J2 Founding Partner Inducted into Virginia Tech CEE Academy of Distinguished Alumni

Jeff Gilliland, PE, has been recognized by his alma mater, Virginia Polytechnic Institute State University (Virginia Tech) for his ongoing commitment to the university and the engineering profession. Inducted into the Charles E. Via, Jr. Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering Academy of Distinguished Alumni at a formal gala on March 28, 2024, the award, in its 23rd year, notes Gilliland’s contributions as a mentor, advisor, and resource to students for over two decades through his integral involvement in the Land Development Design Industry (LDDI) program.

Gilliland has been instrumental in reinforcing the LDDI program’s primary objectives to improve land development design education and validity as a career path; increase interaction between practitioners and undergraduate civil engineering students; and enhance research. The coordinator of the University’s LDDI program, Kevin D. Young, PE, ENV SP, M.ASCE, acknowledged the ongoing, pivotal role Gilliland has had on the program since its inception by saying,

“Jeff is a natural mentor, and watching him patiently work with young engineers is a source of daily motivation for me in my role as a professor. Whether it’s mentoring a student design team, directing a value engineering workshop, or leading an onsite field trip, Jeff’s enthusiasm for engineering is contagious.”

Over a 37-year career, culminating in being a founding partner at J2, Gilliland has gained an appreciation for the impact his work has had on the community and how it has shaped infrastructure and development in Virginia and beyond. He believes that this impact is accomplished by sharing knowledge and expertise with the next generation of engineers.

“Mentoring the amazing students through the LDDI program is immensely fulfilling. I hope that my involvement helps build their passion for the industry and advances the profession,” Gilliland said.

For more on Jeff's influential career and contributions to the civil engineering industry, read the full article: Jeff Gilliland: A Career Rooted in Service.