How Workplace Flexibility in Engineering Supports Better Solutions
At Nexus Engineering Group, flexibility means more than hybrid schedules – it means building an environment where team members can grow, collaborate, and do their best work while maintaining balance in their personal lives. As Senior Designer on the substation team, Tammie Hall plays a vital role in ensuring quality, consistency, and seamless coordination across complex electrical design projects.
Tammie shares her career journey, what makes Nexus different, and how workplace flexibility in engineering supports both her work and personal life.
Can you tell us about your role as a Senior Designer at Nexus?
My role is different from a traditional substation design engineer position. I focus primarily on substation CAD and software coordination, working closely with the electrical team to support both project execution and team efficiency.
A large portion of my role involves CAD quality control and ensuring all drawings meet strict client standards. I review drawings line by line, conduct detailed equipment and nameplate checks, and help troubleshoot issues before designs move into the field. In this type of work, even small errors can create major delays, so attention to detail is incredibly important.
I also support software transitions and team training when new client-required system processes are introduced. That collaboration aspect is something I really enjoy because it allows me to work closely with multiple teams while continuing to learn and grow myself.
What does your typical day look like at Nexus – How do you begin and wrap up?
My days are very collaborative, and communication driven. I have frequent touchpoints with the electrical team and coordinate with both our Electrical Manager and Substation leadership team to ensure projects stay aligned with client standards and timelines.
I typically work from home on Mondays and Fridays, and I really value the hybrid work structure at Nexus. I have previously worked fully remote roles, but I’ve found that having in-person collaboration throughout the week creates a much stronger team dynamic and helps build professional and personal relationships.
How do you stay productive while maintaining balance?
Much of my role revolves around solving issues in real time for the team so that we continue moving forward without delays. Because many CAD reviews operate on longer timelines, it allows flexibility in how I structure my day while still meeting expectations and maintaining quality.
The hybrid environment also helps create that balance. On remote days, I can start earlier, avoid commute time, and focus more deeply on this detailed review work. The flexibility allows me to be more efficient while also supporting a healthier work-life balance overall.
What initially led you to this field?
I’ve worked in CAD since 2003, but my path into the industry was not entirely straightforward. I attended ITT Technical Institute and originally thought I was interested in video game design. Through coursework, I discovered drafting and quickly realized it fits my personality and skillset much better because I’ve always been very detailed oriented. It felt like a natural fit for me. I started my career working with builders and architectural firms before transitioning into electrical and substation design.
At Nexus, I’ve had opportunities to expand beyond my original role, take on new challenges, and continue building my technical knowledge in ways that feel meaningful. I’ve never been happier in a role, especially due to Nexus’ strong focus on internal growth and employee development.
What attracted you to Nexus, and how has it matched your expectations?
Initially, I applied for a CAD Coordinator role and felt it was a stretch opportunity for me, but I was encouraged to go for it. From the start, the hiring process was welcoming and organized. The onboarding experience stood out to me because there was a clear structure, introductions across departments and strong communication around who to approach for support. The level of organization made the transition smoother and reinforced that Nexus invests in setting its team members up for success.
How would you describe Nexus’ approach to flexibility and work-life balance?
Nexus supports workplace flexibility in engineering in a way that feels practical and people focused. Team members have hybrid work options and flexible scheduling for appointments or personal responsibilities. Recently, the firm introduced “Flex Fridays,” a benefit where Team members can work a compressed schedule to end at noon on Fridays. Nexus offers a strong benefits package, including flexibility, profit sharing, bonuses, and consistent performance reviews.
There’s a strong focus on sustainable workloads and supporting employees in the long-term. Nexus’ leadership understands that personal responsibilities come up, and there’s trust and flexibility to adjust when needed.
What sets Nexus apart?
Nexus has a strong emphasis on training and upskilling. I feel consistently encouraged to learn new skills, step into new opportunities, and evolve professionally. For example, I was tasked with learning and helping train others on AutoCAD, as well as taking on opportunities to grow beyond the initial scope of my role.
Why is this an exciting time to be at Nexus?
Nexus is experiencing continuous and rapid growth, and people have an opportunity to join during a foundational stage. There’s an opportunity for Team members to help shape processes, contribute ideas, and grow alongside the organization.
Here, I feel supported, challenged, and genuinely valued by leadership and my team. Even in a highly detailed position, the work feels meaningful because I can see the impact I’m making each day. The combination of engineering job growth, flexibility, and culture is what makes Nexus a rewarding place to be.
About Nexus Engineering Group
Nexus Engineering Group is a full-service, independent engineering, procurement, and construction management (EPCm) firm headquartered in Cleveland, Ohio, with offices in Toledo, Ohio; Midland, Michigan; and Oak Brook, Illinois. Founded in 2005, Nexus partners closely with clients to support project goals from concept through startup, delivering practical, reliable solutions across the refining, petroleum midstream, chemical, manufacturing, power & energy, and renewables markets.
Nexus integrates engineering, procurement, and construction management services to help clients plan and execute complex projects with confidence. Through close collaboration and a client-first approach, Nexus supports informed decision-making, manages project risk, and delivers practical solutions that enhance safety, reliability, and long-term project value.
