Palmer Docherty: making the most of every opportunity

Building a career through hands-on experience in the field

Palmer shares how learning from colleagues, embracing new challenges, and taking on greater responsibility are helping shape the next steps in his career as a construction engineering and inspection (CEI) technician.

What do you do at Mott MacDonald and what are you currently working on?

I am a construction engineering and inspection (CEI) technician supporting North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) Division 14. As a CEI technician, I spend most of my time in the field, working with construction crews and making sure the work progresses safely and successfully. Currently, I'm working on a project in Brevard, NC, overseeing the construction of two roundabouts in a high-traffic area at the entrance to Pisgah National Forest.

Tell us about a recent project and how you delivered excellence

I was recently on a project involving soil nail walls along a road that had collapsed during Hurricane Helene. It was my first experience with this type of operation, so the day before I was scheduled to take over, I used all the resources available to get up to speed.

I reached out to colleagues with experience in this type of work, and they pointed me toward the information I needed to prepare. The project went smoothly, and when it was time for me to leave, my supervisors congratulated me on “passing the trial by fire.”

What does a typical day look like for you at Mott MacDonald, and how do you find opportunities to excel in your role?

A typical day for me starts with arriving on site before the contractors to hold a safety meeting focused on the day’s operations. I spend the rest of the day assisting crews on site and ensuring the work follows NCDOT standards and specifications, as well as the conditions of the project’s contract.

I find opportunities to excel in my role by maintaining a strong work ethic, staying up to date on project progress, and continuing to build my skills. I also look for new certifications and classes that can help me grow in my role.

What opportunities have you had to grow your specialism or develop your career here?

My journey with Mott MacDonald started at a career fair while I was at Clemson. I joined the company as a summer intern in 2024 and enjoyed the experience so much that I decided to return after graduating.

Since then, I've had many opportunities to grow and have tried to make the most of each one. I have been fortunate to work on some big projects in Division 14, including the Peter Guice Memorial Bridge on I-26, which spans 1,050 feet and reaches about 230 feet in height. Experience on a job like that is exactly what I need as I work toward my goal of becoming a valuable member of the structures team.

At work, how do you manage your safety and wellbeing?

I manage my safety and wellbeing on job sites with my favorite sayings: “Keep your head on a swivel!” I probably say it at least once every day, either to myself or to others. On a construction site, you always have to take responsibility for your own safety and stay aware of your surroundings, especially when working around machinery.

What does it mean to you to be trusted to do brilliant things at Mott MacDonald?

Being trusted to do brilliant things at Mott MacDonald means a lot to me. There are so many talented people here, and I’m proud to have the opportunity to work alongside and learn from them. Being a part of Mott MacDonald already means a great deal to me, but earning the trust of my colleagues and making them proud of the work I do means even more.

How do you collaborate with colleagues to achieve common goals?

I collaborate with colleagues every day. It’s important to me to build relationships with the people I work with, and I’m grateful when I’m able to see them not just as colleagues, but as friends. We’re all on the same ship together and nobody wants it to sink. Knowing I can come to my colleagues when I need help makes challenges much easier to overcome. I believe that is one of the true reasons for my success so far in this field.

How does being part of an employee-owned business shape the way you work?

Being part of an employee-owned business gives me a greater sense of pride and ownership in my work. I know that when I do my part to accomplish an amazing feat and help the company grow, I’m contributing to something we all share.

Employee-ownership also encourages collaboration. We are all part of the same team at Mott MacDonald, and when the company succeeds, we all share in that success!

How does Mott MacDonald create an environment where you feel empowered and supported?

Mott MacDonald supports and empowers me by giving me access to brilliant and supportive colleagues. There is always someone I can turn to when I need a helping hand, and my colleagues have taught me more than I ever could have learned from any class or book alone.

I’ve been empowered to believe and trust in my own abilities. With this support, I’m proud of how far I’ve come since first joining Mott MacDonald as an intern.

What advice would you give to someone looking to start their career at Mott MacDonald?

Do it! Mott MacDonald is a wonderful place to start your career. There are so many different career paths to explore and opportunities to grow. My advice would be to keep an open mind, take advantage of the opportunities that come your way, and don’t be afraid to jump right in!

What is your favorite thing about the place you live?

I grew up in Florence, South Carolina, and moved to Asheville, NC after graduating from Clemson University in 2024. I've really enjoyed making Asheville home. My favorite things about the area are the amazing restaurants, the wonderful views of the Blue Ridge Mountains I get to see every day, and the incredible amount of access to public lands in the area.

What is your favorite food?

My favorite food has been BBQ ribs ever since I was a little kid. Since moving to North Carolina (NC), I’ve embarked on a whole new journey of finding great places!

What do you like to do on weekends or in your spare time?

On my weekends or free time, I like to spend as much time outdoors as possible. I love backpacking, hunting, fishing, and hanging out at a brewery with friends!

Which three items would you want to have with you on a deserted island?

If I were ever stuck on a deserted island, I would want a machete, diving mask, and metal pot. I’m an Eagle Scout, so I think I could manage for quite a while with just those three things!

Finish this sentence: I feel included when…

I feel included when my accomplishments are acknowledged. It’s always a great feeling knowing that your contributions and hard work aren’t going unnoticed. A simple “Good job!” goes a long way in the construction industry.