CHANGING THE WORLD.
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Al u m n i Sp ot l i g h t Edward M. D’Alba, PE BS, civil engineering MS, civil engineering/urban studies (University of Pennsylvania) “No matter how challenging the chore— like Chem 101—or important the race —like the City Championships on Lake Quinsigamond—set a realistic goal and go for it. Win or lose, knowing you gave it your all is the best outcome and sets you up to take on the next challenge, which always lies ahead," advises Ed D’Alba ‘73, president and chief executive officer of Urban Engineers. “WPI challenged us all, which built character and taught us tenacity, the backbone of every successful career.” And D’Alba has had an extremely successful career. Urban is composed of a growing group of related companies with major offices across the east coast and in Texas. The firm has more than 450 employees and offers an extensive scope of planning, engineering, construction management, and environmental services to a broad range of public and private clients. Under D’Alba’s leadership, Urban has grown and is consistently ranked by Engineering News-Record as one of the top 500 Engineering Firms for Design, and among the top 100 firms for Construction Management.
As president of Urban, D’Alba works extensively with political and governmental leaders and holds leadership positions in professional, business, and civic groups with a common goal of promoting controlled growth and meaningful investment in the built environment. He is called upon often to speak on issues of regional and national concern and is proactive in helping to shape public policy to maintain and enhance both public and private investments. D’Alba credits WPI with helping him take on this difficult role. “Nothing in life is just a calculation. The WPI education teaches that.”
“Stay healthy and informed—the most important people in your life depend on that.” - Edward M. D’Alba