From USC Engineering to Building Los Angeles

What does it look like to turn a civil engineering education into a career shaping the built environment of Los Angeles? On this week’s episode of Viterbi Voices, host Paul Ledesma talks with Kristen Sharer (CE ’12) about her path from USC Viterbi to a career at KPFF, where she works as a civil engineer and project manager.

Kristen shares what she has learned from working on major Los Angeles projects, including the new LACMA building, and discusses the collaboration and problem-solving required to bring complex designs to life. Her experiences offer prospective USC Viterbi students a look at how engineering can connect technical knowledge with real-world challenges and projects that shape the places where people live and work.

The conversation also looks back at Kristen’s time at USC, including studying abroad, internships, research and VSA. For students considering engineering majors, her perspective highlights the value of hands-on experience, staying curious and learning to ask the right questions. These experiences can become an important part of the college experience, helping students explore their interests while preparing for engineering careers.

Listen to the full Viterbi Voices conversation with Kristen Sharer to hear more about her USC experience, her work in civil engineering and the lessons she has carried from the classroom into her career.