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When it comes to full-service geotechnical engineering, materials testing and engineering, and construction inspection services, Twining essentially wrote the book on it. And they’ve been writing and rewriting the book since their founding in 1898. But that in no way covers Twining’s full range of expertise. Twining also brings to bear nationally recognized applied research, pavement design, stormwater consulting, a network of sophisticated laboratories throughout the US, and more than two hundred cross-certified field personnel. And Twining is unmatched in its ability to deliver that expertise for the most challenging, complex projects. And vice president of Client Development Mariel Attento is right at the heart of it all, as well as its transformation through expansion.

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“For much of our history we were only a California firm. But California has the most stringent codes and regulations in the nation. So, when we expanded beyond its borders, we knew there would be challenges, but that we were well prepared for them and could certainly handle them.”

And handle them they have. Twining has expanded considerably in the last few years, acquiring several smaller firms as part of its strategic plan. Succeeding in its plan is no surprise to anyone that knows Twining. Attento credits Twining leadership for its exemplary focus, sensitivity, and dexterity, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“I was proud that our leadership was strong, adaptive, and progressive in terms of dealing with the pandemic. And while handling that extremely well, they also continued to promote Twining’s most central values like diversity, equity, and inclusion. It’s a very unique place.”

Initially hired to develop the Sacramento region, Attento’s mandate has grown to cover enterprise-wide sales and marketing. Relying on her training, experience, and wisdom, Attento also found another unique means to help Twining advance.

“I knew the quickest way for me to get to know people in the industry was through professional organizations like WTS. Initially, I wasn’t familiar with WTS, but when I learned about it I loved what it was all about. First, WTS has fantastic content. But you also get to know wonderful, highly talented people. And you get to socialize and make profound friendships with people who share your professional interests. So, we make it a point to make sure that our people are very involved with WTS-LA.”

Attento saw firsthand the value WTS-LA offers both individuals and companies. But there were still surprises to be found.

“When I went to my first meeting, I was absolutely shocked to see so many men there. I thought it was going be female leaders from the architecture/engineering industry. But what I’ve come to learn over the last 5 years is that the men attend because they, too, want to see women succeed in this industry. They champion WTS-LA’s mission for women to advance in the industry just as much as the women in WTS-LA do. I’m extremely passionate about that mission. So, it was extremely gratifying to see the balance WTS-LA offers.”

But Attento believes that WTS-LA offers even more.

“Agencies also love WTS because it generates greater interest by consultants in their projects. WTS has facilitated unparalleled networking. As a result, WTS just opens so many doors, especially when you’re just starting out and trying to find your way. I learned so much in WTS presentations and events, from engineering to planning to things I’d never thought about before. I met people who had very different types of careers than I did. It was just an invaluable experience. So, I tell my team that when they go to a WTS-LA event that they’re going to meet so many people that would never meet any other way. In addition, there’s the female leadership component and mentoring and the events that WTS offers, where women are put in the spotlight. You really get to see what’s possible for women professionals. So, if you go to WTS events and join a chapter, you get more than you could ever ask for.”