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Bowman offers this update on a recipient of the 2022 WTS Philadelphia Influential Leadership Scholarship Award, Anahita Kakhani. Anahita recently received her Master’s degree in Civil Engineering from Rowan University and joined Bowman (formerly McMahon) as a civil engineer at the firm’s office in Center City Philadelphia this past fall. She provided an update below on how the WTS Scholarship helped her in her career accomplishments and pursuits.

My journey into the realm of transportation engineering commenced as a graduate research fellow at Rowan University, engaged in several NJDOT-funded projects. My graduate studies provided a platform for presenting and publishing my research findings across esteemed platforms like the Transportation Research Board Conference, Annual NJDOT Research Showcase, ITSNJ Annual Meeting, NJ TransAction Conference, and ITE Journal. Along this path, recognition through prestigious awards such as the WTS Philadelphia Leadership Award (2022) and the Future of ITSNJ Award (2022) validated the value of my efforts and helped me to cover the costs of my educational pursuits.

These accomplishments paved the way for my transition into the industry, leading me to secure a coveted position at Bowman, a firm known for its extensive background and excellence in transportation. Each day at Bowman has been an opportunity to broaden my skill set while collaborating with outstanding professionals. Working alongside talented colleagues and guided by my supervisor, Robert Wright, proved instrumental in shaping my journey. The support and mentorship I received empowered me to embrace challenges and navigate uncharted territories. Bob's guidance, in particular, provided invaluable insights and encouragement, catalyzing my professional development.

Looking ahead, I'm invigorated by a deep sense of purpose and enthusiasm. My journey has been one of continuous learning, growth, and impactful experiences, and I'm wholeheartedly committed to continuing this trajectory into the future.

Bob Wright, a long-time WTS Philadelphia Chapter member, notes that Anahita has settled in nicely, assisting him and his colleagues at Bowman with their workload and assignments in traffic studies, traffic assessment, ADA sidewalk ramp design, and related activities. This has been particularly helpful given how busy the office and firm have been due to federal funding and favorable economic conditions, which have increased demand for traffic studies and permit submission.