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Meet Michael Schneider PE, Regional Manager, Collins Engineers, Inc.

real people

Meet Michael Schneider PE, Regional Manager, Collins Engineers, Inc.

December 2020

ASCE Texas Section Board of Direction members are asked to fill out a questionnaire so Section members can get to know them a little better. Let’s hear from Director at Large Michael Schneider PE:

When did you first get involved with ASCE at any level (student chapter, local branch, section)?

Although I had become familiar with ASCE when I started my career in Manhattan, working full time while going to graduate school did not leave time for much involvement.

I was finally was able to get involved when I moved to Beaumont, Texas.  Almost a decade later, I’m still involved with my local professional organizations, hold board positions, and still greatly value the importance of their outreach programs.

What’s your most memorable project?

Although I’ve been blessed in my career to be involved in many rewarding projects in the Beaumont-Port Arthur area, the most memorable project was being one of the many engineers that worked on the World Trade Center Recovery and Rebuilding. It is something that I’m very proud of but must admit, it was a very mentally, physically, and emotionally taxing.

When did you know you wanted to be a civil engineer?

Growing up, I was always intrigued by bridges and high-rise buildings. Since I enjoyed math and science classes, when it was time to go college searching and chose a major, it seemed like the logical choice to study civil engineering.

What do you enjoy doing in your free time?

I try to spend my free time out on the water with my wife Maureen and labradoodle Leela. We enjoy fishing and try to go SCUBA diving when possible. Recently, we dove the Flower Gardens and an oil rig off the Texas coast. It was quite the adventure and has certainly given me something to talk about at the next COPRI meeting. Everything is bigger in Texas, including the SCUBA diving.

What is your favorite holiday?

Independence Day has always been my favorite holiday. It must be because of my love of hamburgers, pool parties, and fireworks.

Mountains or beach?

As a waterfront engineer, (and SCUBA diver) I’d have to say beach. Although I’ve always enjoyed hiking and backpacking through the mountains. Since I’ve made Southeast Texas my home, my hobbies have shifted slightly due to the topography.