– Leading Engineering: Innovation & Infrastructure with Andy Sellers

Episode 5 – Leading Engineering

Leading Engineering: Innovation & Infrastructure with Andy Sellers

Technology has changed the way we collect data and design projects, but at the end of the day, the fundamentals of engineering are still the same. What really makes a difference is how well you communicate and collaborate with your team and your community.

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Episode Summary

Engineer Intern Rhett Hebert sits down with Andy Sellers to explore the journey into civil engineering and the experiences that shaped his career. From a pivotal high school career-day moment to becoming City Engineer for Carencro, Andy reflects on the path that led him to public infrastructure and community-focused work.

The conversation highlights how technology has transformed the field, from traditional surveying methods to advanced tools like LiDAR, drones and mobile data collection. Despite these innovations, Andy emphasizes that the core principles of engineering remain unchanged, requiring strong fundamentals and adaptability.

Andy also discusses the realities of municipal engineering, including the challenges of maintaining and upgrading infrastructure while navigating evolving regulations and community expectations. He underscores the importance of communication, collaboration and stakeholder engagement in delivering successful projects.

Throughout the episode, Andy shares lessons on balancing technical expertise with real-world problem solving, offering valuable insights for both aspiring engineers and experienced professionals.

“It wasn’t until career day in my senior year that I shadowed a civil engineer and realized this was what I wanted to do.”

“The fundamentals of engineering have remained constant, but the data collection and precision of our calculations are getting a lot more refined.”

Meet the Leader Behind the Vision

Andy Sellers is a Professional Engineer and Certified Floodplain Manager with Fenstermaker, serving as the City Engineer for Carencro, Louisiana. Since joining the firm in 2006, he has led a wide range of municipal projects, including drainage design, floodplain management, roadway and utility infrastructure, site development and construction administration.

Licensed as a Professional Engineer in 2013, Andy plays a key role in coordinating Carencro’s participation in the National Flood Insurance Program’s Community Rating System and securing funding for flood mitigation efforts. His work blends technical expertise with community engagement, helping cities navigate complex infrastructure challenges while planning for long-term resilience.

“Collaboration, but mostly communication, is vital.”

“Technology has changed how we work, but not why we do the work.”

Engineering the Future: Andy Sellers on Innovation, Infrastructure and Impact

On this episode of Fueled, Engineer Intern Rhett Hebert sits down with Andy Sellers, City Engineer for Carencro and a Certified Floodplain Manager, to explore the evolving world of civil engineering. From discovering engineering through a high school career day to leading municipal infrastructure projects, Andy shares how his career has been shaped by both technology and community needs.

“You have to understand both the technical side and the community you’re serving.”

“Every project comes with challenges, but that’s where problem-solving really matters.”

Episode Highlights

• Discovering civil engineering: A career-day experience that sparked a lifelong passion for infrastructure and design.

• Technology transformation: The shift from traditional surveys to advanced tools like LiDAR, drones and geospatial data collection.

• Core principles remain: While tools evolve, the foundational concepts of engineering continue to guide every project.

• Collaboration tools: Using platforms like Microsoft Teams to improve communication and project efficiency.

• Municipal challenges: Navigating regulations, funding and community expectations while maintaining infrastructure systems.

• Community engagement: Ensuring stakeholders are involved and informed throughout project development.

“Infrastructure isn’t just about systems—it’s about people and how they live.”

“Staying adaptable is key in an industry that’s constantly evolving.”

More from FUELED

Conversations across seasons—on infrastructure, leadership, and public impact.

Season 5: Leading Louisiana – Concrete & Character

Season 3: Louisiana Watershed Initiative

Season 2: Seeking CHF

Season 1: Infrastructure

Established in 1950, C. H. Fenstermaker & Associates, L.L.C. is a highly diversified, multi-disciplinary consulting firm. With a commitment to help our clients succeed, we specialize in surveying and mapping, engineering and environmental consulting.

(337) 237-2200

Click here for complete information about the licensing boards governing our Survey and Engineering professionals.