December 2, 2025
Get to know Senior Project Implementation Engineer C. Maria Meraz.
What was your first job?
I actually had two jobs the first summer I started working at fourteen. I made pizzas at Pizza Hut and was hired by the local YMCA to be a lifeguard for youth swim lessons at the public pool on the weekends.
How did you end up at DVRPC?
I met Ryan Gallagher during my project management rotation as a Civil Engineer Trainee at PennDOT 6-0, and he told me all about DVRPC. When I was looking to make a switch a few years later, I applied for the open position in my unit, and here I am!
What is your work/life philosophy?
Intentionality and flexibility.
What is something colleagues don’t know about you?
I think everyone in my unit knows, but I started competing in Olympic weightlifting (the snatch and the clean and jerk) in 2024. I've participated in seven competitions and medaled in five.
What actor would play you in the movie version of your life?
We had a team building activity when I first started at DVRPC, and this was one of the questions, and I still say Nathalie Emmanuel–but I wouldn't say no to Tessa Thompson either!
What is your favorite leisure activity?
I love going to see shows on Broadway. The most recent one I saw was The Picture of Dorian Gray. My current all-time favorite is Hadestown. I've seen it three times.
What is your recent obsession?
Well, I have always loved shoes, but recently it is trainers and lifters by TYR. They come in so many fun colors.
What is the best music you’ve heard recently?
“Layers,” by Naïka, has been one of my favorites this year.
Are you a cat or dog person?
I am a dog person. I have an eleven-year-old pit bull hound mix named Cooper.