Millennium Magazine_8th Ed

105 Millennium - A Marquis Who’s Who Magazine ENERGY, ENGINEERING AND MANUFACTURING pursue the profession. In 1994, she earned a BS in civil engineering from Purdue University. Commencing her career in 1991 with the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT), Ms. DeYoung has served as a resident engineer for more than 25 years. Starting with IDOT through their co-op program during her undergraduate years, she was subsequently introduced to the construction industry and has flourished since. Today, Ms. DeYoung notes that maintaining correct and clear communication with contractors, businesses and families while staying in accordance with their own specifications and guidelines is imperative for her organization. Enjoying the cooperative aspect of her work, she prefers to be proactive and wants her team to be prepared for their respective tasks. With this sentiment, she has been described as conscientious and quick to respond to problems. Philanthropically involved as well, Ms. DeYoung enjoys helping others and emphasizes the significance of using the gifts one has to make the world a better place. From 2006 to 2015, she was an usher at the Suncrest Christian Church, as well as a sponsor for Compassion International in 2013. Taking a particular liking to organizing charitable events, such as parties and toy drives, she holds membership with charities that aid children who are underserved in the community. To attest to her success, Ms. DeYoung received the Contractor of the Year Award from the IDOT. Likewise, she notably earned the 2018 EEO Award. In her spare time, Ms. DeYoung enjoys crafting, as she is proficient in cross-stitching, making wreaths and holiday decorations, scrapbooking and creating body scrubs and lotions. She cites that her hobbies help reduce her stress from her work and allows her to utilize creativity. Looking forward, Ms. DeYoung intends to continue her work in building roadways and bridges with IDOT. A fter taking an aptitude test in high school, Erica L. DeYoung found that she would excel in the world of engineering, drawing upon her existing skills in science and mathematics. While talking to several professionals in the field, she became enthralled by the subject of civil engineering, thus prompting her desire to ERICA L. DEYOUNG RESIDENT ENGINEER Illinois Department of Transportation Schaumburg, IL