Kara Shears EIT
Trenton,TN
Summary
Accomplished Transportation Engineering Specialist 3 with a proven track record at TDOT, Materials and Tests Division. Passed the Fundamentals of Engineering exam in 2020. Excels in client relationship management and supervising high-quality operations. Adept at fostering teamwork. Heavily involved in pivotal projects and research, enhancing efficiency and innovation. Holds key certifications in the transportation industry, embodying a blend of technical proficiency and collaborative leadership. Passed the Fundamentals of Engineering exam in 2020. Passionate about applying real-world solutions to today’s problems.
Overview
4
4
years of professional experience
Work History
Transportation Engineering Specialist 3
TDOT, Materials And Tests Division
01.2021 - Current
- Followed all company policies and procedures to deliver quality work.
- Developed strong client relationships through consistent communication and attentive service.
- Supervised operations in precast/prestressed concrete facilities, ensuring quality and efficiency.
- Managed special pavement treatments including Hot In-Place Recycling and Full Depth Reclamation.
- Adept at operating the profilograph and compiling data using ProVAL for surface smoothness.
- Served as Unit Supervisor for incoming graduate transportation engineers:
- Provided training on materials and testing policies.
- Assisted in teaching TDOT certification classes. - Oversaw multiple projects from initiation to completion:
- Ensured compliance with Independent Assurance program requirements. - Led numerous core drill operations for research, preliminary exploration, and lab testing purposes.
- Participated in research projects on:
- Full Depth Reclamation.
- Subgrade stabilization.
- Super Air Meter. - - Attended numerous industry symposiums and conferences to strengthen knowledge and capabilities.
Graduate Transportation Associate
TDOT, Materials And Tests Division
01.2020 - 01.2021
- Trained for and received all necessary certifications in Materials and Tests.
- Gained field experience in transportation construction projects.
- Compiled and documented information and experience into monthly reports.
- Promoted a positive work environment within the transportation department fostering a culture of collaboration among team members.
- Attended various team-building trips with other Graduate Transportation Associates.
Education
Master of Science - Civil Engineering (Geotechnical)
The University of Tennessee - Knoxville
Knoxville, TN12.2025
Bachelor of Science - Civil Engineering (Environmental)
Mississippi State University
Starkville, MS12.2019
Skills
- EIT since 2020
- Expert Problem Solving
- Proficient in ProVAL
- Data Analysis
- Concrete Field, Plant, and Mix Design
- Asphalt Roadway, Plant, and Mix Design
- Nuclear Gauge/Radiation Safety
- Aggregate Technician
Timeline
Transportation Engineering Specialist 3
TDOT, Materials And Tests Division
01.2021 - Current
Graduate Transportation Associate
TDOT, Materials And Tests Division
01.2020 - 01.2021
Master of Science - Civil Engineering (Geotechnical)
The University of Tennessee - Knoxville
Bachelor of Science - Civil Engineering (Environmental)
Mississippi State University
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