Culture

Meet William Butler, Senior Staff Engineer

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In our latest staff news installment, meet Senior Staff Engineer, part of our Geotechnical Engineering department, Billy Butler. As part of the MFS team since 2017, he has performed subsurface investigations and FAA asphalt plant inspections, as well as rock coring, monitor well installation and testing, permeability testing, vibration monitoring, CBR testing, static pile load testing, special inspection, and asphalt/concrete coring.

Find out what sparked his interest in engineering, his musings on the perks of being a Geotechnical Drilling Technician, and his favorite TV show to nerd out about.

Why did you want to become an engineer?

From an early age, I loved figuring out how things worked and how the world turned. I remember smashing mechanical toys from my McDonald’s Happy Meals and putting them back together; seeing all the gears and mechanisms working in unison. The first time I drove across the Benjamin Franklin Bridge into Philadelphia was a moment I’d never forget. Seeing the sheer size of the structure and the flowing water underneath was truly awe-inspiring, and a true testament of the capabilities of man.

If you weren’t an engineer, what career would you like?

I would probably try to be a geotechnical driller. I’m a big nerd for soils and rock and do enjoy physical work. Plus, I hear the pay’s not too shabby.

What is your favorite quote?

“A lion doesn’t lose sleep over the opinion of sheep.” – Various. Sometimes it’s important to remember that each person’s life is their own and that your own happiness comes first. You can’t please everyone, but you can please yourself.

Your favorite moment of the day is…

Climbing into bed after a long day and being bombarded by my dogs happy to join me.

A book that everyone should read:

“Where the Sidewalk Ends” by Shel Silverstein. A classic collection of poems where everyone can find something they can relate to. I always loved the poem Sick. Google it.

What famous person would you like to spend a day with?

Adam Savage. I have always been a fan of Mythbusters and what they accomplished. They brought engineering, science, and explosives into the spotlight and inspired a generation of kids to pursue their goals and create. Adam is a huge nerd and I’d love to visit his “cave” where he collects props and makes whatever’s on his mind.

What is something that’s always in your fridge?

You have to keep lime juice in the fridge. It is the unsung hero of mixers if you ask me.