Employee Spotlight: Shearrisa Phillips-Hatcher, Area Construction Supervisor

construction contracts to personnel and conducting preconstruction meetings after contract awards. I work collaboratively with engineers, engineering technicians, consultants and contractors to en­sure compliance with IDOT policies, contract documents and successful completion of projects. I play a role in troubleshooting and resolving con­struction-related issues and process­ing authorizations necessary to fulfill contract objectives.

Additionally, I con­duct training for IDOT personnel and consultants on contract administra­tion and the Construction and Mate­rials Management System database, ensuring everyone is up to date with policy and procedure changes. My responsibilities also encompass re­viewing progress schedules, handling extension of time requests, evaluat­ing consultant proposals, overseeing consultant agreements, assigning design plan reviews and construction survey requests.

What’s the most important impact of your work?

Helping to deliver the multiyear improvement program, overseeing construction projects that enhance district-wide infrastructure, mobil­ity, accessibility and safety for the community, including motorists, pedestrians, cyclists, businesses and residents. I lead a skilled team of engineers and technicians who manage construction contracts, resulting in impactful improvements for the motoring public. Overall, we contribute to improved travel experi­ences, efficiency, safety and reduced congestion within the district.

What’s your favorite part of the job and why?

Witnessing the final product upon completion and observing the positive impact on the public and surrounding community. Working col­laboratively with diverse teams and stakeholders to bring the construc­tion projects to fruition is rewarding. Each project, regardless of size, presents valuable lessons and insights into the complexity of infrastructure improvements, which contributes to the continuous devel­opment of my team.

When confront­ed with construction challenges, we work together to identify optimal solu­tions and ensure progression of the project. Through our public-private partnerships, we get to contribute to creating a more efficient transporta­tion network. We also help maintain connectivity among people and neighborhoods, ensure the delivery of services and goods, improve infra­structure design elements, integrate advanced technology, and protect and preserve the environment.

Anything to tell us about your department?

My department is responsible for helping to maintain, improve and expand Illinois’ infrastructure. District 1 is one of the largest districts in the state, with 28,060 centerline miles of roads (2,775 state-maintained), 1,445 bridges, and hundreds of miles of bike paths, bike lanes and sidewalks.

People may not be aware of the extensive planning and coor­dination involved with infrastructure improvements. Successful projects hinge on thorough planning, effective execution and sustainable solutions. We work to minimize inconveniences to the public, while prioritizing safety and construction throughout the work zone.

Despite challenges and poten­tial delays, our teams work diligently to resolve issues and complete proj­ects on schedule and within budget. Through teamwork and partnerships, we help fulfill the department’s goal of delivering safe and enhanced mul­timodal infrastructure improvements.

What prepared you for your cur­rent role?

I graduated Summa Cum Laude from Florida A&M University with a bachelor’s in civil engineering. I participated in the District 1 Develop­ment and Training Engineer program, which involved rotating through three different bureaus each year. This experience provided an understand­ing of every phase of transportation infrastructure improvement, from initial planning (Phase 1) to design (Phase 2) and construction (Phase 3). This exposure also equipped me with the knowledge to effectively review design proposals, construction plans and proposed construction revisions. Furthermore, it provided valuable connections with colleagues across all bureaus, fostering lasting relation­ships that help streamline coordina­tion efforts.

I was also fortunate to partake in IDOT’s managerial training programs, Advanced Leadership Proficiency Series and Supervisor Training and Readiness Series.

How do you contribute to your profession and community?

I participate in various community service activities, through organiza­tions such as the National Society of Black Engineers and Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc. Within my sorority, I serve as co-chair of the scholarship committee, where we grant aca­demic scholarships to high school seniors in the Chicagoland area. I also mentor teen girls as part of the Growing and Empowering Myself Successfully program. I’m involved in STEM workshops for students in the city, and I support events hosted by Women’s Transportation Seminar Greater Chicago, which focuses on the development and advancement of women in transportation.

What do you like to do outside the office?

Outside of the office, I enjoy spending time with my family. We often attend Chicago White Sox, Chicago Bulls and Chicago Bears games. I also enjoy plays, concerts and musicals, which serve as a great way to unwind and enjoy the arts. Whether exploring local destinations or venturing abroad, I enjoy traveling with family and friends.

Anything else you’d like people to know about you?

I am passionate about fostering collaboration, continuous learning and making a positive impact both professionally and within my com­munity. My dedication to enhancing transportation infrastructure aligns with a broader commitment to per­sonal and collective growth. I take pride in my role at IDOT, consistently embracing opportunities to improve transportation infrastructure and cul­tivate meaningful relationships.

Being a part of the Jane Byrne Interchange team and witnessing the successful completion of one of the nation’s most complex interchanges was especially rewarding. I’ve been privi­leged to work with great supervisors who provided essential training and entrusted me with key responsibilities. IDOT understands the importance of diversity and inclusion in the work­place and that women in engineering and transportation contribute unique perspectives to the industry. It is my goal to continue to encourage and inspire fellow engineers to strive for their best.