Brendan Sheehy | 20 Under 40
Brendan Sheehy
Engineering Specialist
Bartlett & West
Brendan Sheehy, P.E. is an engineering specialist with Bartlett & West in Topeka, Kansas, where he helps lead the design of transportation infrastructure projects. Since joining the firm in 2014 after graduating from Iowa State University, he has contributed to major local projects, including the I-70 Polk-Quincy Viaduct and the California Avenue Bridge over I-70.
A lifelong Topekan, Brendan is passionate about improving the community through infrastructure and service. He serves on the board of United Way of Kaw Valley, is a member of the Irish Club of Topeka, coaches youth sports and enjoys spending time with his wife, Jessica, and their three sons, Ryan, Mason and Owen.
What’s something people might be surprised to learn about you? Tell us a little more about it.
Most people are surprised to learn that my favorite music is hard rock and metal. I’m naturally a fairly reserved person, so it’s not usually what people expect. It started as a shared interest with my oldest brother, and we spent many years going to concerts together. I still enjoy live shows today, though I’ve traded the days of being near the front row for a spot farther back and a good pair of earplugs.
What should someone never take for granted? Why?
Infrastructure. The civil engineer in me may be a little biased, but it’s something most of us rely on every day without giving it much thought. Safe roads, clean drinking water, and reliable electricity are so ingrained in our daily lives that we often only notice them when something goes wrong. The reality is that a tremendous amount of engineering, construction, and ongoing maintenance is required to keep those systems functioning reliably. It’s one of those things that people rarely think about until it isn’t there.
What led you to your career?
As a kid, I loved building LEGOs and enjoyed math, but I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do for a career. During high school, my parents encouraged me to shadow several professionals around town, which helped me discover engineering. At Iowa State University, I explored different engineering disciplines and found myself drawn to civil engineering, in part because it allowed me to apply one of my favorite math subjects, geometry, to real-world roadway design. I’ve never looked back and feel fortunate to have found a career that combines problem-solving, creatively, and the opportunity to make a lasting impact on communities.
What’s the most important part of the work you do? Why?
The most important part of my work is collaborating with a team to create solutions that improve safety and address real transportation challenges. When I hear about traffic congestion, a serious crash, or other roadway issues, it serves as a reminder that our work affects real people and has a meaningful impact on their daily lives. It makes me approach each project with a strong sense of responsibility, knowing that my family, friends, and community may one day travel on roads our team helped design. If our work can make someone’s trip safer, smoother, and more efficient, that’s what makes it worthwhile.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? Why?
The best piece of advice I’ve ever received is that consistency beats intensity. As I’ve progressed in my career, I’ve learned that meaningful accomplishments rarely happen all at once. Many projects take years to complete, and success comes from showing up every day, making steady progress, and avoiding burnout. When faced with a long list of tasks, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed or try to do too much at once. Focusing on a clear goal and consistently working toward it has helped me achieve more, both professionally and personally.
What’s a hobby you wish you had more time for? What do you enjoy about it?
Guitar. Music has always been a passion of mine. My dad plays guitar, which inspired me to start learning in grade school, and I’ve continued playing ever since. I don’t have as much time for it these days, but I still enjoy playing with my dad or friends whenever I get the chance. I especially love hearing a great guitar part in a song and trying to learn it myself. It’s a fun challenge and a great way to unwind.
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