Over the next two weeks, as we approach the commencement ceremonies for the College of Engineering and Mathematical Sciences Class of 2025, we will be sharing some senior spotlights of outstanding students from each CEMS department.

Graduating senior Ruth Petzoldt is a Civil Engineering major from Westfield, VT. She is the 2025 recipient of the Student Civil Engineer of the Year, which is awarded by the faculty of the Civil and Environmental Engineering Department to the top performing senior in their discipline.

How did you choose your major?

I chose Civil Engineering because I have always loved seeing fascinating structures, especially bridges, and wanted to gain an understanding of how those structures exist, function, and ensure safety.

Do you have a memorable research experience from your time in CEMS?

My most memorable project would be my undergraduate thesis because I spent so much time on it. I looked at strain and vibration data from a wooden covered bridge in Cambridge, Vermont, with the goal of implementing a digital twin model. Throughout this experience, I gained a lot of knowledge of using structural analysis software, as well as learning much more about vibration monitoring, and gaining an appreciation for structural health monitoring and covered bridges in general!

Is there a class or professor who had a significant impact on your academic journey at UVM? 

Dr. Eric Hernandez had a huge impact on my academic growth. I always knew I had a knack for structures, but Structural Analysis was a big turning point that also happened to coincide with me starting my thesis with him as my advisor. Seeing how excited Prof. Hernandez was about structures, and reading the book "Why Buildings Stand Up" was a huge boost in my excitement to learn, followed by Advanced Structural Analysis the next semester.

"Ruth possesses all the traits necessary to become a great engineer. She is smart, curious, practical, detail-oriented, and displays good judgment. The sky is the limit for Ruth!"

- Dr. Eric Hernandez
Associate Professor
 Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering

Have any internships or work experience helped to guide you on your career path?

I worked as an intern with the Vermont Agency of Transportation (VTrans) for the past two summers. They had an incredible influence on my career path, and opened my eyes to a variety of different work that can be done within one single unit. I also got some amazing field experience, and got to work through two massive floods.

What are your plans after graduation?

I will be working in Barre, VT, with the Structures and Hydraulics unit at VTrans as a Civil Engineer I! My time in CEMS has given me the fundamental knowledge I need to be successful in this role, as well as connections that helped me hear about and feel confident starting this role.

Is there any advice you would share with incoming first-year students?

GO TO OFFICE HOURS, even if it is just to chat and build relationships with your professors. They are amazing resources. Also, take any opportunity thrown your way, sign up for things, and attend events.

Is there an achievement that you are particularly proud of?

Passing my FE (Fundamentals of Engineering) Exam as the first step in becoming a licensed professional engineer (P.E.) is definitely up there, as well as successfully defending my honors thesis!

How do you envision your future in the next five years?

Honestly, I am not entirely sure. I am hoping to build experience working with VTrans, and would love to stay in Vermont!

What extracurricular organizations and activities did you enjoy at UVM?

I was a member of the UVM chapter of Tau Beta Pi – the Engineering Honor Society, Chicks on Sticks (The UVM female-identifying and nonbinary skiers club), and Intramural sports (volleyball, wiffleball, broomball, floor hockey, and soccer).