While he was growing up, John Huhtala's family moved several times, requiring him to attend different schools. As a result, he easily acclimated to new situations. That pattern has continued throughout his ten-year career at URS, as he has eagerly embraced new challenges. Starting out in URS' Grand Rapids, Michigan, office, John has welcomed the chance to work overseas on numerous projects, beginning as an estimator in Saudi Arabia.

John approaches each new project with anticipation, but never more so than when it provides exposure to a new culture. He says, "URS is a company rich in opportunity, and I am a prime example of someone who has taken advantage of those opportunities. I have always been encouraged to try new things."

Reflecting on how much he enjoyed working on a short-term assignment in Germany during the renovation of a sports stadium, John pursued permanent reassignment overseas. Now that he and his family have settled, they are all reaping the benefits. "The work is fantastic, and an added plus is the experience this provides for my kids. We live in a global society, and the exposure to other cultures is invaluable," says John.

John has helped build a small practice into a much larger office in Kaiserslautern and has enjoyed getting involved in different aspects of the business. In addition, he also benefits from the different perspectives of his international colleagues from continental Europe and the U.K. It not only helps him on the job, but also enriches his life. John says, "I've added to my experience by working with people who have an amazing knowledge base.

As for the future, John looks forward to new career challenges, saying, "It is all here for me at URS.

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