Leadership, Resilience, and the Future of Civil Engineering

A Q&A With Johanna Patrick, PE 

In honor of Women in Civil Engineering Day, we’re celebrating Johanna Patrick, PE — a trailblazing project manager in Bohler’s Atlanta office whose leadership and determination are reshaping the land development industry and creating opportunities for future generations. 

What first sparked your interest in civil engineering? How did you find your way into the profession?

My path was a little nontraditional. In high school, I was being recruited to play college soccer, and that pushed me to think early on about what I wanted to study. An advisor helped me recognize that I gravitated toward math and science — and liked working with my hands — so we explored career paths that aligned with those interests. She encouraged me to try an engineering class, and it clicked. I loved the challenge and problem-solving aspect. 

In college, I studied engineering at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB), where experienced professors and a solid curriculum helped me build a strong foundation. I didn’t have time for internships due to my soccer commitments, but the discipline, time management, and team leadership I developed in the field became foundational in my engineering career. It may not have been a traditional path, but it shaped the way I show up for my team and my clients today.  

What do you love most about your role today at Bohler?

I enjoy the diversity of my role. As a project manager and client lead, I work across several sectors — from industrial and mission critical to multifamily and programmatic retail. I also lead a team of four and collaborate closely with our business development team to deepen relationships and identify new opportunities. No two weeks look the same, and that dynamic pace is something I thrive on. 

I also really love the puzzle-solving nature of land development. There’s a creative challenge in making a site work within tight constraints, and it’s energizing to help our clients bring their visions to life — even when our work is behind the scenes. 

What does a typical day look like for you?

Every day is different. Some weeks are heavy on business development — meeting with perspective clients, attending industry events, and staying connected to the market. Other weeks, I’m deep in project execution mode — managing meetings, deadlines, and technical coordination with my team. 

Mondays and Thursdays are big planning days — setting the tone for the week ahead and making sure our team stays on track. I balance leadership, execution, and customer service daily, and while a lot of it happens behind a screen, the impact is tangible. 

What are the most rewarding and most challenging aspects of managing complex projects?

The most rewarding part is seeing a project come to life — especially when it starts as a complex, seemingly impossible site. Mission critical work, like data centers, is a great example. It’s fast-paced, highly technical, and keeps you sharp. I’ve had the opportunity to step into new territory, take ownership, and quickly build trust with clients.  

On the flip side, every client has a different communication style, and learning to adapt to each relationship — especially when stepping into existing projects — can be a challenge. But those experiences have pushed me to grow as both a leader and collaborator. 

What has your experience been like navigating a male-dominated industry?

It definitely requires confidence and resilience. There have been times when I’ve felt underestimated or even directly challenged based on perception rather than performance. But I’ve learned to navigate those situations, find my voice, and lean on the support of my team and mentors. Being a woman in this industry can be tough — but it also pushes you to build credibility, show up with intention, and create space for others coming up behind you. 

What does leadership mean to you, and how do you apply it to your team? Have you had mentors who influenced your style?

I’m a lead-by-example type of leader. I make sure I’m showing up consistently, doing the work, and supporting the team. 

At Bohler, I’ve been fortunate to work with leaders who have taken time to understand what drives me — what fills my plate, when I’m overwhelmed, and what excites me. Their leadership styles have helped shape mine: empathetic, observant, and rooted in mutual trust. I strive to bring that same awareness to my team. 

What advice would you give young women considering a career in civil engineering?

Don’t be afraid of the challenge. Engineering is hard — but if you enjoy solving problems and working with people, it’s incredibly rewarding. Know your worth, speak up even if you’re the only woman in the room, and find mentors who support you. Every tough moment helps build your presence — and your voice matters. 

Thank you, Johanna, for sharing your story, leadership philosophy, and insights. We’re proud to celebrate the impact you’re making — not only as a civil engineer, but as a trailblazer for women in the industry.