Role: Structural Engineer
Team: Bridges Work Group
Years at Snyder: 12
Engineering has always been about more than drawings and calculations for Jordan Gustafson. It’s about creating something lasting, solving real-world challenges, and knowing the work will continue to make a difference for years to come. Whether it's designing bridges that thousands of Iowans cross every day or mentoring the next generation of engineers, the work is rooted in making a meaningful difference in the communities we call home.
That passion began early.
Growing up, Jordan watched his father build a successful career with the Iowa Department of Transportation. Seeing firsthand how engineering combined problem-solving, creativity, and the opportunity to provide for a family made a lasting impression.
"I enjoyed math and science in school, and I was always building things," he says. "Engineering just felt like the right fit." Those interests eventually led him to Iowa State University, where he chose to specialize in structural engineering.
Today, his role blends technical design with collaboration. His days are spent designing bridges, retaining walls, culverts, and other specialty structures through detailed engineering calculations and construction plans. He also conducts bridge inspections, in-field evaluations, manages projects, coordinates with clients and team members, and mentors younger engineers.
That mix of technical problem-solving and hands-on experience is one of the things Jordan enjoys most about his role.
"I like that most of my time is spent in the office designing projects, but I also get the opportunity to be out in the field for inspections and site visits. It's a great balance."
That balance extends beyond the work itself. As part of Snyder's integrated structural engineering team, Shuck-Britson, Inc. (SBI), Jordan also appreciates the collaborative culture that connects his bridge expertise with the knowledge and experience of colleagues across Snyder.
"The people here make a big difference. Everyone wants each other to succeed, and that creates an environment where you never have to hesitate to ask questions. Some of the best lessons I've learned have come from simply asking for help or another perspective."
Outside of engineering, flexibility is something he values just as much.
"My dad was always able to be there for our sports and activities growing up. Working at Snyder gives me the chance to do the same for my own kids, and that's something I'm incredibly grateful for."
When asked which project stands out the most, the answer comes easily: helping design the replacement of the Grand Avenue, Locust Street, and Walnut Street bridges over the Des Moines River in downtown Des Moines.
These highly visible structures serve thousands of drivers every day, and knowing he played a significant role in bringing them to life is a source of pride. Even his daily commute serves as a reminder of the lasting impact of his work.
"I drive over those bridges every day. It's a pretty rewarding feeling to know you helped design something that so many people rely on."
That sense of purpose extends beyond major projects. Because many of the projects he works on are located throughout Iowa, he regularly sees completed designs become part of the communities where people live, work, and travel.
"I love being able to point out projects to my kids and tell them I worked on them. Seeing the excitement on their faces is one of the most rewarding parts of the job."
For students who consider engineering, his advice is simple: if you enjoy math, science, and solving real-world problems, engineering offers the opportunity to create something tangible that improves everyday life.
While technology continues to evolve, including the growing role of artificial intelligence, Jordan believes the need for engineers will remain strong. The ability to think critically, solve complex problems, and design solutions that serve communities will always be essential.
One moment that reinforced this perspective came from an unexpected place: a scene in the film Margin Call. A former civil engineer reflects on a bridge he designed before moving into finance, calculating the countless hours of time it saves for the people who use it every day. Watching that scene while he was in college helped to solidify his decision to pursue structural engineering.
"It reminded me that engineering isn't just about calculations, it’s about improving people's lives in ways they'll experience every day, often without even realizing it."
For him, that's what makes engineering so rewarding. Every bridge, every structure, and every project represents an opportunity to leave a lasting mark on the communities that surround us, and to build something that will serve others long after the work is complete.
