Tarolyn Buckles
Tarolyn Buckles is a distinguished civil and structural engineer with over 38 years of experience in engineering, project management, and construction management. She is the President and CEO of Onyx Enterprise, Inc., a civil engineering firm she founded in 2007, President of A/E Collaborative, LLC, an architecture and engineering firm established in 2019, and Co-Founder of Green Energy Ennovations a solar energy and EV Charging Stations firm. Throughout her career, Ms. Buckles has managed large-scale water resources and infrastructure projects for municipal and regional clients, including the Detroit Water and Sewerage Department, Great Lakes Water Authority, Detroit Streetscapes projects, Michigan Department of Transportation, Wayne County Airport Authority, the Northeast Ohio Regional Sewer District, and Detroit Public Schools. Her expertise spans project design, construction engineering, RPR services, and material testing services overseeing more than $1B in construction work. In addition to her technical achievements, Ms. Buckles is a dedicated advocate for diversity and mentorship in the engineering industry. She previously served as National Diversity Manager for ARCADIS US, Inc., organized two diversity conferences for the American Society of Civil Engineers, and served on the University of Michigan College of Engineering’s Multicultural Engineering Program Office Advisory Board and the University of Michigan Civil Engineering as Board Chair. She actively contributes to several professional organizations, including the National Association of Black Women in Construction, the Michigan Minority Supplier Development Council Board Director, MMSDC MBEIC Construction Chair, and the U.S. Minority Contracting Organization Board. Her leadership extends to education, where she supports initiatives with Detroit public schools and local charter schools, fostering opportunities for young professionals in STEM fields. Ms. Buckles attributes her success to her strong work ethic, family influence, and commitment to community. Growing up in Detroit, she was inspired by her parents’ dedication and the values instilled through her involvement in DAPCEP and Girl Scouts. Her faith, family, and community engagement provide a grounding foundation as she leads multiple companies and innovative projects, including renewable energy ventures such as solar technology and EV charging station installations. Known for her collaborative approach and strategic vision, Ms. Buckles continues to break barriers for women and minority professionals in engineering and construction, leaving a lasting impact on both her industry and the communities she serves.
• MBE/WBE
• University of Michigan College of Civil Engineering- B.S.
• Top 50 Women in Construction & Civil Works
• Michigan Minority Supplier Development Council (MMSDC)
• University of Michigan College of Civil Engineering
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to my upbringing and the examples set by my family. My parents and grandmother were incredibly hardworking, and I learned a great deal simply by observing them—how they approached challenges, stayed disciplined, and persevered day in and day out. Growing up in a family where everyone had their own strengths taught me the value of dedication, resilience, and learning from those around me.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would encourage young women entering this industry to seek out mentorship, embrace collaboration, and remain dedicated to continuous learning. I urge women and underrepresented students in particular to pursue careers in engineering and architecture, and to actively build relationships and partnerships that can open doors and create opportunities throughout their professional journey.
Locations
Onyx Enterprise, Inc. | A/E Collaborative| Green Energy Ennovations
7650 Second Ave., Suite 106, Detroit, MI 48202
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