Betherny Ja’nne Williams
Senior Construction Inspector
Missouri Department of Transportation
Born: Houston, Texas
High School:
James Madison Senior High School
College & Degree(s):
Southern University, Baton Rouge, LA ,
BS, Civil Engineering
Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated Gamma Omega Chapter
National Pan-Hellenic Council, Incorporated of St. Louis Immediate Past President
You played a key part in the $628 million Stan Musial Veterans Memorial Bridge project. Tell us about your role in that important project.
The New Mississippi River Bridgewas the largest bi-state project in the region’s history. While on this project, one of my most memorable assignments was my involvement in the complexity of the engineering design and implementation of the aesthetic lighting which illuminates the bridge and the skyline of downtown St. Louis at night. The execution of the lighting system came with its challenges, having to identify the proper materials to provide enough light so that the bridge can be seen for miles but not too much that would hinder the traveling public. Advances in technology, allowed us to accept a proposed value engineering concept that would require less maintenance, extend the life of the system and most importantly provide cost savings. The uniqueness of the cable tray system was the first to be used on any Missouri bridge and was awarded the National American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials Value Engineering Award.
What made you pursue a degree in Civil Engineering?
Stepping into the legacy of my grandfather’s stride- becoming a civil engineer has always been exciting to me. I have always enjoyed science, math and problem solving. As a young student I would spend months perfecting my science fair projects. I attended NASA Space engineering and science summer camps. In college I gained an interest in transportation and was able to be an undergraduate research assistant, studying image analyses of aggregates using X-ray tomography. This really opened my eyes to the materials that makeup our roads and bridges.
You volunteer introducing engineering principles to students. What would you tell young, African-American students, who have an interest in engineering, about the opportunities available in the workforce?
I encourage you to dream big, think outside the box and don’t limit yourself to your surroundings. There are a number of career opportunities that fall under the umbrella of engineering, but the core values consist of critical thinking, being creative and being willing to receive challenges. If you find yourself excelling in math and science today, focus on developing those skills into becoming tomorrow’s next engineer. One of the great feelings about engineering is knowing that your knowledge and designs are making a positive contribution to society.
You spend a substantial amount of time giving back to the community. Why do you feel this need for individual service?
It brings internal joy to me to help others prosper. My parents and teachers taught me at an early age to share your gifts. When you are able to share your gifts, then you have reached a point of personal fulfillment. I enjoy spending time with students, helping to shape and support their visions. I afford future engineers exposure to the engineering and construction of some of the region’s largest transportation projects. As established African Americans we have to spend time with our youth, allowing them to see the face of African-American success.
