In 1992, PD & C’s Design Project Manager Nikki Preston was a contestant for The Grand Prize Game on The Bozo Show in Chicago.

1. What encouraged you to pursue a career in civil engineering? 

During high school, I worked part-time with a family friend’s civil company. I loved the variety of work the design team tackled for the community.  Being a part of public works projects seemed like a rewarding career path with job stability. I chose to study civil engineering at Auburn University, graduating in 2008.

2. What made you want to join Facilities Management? 

I applied for a Facilities Civil Engineering position knowing this would be an exciting opportunity to be engaged with Auburn’s campus. I can honestly say, I underestimated the magnitude of employees and teams within Facilities! So, learning more about each department has been fun. I’m so happy to be a part of the team.

I also commuted to Montgomery for eight years to my previous job. Joining Facilities allows me to live AND work in Auburn. I do not miss I-85!

3. What is your favorite thing about working with the Facilities team? 

Working in PD&C as a design project manager I am exposed to so many different projects. With such a variety, I often lean on fellow design project managers for guidance and technical expertise. It’s interesting to gain insight from interior designers, electrical and mechanical engineers, architects, landscape, utilities, etc., on a daily basis.

4. What is your favorite thing to do outside of work? 

I enjoy traveling with my family. I have a son Wylie (9) and daughter Morgan (7).  My husband, Rob, and I love making those memories together. Each trip we aim for somewhere new so the kids can explore. We eat, play and all things vacay!

5. What is a fun fact most people wouldn’t know about you? 

In 1992, I was a contestant for The Grand Prize Game on The Bozo Show in Chicago!  I made it to bucket five and bounced off the rim of bucket 6. I won amazing prizes for myself and the lucky contestant at home.

The Bozo Show was a children’s television game show that aired on WGN-TV in Chicago. A popular portion of the show was the bucket contest. During the contest, six buckets were lined up in a row challenging players to toss a ping pong ball to land in each bucket. Small prizes were assigned to the easy levels, and larger prizes awarded as players tried for the higher numbers.