Despite negative feedback and advice to the contrary, I became an engineer. Known in middle and high school for my artistic ability, many naysayers complained that I should major in the “creative” arts, not engineering. I have a very natural ability in math, and loved chemistry and physics, and was drawn to the field of engineering after writing a 10th grade research paper on cryogenics.
Many financial and personal hurdles later, I completed a BS in Architectural Engineering and an MS in Engineering Management while raising a family. I worked for a moveable bridge expert firm in New York City for just under 7 years, and am currently "parallel tracking," employed with a large engineering and construction firm on Long Island as a Structural Engineer while managing my own design-based Minority-Women Owned Business Enterprise (MWBE), Cragnolin Design Associates (CDA).
My journey continues as I explore networking, sponsorship, and participate in organizations focused on directing and promoting women business owners and operators utilizing innovative business solutions.
Barnum Island Creek Bridge
The Ladies of Engineering
Bayville Bridge
Under a moveable bridge...
Atlantic Beach
My first bridge inspection!
Construction Inspection
19 Bridges
Female Equation
You've got to appreciate this!
Man vs. Woman
Just some harmless engineering humor...
About Me
- melanie.cragnolin
- I am a structural engineer who provides design, construction inspection, condition inspections, scheduling, cost estimating and quality assurance and construction support services for a variety of structures. I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Architectural Engineering from Drexel University, and a Master’s degree in Engineering Management from NJIT. I am President of Cragnolin Engineering & Design Associates, DPC (CDA). CDA is a site/civil/structural design consulting firm founded in May of 2009.