Carlos Rivera is a coastal engineer based in Tampa, Florida. His areas of expertise include AutoCAD modeling, coastal processes and sediment transportation analysis, MATLAB modeling, shoreline protection, coastal restoration, and dredging.

What is your favorite ESA moment/memory so far?
Field days at Sebastian Inlet. Beautiful place.

What does it mean to you to be part of an employee-owned company?
It means that you carry an extra responsibility within your area of work, your relationships with clients, and your overall performance.

What keeps you coming to work here at ESA every day?
Definitely my coworkers and work environment.

What is your hidden or special talent(s)?
I am an incredible chef.

What’s your favorite thing to do when you are out of the office?
Play soccer/ exercise.

What are three skills that you bring to the ESA team? In other words, what should colleagues know to reach out to you about?

  1. AutoCAD expertise
  2. MATLAB expertise
  3. Logical-mathematical problem solving skills

Can you tell us about your Hispanic heritage and its significance in your life?
I was born and raised in Panama, so these roots are an integral part of my identity. My Hispanic heritage has deeply influenced my life, emphasizing the importance of family, tradition, and a strong connection to my cultural origins.

What inspired you to pursue a career in engineering and environmental consulting?
As I was born and raised in Panama City, Panama, watching the ships pass through the Panama Canal was a major influence in my career’s direction.

What advice would you give to aspiring Hispanic engineers looking to make their mark in the environmental consulting field?
Be adaptable and open to new challenges. The environmental consulting field often involves tackling unique and complex problems.

Carlos (left) and two friends at SoFi Stadium watching the Gold Cup final, Mexico vs. Panama.