Meet Emerald Smith

We were lucky to catch up with Emerald Smith recently and have shared our conversation below.

Emerald, thank you so much for joining us today. Let’s jump right into something we’re really interested in hearing about from you – being the only one in the room. So many of us find ourselves as the only woman in the room, the only immigrant or the only artist in the room, etc. Can you talk to us about how you have learned to be effective and successful in situations where you are the only one in the room like you?

Being the only one in the room can feel isolating at first, but I learned to treat it as both a responsibility and an opportunity. I focused on three things. First, preparation, because credibility opens doors faster than anything else. Second, authenticity, if I’m the only one who looks like me, that means I bring perspectives no one else can. I lean into that instead of shrinking from it. Third, relationship-building, connecting with people as individuals breaks down assumptions and helps them see me as a trusted peer. Over time, I stopped thinking of it as “being the only one” and started thinking of it as “being the one who can pave the way for others.” That shift keeps me grounded, resilient, and effective in any room I walk into.

Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?

I founded Emerald Consulting Group to deliver innovative civil engineering solutions that make a lasting impact on communities. What excites me most is knowing our work goes beyond plans and projects, we’re shaping safer, smarter, and more resilient environments that people depend on every day.

I’m especially passionate about helping the next generation of engineers. Through volunteering, mentorship, and community initiatives, I focus on giving junior engineers and students a strong foundation to succeed in this industry. For me, leadership is about more than technical excellence, it’s about opening doors, creating opportunities, and leaving a positive mark on both projects and people.

As Emerald Consulting Group continues to grow, we remain committed to pairing innovation with service. That balance is what makes our work meaningful and our brand unique.

Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?

Looking back, three qualities have been most impactful in my journey: resilience, relationship building, and continuous learning. Resilience gave me the ability to navigate challenges and setbacks without losing sight of long-term goals. Relationship building helped me form meaningful connections with mentors, peers, and clients that opened doors and created opportunities I could not have achieved alone. Continuous learning has been essential in a field like engineering, where technology and best practices are always evolving.

For those early in their journey, my advice is simple, be your authentic self, embrace challenges as opportunities to grow because resilience is built through experience. Be intentional about networking and mentorship since success in any industry is rarely achieved in isolation. Commit yourself to being a lifelong learner by investing in sharpening your technical skills as well as soft skills like communication and leadership, which are equally critical to advancement. The earlier you begin developing in these areas, the stronger your foundation will be for long-term success.

How would you spend the next decade if you somehow knew that it was your last?

If I knew I only had a decade of life left, I would spend it fully invested in my core areas, impact, relationships, and legacy. Professionally, I would dedicate myself to leading innovative projects that leave communities stronger and more resilient while also mentoring as many young engineers and students as possible so they can plant themselves on solid ground for the future. Personally, I would spend intentional time with partner, family and friends, making memories that matter most. And in everything, I would focus on building a legacy of service and excellence so that long after I am gone, the work and the people I poured into would continue to make a difference.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.emeraldconsultinggroup.net
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emerald-smith-pmp/
• Other: TikTok: ichose_emerald