Russ J. Sheets

About Russ J. Sheets

Prior to graduating high school, I picked up the Montana Tech catalog and came across Geological Engineering. I was intrigued by the many fields and industries to which geological engineering applied. I recall thinking that one cannot construct or build anything without understanding what lies in the subsurface and how it will respond. So after being raised in an area where the largest outcrop is wheat, I chose a path, and eventually a career, in the geological sciences.I have been fortunate to have a career in a field which I am passionate. I enjoy the challenge of understanding the driving factors behind geological hazards, and developing a plan to mitigate those hazards. I feel that it is very important to try and share those lessons that we have learned with others in the field if only to keep people safe and away from harm. I also have the opportunity to develop and mentor our younger engineers, to provide them a foundation for success if they are willing and dedicated.

Experience

1. Sr Geotechnical Engineer Proj Mgr

   Barr Engineering Co.

   Mar 2019 — Present · Bismarck, ND, US

   I support clients in the mining, power, and public sectors by solving their challenges as if they are my own. Having a career foundation from the operations/owner-side of the relationship, I have an appreciation for the multiple, competing priorities that must be addressed - as well as recognizing those from my own experience. Depending on the project, I my involvement ranges from project manager to geotechnical lead. These projects range from geotechnical investigations, design analysis, instability mitigation, geohazard assessment and geotechnical review boards to day-to-day operation support with inspections and monitoring systems.

Education

• University of Wisconsin-Madison

  Master’s Degree, Geological Engineering

  2003 — 2005

• Montana Technological University

  Bachelor’s Degree, Geological Engineering

  1998 — 2002