Cheyenne K.

About Cheyenne K.

I\'m a water resources engineer and Certified Floodplain Manager (CFM) specializing in dam safety hydraulics and floodplain analysis. I focus on solving complex H&H challenges through detailed hydraulic modeling, consequence assessment, and regulatory compliance for hydroelectric facilities and FERC-regulated dams.In dam safety, I serve as the primary hydraulic modeler on dam breach analyses and IDF studies for projects across the US. I develop and validate 1D and 2D HEC-RAS models to support emergency action plans, hazard classification, inundation mapping, and population at risk assessments for state and federally regulated dams. My work includes spillway hydraulics, PMF/IDF determination, cascading failure analysis, reservoir routing, and consequence assessments that inform critical infrastructure decisions.In floodplain management, I apply my CFM certification to support NFIP compliance for hydroelectric facilities and infrastructure projects. I conduct no-rise certifications, floodway analyses, and hydraulic modeling for culvert replacements, helping clients navigate FEMA requirements and achieve compliant designs.Beyond these areas, my experience includes hydrologic analysis for in-stream flow claims and water quality data interpretation. I emphasize defensible modeling, rigorous QA/QC, and work that supports real-world decision making.I bring strengths in hydraulic modeling, interdisciplinary collaboration, and technical communication. I\'m building expertise in dam safety while supporting safe, resilient infrastructure through quality engineering work. Let\'s connect—I\'m always interested in learning from others in the water resources, dam safety, and floodplain management community.

Experience

1. Water Resources Engineer

   Kleinschmidt Associates

   Jun 2024 — Present · Portland, OR, US

   As a Water Resources Engineer at Kleinschmidt Associates, I specialize in dam safety analyses for FERC-regulated hydroelectric projects. I develop hydraulic models for dam breach analyses, inflow design flood determinations, and incremental impact assessments. My work includes spillway capacity evaluations, cascading failure analyses, and population at risk studies to support FERC Part 12 compliance. I am proficient in HEC-RAS 1D/2D modeling, hydrologic analysis, and technical report preparation.

Education

• University of Kansas - School of Engineering

  Bachelor's degree, Civil Engineering

  2018 — 2021

• University of Kansas - School of Engineering

  Master of Science - MS, Environmental Engineering (Water Resources)

• The University of Kansas

  Bachelor’s Degree, Anthropology

  2016 — 2020