Employee Spotlight with John Forman, Senior Engineer

John has seen a wide range of projects, large and small, during his 35 years with the South Dakota Department of Transportation (SDDOT). His experience as a Region Engineer and City Administrator encompasses a wide range of responsibilities, from infrastructure development and financial management to community engagement and crisis response. This role requires strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.

John joined Ulteig’s Fargo office in August 2023. Read the Q&A below to learn more about John’s interests, passion, and experience.

What made you want to join the Ulteig team?
“I was looking for an opportunity to take me into retirement. I was impressed with the organization, culture, and the people at Ulteig.”

What is your current title and job responsibilities?
“I am the Senior Engineer with Team Heartland. I’m bringing my South Dakota Department of Transportation (SDDOT) experience to secure additional work with SDDOT along with helping design staff with DOT projects.”

Where were you employed before Ulteig?
“I have 35 years of experience with SDDOT, immediately prior to coming to Ulteig, I spent 4.5 years as the City Administrator in my hometown of Milbank, South Dakota.”

Can you share your educational background and professional experience?
“I graduated from South Dakota State University in 1982 with a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering. I worked in Texas after college but came back to South Dakota to work for SDDOT. I spent 35 years with SDDOT in a variety of capacities from field engineering to the last 12.5 years as Region Engineer in charge of all construction and maintenance in central South Dakota.”

How does your past experience help you now?
“My familiarity with SDDOT, their people and their processes will give Ulteigin procuring contracts. My experience in administering and overseeing construction contracts, large and small, will help me look at constructability issues and provide just another input in the process. Project design is never a one-person job, but a culmination of many thoughts and experiences, resulting in the finished project.”

What is Ulteig doing that is exciting?
“The culture at Ulteig is exciting. My research into the company, interview process and meeting people here all contributed to me joining the team.”

What do you do in your free time?
“I love to hunt and fish, as I’ve become older, I’ve found that the drive to enjoy these activities is not what it was when I was younger. Growing up and living in the Dakotas, our opportunities are extremely abundant. I also enjoy DYI projects, wood working and watching baseball and football.”

Can you share more about your family, hobbies and interests?
“Our kids are grown and live in different areas of the country – South Dakota, California and Texas. My wife, Kelly, is a former State Inspector for the South Dakota Department of Public Safety but has since retired.”

Welcome to Ulteig, John!