Staff Splash: Meet Nadia Boutros

Nadia is a civil engineer who keeps an eye on the big projects and small details, helping everything flow smoothly behind the scenes.

What is your role at Mesa Water and what does a typical day look like?

I’m a civil engineer in the engineering department. Most days, I’m coordinating projects that improve our water system’s reliability and efficiency. If I’m not in the office managing consultants, budgets and schedules, I’m out in the field troubleshooting or finding solutions to construction or operational challenges. My work focuses on keeping projects moving smoothly by connecting technical details to the bigger picture of delivering reliable water service to our community.

Do you have any advice for emerging professionals pursuing a career in STEM?

Ask questions. Lots of them. Curiosity is one of the most valuable traits you can bring to the table. Engineering isn’t about knowing everything; it’s about problem-solving and collaboration. Don’t underestimate the importance of communication - being able to explain technical ideas clearly is just as important as getting the calculations right.

If your job were a movie or TV show, what would it be called?

Mission Possible. Why? Because every project starts with a challenge, a deadline and a few good plot twists - but we always find a way to get it done before the credits roll.

Do you have a favorite part of Mesa Water’s story?

I love that Mesa Water is 100% local. It’s rare for a community to meet all its water needs from groundwater and it speaks to decades of smart investments in infrastructure and reliability. It’s rewarding to be part of a team that continues to strengthen that legacy.

Is there anything behind-the-scenes about your work you wish more people knew about?

Engineering is a lot more collaborative than people think. Every project involves close coordination across multiple teams, both internal and external, to make sure everything works seamlessly once it’s built. When people turn on the tap and clean water comes out, it’s because dozens of people spent months or years planning and refining the details behind it.