Sharissa V. Ramírez Schlafer

Permits Specialist

What I value most about working at ECR Engineering (ECR) is the opportunity to be part of a firm recognized for excellence in the field of engineering. Being part of projects that contribute to the well-being of the community and the development of the country fills me with purpose, while the company provides me with the necessary tools to maximize my professional growth.

In my role as a Permits Specialist, I feel like a key member of the team, contributing from the initial stages of each project to ensure compliance with state and federal laws and regulations. This work ensures that projects are not only executed within regulatory parameters but also protect the environment and public safety. It is a responsibility that I take on with pride because I know that my work contributes to the sustainable development and integrity of each project.

I have had the opportunity to participate in significant projects, both within the Capital Improvements Program (CIP) of the Puerto Rico Aqueduct and Sewer Authority (PRASA) and in private projects ranging from obtaining state and federal permits to planning environmental remediation initiatives and consulting. Each of these projects has allowed me to confirm the importance of permitting as a fundamental pillar of responsible engineering.

At ECR, professional growth is not an added benefit but an essential part of the organizational culture. The company recognizes that its most valuable resource is its people, which is why it invests in our continuous development. Thanks to this, I have been able to participate in seminars, workshops, certifications, and conventions such as those of the Puerto Rico Water & Environment Association (PRWE&A) and the Puerto Rico Professional College of Engineers and Land Surveyors (CIAPR). These experiences have allowed me to strengthen my technical skills and expand my knowledge of federal and state permitting.

One of the things I value most is that here I have been able to apply the combination of two fields I am passionate about: engineering and law. The work environment at ECR is healthy and positive. You can feel respect, motivation, and camaraderie in every interaction, and the team feels heard and valued. In addition, the company promotes our well-being with workshops and activities that enrich us both professionally and personally.

If I had to define the work culture in three words, they would be creative, dynamic, and innovative. Because engineering requires ingenuity, every ECR project reflects the team’s ability to propose innovative solutions and work dynamically to achieve them. I feel listened to and valued at every stage of the process, as my ideas have been considered on numerous occasions—from consultations on regulations to interdisciplinary discussions—which confirms to me that my voice is important and that my work adds real value. The fact that the permitting team is involved from the initial planning stages further demonstrates recognition of our role and the importance of our contributions. Looking ahead, I see myself specializing in federal permitting.

I would recommend ECR to any professional because here you will find a genuine commitment to the community, an excellent work environment, and an organization that values both the quality of its services and the well-being of its people.

If I had to sum up my experience in a single sentence, it would be: “I grow by doing what inspires me.” Because ECR Engineering drives me to be a better professional every day.

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