Meet Julian McDowell

What's your favorite part of your role?

I think my favorite part of my role is connecting the dots. The phrase is often, 'I know enough to be dangerous,' but now I am in a role where I know enough to ask questions. I know enough about the interface and interactions of different disciplines to have a more overarching view of the project and its impact. For example, how insights from a geochemist can impact the engineer and, likewise, how that might play into a geologist's work. People can often get siloed in these projects, and I can communicate between groups to bring everyone together for a common goal. 

What sparked your change in career path?

I have been interested in geology since I was very young, but once I got out into the field, I never felt the fit I was looking for in projects. My initial work was in groundwater supply, and while I enjoyed the projects, the economic cycle continually impacted our work. I wanted to see what I could do in a more stable industry. Through geothermal, I could work on environmentally sustainable work while engaging in larger projects with more capital investment. 

Once I took the course in New Zealand, that is what truly sparked my passion. It amazes me how many people need to come together to execute and deliver on a project. You work with various people, diverse cultures and expertise on these projects, and it fascinated me that the industry learned how to leverage geothermal resources for power. I couldn't wait to keep going.

Can you share an interesting project story?

I spent more time in the field early in my career. As part of this, I went to Guatemala to run some well testing on a geothermal project. The project was for an important client, and I was very nervous. I spent hours reviewing and preparing ahead of the travel, not to mention some preconceived notions about the region and my limited grasp of Spanish.

While the project was supposed to take a week, we got delayed a month because the client experienced various challenges in bringing equipment to the site and getting set up. During the month of work perseverance, I was able to befriend the contractors and even went into town to play football (soccer) with the locals. The biggest takeaway is that I went into this project with fear. However, because I took a risk, prepared sufficiently and opened myself up, I was rewarded with a successful project, personally and professionally. My boss at the time even said that while he was concerned about having put such a young staff member on the project, I delivered, so I am very proud of that project. During my next overseas trip, I spent a week with the leeches in the rainforests of Sumatra for a geothermal exploration project – at Jacobs, in geothermal, it's always interesting.

What's one fact people might not know about you?

I once was an extra in a cheesy rom-com movie starring Amy Adams called Leap Year. Before moving from Ireland to New Zealand, I picked up some work as an extra in films. You might be able to pick me out in the wedding scenes if you watch the movie. I like to think I influenced Amy Adams's career trajectory just as much as she did mine. 

What excites you about the future of Energy & Power?

I am excited about the opportunity to continue educating and cross-collaborating with other groups on looking at projects through a geothermal lens. Geothermal is much broader than people typically think. While we are seeing a renewed focus on power generation opportunities, we will see thermal energy networks front and center for decarbonization solutions across markets such as transport (specifically airports), utilities and building infrastructure in North America and globally. I am excited to continue growing and moving in new directions.

What do you enjoy most about #OurJacobs?

I enjoy the global connectivity at Jacobs. I am familiar with many regions from my previous roles, so I appreciate people's cross-region support and willingness to help. We are all working toward one goal, and the culture of openness and support is positive.