Leaving a legacy is more than just a statement – it’s a mindset. It starts with an inherent desire to improve our communities. We couldn’t say it any better than Colorado State University (CSU)’s College of Engineering, “It is our social responsibility as scientists and engineers to have an inclusive and equitable environment reflecting societal demographics and perspectives. Creativity and innovation are fostered in environments where diversity, equity, and inclusion exist.” At Lamp Rynearson, we have a robust history with CSU and share collective values. Nearly fifty percent of our Fort Collins office consists of CSU Alumni who feel that the university laid the foundation for their careers at Lamp Rynearson. These are our CSU legacy stories.
Project Manager
Project Manager Michael Palizzi, PE, and CSU Civil Engineering graduate could have never predicted he would someday help design Colorado State University’s Jack Christiansen Running Track. A post-tensioned concrete track designed to last up to 50 years!
His first interview with Lamp Rynearson was nearly three hours long due to an immediate connection to the team. Looking towards expanding his legacy here at Lamp Rynearson, Michael envisions energy freedom in our communities through the growth of our company’s energy market. “We are currently in an energy crisis worldwide, and I want my legacy to create more accessible energy for all.”
Senior Project Manager
A second-generation Coloradoan, Project Manager Troy Spraker, PE, CFM, ENV-SP, knew Fort Collins was a special place to grow up and call home. His connection to campus started with his father, who worked for CSU’s state-of-the-art Veterinary Teaching Hospital. It wasn’t long before Troy discovered CSU’s engineering and hydraulic programs.
In 2007, the CSU campus and the City of Fort Collins faced a major flooding event. Troy aided in volunteering to remove flood material from the engineering building on campus, where he had spent many hours attaining his degree.
After three years as a development review engineer in the public sector, Troy transitioned to Lamp Rynearson to explore and grow large-scale solar energy projects. His background working with municipalities allowed him to collaborate on modifying jurisdictional codes for solar projects. “I’m proud of the over 1.2GW of solar power we’ve designed to help pave the way for a clean energy future and am excited to mentor staff to continue this important work.”
Project Engineer
Project Engineer Dillon Starck, EIT, can’t recall a moment of his youth he was not attending Colorado State University sporting events or exploring outdoor hobbies. He knew he wanted to continue calling Northern Colorado “home” and felt inclined to be instrumental in its success. CSU’s Civil Engineering Program caught Dillon’s attention as a teenager, recognizing how the program could propel his career. His internship experience at Lamp Rynearson opened his eyes to what he values in a workplace, “it checks all the boxes.” After reveling in a recently completed site, Dillon senses his purpose has come full circle seeing his designs built and in his hometown.
Project Manager
While touring the CSU campus, Gary Floyd, PE, heard of individuals getting out of their cars and having dance parties while waiting for the train to pass. He loved the dynamic energy and couldn’t wait to be a part of it. When considering a place of work, Lamp Rynearson felt like a no-brainer to Gary. He recalls telling Nancy Pridal, CEO and President, that he aspired to become a Project Manager in 2-3 years. His hard work, paired with support from Lamp Rynearson, allowed this goal to come to fruition. Gary aspires to expand his leadership opportunities within the organization. He volunteers with the Fort Collins Chamber, ASCE, and Habitat for Humanity. “We have a passionate team of young professionals. They want to see their designs influence parks, entertainment spaces, fire stations, and basic infrastructure that supports our everyday life.”
Project Engineer
As early as grade school, Project Engineer Austin Lobsinger felt a gut instinct to improve society through a career in civil engineering. “CSU and Lamp Rynearson in combination enabled me to continue sharpening my resilience, efficiency, and sustainability skills.” These are the critical skills Austin recognized as essential to attaining his vision. With a growth and goal mindset, Austin is paving his way. The dynamic outdoor lifestyle and vibrant people of Fort Collins made Austin feel right at home for both his college career and beyond.
Survey Field Technician
Fascinated with how the Earth’s physical materials shape our reality, Survey Field Technician Ivan Prushnok graduated with a degree in Geology from CSU. Realizing that surveying allowed him to expand on this passion, Ivan found Lamp Rynearson through his professional network and joined the company eager to learn more about drone mapping and civil construction projects. “I play a key role in providing surveys for infrastructure improvements in our communities that will last a lifetime. That means expanding road systems, places to live, and the elements required to make our communities function.” Ivan enjoys the laid-back culture of Fort Collins and the City’s commitment to supporting young professionals. Ivan recognized that Lamp Rynearson’s Fort Collins office reflected the local culture and swiftly felt at home amongst his coworkers. “I look forward to acquiring more technical skills and expanding my CAD software knowledge. Lamp Rynearson is the right place for me to grow professionally.”
