Making connections has been key to Sarvejit Nagi’s career in consulting engineering
July 5, 2022
In high school, Sarvejit Nagi, Manager of our Bridges & Structures team in Toronto, was a high performing student in mathematics and physics. He also enjoyed building structures with Lego. These combined interests led Sarvejit to pursue a degree in civil/structural engineering. While at the University of Toronto, Sarvejit was mentored by a professor who specialized in reinforced concrete and steel design, which fostered his interest in structures. He also credits his sister, who runs a pharmaceutical consulting business, with providing mentorship.
As an engineering graduate, Sarvejit took on roles in materials inspection and as a construction assistant superintendent. Eventually, positions arose in structural inspection and bridge design. Sarvejit recalls, “I worked hard to improve my bridge design skills and was offered a permanent position as a transportation design engineer, which was a rare opportunity at the time.”
He tells us, “The first structural drawing I sealed was a tall cantilever retaining wall; this was a personal milestone.” Since, then Sarvejit has gained experience with more complex designs; each has given him a sense of satisfaction, particularly in-slab and beam-type bridges and three grade-separated rail bridges.
After eight years with Caltrans, the California Department of Transportation Engineering Services, Sarvejit pursued positions in consulting engineering, motivated by the faster-paced environment.
About eight years ago, Sarvejit became aware of Associated Engineering.
“I reviewed some of Associated’s engineering documents and appreciated the technical content. I was attracted to Associated by the quality of the work.”
Since joining the company in 2016, he says the management team, opportunity for personal development, growth, planning, and collaboration has kept him excited about working at Associated.
Some of Sarvejit’s project highlights include the Don River Boulevard Bridge Replacement; multiple (ten) bridge repairs in Toronto; and Steeles Avenue Rehabilitation; and Prince Edward Viaduct and Rosedale Valley Viaduct Rehabilitation. In particular, the luminous veil was an enormous undertaking, with a well-planned bridge inspection that led to evaluations, design, and construction administration. Working on the Owner’s Engineer team for the $1.88 billion Regina Bypass project was another highlight.
“Our staff are our most valuable resource. We need to guide them in their career paths, provide mentorship, and share our experiences.”
As a Senior Structural Engineer and manager, Sarvejit says, “I enjoy seeing our staff grow and develop, including technical staff and Engineers-in-Training to Professionals. If you instill trust in staff, provide them with interesting and challenging projects and guidance, they can and will deliver.” Sarvejit believes in keeping communication open with staff, collaborating with other disciplines, providing support, and identifying key design considerations in their solutions.
“My approach to working with clients and project delivery is to seek client input on the design, and understand their concerns and risks, so that the design meets their requirements.”
Outside of work, Sarvejit is an avid sports fan, and a longtime Toronto Maple Leafs supporter. He enjoys tennis, golf, and badminton, and loves the outdoors and spending time with family and friends. He is also a member of a motorcycle club that supports local charities in Ontario.