Meet Riley Pantalena – Airport Engineer & Irish Dancer

What drew you to Hoyle Tanner?

My decision to attend UVM in Burlington was definitely my starting point for ending up at Hoyle Tanner. Junior year, I was interested in having a “Burlington Summer” with my college friends and my internship search began. I had my sights set on Hoyle Tanner after speaking with Bailey, Schuyler, and Zach on job websites and UVM career events, and also because of the variety of divisions. Since I didn’t know which path I’d be taking, I decided to pursue Aviation because it’s always been an interest of mine. That summer was a really fun one, spent with my friends downtown and by the lake, but also exploring the engineering workplace. It was very rewarding to be learning new things every day and getting to know so many different people. I reflected at the end of the summer that I would be interested in the idea of continuing part time during my senior year and applying to work full time once I graduated, and that’s the path I’m on now!

What’s your favorite part of the company culture?

I have a confident sense that Hoyle Tanner is invested in my personal life and development outside of the office. Working part time was a great experience because of how supportive everyone was with the fact that I was still in school. I was able to take occasional time off with the peace of mind that I was still being supported at work. Everyone also served as great outlets and resources when I had questions about school, life, and working, and I am constantly hearing about what goes on in everyone else’s life too! It’s cool to see that others have the opportunities to pursue the things they enjoy. It made me even more excited and confident about moving to full time! As a younger employee, this support is really meaningful while I’m still figuring things out and learning. 

What’s a lesson you’ve learned from a colleague or what’s the best piece of professional advice you’ve ever received?

I did an interview with Jon Olin for a project management class and he shared from his experience that the responsibility/accountability of individual team members leads to a successful team. This motivates me to put forth my best work, with the knowledge that it will also better the people around me!

What’s one thing you wish people knew about your job?

I have to be very clear when telling people about what I do; If I go the aviation route, people think aerospace engineering and rockets, and if I go the civil route, people think terminal buildings and the architecture. I wish people knew that it’s more of a happy medium between the two, the cool aviation concept with more of a transportation engineering lens. It’s hard to describe, but usually telling people I help design airport runways is the best tactic.

What did you want to be when you were growing up / how did you get to be on the path you’re on?

I initially came to UVM as a mechanical engineering major because I knew I wanted to do some kind of engineering, and mechanical seemed like the most default and flexible. Sophomore year I felt like I had no idea where I wanted to go with it and needed something a bit more applicable. I love civil engineering because of its more direct impacts on the general public. It satisfies me to be in a role that works behind the scenes to keep infrastructure running. I’m really glad I made that switch! I have also been involved with Irish Dancing throughout my childhood, and it’s always been a big part of my life and something I’ve always wanted to continue in the future. As I move on from my competitive years, getting my teaching certification is next on my list. I also have interest in working with CIDA, the association that promotes Irish dance learning and competition for college students.