Posted on October 21, 2024
On October 7, 2024, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Sacramento District celebrated 95 years as a district. As we celebrate our anniversary, check out our Q&A series where we asked some of our retirees about their favorite parts of working at USACE. In this feature, we talk to Larry Smith, who began working at USACE in 1974.
Note: Some responses were edited for grammar and style.
Larry Smith
1974-2013
Last job title: Chief of Construction Branch
What was your favorite part about working at USACE?
USACE is a tremendous opportunity for employees. In my career I worked with some of the finest engineers on both military construction and heavy civil construction. Training is an important aspect of USACE. All employees have an opportunity to attend PROSPECT Training and learn from some of the best in the business. I transferred from job to job early in my career to gain more experience on such a wide variety of projects. The Engineer Intern program is a great beginning for anyone’s career. You meet a variety of supervisors and learn a small portion of the organization and its leaders.
Did you have a favorite project you worked on or one that you found most interesting?
My favorite project was the New Melones Dam located near Sonora, Calif. The leadership for USACE and the contractor were the best parts of that experience. I worked with some of the best consultants and USACE employees. The project was fast moving, and everyone had opportunities to learn and to advance.
Do you have any advice for those just starting out their careers in the field you worked in?
For those just starting careers with USACE remain patient with your assignments. Everyone wants to advance as quickly as possible but learning and advancement take time. Learn a skill. Set a goal to be the best in a variety of fields. Don’t be afraid to transfer to a new office location to advance your skills.
Anything else you’d like to add?
PROSPECT training should be a top goal for all employees. Look for opportunities to become a PROSPECT instructor. You’ll be able to travel to a variety of locations and meet some excellent instructors along the way.
