We’re committed to improving our ecosystems, quality of life, and communities for the better.
Our passion and commitment to the integration of innovative science and engineering drive us to exceed on behalf of every client.
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In this edition, we feature Nicole Hanson, Office and Special Projects Manager, and delve into her role as Health & Safety Program Lead. While you may spot many of Princeton Hydro’s team members out in the field inspecting dams, delineating wetlands, or monitoring water quality, Nicole’s work happens mostly behind the scenes. Her dedication to health and safety makes all those field activities possible. Spend a day with her, and you’ll quickly see that safety is anything but routine. It’s equal parts organization, problem-solving, collaboration, and people-care (with a healthy dose of coffee). Laying the Foundation for Leadership in Health & Safety Nicole joined Princeton Hydro in 2007, starting in the former Voorhees, NJ office with administrative tasks like answering phones, ordering supplies, and organizing files. Before long, she took on a much larger responsibility: helping coordinate the construction of Princeton Hydro’s Southern Regional Office in Sicklerville, NJ. The new space was designed to accommodate the firm’s growing staff and house the Geotechnical Soils Testing Laboratory, a facility accredited by the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) and validated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) Materials Testing Center (MTC) to perform a full range of tests. “The office construction project was my first taste of special projects management,” Nicole reflects. “From pouring concrete, coordinating with the movers to relocate the entire office to the new office, and working with the team installing furniture, I was involved in almost every detail. I still have all the original documents and notes from that time.” Over the years, inspired by the many women in leadership roles at Princeton Hydro, Nicole worked hard to grow into her own influential path. "Working alongside such talented and dedicated women showed me what leadership looks like in action, and motivated me to grow, learn, take on new challenges every day, and pursue my own professional goals." Today, alongside her Office Management and Special Projects responsibilities, Nicole manages Princeton Hydro’s Health & Safety Program in partnership with Chief Operating Officer Megan Hunter Ruff and Regional Safety Leaders (RSLs) Jerry Vogel, Chris Mikolajczyk, CLM, and Casey Pantaleo, PE. She has been instrumental in formalizing and advancing the program’s systems and practices. "I take great pride in knowing that I play a key role in implementing a Health & Safety Program that protects our employees in their specific line of work and ensures that everyone goes home safely." Starting the Day: Coffee, Calendars, & Checklists Nicole’s day begins at 8:00 AM, caramel iced latte in hand. After scanning her inbox and calendar, she sets her priorities for the day, though she knows her plan may shift at any moment. “I’m constantly juggling tasks, solving problems, and adapting on the fly,” Nicole says with a laugh. “What surprises people most is how unpredictable my day can be, and how many different team members I connect with across projects. Some mornings, I’ll talk to fifteen employees before I even drink my second cup of coffee!” One moment Nicole is coordinating health and safety needs, the next she’s ordering lunch for the team, and later she’s assisting with a proposal submission. No two hours, let alone two days, look the same! Interwoven with the many tasks on Nicole’s to-do list each day are her health and safety responsibilities, which she views as mission critical. She creates “Toolbox Talks” and newsletter updates on various health and safety topics, verifies all staff certifications are valid and current, reminds staff of required safety trainings, and works with team members to order specific Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), including safety vests, masks, hard hats, and other field gear. Nicole also keeps the Health & Safety Program current by reading safety-industry publications and attending virtual OSHA-regulated training courses, ensuring both the company protocols and her own knowledge evolve with the latest standards. Her role centers on coordinating and administering the program logistics, compliance tracking, and staff resources, rather than acting as a certified technical safety professional. Success, she says, comes down to collaboration, flexibility, and attention to detail. “Honestly, no one has it all figured out. My role is constantly evolving, so I rely on my notebook to track tasks and stay organized. I’m always open to feedback and enjoy learning from those around me - teamwork is everything, and a steady supply of coffee doesn’t hurt either!” Projects, People, & Safety Nicole’s role is unique in that she bridges multiple departments and disciplines within Princeton Hydro. As Health & Safety Program Lead, she works closely with the COO, RSLs, and many other technical staff across the company, a collaboration ensures that while Nicole steers the day-to-day systems, the technical experts remain at the core of the program's success. Nicole takes immense pride in Princeton Hydro's comprehensive Health & Safety Program. “It became my baby,” she says. “Safety doesn’t always get the spotlight, but it’s essential and the backbone of everything we do here at Princeton Hydro. Every time I help someone navigate a challenge or ensure they have the right tools and support, I know I’m contributing to both their success and their safety, and that feels great!" Nicole puts a lot of effort into making sure staff are prepared and equipped to handle the unique risks of environmental engineering and in-the-field science. Maintaining a strong Health & Safety Program at Princeton Hydro involves a lot of research, planning, budgeting, and communication, including:
Welcome to our “A Day in the Life” blog series, where we explore the diverse expertise and everyday experiences of the professionals who power Princeton Hydro’s mission. In this edition, we feature Nicole Hanson, Office and Special Projects Manager, and delve into her role as Health & Safety Program Lead.
While you may spot many of Princeton Hydro’s team members out in the field inspecting dams, delineating wetlands, or monitoring water quality, Nicole’s work happens mostly behind the scenes. Her dedication to health and safety makes all those field activities possible. Spend a day with her, and you’ll quickly see that safety is anything but routine. It’s equal parts organization, problem-solving, collaboration, and people-care (with a healthy dose of coffee).
Nicole joined Princeton Hydro in 2007, starting in the former Voorhees, NJ office with administrative tasks like answering phones, ordering supplies, and organizing files. Before long, she took on a much larger responsibility: helping coordinate the construction of Princeton Hydro’s Southern Regional Office in Sicklerville, NJ. The new space was designed to accommodate the firm’s growing staff and house the Geotechnical Soils Testing Laboratory, a facility accredited by the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) and validated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) Materials Testing Center (MTC) to perform a full range of tests.
“The office construction project was my first taste of special projects management,” Nicole reflects. “From pouring concrete, coordinating with the movers to relocate the entire office to the new office, and working with the team installing furniture, I was involved in almost every detail. I still have all the original documents and notes from that time.”
Over the years, inspired by the many women in leadership roles at Princeton Hydro, Nicole worked hard to grow into her own influential path. "Working alongside such talented and dedicated women showed me what leadership looks like in action, and motivated me to grow, learn, take on new challenges every day, and pursue my own professional goals."
Today, alongside her Office Management and Special Projects responsibilities, Nicole manages Princeton Hydro’s Health & Safety Program in partnership with Chief Operating Officer Megan Hunter Ruff and Regional Safety Leaders (RSLs) Jerry Vogel, Chris Mikolajczyk, CLM, and Casey Pantaleo, PE. She has been instrumental in formalizing and advancing the program’s systems and practices. "I take great pride in knowing that I play a key role in implementing a Health & Safety Program that protects our employees in their specific line of work and ensures that everyone goes home safely."
Nicole’s day begins at 8:00 AM, caramel iced latte in hand. After scanning her inbox and calendar, she sets her priorities for the day, though she knows her plan may shift at any moment.
“I’m constantly juggling tasks, solving problems, and adapting on the fly,” Nicole says with a laugh. “What surprises people most is how unpredictable my day can be, and how many different team members I connect with across projects. Some mornings, I’ll talk to fifteen employees before I even drink my second cup of coffee!” One moment Nicole is coordinating health and safety needs, the next she’s ordering lunch for the team, and later she’s assisting with a proposal submission. No two hours, let alone two days, look the same!
Interwoven with the many tasks on Nicole’s to-do list each day are her health and safety responsibilities, which she views as mission critical. She creates “Toolbox Talks” and newsletter updates on various health and safety topics, verifies all staff certifications are valid and current, reminds staff of required safety trainings, and works with team members to order specific Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), including safety vests, masks, hard hats, and other field gear. Nicole also keeps the Health & Safety Program current by reading safety-industry publications and attending virtual OSHA-regulated training courses, ensuring both the company protocols and her own knowledge evolve with the latest standards. Her role centers on coordinating and administering the program logistics, compliance tracking, and staff resources, rather than acting as a certified technical safety professional.
Success, she says, comes down to collaboration, flexibility, and attention to detail. “Honestly, no one has it all figured out. My role is constantly evolving, so I rely on my notebook to track tasks and stay organized. I’m always open to feedback and enjoy learning from those around me - teamwork is everything, and a steady supply of coffee doesn’t hurt either!”
Nicole’s role is unique in that she bridges multiple departments and disciplines within Princeton Hydro. As Health & Safety Program Lead, she works closely with the COO, RSLs, and many other technical staff across the company, a collaboration ensures that while Nicole steers the day-to-day systems, the technical experts remain at the core of the program's success.
Nicole takes immense pride in Princeton Hydro's comprehensive Health & Safety Program. “It became my baby,” she says. “Safety doesn’t always get the spotlight, but it’s essential and the backbone of everything we do here at Princeton Hydro. Every time I help someone navigate a challenge or ensure they have the right tools and support, I know I’m contributing to both their success and their safety, and that feels great!"
Nicole puts a lot of effort into making sure staff are prepared and equipped to handle the unique risks of environmental engineering and in-the-field science. Maintaining a strong Health & Safety Program at Princeton Hydro involves a lot of research, planning, budgeting, and communication, including:
Beyond the checklists and compliance requirements, Nicole also looks for creative ways to keep safety top of mind. By creating and sharing safety-themed memes, she makes important reminders easier to remember and a lot more fun. Here are a few of our favorites:
For special projects, risk assessment and mitigation start on day one. Nicole reviews project goals, timelines, and team roles with a critical eye, helping to identify potential challenges, whether logistical, regulatory, or health and safety related. By asking questions and gathering input from both field staff and managers, she zeroes in on the right Health & Safety experts to guide the team and flags anything that could derail success.
For Nicole, every challenge is also an opportunity. She welcomes the twists and turns that come with her work, letting new projects and unexpected needs guide her growth. “There’s always something new to learn or take on, and I’ve learned to stay open to wherever the day leads me."
After 18 years with Princeton Hydro, Nicole continues to approach her role with curiosity and momentum. She is committed to refining and expanding the Health & Safety Program, not by resting on what already works, but by seeking out new opportunities to make systems more efficient, accessible, and effective. She welcomes input from colleagues and pairs it with her own creative problem-solving to build tools that support the entire team.
Looking ahead, one of Nicole’s top priorities is creating a centralized internal platform that gives staff easy access to safety resources, training reminders, Active AHAs, and comprehensive program documents, whether they’re in the office or out in the field. To bring this vision to life, she’s collaborating closely with the COO and RSLs, combining operational insight with technical safety expertise to build a system that’s both practical and comprehensive for the entire company.
At the end of the day, Nicole’s goal is simple: give her colleagues the confidence to do their best work, backed by the training, tools, and systems that keep them safe. “My highest priority is ensuring that every employee returns home safely to their loved ones at the end of each day. Nothing I do is more important than protecting the health and well-being of our team.”
To learn more about Nicole, click here.
Click here to read the previous “Day in the Life” blog series edition, which follows Casey Pantaleo, PE, a licensed Professional Engineer and Senior Project Manager on the Engineering Services team, as he performs one of his highly specialized roles: dam inspection. Stay tuned for more behind-the-scenes stories from our talented team!
At Princeton Hydro, we take pride in fostering a culture of continuous learning and professional growth. Today, we're delighted to celebrate the accomplishments of two team members whose recent certifications exemplify this commitment. Their achievements not only reflect individual dedication but also enhance our firm’s collective ability to innovate and deliver exceptional environmental solutions.
Scott Churm, Senior Director of Field Services, recently became a PRO Certified EutroSORB® Specialist—a designation granted by SePRO Corporation to professionals trained in the implementation of EutroSORB Water Quality Technologies for phosphorus control in lakes and ponds.
EutroSORB® is a cutting-edge technology designed to reduce phosphorus levels, curtail eutrophication, and restore the health of aquatic ecosystems. To earn this certification, Scott completed specialized training and passed a comprehensive exam, demonstrating his advanced knowledge in evaluating water quality issues and prescribing targeted, effective solutions.
Since joining Princeton Hydro in 2006, Scott has led our pond and lake management services with unmatched expertise. From identifying invasive aquatic species to overseeing long-term management plans, his work spans hundreds of sites and over 1,000 acres. He’s a licensed pesticide applicator in five states and has implemented a wide range of techniques, from hydro-raking and weed harvesting to aeration system installations and biological controls, to support the health and balance of aquatic environments.
With this new certification, Scott adds another tool to his already expansive toolbox, further reinforcing our team’s ability to restore and preserve water bodies across the region.
Matthew Pappas, a Geotechnical Engineer at Princeton Hydro, recently earned the prestigious CCS® credential from the Construction Specifications Institute (CSI). This certification demonstrates advanced proficiency in specification (spec) writing, construction documentation, and product research—critical skills that improve project delivery and communication across all phases of construction.
To become CCS-certified, candidates must pass a rigorous exam that evaluates their understanding of contracts, technical documentation, and spec development best practices. With this achievement, Matthew joins a select group of professionals recognized for their ability to clearly and effectively communicate design intent, construction materials, and performance standards.
Since joining Princeton Hydro in 2019, Matthew has worked across disciplines, supporting our geotechnical practice and green infrastructure initiatives. His responsibilities span from field investigations and laboratory testing to slope stability and sediment modeling to spec drafting and cost estimating. He’s also earned several technical responsibilities, including serving as the firm's Radiation Safety Officer and receiving training in concrete field testing.
Matthew's initiative and adaptability have made him a valuable asset to our team, and his CCS certification further exemplifies his dedication to technical excellence and lifelong learning.
Congratulations to Scott and Matthew on their well-earned achievements! To learn more about the Princeton Hydro team, click here.
We're excited to announce the newest members of our team! First, we welcome Alexandra Garnett, our new Administrative Assistant, who joins us with a wealth of experience in streamlining operations and providing invaluable support. We're also delighted to have a familiar face rejoining us; Eric Libis, who has previously contributed to our projects, is back from Alaska for the summer to support our Aquatics team. And, we're thrilled to introduce five enthusiastic interns, each with a unique blend of academic and professional interests.
We eagerly anticipate the innovative ideas and fresh perspectives of our new team members, and look forward to achieving great things together.
Let's meet them!
Alexandra brings a diverse professional background to Princeton Hydro, honing organizational, time management, and problem-solving skills from various roles, including as a receptionist and student office assistant. With a foundation in Early Childhood education and seven years of teaching Middle and High School English Language Arts, she's adept at interpersonal communication and fostering a supportive environment.
Alexandra also spent eight years supervising and managing doggie daycare and boarding facilities in New York and New Jersey, showcasing her customer service and organizational prowess. Now, Alexandra is eager to leverage her skills as an Administrative Office Assistant for our team!
In her spare time, Alexandra indulges her passion for professional wrestling, comic cons, and concerts, with the ultimate goal of seeing Beyoncé live again when she tours.
Eric is deeply passionate about the outdoors. Living in Alaska has given him extensive hands-on experience with nature in all its forms. He has held various positions, including small engine mechanic, project manager, and U.S. Army service member. Having previously worked with Princeton Hydro's Aquatics Team in 2019 as an Aquatics Specialist, Eric is excited to return. He looks forward to contributing his extensive expertise to the field operations team and making a positive impact on a variety of projects.
Eric's love for the outdoors is evident in his diverse activities, which include hiking in the backcountry, mountaineering, rock, mineral, and fossil collecting, camping (both primitive and modern), boating, fishing, trail-building, and educating future leaders on the importance of preserving nature for all to enjoy.
Francisco is currently pursuing a Master of Art and Architecture in Landscape Architecture at Temple University, where he also completed a Bachelor of Science in Geoenvironmental Science. His undergraduate studies ignited a profound interest in sustainability, community engagement, map making, and botany. Throughout his academic career, Francisco has broadened his understanding of plants, soil, and ecosystems, and has refined his artistic abilities, both manually and through various software tools.
As an intern at Princeton Hydro, Francisco is keen to collaborate across multiple departments, gain practical field experience, and receive guidance from seasoned landscape architects. His acute awareness of urgent environmental issues drives his commitment to further education and his advocacy for a more sustainable and socially equitable world.
In his leisure time, Francisco is a regular at the gym and enjoys sketching trees on his hikes. Recently, he climbed Santa Maria in Quetzaltenango, Guatemala.
Jade, a 2023 graduate of Pennsbury High School, is currently pursuing studies in Virginia Commonwealth University's Art Foundation Program, specializing in graphic design and art education. She is enthusiastic about leveraging her creativity to gain insights into the dynamics of the Princeton Hydro Marketing and Communications team.
In her free time, Jade enjoys sewing, cooking, and discovering new ways to express her artistic vision.
Daniel is currently a student at Temple University majoring in Civil Engineering and will enter his third year of studies in Fall 2024. With an expected graduation date of May 2026, Daniel will utilize the knowledge and experience gained during his time at Princeton Hydro to his future endeavors both while at Temple and post-graduation. Ultimately, he hopes to pursue a career in civil engineering with a focus on the ecological resources.
During his internship, he will be applying his engineering background to work in both the field and the office. The bulk of his internship will be focused within the Ecological Engineering group, for which he’ll provide general engineering support. Potential project work includes construction oversight of ecological restoration projects, as well as support for current dam removal projects led by Princeton Hydro. Throughout his time as an intern, Daniel will work closely with licensed professional engineers and environmental scientists to see firsthand the project management process and technical skills required for successful project implementation and completion.
Kaitlyn graduated from Delaware Valley University in 2024 with a B.S. in Biology with a concentration in Botany. Prior to joining Princeton Hydro as an intern for the Aquatics Team, she interned with the Valley Forge Watershed Association, where she conducted research on water quality.
In her leisure time, Kaitlyn enjoys reading, creating ceramics, and spending time outdoors with her dog.
Outside of work, Rachel enjoys outdoor activities like backpacking, geocaching, and paddling, as well as cooking, baking, and reading.
Our team is composed of individuals with academic training and extensive project experience in stormwater management, geotechnical investigation, hydrology and hydrogeology, aquatic and wetland ecology, fishery biology, population and community ecology dynamics, GIS, environmental design, and landscape architecture. Click here to read more about the Princeton Hydro team.
Today, we are delighted to celebrate the professional accomplishments of two team members, whose recent certifications exemplify their commitment to excellence and continuous learning. Their achievements reflect our organization's dedication to advancing expertise and maintaining high standards in our industry. By investing in their professional development, our team enhances our ability to deliver innovative solutions and uphold our mission of improving our ecosystems, quality of life, and communities for the better.
The CPESC certification signifies expertise in erosion and sediment control, equipping professionals to develop effective site-specific plans and designs to mitigate environmental impact. It is the only professional certification recognized by the U.S. EPA that designates its holders as qualified to prepare stormwater pollution prevention plans (SWPPPs). To earn this certification, Amy met rigorous educational and practical experience standards, passed a comprehensive exam, and committed to ongoing professional development. This achievement emphasizes her proficiency in key areas such as regulatory compliance, permitting processes, erosion and sediment site planning, soil loss prediction, and runoff management. The CPESC certification demonstrates her ability to apply this extensive knowledge to ensure our projects are environmentally compliant and sustainable.
Amy has been with Princeton Hydro since 2008, providing civil engineering services for projects such as lake dredging, streambank and shoreline stabilization, dam removal, ecological restoration, and stormwater management. She specializes in project finalization, including bid specifications, construction cost estimating, construction oversight, and management. Her extensive construction experience ensures practical site designs, effective field adjustments, and accurate bidding to minimize implementation changes. Additionally, Amy supports engineering regulatory compliance for soil erosion, sediment control, dam safety, and flood elevation determinations, offering a holistic view from project concept to implementation.
The PE license is the engineering profession’s highest standard of competence, a significant symbol of achievement and assurance of quality. To become licensed, engineers must complete a four-year college degree, work under a Professional Engineer for at least four years, pass two intensive competency exams, and earn a license from their state's licensure board. Then, to retain their licenses, PEs must continually maintain and improve their skills throughout their careers.
Marissa, our Geotechnical Soils Testing Lab expert, also has her PE license in Delaware. She was recently featured in our "A Day in the Life" blog series, which showcased her work in our geotechnical laboratory.
A graduate of Rowan University holding a B.S. in Civil Engineering with a Bantivoglio Honors Concentration, she worked in the Construction Materials Laboratory as part of the CREATE’s Fellowship program, and participated in clinic projects such as a green roof feasibility study, testing the effects of water quality on masonry mortar, and the sustainability of converting organic waste feedstock into liquid biocrude. Marissa is passionate about working towards creating a more sustainable environment.
Congratulations to Amy and Marissa! To learn more about the Princeton Hydro team, click here.
With great enthusiasm, we introduce the newest member of the Princeton Hydro team: Michael McGraw, CSE, QAWB, ACE. He is a Senior Project Manager and Senior Wildlife Biologist in our Regulatory Compliance & Wildlife Surveys team who has with over 20 years’ experience designing and performing custom ecological assessments and wildlife surveys. We had the pleasure of sitting down with Mike for a Q&A session to delve into his new role, explore his aspirations for the future, and learn about what drives and inspires him.
A: What really motivates me is the amazing work culture and supportive team environment. I’m also excited about the types of projects that Princeton Hydro engages in which prioritize conservation ethics in their project selection process.
A: I am very proud to have contributed to the advancement and development of non-compliance-based wildlife studies over the past 15 years. This involves understanding the natural history of a particular site to guide ecological restoration and master planning. I hope to provide value-added services to ensure that decisions made on the landscape are beneficial to the wildlife. With this approach, we can ensure that the ecosystems we work on will benefit the wildlife.
A: In my professional work over the past decade, two aspects have brought me the most joy. First, working on extensive master plans, such as county-level park systems, large greenways, and vast conservancy lands, enables me to contribute my expertise in non-compliance-based ecological studies. These studies inform decisions that will shape the landscape for the next century.
Second, I find immense satisfaction in exploring the connection between humans and wildlife through research in working lands. My focus on adaptive multi-paddock grazing and farmlands aims to comprehend the significance of these practices in restoring soil health, water holding capacity, and water sequestration. This research holds the potential solution to saving grassland birds, which the U.S. is losing at an alarming rate. Being part of the research team that seeks to identify ways to save birds without compromising our food systems or the culture of family farming in America is truly a privilege.
A: I’ll never forget the first time I found a Northern Red Salamander; it was like a spark animal for me. It was at a pocket park in Delaware County, PA. We all got babysat by the neighborhood babysitter. 30 kids would come check in afterschool and disappear, and I would just go to the park to catch little stream-side salamanders. The first time I found a Northern Red Salamander blew my mind, and I’ve been seeking that joy and wonder of discovery ever since.
A: I’ve seen a lot of amazing things in the wild, but sometimes it’s as simple as witnessing the subtle communications between socially monogamous house finches. Just watching how they interact and feed their young is just astounding to me. It’s something that’s happening all around us, and we take it for granted.
A: I have three incredible daughters who are exceptionally talented naturalists. The challenge lies in picking the right excursions that match their intellectual interests and physical capabilities. Figuring it out presents a unique joy in navigating outdoor activities with my kids.
A: I absolutely love native plants. I have a 0.2 acre lot, where I immediately put 2,900 plugs that represent 75 native species. Honestly, it’s hard to say. Just like when people ask me what my favorite bird is, I tell them, “The one in front of me.”
Big thanks to Mike for generously sharing his insights and enthusiasm with us. His passion for wildlife biology and commitment to ecological restoration are truly inspiring. His expertise and dedication to conservation will undoubtedly make a significant impact here at Princeton Hydro! We eagerly anticipate the innovative strategies and valuable contributions he will bring to our projects.
Today, we're excited to showcase the achievements of four team members whose recent successes highlight their dedication and excellence in their respective fields, embodying the innovative spirit and expertise of Princeton Hydro.
As a Notary Public, Erin is now equipped to provide invaluable services, including witnessing signatures, administering oaths, and certifying documents. This new capability enhances her role as Proposal and Marketing Manager at Princeton Hydro, where she regularly manages multiple grant and proposal applications and coordinates the implementation process from project identification through to completion. Erin's ability to certify documents and ensure their legal authenticity streamlines the proposal process and adds an extra layer of trust and credibility to the projects she oversees. With this achievement, Erin not only showcases her dedication to upholding the highest standards of integrity and professionalism but also enhances her effectiveness in managing the intricate details of project documentation.
Erin has a wealth of experience working in the nonprofit sector, including roles at the Coalition for the Delaware River Watershed, Blue Water Baltimore, and Sassafras River Association. Erin received her Bachelor of Science in Natural Resource Management with a minor in Political Science and Resource Economics, and her Master of Arts in Urban Affairs and Public Policy with an Urban and Regional Planning concentration, both from the University of Delaware. Learn more about Erin.
The GIS Certification Institute (GISCI) is a nonprofit organization that promotes the advancement of proficient GIS professionals through its international GISP® certification program. GISCI fosters rigorous professional and ethical standards, community engagement, and professional mentoring within the GIS industry. To achieved certification, Thomas was required to pass a comprehensive exam, have four years equivalent full-time geospatial experience, and meet the GISCI Portfolio Requirements in education, experience, and contributions.
In his role as Environmental Scientist and Project Manager of Restoration & Resilience at Princeton Hydro, Thomas specializes in providing comprehensive GIS support and analysis. His expertise encompasses spatial analysis, data management, and the creation of cartographic products. As a GISP®, Thomas demonstrates his commitment to ethical standards and professional excellence, further enhancing his contributions to the GIS field and fostering ongoing professional development. Learn more about Thomas.
A commercial drone pilot license, issued by the FAA, grants permission to conduct commercial drone operations in the United States. To become a licensed commercial drone operator, Matt was required to pass the Aeronautical Knowledge Test and apply for and obtain a Remote Pilot Certificate. To maintain his license, Matt must update his drone registration every 36 months as well as retake and pass the Aeronautical Knowledge Test every 24 months.
Drones are a helpful tool for environmental restoration initiatives because they can efficiently monitor project progress by collecting aerial data, including GIS information, that tracks information like vegetation growth, erosion rates, and site topography. Because drones can access remote and challenging terrain with minimal environmental impact they are a valuable tool for planning, managing, monitoring and assessing habitat restoration efforts.
As a Project Manager for the Princeton Hydro Field Services Team, Matt specializes in invasive species management, aeration installation and maintenance, lake and pond management, and operating and servicing Princeton Hydro's fleet of boats, vehicles, and speciality equipment, including our newest addition: The Marsh Master® 2MX-KC-FH. Learn more about Matt.
The responsibilities of the nation's floodplain managers are evolving in response to rising disaster losses, a growing focus on mitigation strategies to break the cycle of damage-rebuild-damage, and a recognized demand for skilled professionals to address these pressing issues. In 1998, the Association of State Floodplain Managers introduced the national CFM® program to establish a standardized assessment of professional competence in floodplain management.
To become a CFM®, Cole was required to pass a rigorous exam that assesses knowledge and competency in various aspects of floodplain management, including floodplain regulations, mapping, flood insurance, flood hazard mitigation, and emergency management. To maintain certification, ASFPN requires CFMs to earn 16 Continuing Education Credits (CECs) during a two-year cycle.
Within his capacity as a Princeton Hydro Staff Engineer, Cole's attainment of this certification underscores his commitment to fostering synergies between engineering, environmental science, and ecology to promote a more sustainable ecosystem.
Princeton Hydro Vice President Mark Gallagher was appointed to the Outdoor Equity Alliance (OEA) Advisory Committee.
The Advisory Committee is composed of representatives of organizations that partner with the OEA in its mission. Committee members meet periodically to advise on program design and execution, fundraising, and engagement in any and all activities sponsored by OEA.
Founded by Friends of Hopewell Valley Open Space former Executive Director Lisa Wolff and Mercer County Park Commission Executive Director Aaron Watson, OEA works to remove barriers to participation in our shared natural world. Through programs, internships and key partnerships, OEA creates experiences that inform and inspire people of all ages, ethnicities, abilities, and income levels to enjoy and become more involved with nature and the outdoors.
Mark, a founding partner of Princeton Hydro, is a pioneer in the field of restoration ecology, and helped get the conservation science movement off the ground in the 1980s. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Biology from Moravian College and Master of Science in Plant Ecology from Rutgers University. For more than two decades, Mark has overseen wetland and terrestrial ecology projects at Princeton Hydro, including many complex restoration projects that require unique solutions.
He is extremely knowledgeable about local, state, and federal regulations, especially when it comes to ecological impact, and has made a positive impact on water quality and wildlife, designing and permitting hundreds of acres of restoration, mitigation, and enhancement projects throughout the Northeast. In addition to writing numerous environmental impact assessments for a wide range of projects, Mark has also completed the survey and assessment of habitats at numerous development sites for threatened and endangered species.
He serves on the technical advisory board for the Hunterdon Land Trust and previously served on the board at Bowman’s Hill Wildflower Preserve. He regularly teaches adult education courses and is an adjunct professor at Temple University in the Landscape Architecture Department. For the past two years, Mark has led a mentorship for the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) Youth Inclusion Initiative, which aims to enrich young participants, who may not have the opportunity to explore open spaces in their community, with hands-on environmental field experience under the tutelage of NJDEP professionals and mentors.
Click here for a full list of OEA leadership, staff and committees. To learn more about the OEA, click here.
Princeton Hydro is committed to improving our ecosystems, quality of life, and communities for the better. The firm was formed in 1998 with the specific mission of providing integrated ecological and engineering consulting services. Offering expertise in natural resource management, water resources engineering, geotechnical design & investigation, and regulatory compliance, our staff provides a full suite of environmental services throughout the Northeast for the public and private sectors. To read about some recent projects, click here.
We are thrilled to extend a warm welcome to three interns who have recently joined our team! Each intern is passionately contributing to a wide range of projects that align with their professional interests and areas of study. They are also benefiting from the guidance of experienced mentors from Princeton Hydro, as they gain valuable hands-on experience with our small business consulting firm. Our firm remains resolutely dedicated to enhancing our ecosystems, improving the quality of life, and creating thriving communities. We are excited to collaborate with these interns and continue our mission of making a positive impact.
In the Fall, Jeremy will begin his senior year at Moravian University and will earn his B.S. in Computer Science. During his internship with Princeton Hydro, Jeremy aims to get a better understanding of the workflow process and gain more experience with ArcGIS, a GIS mapping and analysis tool.
When not working and studying, Jeremey enjoys playing video games. During the school season, he throws shot-put and discus for the Moravian track and field team.
Jackson is a recent graduate of Stockton University, where he obtained a B.S. in Environmental Science with concentrations in Wildlife Management and Forestry. He studied water quality parameters as well as fisheries and forest management techniques in the unique ecosystems found in the New Jersey Pinelands. Before joining Princeton Hydro, he worked with a river restoration company that focused on dam removals, stream morphology, and in-stream habitat creation for native species.
During his internship, he will support the Aquatics Team and is excited to expand his knowledge of aquatic systems and the management of them; help create the most natural systems in areas that people can still enjoy; and help preserve these ecosystems for future generations.
In his free time, Jackson enjoys fishing and trap shooting, working on his boat, and participating in bass tournaments.
Mikhail Velez joins Princeton Hydro as a Communications Intern. With her B.A. in Fine Arts and 2-D Animation from the School of Visual Arts, she built her career as a freelancer, working on animated projects and illustrations for a number of clients and companies. She now hopes to share her expertise and learn more about what it takes to manage, curate, and navigate social media for an water resources engineering firm.
When not working, Mikhail enjoys playing games, spending time with friends, and pursuing different creative endeavors with new artistic projects.
Becca joins Princeton Hydro's engineering team with over five years of experience in water resources engineering. Becca graduated from Rowan University in 2017 with a B.S. in Civil & Environmental Engineering. After college, she went on to work as a Water Resources Engineer for a consulting firm where she provided a variety of services from stormwater management and drainage design, erosion and sediment control practices, river hydrology and hydraulics, and dam design. She is a licensed Professional Engineer with a range of experience with clients throughout New Jersey, Delaware, and Pennsylvania.
Outside of work, Becca enjoys a variety of activities such as hiking, biking, and paddleboarding. She is also a recreational embroiderer and advocate for native gardening.
After compiling four years of experience at a water resource consulting firm, Michael joins Princeton Hydro as a CAD Designer. In his previous position, Michael participated in nearly all phases of river, wetland, and coastal restoration projects. Prior to entering the restoration sphere, Michael was the owner/operator of a residential stormwater management company for 10 years. Michael received a B.S. in Marine & Coastal Science from Rutgers University.
Ryan graduated in 2022, earning a B.S. in Civil Engineering from Rowan University. At Rowan, he worked in the CREATE's lab aiding in research to non-invasively characterize soils in permafrost regions. After graduating, he worked in land development designing stormwater management systems before starting at Princeton Hydro. Outside of work, Ryan likes to read and go on hikes.
With over 30 years of diversified finance and operations management experience, Barry brings with him his expertise as a business partner and member of various leadership teams in large and small corporate environments. He has worked in a number of industries including aviation, power plant construction, electrical distribution, and architectural engineering. He has demonstrated successes in developing and implementing financial systems to improve business strategies. He has built teams that focused on collaboration, employee empowerment, resource optimization and accountability.
Outside of work, Barry likes to spend time with his wife, son, daughter and their four cats. He enjoys a number of sports including golf and baseball. He likes to travel and vacation with his wife at the shore, the Caribbean or Las Vegas.
In honor of Women’s History Month, we are highlighting female members of our hardworking and inspiring team who exemplify our commitment to improving our ecosystems, quality of life, and communities for the better. We asked women from our team to answer questions about their professional journey and share advice to young women beginning their career path.
To join us in this important celebration, we invite you to learn about three of our team members and hear what they have to say:
Emily has been a member of the Princeton Hydro Team since 2017. She is an Environmental Scientist and Professional Wetland Scientist who specializes in regulatory permitting, environmental compliance, and wetland delineations. Emily enjoys her role as an Environmental Scientist because it, “marries her love for science and being in nature," and especially enjoys working on projects that benefit communities and enhance the surrounding environment.
For our Women’s History Month interview, Emily answers, “What is one of the biggest hurdles you've encountered in your career pursuit?” Click to watch now:
Jamie is a licensed professional Landscape Architect with over 15 years of experience in landscape architecture, environmental design, construction management and general contracting in both the public and private sectors and across a variety of project scales. Her multifaceted background includes managing green infrastructure design and construction programs, building urban parkland in lower Manhattan, ecosystem restoration, and vertical building construction projects. Jamie has also led community and municipal design projects through complex approvals processes and connected with local education partners to perform ongoing ecological restoration and stewardship work.
For our Women’s History Month interview, Jamie shares her advice to young women on pursuing a career in Landscape Architecture - Click to watch now:
Nicole joined Princeton Hydro in 2007 and has served in a variety of supportive roles. In her current position as Office and Special Projects Manager, which requires strong performance in high volume and high-pressure environments, she skillfully manages multiple projects by tracking budgets, timelines, staff, and tasks to ensure they are completed to accuracy. Nicole works closely with the Chief Operating Officer and Regional Safety Leaders to implement Princeton Hydro's Health and Safety Program, including establishing policies and procedures, researching the latest rules and regulations, and continuously messaging relevant and important Health and Safety Topics to staff. For several of the firm's initiatives, Nicole volunteers her time to help the firm create a positive working atmosphere. These include the Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Steering Committee; Sustainability & Stewardship Working Group; and the PHun Event Planning committee.
For our Women’s History Month interview, Nicole shares inspirational words with young women starting their career path - Click to watch now:
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