InTucker Magazine

Team Tucker – Jack Smith

Junior Engineer

How did you become interested in a career in City Engineering?
During my senior year of college, I interned at the City as a transportation engineer in training, and by the end of the summer I was ready to stay. I found that I really enjoyed not only working for the City and community that I grew up in, but also with the wonderful people at City Hall. The idea of making an impact and give back to the City that raised me was what made joining the team in Tucker one of the easiest decisions of my life.

What are the primary responsibilities of your role?
My role consists of working with the other members of the engineering staff to ensure that construction projects and various other tasks are running as smoothly as possible throughout the City. This includes assisting with project oversight, producing various design plans for sidewalks and roadways, and participating in City Council meetings to help give a better overview of what all is happening in the City. I also help with City bids for new construction projects, as well as applications and certifications to allow the City to receive federal and state grant money.

What brought you to Tucker?
Coming to Tucker was simply coming home for me. I lived and grew up in Tucker for the first 18 years of my life, and even remember the excitement of being on Main Street the night we became an official city! Having the opportunity to come back and be part of a place that holds so many great memories for me was an opportunity that I just couldn’t miss out on.

What has been the most fun about working in Tucker so far?
I would say that the most fun part about working in Tucker would have to be the staff. The team at the City is truly a tight-knit family that cares for one another and focuses on us being successful as a team while also having fun. Whether it’s coming in dressed up for a Halloween costume contest or celebrating someone’s birthday, there is never a dull moment with our City staff.

What has been the most challenging?
I wouldn’t say that there has been a specific challenge that ranks higher than the rest. Almost every day there is something that seems to come up that requires some critical thinking and quick response. Between projects being delayed due to weather, or designs needing to be tweaked before construction, I have found that it is always best to be prepared for the unexpected.

Off the Wall

What was the last book you read?
The last book I read was Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets. My wife encouraged me to read through the series because it adds a lot more to the story than the movies and I now totally agree.

What is your greatest fear?
My greatest fear would have to be forgetting to show up to an important meeting or event. I try my best to be in touch with my calendar and on time for everything, so missing something completely can be a real worry of mine.

What is your “comfort binge” show?
I know this is an extremely nerdy answer, but my “comfort binge” show would have to be World War II in Colour. I consider myself to be a huge history buff, and I have always found the events of World War II to be the most interesting.

Where did you get “The Hat”?
The Hat was actually snatched from my dad. I tend to get sunburned easily if I am not careful, so this past summer to prevent myself from getting scorched by the blazing sun, I asked to borrow The Hat and the rest is history.