Nathan McCarty

Background

About Nathan McCarty

Not open to opportunities. Proudly born and raised in Clackamas County, Oregon, I have always felt blessed to live in the Pacific Northwest. No matter how far I travel, I am drawn back to my home near the base of Mount Hood, where I go to clear my head and enjoy nature. My path into the AEC industry was driven by curiosity, a love for problem-solving, and a desire to help others. I began at Clackamas Community College with an interest in chemistry, but my aptitude for math and physics soon took the lead. Encouraged by a professor, I explored statics and dynamics, which set me on the path to civil engineering and eventually led me to AKS, where I have stayed and grown ever since. I began as a civil designer, but my career has been defined by flexibility and opportunity. I have bounced between design and fieldwork, gaining experience in construction inspection and management, engineering design, and project management. For a time, I decided to focus entirely on the construction side, helping grow our construction support services team from five people in 2018 to over 50 in 2025, working on projects throughout the Western states. What I appreciate most about AKS is the culture of collaboration and support. I have had the freedom to follow my interests and the support to lead and mentor others. There is no internal competition at AKS; everyone shares knowledge and works together toward success for our projects, clients, and communities. My advice to early-career professionals: Master the basics, and take pride in doing them well. This stands out to everyone that you interact with. Also, do not be afraid to advocate for yourself. Flexibility is more common than you think; there is usually a way to align personal and professional needs. Honestly communicate those needs and be reasonable. Outside of work, I enjoy hiking, backpacking, cross-country and downhill skiing, raising livestock, horseback riding and packing trips, and mentoring youth. I participate in the Clackamas County Traffic Safety Committee, where we advocate for safe transportation within the county and participate in county-wide outreach events. I am also on the Clackamas County Community Road Fund Advisory Committee, where I have been a 4-H livestock leader for over fifteen years, helping young people build confidence, independence, and learn responsibility. Whether in the office or out volunteering, I believe in equipping people with the tools they need to succeed independently. Whether you are just starting out in AEC or want to talk projects, I am always open to connecting.