CDM Smith is proud to announce the recipients of its 2026 CDM Smith Scholarship Program. This year's recipients represent the next generation of engineers, researchers and resiliency leaders who are dedicated to tackling some of the world's most pressing water, environmental and infrastructure challenges. Through its annual scholarship program, CDM Smith supports talented students in pursuing their education and transforming their ambitions into meaningful careers that improve communities around the globe.
From advancing PFAS treatment research and renewable energy solutions to improving water quality, wastewater systems and sustainable community development, these students are already making an impact through their academic achievements, research, leadership and service. Their interests span environmental engineering, chemical engineering, civil and infrastructure engineering, geospatial design, urban analytics, and water resources.
At CDM Smith, we believe investing in students today means investing in stronger, more resilient communities tomorrow. We are proud to invest in their potential and look forward to the innovations, discoveries and lasting contributions they will bring to our profession, our communities and our world.
— Tim Wall, Chairman and CEO
"At CDM Smith, we believe investing in students today means investing in stronger, more resilient communities tomorrow," said CDM Smith Chairman and CEO Tim Wall. "These scholarship recipients have distinguished themselves through academic excellence, leadership, and a passion for creating a more sustainable and resilient future. We are proud to invest in their potential and look forward to the innovations, discoveries and lasting contributions they will bring to our profession, our communities and our world."
CDM Smith congratulates all 2026 scholarship recipients and is honored to support their continued educational success and professional growth. The firm looks forward to the positive impact they will have in advancing sustainable infrastructure, protecting the environment and strengthening communities for generations to come. To learn more about CDM Smith scholarships and other student opportunities, visit cdmsmith.com/students.
2026 CDM Smith Scholarship Recipients:
- Gabson Baguma, University of Nevada, Las Vegas, Ph.D. candidate in Civil and Environmental Engineering focused on emerging contaminants, water reuse and drinking water treatment.
- Caleb Hagner, Northeastern University Environmental and Chemical Engineering student and wastewater treatment professional passionate about protecting natural resources and advancing water reuse.
- Jessica Kamal, University of New Hampshire environmental engineering student focused on coastal resiliency, hydraulic systems and protecting New England's natural environments.
- Elise Slowinske, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign environmental engineering student with aspirations to advance renewable energy, decarbonization and sustainability initiatives.
- Jack Tigani, George Mason University civil engineering student pursuing a career in sustainable water and wastewater engineering after gaining hands-on experience with drinking water projects and utility infrastructure.
- Lauren Whittier, University of Florida graduate student specializing in GeoDesign and Urban Analytics, using GIS and data-driven planning to support sustainable development.
- Alexa Wienhoff, Washington University in St. Louis chemical engineering student researching water quality and environmental contaminants while serving in multiple engineering leadership roles.
- Kiersten Wilson, Colorado School of Mines graduate student whose research focuses on PFAS remediation and innovative water treatment technologies.