to find economical solutions and answers to any and all problems. Since I have always been a tinkerer, this does not mean just looking up an appropriate formula and plugging in numbers. When I encounter a problem, I need to fully understand how the entire system works so this often involves taking things completely apart or at least carefully examining and performing a thorough analysis before putting them back together again. This skill set has served me well thus far through my career.
Q: Please describe a project that you’re involved with.
A: I have been involved with a great variety of projects over the years, from hospitals and schools, to roads, dams, power plants and more; but some of the most personally rewarding projects that I have been involved with are projects where I volunteer my time and talents, such as working on a Habitat for Humanity home or volunteering with the MATHCOUNTS program. It is all about being able to give back. If you have never been involved with a MATHCOUNTS Competition, I encourage you to check one out. You will be impressed with the potential of many of these young competitors. It is truly amazing. The promotion and encouragement of these talented young people to pursue a career in the STEM fields is a worthwhile program and needs to be continued. Volunteer, we can use the help.
Q: How do you spend your free time?
A: As you probably gathered from above, I sometimes have a problem saying no, therefore free time can be somewhat of a rare luxury. I do occasionally ski, sail and scuba dive but I would have to say over the last few years the little free time available to me has been consumed with playing guitar and singing. I find it a great way to de-stress and thoroughly enjoy getting together with friends to play and sing.
EDUCATION:
B.S. Degree – University of Massachusetts Amherst, 1979