Lee B. Freese Excellence in Mentoring Award: John Rutledge
Congratulations to John Rutledge, Lead Technical Professional for the Dams and Levees practice in our Fort Worth office, for receiving this year’s Lee B. Freese Excellence in Mentoring Award.
John has spent four decades building not just dams, but careers, as well. His mentorship is defined by confidence, patience and an unwavering belief in the people around him. From early-career engineers asking their first questions to seasoned professionals navigating major milestones, John’s influence reaches across generations and geographies.
John has dedicated his entire career to Freese and Nichols, joining in the summer of 1985 and rising to become one of the firm’s most respected technical leaders more than 40 years later. As engineer of record on historic projects such as the Bois d’Arc and Atoka Dams, he has led by example at every stage, using every car ride and conference room as an opportunity to teach.
Nominator Murphy Parks, Dams and Levees Practice Leader, has known and worked closely with John since 2006.
“Through many, many conversations, John always made it clear to me that by helping grow the firm, there would always be ample opportunity for someone with ambition and work ethic to craft their own career journey,” he said.
Murphy credits John with giving him the tools and exposure to eventually lead the practice. John’s mentorship extends well beyond technical guidance. He has walked alongside a wide range of colleagues through graduate school, career pivots and personal challenges alike.
“Common throughout these stories, you will read about John’s humbleness and him being a ‘life mentor,’ not just a ‘work mentor,’” Murphy says. “I think this is the truest definition of a mentor — where a person’s impact touches all aspects of another’s life.”
Thirteen coworkers and clients contributed testimonials in support of John’s nomination. Here are some excerpts:
“He did not become a roadblock to my advancement; he removed barriers and created space, offering guidance, accountability and support while still allowing me to lead. Even when he may not have agreed with my decision, he never stopped advocating for me.” — Brad Kirksey, PE, Principal, National Technical Specialist
“I can confidently say that my career would not have developed into what it has without the leadership, guidance and example John has provided. I am a better dam engineer, critical thinker, steward of public resources and likely human being because of his influence.” — Patrick Miles, PE, Principal, Dams and Levees
“I truly appreciate John giving me room to develop my own solution at my own pace, despite him already arriving at the conclusion three steps earlier.” — Mark Ickert, PE, Associate, Dams and Levees – South Central US Group Manager
“Beyond technical guidance, John has supported me personally and professionally. As a young woman in engineering, and later as a young mother, he never made me feel like I had to choose between a fulfilling personal life and a strong engineering career.” — Nicole Wiesner, PE, Dams and Levees
Freese and Nichols established the Lee B. Freese Excellence in Mentoring Award to recognize outstanding efforts in the mentoring of Freese and Nichols’ staff members. This award exemplifies our LEADS values of Serve Always and Learn Continuously, as we serve each other in everything we do, and we create an environment where employees can thrive and be their best.