OSU graduate named first female WSDOT secretary

Since time when female civil engineers were rare, Hammond elevates to top spot at WSDOT

By: Lauren Sigel

Posted: 10/29/07

Oregon State University graduate Paula Hammond is a woman of firsts.

Not only is she a female civil engineer, she is now the first female secretary of Washington's Department of Transportation (WSDOT).

Hammond holds a bachelor's degree in civil engineering and according to the WSDOT, since joining the organization she has worked in all areas of the department's operations, capital delivery and policy programs.

"When I joined the program in 1979, I didn't think I'd become secretary. However, I always looked ahead a position or two and knew that I had the potential and the drive for it," Hammond said.

Hammond has been interim secretary since previous secretary Doug MacDonald retired this past summer. Before that, she was chief of staff and worked throughout the agency.

When asked how she perceived her role in the male dominated field of civil engineering, Hammond said, "OSU gave me the training I needed to be able to be completely competent in my field of work," Hammond said.

"Once I proved myself, I never really had a problem. I also had some strong mentors in the WSDOT."

Female engineers may have been seen as somewhat of a novelty 30 years ago, but today there are many women in what once were traditionally male dominated fields.

Washington Governor Christine Gregoire said that her cabinet is now more than 50 percent female.

"Women are far more accepted in non-traditional fields these days," Hammond said. "They tend to bring creativity and style to any career."

Being a person who goes against the grain of tradition, Hammond advises those with ambition to stickwith their aspirations and seek a worthwhile and rewarding career.

"Just hang in there. Become as good as you can in your field and good things will happen."

"I highly recommend considering public service as a career. It's very rewarding and our communities and states need educated individuals to serve them."

WSDOT is responsible for 7,000 miles of state highways, 3,300 bridges and tunnels and the country's largest ferry system.