Springfield Public Works Superintendent of Streets Colten Harris has been named Young Engineer of the Year by the Missouri Society of Professional Engineers (MSPE), a professional association representing licensed professional engineers across Missouri.  

The Young Engineer of the Year Award recognizes young members of MSPE who have made outstanding contributions to the society, the engineering profession and their communities during the early years of their careers, in the areas of collegiate education, professional and technical society activities, community and humanitarian activities, continuing professional competency and career advancements and achievements in the field of engineering. The award has been presented annually since 1962.

Harris has been with the City of Springfield for more than 10 years, beginning his service as an intern in multiple divisions before accepting a full-time position as a project manager in the Stormwater Engineering. Harris then moved to Environmental Services department where he served under the Sewer Collection System division supervising the Inflow and Infiltration program and conducting collection system analysis. Harris most recently served as the Principal Engineer over the Public Works Construction Inspection division before accepting the position of Superintendent of Streets in 2021. 

As the leader of the Street Operations Division, Harris supervises 120 employees who are responsible for cleaning, construction, repair, maintenance and inspection of city streets, waterways, bridges, storm sewers and alleys and all public grounds, including mowing street trees and landscaping in the public right of way. During the winter and severe weather events, the division will stop project activities and road maintenances to address emergency work such as snow removal, flooding and other storm related events.

Harris earned a bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering from the Missouri University of Science and Technology and is currently enrolled in a Master of Science program in Engineering Management through the University of Arkansas. He holds various safety and inspection related certifications, is a Certified Floodplain Manager, and licensed Professional Engineer.

“The City of Springfield is extremely fortunate to have Colten on our team and to have benefited from his service in various roles since the beginning of his professional career,” said Director of Public Works Dan Smith. “Colten’s range of knowledge and experience make him a valuable member of the team and we’re proud of all he has accomplished.”

For more information, contact Communication Coordinator Kristen Milam at 573-819-3713 or [email protected].