5 Questions with Olivia Brevett

We sat down with  Business Development and Marketing Coordinator Olivia Brevett to learn what drives her work in connecting people, strategy, and business solutions at HVJ.
 
1.    Can you talk about how you got started in this field and what inspires you most in your work? 

Honestly, I fell into this industry by accident! I am originally from South Florida, and I moved to Austin, TX, in 2019 after earning my B.S. in Media Communications Studies from Florida State University. I was working in Customer Support at Apple, Inc., when the pandemic hit. It wasn’t a great fit, and I soon stepped into a contract role at a large civil engineering firm. I wore many hats, starting in Administration and Human Resources, and ultimately found my passion in marketing, proposals, and client development.

I joined HVJ earlier this year as a Business Development/Marketing Coordinator. What inspires me most is that, even though this industry requires so much technical expertise, there is still a strong human element. I enjoy connecting with people across all markets and disciplines. There’s so much to learn and so many people to meet. It’s all been very exciting, and I’m grateful to be doing something I enjoy.

2.    What is your role at HVJ, and what do you consider essential for success in this role? 

My role bridges business and relationship-building. I help develop proposals for prime pursuits and teaming opportunities. I also create marketing materials, including resumes, statements of qualifications, and brochures, and conduct research on project opportunities. 

On the business development side, I’m out attending networking events, such as luncheons, industry organization events, conferences, etc. Connecting with like-minded people across the industry in several different markets is one of the best parts of the job! 
Success in this role requires communication, ambition, and an eye for detail. 

3.    For someone who is new to the field, could you explain the role of geotechnical engineering and how it differs from other disciplines within civil engineering?

Geotechnical engineering is foundational to everything we build! The success of almost any project depends on a ground investigation. No matter how impressive the above-ground structure is, it ultimately depends on the integrity of the foundation below. Geotechnical engineering is unique because it’s highly unpredictable, since we can’t manufacture, standardize, or fully control what’s beneath the ground. We need to use creative solutions, work with nature, and proactively develop solutions that will last for decades.

4. What key factors should engineering firms highlight to position themselves as the ideal partner for clients launching new projects? 

From a business development and marketing perspective, engineering firms should show clients that they’re a long-term partner in their success. Here are some practical ways to do this:

• Go beyond focusing on the required technical expertise and project experience. Demonstrate that you're also responsive, committed to finding solutions no matter what unexpected challenges arise.
• Align with clients to show that you understand their goals and are committed to achieving them.
• Build confidence that you can stay on schedule and on budget, serving as a trusted advisor throughout the project lifecycle. Remember that clients need confidence that their consultant can deliver reliable solutions while mitigating risk.

In short, help clients achieve successful project outcomes rather than simply delivering a scope of work.

5. HVJ places a high priority on continuous learning, personal growth, and mentorship. How have these values contributed to your skill development?

Collaborating with HVJ's experienced leaders and technical experts has helped develop my communication, collaboration, and strategic thinking skills. I have enjoyed the opportunity to work on highly complex projects and proposals, which have challenged me to lead proposal efforts in new ways. I have also gained confidence in coordinating multidisciplinary teams and supporting client-focused initiatives. These experiences have expanded my leadership abilities and prepared me to tackle new challenges while contributing to HVJ’s ongoing success.