COREY ERICKSON

Corey’s love for building Lego models and a fascination with how things work naturally led him to a career in engineering. He’s passionate about designing schools and community-focused projects that can inspire future engineers. On the weekends, you’ll find him exploring Sioux City’s growing bike trails and local attractions with his family.

How did you decide on your career path?

When it came to choosing a career path, my love for building Lego models, as well as my fondness for math and science, played a big role. I always enjoyed understanding how things worked, so engineering felt like the right choice for me. Taking part in robotics clubs and drafting classes during high school further cemented my passion for engineering.

What is your favorite part of the design process?

I enjoy the early design stages, such as choosing a structural system and creating the initial framing concept. At this point, we typically have a good understanding of the main challenges we will encounter when collaborating with other disciplines. Making careful decisions early on can greatly streamline the design process as we delve into the nitty gritty details.

How are you creating vibrant communities through design?

Some of my favorite projects to work on are new schools and school additions. These projects serve as the cornerstones of a community and motivate the entire design team to create a unique and impactful building. While much of our work as structural engineers may not always be in the spotlight compared to architecture and finishes, I believe that our work can inspire students to pursue a career in engineering. Whether it’s through an innovative canopy design, towering curtain walls, or soaring roof trusses, our work has the potential to ignite a passion for engineering.

What makes Siouxland a great place to live?

Sioux City is the perfect size, offering a good mix of a small-town feel with plenty to do. The growing bike trail system is a family favorite, and there are plenty of museums and family attractions to explore with the kiddos.