Kyle Lick, 35
Automation Engineer
CDM Smith
Boston, MA, United States
What Makes Kyle an Engineering Leader
Kyle demonstrates expertise in both automation design and programming—skills rarely mastered together at such a high level. His ability to combine technical skills with creative problem-solving sets him apart in his field.
Beyond technical ability, Kyle is deeply committed to quality control and exceptional client service. His strong, lasting client relationships are built on knowledge, reliability, and responsiveness—especially during high-stakes situations or system failures. Maintaining a calm, composed demeanor, he reassures clients and reinforces confidence in his capabilities.
Achievements, Advancements & Career-related Industry Contributions
Kyle is a licensed professional engineer specializing in control systems, with certifications in construction documentation and cybersecurity. He has extensive experience delivering design and construction services for major municipal water and wastewater facilities across New England.
His expertise spans the full project lifecycle, from concept and design to construction, commissioning, and closeout. Currently, he is leading applications engineering and startup services for large-scale SCADA system head-end upgrades in Cambridge and New Bedford, Massachusetts. These complex projects involve replacing outdated SCADA computers and programmable logic controllers with new equipment—while maintaining continuous plant operation during the migration.
Kyle also contributes to industry knowledge as a co-author of the revised Instrumentation and Controls section of the TR-16 Guides for the Design of Wastewater Treatment Works, published by the New England Interstate Water Pollution Control Commission (NEIWPCC).
His enthusiasm for learning continues to strengthen his work. With hands-on experience in programming and system startups, Kyle applies lessons learned from each project to improve future designs and outcomes.
Non-work-related Activities & Hobbies
Kyle has been training to operate fully automatic timing equipment for high school track and field competitions, supporting his wife in her role as a head coach. Though new to the sport, he has embraced the challenge of learning video systems, meet management software, and track and field operations. The role requires precision and focus, but it has been rewarding and given him a greater appreciation for athletic event coordination.
Interesting Details
Kyle and his wife enjoy active vacations, often seeking challenging excursions such as snorkeling, biking, and hiking. During summers, they spend weekends sailing or floating in Sippican Harbor in Marion, Massachusetts.
In 2023, Kyle traveled to Kyle, Texas, to participate in an attempt to break the Guinness World Record for the largest gathering of people with the same name. While the record was not broken, the trip became a fun and memorable story.
Why Kyle Chose This Career
Kyle was drawn to controls engineering in the water and wastewater sector because it allows him to contribute meaningfully to critical public infrastructure. He values the opportunity to support public health and environmental sustainability—ensuring communities have access to safe drinking water and that wastewater is treated responsibly to protect ecosystems.
The industry’s dynamic and evolving nature keeps him engaged, offering continuous opportunities for problem-solving and technical growth. For Kyle, the role is both professionally rewarding and a way to make a lasting, positive impact on communities.
