Lucian Acosta
Engineering Intern
Education
B. S., Environmental Engineering, University of Pittsburgh, Swanson School of Engineering, expected to graduate in 2026
lucian. acosta@graylingeng.com
As an environmental engineering intern at Grayling Engineers, I hope to contribute a strong foundation in sustainable development and water systems gained through my studies at the University of Pittsburgh. My academic experience includes designing a decentralized water treatment system for campus use and developing a water pump system for a small town in Ecuador through Engineers Without Borders. These projects helped me build both technical knowledge and hands-on problem-solving skills.
Last year, I completed an engineering internship where I worked with FEMA floodway data and conducted water vapor testing, giving me valuable exposure to real-world engineering challenges. I’m confident this background will allow me to contribute meaningfully to ongoing projects at Grayling.
What I’m most looking forward to is applying engineering principles to projects that create direct environmental and social impact. Whether I’m helping design sustainable water systems or shadowing engineers during site visits, I find it rewarding to know my work supports healthier ecosystems and communities. Being part of a team that’s deeply committed to sustainability will only fuel my own motivation to dig deeper, ask better questions, and explore innovative engineering solutions.
When I’m not spending my days studying, I enjoy watching a good movie and trying new foods. Some of my favorite movies are Ferris Bueller’s Day Off, The Usual Suspects, and Wall-E. On top of that, I love snowboarding. I recently went on my first trip to Colorado with some friends and family, and it was an awesome experience.
What do you listen to while working toward a deadline?
I am big on listening to house music, I completely zone in.
What's your most powerful characteristic?
Without a doubt, my greatest strength is staying positive and optimistic when things get tough.
What valuable lesson did you learn from your parents?
Use. My. Calendar.
What was your first job?
My first job was a janitor position during my freshman year of high school. I didn’t last long—but it was a surprisingly relaxing gig!
What did you want to be when you grew up?
My favorite museum of all time is the American Museum of Natural History—especially the dinosaur exhibit. I used to think dinosaurs were the coolest thing ever (and honestly, I still do). For the longest time, I wanted to be a paleontologist.