Project Engineer: James McNaughton
Neumann is excited to welcome back James McNaughton. James has been involved with Neumann for the past couple of years through our summer internship and co-op programs and now is joining us full time as a Project Engineer!
James was born and raised in Nebraska and moved to Iowa in middle school. He loved playing with Legos and knew he wanted to build things when he got older. When James attended high school, he participated in the Architecture, Construction, and Engineering (ACE) Mentorship program, led by Neumann’s Josh Braby and Mark Thompson. During his mentorship, James decided he wanted to pursue a career that involved all three types of engineering–civil, electrical, and structural.
After high school, he attended Iowa State University to pursue a degree in Construction Engineering. James was involved with Neumann through both co-op and internships, helping him prepare for his role as a Project Engineer by learning how to use new technologies and tools, prioritizing time management, and improve his communication skills.
When asked about his favorite project he’s worked on so far, James doesn’t hesitate to answer: the ISU Sports Performance Center. “It’s a project I get to drive by every day and say, ‘I helped build that,’” James reflects. “Plus, I like football, so seeing the athletes get excited about using the space is fulfilling, and another reason why I love this field of work.”
James is excited to continue his professional career with Neumann. He shares that he’d like to look back on his career one day and leave a legacy with his relationships. “My relationships with the office and the field teams are important,” James says. “I love working with everyone and building relationships with them while we work together as a team on projects.” He is also looking forward to getting involved with Master Builders of Iowa (MBI) and the ACE Mentorship program to work with students and help them grow like Josh and Mark helped James in high school.
In addition to getting involved with MBI and ACE, James also spends a lot of time volunteering with Habitat for Humanity. With Neumann’s VTO policy, he will be able to continue working with the local Habitat chapter.
James lives in Des Moines with his girlfriend and their pet cat, Uno. When James isn’t working, he enjoys spending time with his girlfriend and hiking outdoors. They recently completed a bucket list vacation to Estes Park, Colorado, for a hiking trip!
We are proud to have James as part of the Neumann team and are looking forward to watching him continue achieving his goals and finding success. Welcome, James!
Fast Facts about James:
Favorite Food: Buffalo chicken
Favorite Football Team: Kansas City Chiefs
Favorite Animal: Turtles (he’s a TMNT fan!)
Favorite Color: Red
Bucket List Trip: Hiking in Estes Park–check. Next up, hiking all over the country!
Fun Fact: Still loves to build with Legos. He has a model version of ISU’s Jack Trice Stadium!