2024 Engineering Leader Under 40: Geno Triana, 38

Geno Triana, 38
Automation Engineer
CDM Smith
Dallas, TX

What Makes Geno an Engineering Leader

Geno excels at leading teams of automation engineers to develop innovative solutions and cybersecurity approaches, enabling his clients to remotely operate complex water treatment systems. His proven experience with supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) system design that meets NIST cybersecurity requirements has made him a valuable asset to the water and wastewater industry. Geno’s diverse background includes commissioning industrial robotics and programmable logic controllers (PLCs) for the automotive industry, developing air pollution control technologies for electric utilities, and automating electronics manufacturing processes for the defense industry.

Achievements, Advancements & Career-related Industry Contributions

Geno has worked at CDM Smith for five years designing SCADA systems for municipal water and wastewater treatment facilities. As a licensed professional engineer, he is responsible for safeguarding the health, safety, and welfare of the public. Licensed to practice engineering in Texas for eight years and in nine other states, Geno has also obtained the COMPTIA Security+ cybersecurity certification. He helps clients modernize their SCADA infrastructure to improve performance, reduce operating costs, and minimize cybersecurity risks. Geno has developed SCADA master plans, feasibility studies, cybersecurity assessments, and control system designs for clients nationwide. With the industry’s shift towards the convergence of IT and OT systems, Geno’s expertise in cybersecurity continues to be a significant asset. He is an active member of the American Water Works Association, serving on the newsletter committee and volunteering at local events. Recently, he was selected to present a poster at a conference, which was instrumental in his firm securing a new client for engineering services.

Non-work-related Activities & Hobbies

This past year, Geno joined a Toastmasters club to enhance his public speaking skills. He has actively participated in meetings, taking on various roles, and regularly presenting and providing feedback. This experience has pushed him out of his comfort zone, helping him become both a more effective speaker and a better listener.

Interesting Details

Family, health, and fitness are very important to Geno. An avid runner, he has completed several marathons and an Ironman triathlon, finding these events crucial for maintaining mental focus and adapting to daily professional challenges. They also provide him with opportunities to connect with like-minded enthusiasts. This rigorous training has prepared him well for the joys and responsibilities of being a new father. In his current role, Geno takes great satisfaction in training junior engineers. Passionate about mentoring, he helps others achieve their professional goals and has become a valuable resource for instrumentation and automation mentorship in the Automation West region.

Why Geno Chose This Career

Geno believes that a career in engineering is ideal for those who enjoy working with cutting-edge technologies to address critical public needs. Although the work may not always be glamorous, being part of a team that solves problems in water and wastewater treatment is highly rewarding due to its positive impact on people’s lives. Similarly, tackling the technological challenges of modern manufacturing through automation represents a practical application of industrial artistry. A career in instrumentation and automation offers significant opportunities for individuals passionate about using technology to solve complex problems. Engineering, in this context, provides a fulfilling chance to help clients deliver greater value to their customers, whether in a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility or a city’s water treatment infrastructure.

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