Montana Department of Transportation

Meet Tom Martin, Consultant Design Engineer and Bureau Chief for the Consultant Design Bureau. Tom is a native Montanan (born and raised in Billings). He has a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from Montana State University, a love of Montana's outdoor life (especially hunting), and a wonderful family with whom he spends most of his time.

Tom started at MDT thirteen years ago. During that time, he spent 4 years in the Geotechnical Section, 3 years in Bridge, and 6 years in Consultant Design. One of the most rewarding aspects of his job is the impact MDT has on the quality of life in Montana. "MDT is engaged in big projects that benefit thousands of people across the state," says Martin. "I get a great sense of satisfaction and pride knowing that."

As Bureau Chief for the Consultant Design Bureau, Tom is responsible for overseeing Bureau operations and the 22 professionals who comprise his team. Asked to describe what the Consultant Design Bureau does, he relates, "In a nutshell, the Bureau manages and develops assigned preconstruction projects."

When we asked Tom to describe a typical day at work, he grinned and admitted, "There aren't many typical days for someone in my position." He continues, "I have the luxury of working with a lot of people throughout the Department which lends itself to a variety of tasks and interactions. Every day is different and brings with it unique challenges."

Tom spends a good deal of time in meetings. He explains, "These can include chairing the Consultant Selection Board, de-briefing consultants in my office on their performance, project issue resolution meetings, weekly staff meetings, and informal meetings with Bureau staff." In between meetings, phone calls, and emails, Tom works on his own task list or reviews the status of projects and consultant contracts. Toward the end of the day, he reviews and signs documents, such as project Scope of Work Reports, letters to consultants, consultant proposal approvals, and Consultant Selection Board meeting minutes. One of the last activities Tom does is review the next day’s schedule to make sure he is prepared for that day’s meetings.

After recounting the work he does on a daily basis Tom quips, "One thing surely is typical about my days—I go home tired, but satisfied."

So, what does it take to do all this well? "Strong communication skills, a desire to work with people, leadership, fairness, integrity, professionalism, patience, persistence, responsiveness, and a sense of humor," advises Martin.

Before closing we asked Tom what he likes best about working at MDT. "The people!" he says enthusiastically. Tom works with talented people in Preconstruction, Construction, and the Districts, as well as sharp people in the consultant community who bring fresh ideas to the table. "Not only do they perform, but they are just plain fun to be around," says Martin of his colleagues. Tom maintains these people are the key to the success of his Bureau; "Without a doubt, the people I work with at MDT are the best part of my job."

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