Wendy Ruiz
Wendy Ruiz is the Vice President–Director of Civil/Water Resource Infrastructure at Oller Engineering Inc., based in Lubbock, Texas. In her leadership role, she oversees civil and water resources engineering operations, with responsibilities spanning design oversight, project and client management, business development, and internal administrative functions such as budgeting, invoicing, and financial performance. She plays a key role in guiding infrastructure projects across Texas, particularly those involving water supply, wastewater systems, and environmental engineering solutions, while also contributing to the firm’s long-term growth as a shareholder and future successor in leadership.
Wendy’s career in engineering began after a non-linear academic path that included community college before transferring to Texas Tech University, where she earned her Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering with a focus on water resources. Since entering the profession in 2014, she has progressed through roles including engineer-in-training, project engineer, and project manager before advancing into executive leadership. She is a licensed Professional Engineer (PE) in Texas, New Mexico, and Mississippi, and has built her career through hands-on experience in water systems engineering, regulatory compliance, and environmental site assessment.
Her professional expertise centers on water resources and environmental engineering, including water and wastewater treatment systems, water distribution and transmission, groundwater monitoring, environmental remediation, and regulatory compliance. She is also experienced in reverse osmosis systems, soils investigation, and water rights-related work. Beyond her technical contributions, Wendy is recognized for her commitment to mentorship, particularly encouraging and supporting women in engineering, and for her emphasis on perseverance, practical problem-solving, and strengthening community infrastructure through sustainable water solutions.
• Advanced Water Treatment Certification
• Professional Engineer - Texas, New Mexico, Mississippi
• Reverse Osmosis Operation & Maintenance
• Texas Tech University - BS
• Texas Society of Professional Engineers (TSPE)
• American Society of Civil Engineers
• Hispanic Society of Civil Engineers
• American Water Works Association
• Society of Women Engineers (SWE)
• Alpha Omega Epsilon (AOE) - Women's Engineering Sorority
• CTM youth/STEM
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to my mentor and current boss, Rich Aller, the owner of Aller Engineering. As a recent graduate, I was fortunate to begin my career under his guidance after previously working with him at other small firms, and he later brought me along when he reestablished his company. He has been instrumental in shaping my development by teaching me how to approach problem-solving, communicate effectively, and identify business opportunities, allowing me to grow and learn at an accelerated pace.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would advise young women entering this industry to develop resilience and thick skin, as it is still largely male-dominated, though that is gradually changing. Success in engineering requires grit, hard work, and persistence, as there are no shortcuts. I also strongly believe women bring valuable and unique perspectives to the field, shaped by their lived experiences, which enhance problem-solving and innovation in engineering. I am very supportive of women pursuing this career path and actively give back by participating in events and mentoring through organizations like my women’s engineering sorority alumni network, where we help encourage and guide the next generation of female engineers.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
A continuing challenge in my field is its historically male-dominated nature, which can still influence representation and dynamics in engineering environments. At the same time, a major opportunity is the growing inclusion of women in the field, along with increased outreach to younger students in STEM, which brings new perspectives and strengthens the future of the profession.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me in both my work and personal life are perseverance, grit, mentorship, and community involvement. I also place strong importance on supporting and uplifting other women, particularly in encouraging greater participation and success in engineering and other traditionally male-dominated fields.
Locations
Oller Engineering Inc.
Lubbock, TX 79407