Embracing Innovation with Steve Peterson
Q&A with Group Manager at P2S Inc.,
Steven Peterson
By John Grossi
What sort of purpose do you feel in your job and/or why do you believe your line of work is important and meaningful?
Working as an electrical engineer allows me to embrace innovation, think critically, and collaborate with my team, all while making a difference in the world. I’m proud that P2S projects positively impact our community and our clients, including local universities like Long Beach State.
What is the most exciting part of your day-to-day work?
I genuinely enjoy working at a company with fantastic people & great perks. I’m very fortunate that I get to work with all departments across the company – solving problems with our engineering team, strategizing with our marketing department, planning team events with our social team, and designing our newest offices with our leadership.
What do you think the future of your industry will look like in 15 years? How will it be different from what you do now?
The consulting engineering industry will continue to evolve and innovate over the years, especially with the advancements in AI. I imagine a blend of talented individuals, advanced technologies, and state-of-the-art tools building the next generation of smart buildings and robust infrastructure.
When did you decide you wanted to enter this field? What steps did you take to make that decision a reality?
I first considered engineering as a career path after discovering my passion for math and science at Wilson High School. I took a two-year hiatus during college to play music in a rock band with my best friends, travel the country, and discover entrepreneurship firsthand. I returned to LB State, started a 3D printing student organization, and graduated with two engineering degrees.
For any student, age 12-18 who thinks your job sounds interesting, what advice would you give them to help them learn/train/explore your field?
Engineering is fun! Embrace your interests, participate in local STEM programs, learn to code, and take advantage of every opportunity that presents itself.
Are there any organizations, communities, or movements that create synergy between you and others in your field, here in the city of Long Beach?
Long Beach is an amazing community full of synergy. P2S teams up with local industry partners to give back such as Long Beach CANstruction and Ground Education. We also develop our next generation of leaders through Leadership Long Beach and make a difference at various charity events across the areas we serve.
What makes Long Beach a great place to live and work as it relates to your industry?
I’m proud to be a fourth-generation Long Beach resident who lives and works in such an amazing city. I graduated from Wilson, toured in a rock band who called Long Beach home, graduated from Long Beach State, and now work next to the Long Beach Airport. Our city bridges LA County & Orange County which strategically connects us to our clients and local communities.
