By: Quentin Johnson, PE, Vice President (Poughkeepsie, New York office)
When I joined Modjeski and Masters in May of 1986, I never imagined I’d still be here nearly 40 years later. After graduating from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, I was eager to put my love of math, science, and design to work. A professor had encouraged me to consider “the small consulting firm” over my other offers, figuring I’d be exposed to much more. That advice turned out to be life-changing.
What first drew me to engineering was the melding of math and science, but I quickly realized there was a real art element. Structural engineering, in particular, gave me the chance to solve problems, think creatively, and see the results of my work in a very tangible way. At M&M, I found a place where I could do all of that and grow.
Growing with the Firm
I started out as an Engineer I, working my way through the ranks in what I’d call the typical way—though I was promoted directly from Engineer IV to Associate in 1995, which was a proud milestone. Later, I was promoted to Vice President and invited to join the Board of Directors. That role shifted my perspective. I was challenged to think about the good of the firm as a whole. I enjoyed the responsibility and the chance to help shape our direction.
Over the years, I’ve seen M&M evolve in incredible ways. We transitioned from a partnership, to a corporation, to an ESOP. We’ve more than doubled in size. And yet, the one constant has been how much this firm values its people. There have even been years when principals went without bonuses to make sure staff received them. That says everything about our culture.
How Engineering Has Changed
It’s hard to overstate how different engineering was when I started. In 1986, we didn’t have individual computers, email, CAD, or even fax machines. Drawings were painstakingly hand-drafted in ink on mylar. Most design calculations were done by hand, and if we needed computer power, we dialed into a mainframe in Mechanicsburg over a phone line. Looking back, it seems archaic.
Today, technology shapes nearly every part of our work. CAD, 3D modeling, real-time document sharing, and virtual meeting platforms have transformed how we design, collaborate, and deliver projects. Alternative delivery methods—like design-build, CM/GC, and public-private partnerships—have reshaped the business side of engineering as well, changing how we market ourselves and the kind of risk we take on.
What Has Stayed the Same
At its core, engineering is still about integrity—of both the structures we design and the work we deliver. I’m proud that M&M continues to uphold the highest standards. We’ve never been a firm that cuts corners. In fact, we’ve even flagged flaws in industry software and reported them to providers. And that commitment to quality has always set us apart.
Why I’ve Stayed
People sometimes ask why I’ve spent my whole career at one firm. The answer is simple: I’ve always felt valued here. From my earliest days, I knew my contributions mattered. I’ve had the chance to work on interesting projects, to grow as an engineer and as a leader, and to be part of a company culture that truly values people. Project managers and upper management are accessible and supportive, and that culture of respect has endured through every organizational change. That’s what makes this place special.
M&M has also played a meaningful role in shaping the bridge engineering field through participation in AASHTO and TRB committees. And while that involvement doesn’t always bring immediate financial rewards, it connects us to agencies and owners in ways that strengthen the entire industry. I believe that’s part of our mission, and I know it’s part of why I’ve been proud to build my career here.
Nearly four decades later, I still see M&M as a place where engineers can thrive, grow, and make a real impact. That’s what has kept me here, and what I hope will continue to define our firm for decades to come.