Liz Blandford, PE, has built a career in civil and structural engineering characterized by steady advancement and a strong commitment to technical precision and leadership. Holding the position of office manager and principal engineer at ECS Southeast LLC, part of the ECS Group of Companies, she provides expert guidance on complex challenges involving soils, rocks and construction materials, advising clients on the best strategies for their project sites. Her promotion to this role marked a significant milestone, as she became the second and youngest branch manager and principal engineer in the history of the nationwide corporation, an achievement she holds with great pride.
Ms. Blandford’s academic foundation includes a Master of Engineering in structural engineering, earned with highest honors, and a Bachelor of Science in engineering with a focus on civil engineering, both from the University of Louisville. These degrees equipped her with the technical knowledge and analytical skills essential for her roles in the engineering field. In addition to her formal education, she holds an engineer in training certification awarded by the United Latino Students Association and is recognized as a professional engineer by the Kentucky Board of Engineers & Land Surveyors, underscoring her expertise and professional standing.
Ms. Blandford’s career at ECS Southeast LLC has included key leadership roles such as geotechnical department manager, a position she assumed following the retirement of her mentor. In this role, she was responsible for overseeing departmental operations and leading project teams through technically demanding assignments. Her tenure demonstrated her dedication to quality, team development and client satisfaction. Before stepping into management, she contributed as a project engineer, applying her technical skills to a variety of geotechnical projects that demanded both precision and innovation.
Prior to joining ECS Southeast LLC, Ms. Blandford gained valuable experience as a project engineer with GEM Engineering Inc., sharpening her expertise in site investigation and analysis, while managing client relations and ensuring project success. Her early professional years also included cooperative education positions with CH2M Hill and Qk4 Inc., which provided practical exposure to industry best practices and engineering fundamentals, setting the stage for her later accomplishments.
Ms. Blandford maintains active membership in industry organizations such as the American Society of Civil Engineers, the Kansas Society of Professional Engineers and the National Society of Professional Engineers. These affiliations reflect her ongoing commitment to professional growth and engagement with the engineering community. She embraces opportunities to stay connected with her peers and contribute to the advancement of her field.
Known for her relentless work ethic and eagerness to learn, Ms. Blandford approaches challenges with determination and integrity. Her openness in admitting when she lacks an answer fosters a collaborative atmosphere that encourages teamwork and mutual trust among colleagues and clients alike. These qualities have earned her respect and helped cultivate successful partnerships.
Outside her professional life, Ms. Blandford is involved in civic initiatives such as Women Networking For A Cause, which supports women’s advancement and community engagement. She has also been recognized as a nominee for the Global Leadership Program, highlighting her leadership potential beyond the engineering sector.
Looking ahead, Ms. Blandford plans to broaden her impact beyond Louisville and Kentucky, aiming to extend her expertise into Indiana, Ohio and other parts of the Midwest and Southeast. Her goal is to be known as a trusted expert for those facing soil-related engineering challenges.