Nidia Constantin
Nidia Constantin is a dedicated civil engineering student at Mercer University with a passion for infrastructure, problem-solving, and building smarter, more sustainable communities. As a fourth-year student, she has already gained valuable industry experience through multiple internships, most recently serving as an Associate Construction Engineering Technician with S&ME. In this role, she applied classroom knowledge to real-world challenges, working on-site in Augusta, Georgia, and contributing to materials testing, site assessments, and quality control initiatives.
Her commitment to continuous learning and professional growth is reflected in her involvement on the Mercer Experience Team, as well as her earlier internship with Southeastern Engineering, Inc., where she supported various engineering projects across Marietta, Georgia. Nidia is also an active member of the Society of Women Engineers, where she connects with peers and mentors to champion the advancement of women in STEM. Her academic work includes research on bikeshare programs in Washington, D.C., showcasing her interest in transportation and urban mobility.
With a strong foundation in teamwork, analytical thinking, and technical skills like problem solving and calculus, Nidia brings both enthusiasm and diligence to every opportunity. As she looks ahead to a career in civil engineering, she remains committed to making a positive impact in the field—designing with purpose, learning through experience, and building with integrity.
• Mercer University
• Women in Math and Science Club
• Society of Women Engineers
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute much of my success to the guidance and support of my mentors, Dr. Natalia Cardellino and Dr. Azaz Sade Ghzaz Iri. Their insight has been invaluable in shaping both my academic research and career direction. My passion for civil engineering stems from a strong background in math and science, and growing up around engineers made the field feel like a natural fit. Through internships with Southeastern Engineering Corporation and a construction firm, I’ve gained hands-on experience that strengthened my technical and communication skills. To young women entering engineering, my advice is to speak up, don’t be afraid to make mistakes, and start building your network early. Confidence and strong connections will take you far in this industry.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges—and greatest opportunities—in civil engineering right now is learning how to problem-solve independently. In my experience, being expected to research, test solutions, and fully explore available resources before turning to a supervisor pushed me to develop a deeper sense of accountability. It also built my confidence. That process of independent thinking is essential in a field where real-world problems rarely come with clear answers.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that matter most to me—both professionally and personally—are curiosity, communication, and continuous growth. Publishing a research paper in a transportation magazine was a milestone that reflected all three. It challenged me to think critically, communicate clearly, and refine my ideas for a wider audience. That experience not only strengthened my technical knowledge, but also shaped how I approach collaboration and learning in my daily work.