5 Questions with an Expert: Jey Thavathurairaja

We’re excited to share our latest featured interview with Jey Thavathurairaja, CoMET Interim Department Manager. 

1. Could you begin by sharing some background about yourself, including how you got started in this field and what inspires you most in your work?  
I grew up in Sri Lanka, where I completed my bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering. Building on that foundation, I moved to the United States to pursue a master's degree specializing in Pavement Engineering. I’ve always been passionate about materials engineering and testing, which has shaped both my academic path and professional career. After graduation, I joined a startup company, where I spent five years gaining hands-on experience in both field and laboratory environments before joining HVJ. It’s incredibly satisfying to know that the work we do directly contributes to building and maintaining the infrastructure that supports communities and everyday life. 
 
2. Please share your role at HVJ. What do you consider essential for success in this position, and which part of your work or daily routine do you enjoy best?  
I began my career as a project manager at HVJ and currently hold the position of interim department manager for Construction Materials Engineering & Testing (CoMET). I supervise and mentor a diverse team of engineers, lab technicians, field technicians, and inspectors. I manage operations and strive to maintain strong client relationships. We have a skilled and energetic engineering team, and I enjoy building and nurturing their talent. 

 3. Could you briefly describe one of your recent projects and what you found to be the most interesting or rewarding? What was the most significant achievement that resulted from the project?  
 One of my current projects is serving as the project manager on the North Tarrant Express Capacity Improvement initiative. It is a two-phased project (Segment 1&2W, from IH35W to SH121/SH 183 Split) that rebuilds several of Tarrant County’s most congested highways.  I appreciate working on a project that will improve the lives of countless drivers by decreasing highway congestion and improving safety.  
 
HVJ worked on the Owner Verification (OV) side of Inspection and Testing. We used I2MS Version 3.0 software, developed by TxDOT, for data entry and analysis. Our team successfully managed complex workflows and communications across multiple Independent Quality Firm (IQF) laboratories to ensure material testing and reporting consistency.  

 As with any project, we encountered challenges that we needed to overcome to keep the project on schedule. One example occurred when we found discrepancies in asphalt test results. After investigating, we determined that the inconsistencies were largely due to testing at different times. To address this, we implemented a simultaneous testing protocol across all labs. This coordinated approach ensured that asphalt samples were tested under consistent conditions at the same time, significantly minimizing variability. As a result, we achieved improved accuracy, uniformity, and consistency in test results, helping to maintain project quality standards. 
 

4. For someone new to the field, could you explain the role of CoMET and how it differs from other disciplines within civil engineering? 
Construction Materials Engineering & Testing (CoMET) stands out as one of the fastest-paced, hands-on, and impactful disciplines in our industry. While other branches of engineering may focus on design or theoretical analysis, CoMET operates at the heart of construction; it is the point at which plans become reality. We ensure that the owner receives the highest quality of construction while preventing expensive repairs or rework. Our work ensures that materials perform as intended and remain safe through measuring the properties of materials such as asphalt and concrete and confirming that soil and base materials are properly placed.  For someone new to the field, gaining hands-on experience in the field and lab early in one’s career will pay off in the future and prepare them for taking on more advanced roles and responsibilities.

5. HVJ places a high priority on continuous learning, personal growth, and mentorship. How have these values contributed to your development of leadership skills necessary for your daily work or complex projects? 
Since joining HVJ, I’ve been learning a lot and growing my leadership skills. Transitioning from a technical role to a managerial position has been a significant shift, and continuous learning has been important for my success. The Generative Leadership Program is a great example of continuous learning and practical application for daily work. Also, HVJ supports me in participating in conferences, seminars, and business development meetings. Connecting with other professionals, staying updated in the field, and learning what others are doing is helpful and inspiring.