Every year since 1953, STEM Forward has honored outstanding contributors to the engineering profession in the greater Milwaukee area through the Young Engineer of the Year (YEOY) Award. This award recognize individuals who have made exceptional contributions to their fields, raised the visibility of engineering, and inspired future generations.

This year, Alex Motl, Practice Team Leader of Traffic at GRAEF, has been named the 2024 Young Engineer of the Year. Alex’s exceptional contributions to transportation engineering, coupled with her leadership and advocacy, make her a standout recipient of this prestigious award.

As the Practice Team Leader of Traffic at GRAEF, Alex Motl plays a critical role in designing and improving transportation systems that prioritize safety, efficiency, and sustainability. Her work on high-profile projects such as the Brady Street Pedestrian Safety Study and North Avenue in Wauwatosa demonstrates her ability to create innovative solutions tailored to the unique challenges of urban mobility.

Beyond her project achievements, Alex is involved in advancing the engineering profession through her leadership roles in professional organizations. As a former secretary and president of the Women’s Transportation Seminar (WTS), she has championed initiatives to support and connect women in transportation careers. Her active participation in the Institute of Transportation Engineers (ITE) underscores her commitment to fostering collaboration and sharing best practices within the field.

Inspiring the Next Generation

Alex’s dedication extends beyond her professional accomplishments. Through her volunteer work with programs like the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) STEM Expo and the Future City Competition, she actively engages with young students to spark their interest in engineering. Her involvement in these initiatives highlights the importance of mentorship and education in cultivating the engineers of tomorrow.

 

A Role Model for the Engineering Profession

Alex Motl exemplifies the ideals of the engineering profession: a commitment to innovation, a passion for leadership, and a drive to improve society through thoughtful infrastructure solutions. Her contributions not only elevate transportation engineering but also inspire others to pursue careers in this impactful field.

The STEM Forward Engineer of the Year Awards remind us of the incredible talent within our community and the far-reaching impact of engineering excellence. By recognizing professionals like Alex, STEM Forward continues to celebrate those who shape the future, one innovative solution at a time.

Congratulations to Alex Motl and all the past and present recipients of the Engineer of the Year Awards. Your work sets a high standard for the profession and inspires us all to imagine and achieve what’s possible through engineering.