Meet THE FOUNDERS

Deering Viola
CEO & Co-Founder
About Deering >>>

Jodi Mensen
COO & Co-Founder
About Jodi >>>
Kristen Thomas
CFO & Co-Founder
About Kristen >>>
History of the Firm:
Legacy CivilWorks Engineering, Inc. was founded in 2024 by three women with over a decade of experience working together in the civil engineering industry. Recognizing a gap in the California market for a nimble, client-focused firm with deep expertise in the State of California and local City’s stringent regulations, the founders set out to create a company that could meet the unique needs of the region. As Southern California natives, they shared a vision of building a firm that combined their local knowledge with the ability to deliver fast, flexible, and cost-effective solutions, without the layers of bureaucracy and expense often found in larger firms.
Motivated by the shortage of women-owned civil engineering firms in the area, the founders saw an opportunity to differentiate themselves in an industry that benefits from diversity and innovation. Legacy CivilWorks is committed to providing exceptional service, particularly by cutting through red tape and offering quick turnaround times, without sacrificing quality or compliance. The firm has rapidly positioned itself as a go-to partner for both public and private sector projects, driven by a strong understanding of the region’s regulatory challenges and development needs.
The firm’s founding vision extended beyond delivering high-quality engineering solutions. A core goal was to create a supportive environment for its employees, where mentorship and personal development are priorities. The founders were determined to build a company where staff members felt valued, with ownership that prioritized their well-being over corporate profits. By fostering a culture of openness, mentorship, and accessibility, Legacy CivilWorks empowers its employees to grow and succeed as part of a close-knit, dynamic team.
Additionally, the firm is committed to expanding its role in public sector projects, aiming to serve a broader array of clients with a strong focus on improving community infrastructure. By stepping out of the confines of larger corporate structures, Legacy CivilWorks can focus on projects that align with its core values of sustainability, community impact, and client satisfaction.