David Martini, Apollo High School graduate of 1989, says if you want to help people, become an engineer. Martini was recently named Engineer of the Year from the Minnesota Society of Professional Engineers (MnSPE) and it’s an accomplishment he’s been building toward his entire career. He believes civil engineering is one of the most rewarding careers anyone could have.
“I always liked math and science,” says Martini. “[But] I had architecture in mind until my senior year [in high school].”
Back then, Martini took a lot of drafting classes. He enjoyed the creativity of putting design to paper, but he soon discovered that he preferred the problem-solving aspect of engineering more.
“Talking to people … and using the skills that I have led me to civil engineering,” says Martini. “It turned out to be a very good choice for me.”
He attended St. Cloud State University for a little over a year before transferring to North Dakota State University. Once he earned his bachelor’s degree, he worked for the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) in Mankato, Minnesota. The majority of his work consisted of resurfacing and safety projects on state highways. While working for MnDOT, Martini completed his master’s degree for infrastructure systems engineering from the University of Minnesota. Six years later, he joined Bolton & Menk.
“It gave me the opportunity to try something new,” shares Martini.
At Bolton & Menk, Martini does design and construction administration for several small municipalities across Minnesota. He’s able to help fill the gap for cities that aren’t large enough to have an engineering staff. He oversees a variety of projects such as roads, bridges, sanitation, city and water services, and those all too popular roundabouts.
“You’re able to identify a need and a solution to the problem,” says Martini of his work. “You have to get a consensus of people on board, figure out funding, and then see it all the way through and how it is benefitting the public. It’s fun. It’s rewarding.”
In the 20 years he’s been with Bolton & Menk, his advocacy for the profession has only grown.
“As my career has developed,” explains Martini, “I’ve really enjoyed being an advocate for professional licensure. That has led me to some great opportunities with professional societies … and to talk to students. [It] just helps me to promote the need for licensure, to make sure that people that are engineering are held accountable to the public … in the decisions they make.”
As an established engineer, Martini spends part of his time giving back to the profession as well. In addition to his involvement with many professional associations, he spends volunteer time speaking to middle school and high school students about pursuing STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) careers. He advocates that even if a career in engineering isn’t a fit, there are many technical job opportunities surrounding engineering that are needed.
Retired District 742 Principal Pat Mullen is not surprised at Martini’s success or in his willingness to give back.
“He was an excellent student who always had a huge smile for everyone,” Mullen reflects. “Just a pleasure to coach. Success was in his DNA.”
There is no denying Martini’s passion and talent for his field.
“We save lives every day,” he explains, “designing infrastructure: making roads safe, clean drinking water, [designs] that also benefit the environment. Engineering is really a place that you can make a difference in the world.”
We are glad this Apollo alumnus is making such a positive difference in ours.
Fun Facts:
- Martini has been an officer or board member of MnSPE, Minnesota Professional Engineers Foundation, Discover E and National Society of Professional Engineers.
- He’s been awarded the MnDOT Work Zone Safety Award, MnDOT Above and Beyond Award, MnSPE Young Engineer of the Year, MnSPE Extra Mile Award and Bolton & Menk’s Exceptional Effort Award.
- Martini is married to Apollo High School graduate (’90) Julie (Salmonson) Martini. The pair have two children.
- When Martini isn’t at work, you can find him on the golf course or at their family cabin.
Martini with his family
His cabin on Crookneck Lake
Dave and Julie (Salmonson) Martini
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