Meet Timothy Hurd from Princeton, New Jersey. A seasoned land surveyor with a diverse portfolio spanning from construction sites to topographic maps. Timothy’s journey in the surveying industry has not only shaped landscapes but also his professional ethos, marking over two decades of expertise in project planning and safety.
Early Foundations and Initial Forays into Construction
Timothy Hurd’s journey into the world of land surveying and civil projects began in the early 1990s in the picturesque town of Linden, Michigan. Fresh out of high school and eager to make his mark, Timothy started as a construction laborer with Shiawassee Shores. This role provided him with a practical education in building utility mains, services, masonry, landscaping, and more. During these formative years, he not only learned the basics of construction but also developed a deep appreciation for precision and planning.
Transition to Technical Expertise
After several years on construction sites, economic shifts led Timothy to a pivotal career change. In 1998, he joined SSOE Group, a firm renowned for its architectural, engineering, and scientific expertise, initially working as an office clerk. His responsibilities ranged from managing vehicle fleet maintenance to handling office supplies and copier setups. However, it wasn’t long before his networking skills and growing interest in surveying caught the eye of Denny Griggs, a Professional Land Surveyor at SSOE. Under Denny’s mentorship, Timothy embraced the art and science of land surveying, setting the stage for a lifelong passion.
Advancing in Surveying and Mapping
Timothy’s professional ascent continued as he took on more significant projects involving oil refineries, automotive factories, educational institutions, and large residential developments. His expertise grew to include boundary determination, topographic mapping, and construction layout, marking him as a versatile asset in the field.
In 2004, a business transition moved him to Rowe Professional Services Company, where he contributed to large Department of Transportation projects and gas transmission line surveys. His knack for precise detail and strategic planning shone brightly when he joined the aerial photogrammetry team, taking on the role of flight cameraman for large-scale mapping projects across diverse industries.
Entrepreneurial Venture and Economic Challenges
The entrepreneurial spirit caught up with Timothy in 2005 when he joined forces with his mentor Denny and another partner to establish GQ Engineering and Surveying. This move was not without its challenges, especially when the 2007 economic recession hit, reducing their operations to part-time. However, Timothy’s resilience was evident as he navigated through these tough times, focusing on marketing, project estimation, and securing pre-qualifications for government contracts.
A Heart for Humanitarian Work
Parallel to his professional career, Timothy’s commitment to humanitarian causes has been a consistent theme. His deep-seated desire to give back to the community took him to Gros Morne, Haiti, in 1993, where he spent a month developing property and infrastructure to aid local communities. In 1998, he extended his humanitarian outreach to Belize, contributing his expertise to further community development projects.
Back home, Timothy’s passion for community service manifested through the creation of the Arrowhead Hiking Club for homeless men. This initiative not only provided physical activity and camaraderie for participants but also involved them in environmental stewardship through the adoption of a forest and a section of the highway.
Expanding Horizons: Antarctica and Beyond
In a testament to his versatile career, Timothy ventured far south from August 2019 to February 2020 to work in Antarctica. During this period, he collaborated with prestigious organizations such as NASA, the National Science Foundation (NSF), the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the Department of Defense (DOD), and the United States Air Force (USAF). His role involved conducting precise geographic surveys, critical to supporting scientific and military operations in one of the world’s most challenging environments
Recent Roles and Continued Impact
Since 2012, Timothy has been a Surveyor for ConEdison Manhattan Regional Engineering New York City. His role involves meticulous project planning and a steadfast commitment to safety, ensuring that infrastructure projects meet the highest standards of quality and efficiency. His experience is invaluable, especially in managing surveys for extensive utility networks across urban settings.
Leadership and Governance
Timothy’s leadership extends beyond his professional duties into significant community roles. As a Member of the Board of Directors for the Zoie Sky Foundation from January 2010 to January 2012, he helped oversee initiatives designed to provide resources and opportunities for children in underserved communities in Flint, Michigan.
Advocacy and Mentorship at Carriage Town Ministries
Further demonstrating his commitment to community service, from July 2008 to January 2012, Timothy served as the Assistant Director of the Men’s Mentoring Program at Carriage Town Ministries in Flint, Michigan. In this role, he was instrumental in developing programs that supported and mentored men facing homelessness, enhancing their skills and improving their life outcomes.
Conclusion: A Legacy of Precision and Philanthropy
Timothy Hurd’s career is a testament to his dual commitment to precision in land surveying and passion for philanthropy. His journey from a hands-on construction laborer to a respected land surveyor and humanitarian reflects a life dedicated to both professional excellence and community service.
Leadership lessons
- Leverage Every Opportunity: Timothy’s career transformation teaches the value of embracing varied roles and the lessons they offer.
- Value Mentorship: His development under a mentor’s guidance showcases the significant impact of mentorship on personal and professional growth.
- Stay Resilient: Timothy’s ability to navigate economic challenges emphasizes the importance of resilience in sustaining success.
- Commit to Community: His dedication to humanitarian efforts highlights how leaders can make a difference beyond the business world.
- Prioritize Precision and Safety: His meticulous approach to surveying projects serves as a reminder of the importance of precision and safety in achieving excellent outcomes.
Editorial Note
Timothy Hurd’s inspiring journey illustrates the profound impact of dedication, mentorship, and community service in a successful career. His story is a beacon for professionals everywhere, showcasing how diverse experiences and a commitment to giving back can shape a truly exceptional leadership path. We invite other executives to share their unique stories with us at Executives Diary. Submit your biography and join our community of distinguished professionals, free of cost, to inspire and lead the way for future generations.
