Engineer Spotlight: Rizwan Siddiqi

• By: Anna Seekins, J.D.
• On: 02/24/2022 19:04:53
• In: ACEC/MW News
• Comments: 0

Background

• Name: Rizwan Siddiqi
• Company: EBA Engineering, Inc.
• Title/role: President & CEO
• Hometown & Current town: Lahore, Pakistan/Ellicott City, Maryland
• Alma Mater(s): UET, Lahore, Pakistan/Virginia Tech (Go Hokies!)
• Family/pets: Wife and 2 daughters, 1 son and special one - 1 grandson 
• Favorite DC-area restaurant: Rasika
• Favorite DC tourist destination: Cherry Blossom Festival 
• Favorite travel destination: Japan 
• Food you always crave: Naan (baked bread)
• Favorite app: Amazon (so easy to order and track, they get you lazy)
• Favorite movie: Million Dollar Baby
• Currently binging on Netflix: Don't find much time to watch Netflix but liked portions of "The People v. O.J. Simpson"
• When I'm not at work you'll find me: At an association event 
• Dream job: Can't do anything better, engineering is my dream job….

 

Let's Get To It……

• What got you into the engineering industry and what keeps you here?

I was born an engineer (yes, I know a lot of people say that, but this is true for me). I modeled our home at age 5 using a shoe box, and I made an ambulance at age 8 with blinking lights using a toy scooter and got commendation from everyone who saw the projects. I want to do something that is remembered and that keeps me here because I have still not done that.
 

• What is your area of expertise within engineering, and what drew you there?

My expertise is water design, and if I can contribute something to the water industry that would be great. I think water is the most precious thing we all must protect it! 
 

• When and why did you first join ACEC/MW, and what keeps you coming back?

Wow, I always liked to volunteer and stay involved with organizations like ASCE, CWEA, ACEC, but Lou Robbins (Kokosing Industrial) took me out for a FREE LUNCH to discuss me becoming the chair of ACEC/MW Water Infrastructure Committee and that was staring point.  But I love the team and energy here at ACEC/MW - that keeps me involved.
 

• What advice do you have for our newer ACEC/MW members about getting the most out of their membership?

Attend their networking events – you can achieve as much by meeting so many industry colleagues and clients in a few hours as may take you months to do otherwise.  
 

• What has been your favorite ACEC/MW or ACEC event?

Annual Engineering Excellence Awards Gala – love it!
 

• What part of the ACEC/MW mission to Educate, Engage, and Advocate most resonates with you and why?

My favorite part is “engage” – gives me opportunity to do business development, connect with clients and friends, and get to know new people. 
 

• What is your favorite ACEC memory?

The year I served as President of ACEC/MW – boy it was busy, but we got so much done with Mac and Anna - both are awesome and enjoyed working with them and other Board members.
 

• Best work-related advice you've ever received?

Avoid conflict as much as possible – not good for work, relationships or yourself.