Nicolai Oliden joined Jacobs in 2022 and currently serves as a Roadway Project Manager and Group Leader, leading the Southwest Highways group. As a WTS Metro Phoenix board member and golf tournament chair, he helps organize the chapter’s annual fundraising golf tournament, which raises thousands of dollars for scholarships, as well as golf-centered social events that give members opportunities to network, practice, and learn the game. Nicolai became a WTS member two years ago, drawn to the Metro Phoenix chapter’s strong reputation for collaboration, thoughtful leadership, and meaningful impact within the local transportation community. His involvement has reinforced the value of intentional leadership and community-driven professional development while expanding his network across public agencies, consultants, and emerging leaders. For Nicolai, one of the most rewarding aspects of WTS has been continuing his passion for helping young professionals grow—work he has long supported through Engineering YOU and other leadership roles—at a broader, industry-wide level. He encourages current and prospective members to get involved, noting that WTS Metro Phoenix is a community that invests in people, offers mentorship and leadership opportunities, and creates space for others to succeed.