Innovator and Advocate

Maureen Merson is widely recognized for her leadership in geotechnical engineering, largely due to her technical expertise, leadership and collaborative problem solving. For these reasons, she earned a place on Roads & Bridges’ Top 25 Under 40.  

As Geotechnical Northeast Sales Engineer at DYWIDAG, Merson delivers innovative solutions for critical infrastructure projects and serves as a mentor for emerging engineers.

“Maureen blends technical knowledge and interest in others in a way that is natural and authentic,” said Dina Petrosky, partner at DYWIDAG. “Her impact is real because she genuinely cares about the future of the engineering profession and shows that by working with the young professionals who will shape it.”

In her role, Merson has demonstrated her ability to combine technical expertise with business insight and client engagement. She supports clients with the implementation of innovative solutions that bolster infrastructure projects, such as site excavation and bridges.

She served at the forefront of DYWIDAG’s northeast expansion, namely the opening of their Pennsylvania facility, which has improved lead times and enhanced technical support. The new facility also increases access to high-quality, American-made geotechnical and post-tensioning systems. Typically, an overlooked sector of transportation engineering, Merson has brought geotechnical engineering into the spotlight for her clients, resulting in in projects built more efficiently and resiliently.

Prior to her role at DYWIDAG, Merson was integral to the response of an emergency bridge closure in New York while working for LaBella Associates. The bridge faced abutment overturning due to issues with the pile installation. She quickly organized a team of experts to analyze the bridge’s conditions and protect the traveling public. Their assessment recommended closure of the roadway, and the team commenced an emergency geotechnical investigation in conjunction with the emergency remedial design.

“I have been involved with a wide variety of projects during my career, and I have led and or been involved with interesting investigations of settlement and cracking on roadways and near bridges, and assessments of need for stabilization,” Merson said.

Outside of the workplace, Merson is deeply involved in industry groups. She serves as president of the American Society of Civil Engineers’ Mohawk-Hudson chapter, where she has expanded outreach and professional development for engineers across 23 counties, and is one of New York’s most active sections.

“What truly sets Maureen apart is she doesn’t just talk about mentorship or professional growth, she is doing the real work right now,” Petrosky said. “She is proof that leadership comes in many forms.”

Her efforts with the ASCE directly support the growth of the next generation of engineers through networking opportunities and mentorship programs. She uses her platform to champion women in engineering and fostering greater diversity and inclusion in the profession.

“Her influence goes beyond projects and shows up in confident young engineers as well as a more connected professional community,” Petrosky said.

Merson’s focus on strengthening collaboration in the engineering community has earned her the role of chair of the planning committee for the inaugural ASCE New York State Convention in May 2026. Her advocacy goes beyond her efforts to advance her field but also to demystify the benefits of engineering to the broader public.

Merson sees the biggest challenge in the industry as “how we address aging infrastructure while adapting to new demands.”

“Many roads and bridges were built several decades ago and now face the quandary of increased loads, environmental stress with limited funding for upgrades,” she said. “At the same time, advances in geotechnical engineering and construction methods give us tools to build more resilient infrastructure.”

She added that this obstacle presents opportunities to “embrace innovation while investing in workforce development.”

“If we can modernize our approach to design, construction and maintenance and ensure the next generation of engineers is prepared to lead, we will be able to achieve the needed long-term improvements to infrastructure for its better safety and performance,” she said.

Merson advises young professionals to “stay open, say yes to opportunities that stretch you” and not to be “discouraged if your path isn’t traditional.”

“Engineering needs many types of leaders such as technical experts, communicators, mentors, and problem-solvers,” she said. “Get involved in professional organizations, seek out mentors and be willing to learn from people with different perspectives.”

Mainly, she said not to forget that the work “has real impact.”

“Thoughtfully implemented roads and bridges connect communities. Keeping that purpose in mind can help guide your decisions and keep you motivated,” Merson said.