Todd Weaver, CAD Manager and Associate at JVA, Inc., has spent over two decades helping elevate civil engineering projects through smarter design, continuous learning, and streamlined workflows. With roots in 3D modeling and a deep love for CAD, Todd’s journey has evolved from drafting classes to shaping land—and the teams who develop it. In this interview, he reflects on what’s changed, what keeps him going, and how technology, fitness, and mental balance all play a role in building better.
Career and Industry Evolution
Todd’s career in AEC began with a moment of inspiration in 7th grade shop class.
“There was a computer with a version of CAD installed… One day the shop teacher said, and I’ll never forget it, ‘You’re pretty good at that, you should think about a career in CAD.’ Since that day, I knew what I wanted to be involved with drafting and design.”
That passion stuck. After starting out in mechanical design, Todd found his way to civil engineering—and never looked back.
“I loved everything about the civil work. The deadline driven atmosphere, taking land and making a site out of it. I love walking a site and knowing it was my design.”
Today, Todd serves as CAD Manager and Associate for JVA’s civil and environmental departments, where he supports nearly 60 Civil 3D users, maintains company standards and styles, manages deployments, trains engineers and designers, and ensures quality control across outgoing plans. And he’s still 25% billable—something he sees as essential.
“It helps me find issues and trigger new ideas.”
After 22 years in the field, one of the biggest changes Todd’s seen is the shift in roles—and the rise of intelligent software.
“The drafter role has all but vanished and gave way to the designer role. In time… I see the designer role being phased out as well.”
Technology and Collaboration
For Todd, the power of technology lies in enabling others to succeed. He finds joy in optimizing workflows, automating repetitive tasks, and making people’s jobs easier.
“When I can automate a mundane task or improve upon a workflow that helps others, I feel amazing. Even if it’s something small that saves 5 minutes a day. Multiply that by the number of users and you get big savings of time and money over the course of a year.”
Looking ahead, he’s most excited about the transformative power of AI in civil design.
“AI is and will continue to change every aspect of our daily work routines just as the computer took us away from the drafting tablets and T squares.”
One dream feature he’d love to see in Civil 3D?
“An AI assistant in Civil 3D with added company standards, local municipality codes, design parameters baked into it giving you guidance as you design and create would be very cool.”
To stay focused during high-pressure workdays, music is his secret weapon.
“Has to be Spotify. Whether I’m cranking on grading or testing new functionality in Civil 3D, music is a MUST!”
Work-Life Balance and Focus
Despite his packed schedule, Todd prioritizes movement and mental resets. Whether it’s at the office or working from home, he finds moments to get active.
“When I’m in the office, a nice walk with or without a peer is a great way to give my mind a break. When I’m working from home, I may hop on the treadmill while I mill over some ideas or solutions.”
His company’s culture of flexibility helps support this balance—especially when it comes to his favorite form of midday stress relief.
“I play in a lunch time hockey league, so a mid-day hockey game really helps my mind and body.”
Todd’s commitment to staying active, even in short bursts, is a reminder that small efforts can make a big impact on energy, clarity, and overall wellness.
Mindset and Learning
Beyond the tools, Todd thrives on growth, learning, and motivating others. He sees his CAD leadership role not just as technical—but personal.
“My role and purpose is to make those around me more efficient and successful.”
He also believes strongly in the importance of using technology to create—not consume—our time.
“Let’s use technology to work smarter and more efficient so we have more time to do the things we enjoy.”
His advice to AEC peers seeking inspiration, education, or community?
“Join groups with a good mix of your peers. I love my Civil 3D groups filled with fellow CAD nerds and geeks. Group meetings, forums, webinars are an invaluable source of knowledge and support.”
After more than two decades in the field, Todd is still passionate about what he does—and the people he does it with.
“I’m very fortunate in my career in that I’m still very happy with what I do after 22 years.”
Todd’s story is a testament to finding purpose in the work, empowering those around you, and keeping a sharp mind and balanced body along the way.
LinkedIn: Todd Weaver | LinkedIn
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