Engineer working

Have you ever wondered what it’s like to be an engineer at a company that thrives on innovation? At FTI, engineering goes beyond technical drawings – it’s about solving real-world challenges and redefining what’s possible. With more than a decade at FTI, Evan Johnson, one of our engineering team leads, shares what makes his role exciting and his advice for future engineers.

What types of engineers work at FTI, and how do their roles differ?

FTI employs a variety of engineers, each specializing in different areas to deliver comprehensive project solutions. Our teams include systems/low voltage designers (like my team), power and lighting engineers, automation engineers, preconstruction engineers and operational technology (OT) network specialists. Each team has its own focus, but we frequently collaborate to ensure seamless integration across all systems.

 What does an engineer do at FTI?

At FTI, much of the engineering work we do is design-related. We specialize in systems like fire alarms, telecommunications, security (like access control and CCTV), paging and two-way communication. But our work goes beyond design – we partner and collaborate closely with project managers, operations teams, preconstruction and clients to ensure our designs meet their project requirements and specifications. We also contribute to estimating, product research and process improvements to keep FTI at the cutting edge of the industry.

What kinds of projects are you working on, and how do they impact the company?

Our projects are incredibly diverse, ranging from commercial office buildings and industrial facilities to science and technology labs and healthcare environments. One of FTI’s core values is to Redefine What’s Possible, and we take that seriously – whether it’s optimizing workflows, improving efficiency or integrating new technologies, our work directly impacts the company’s success and the industries we serve.

Can you walk us through a typical day?

No two days are the same, which keeps things exciting! My day typically involves a mix of design work, team collaboration and problem-solving. I lead the low voltage systems team, guiding projects from initial design through execution. My day includes team meetings, design reviews, client consultations and sometimes estimating support. Researching new products to improve our designs is also a key part of my role, helping us stay current with the latest technologies.

What inspired you to become an engineer?

My dad was a huge influence. He encouraged me to explore engineering, and I was naturally drawn to it because I loved problem-solving and math in school. My journey at FTI actually started in high school with a seasonal role, giving me hands-on field experience early on. I continued working here while earning my bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering technology from the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh. After graduation, I stayed on and have been fortunate to grow into various leadership roles over the years.

What’s the most fun or unexpected part of your job?

The variety. Every project brings something new, and I love brainstorming with my team to create innovative solutions that meet our clients’ needs. Everyone has different strengths, and when we collaborate, we come up with ideas that none of us could achieve alone. That dynamic, problem-solving aspect is what makes engineering at FTI so rewarding.

What’s been your most rewarding project at FTI?

Leading the Exact Sciences’ Nexus One project stands out. It was my first time as the main project lead, where I worked to build relationships with both internal teams and external partners. Seeing our team succeed on such a large-scale project was incredibly rewarding.

What advice would you give to someone considering a career in engineering?

Take on challenges! Math, science and hands-on courses will help you develop the problem-solving skills you’ll need for a career in engineering. Also, find a company that offers growth opportunities. Getting your foot in the door is just the beginning; continual learning and pushing yourself will take you far.

Being an engineer isn’t just about technical work – it’s about creativity, teamwork and making a tangible impact through every project. With cutting-edge projects, a collaborative culture and opportunities for growth, FTI is a great place for engineers who want to innovate, problem-solve and push boundaries.