In September, ASCE Baton Rouge gave Jim Aronstein, PE, its prestigious Wall of Fame Award in recognition of 57 years of world class engineering work in the region. Each year, the chapter selects an engineer with a legacy of exemplary engineering work, service to the community, and dedication to their profession through ASCE. Jim joined the ASCE student chapter in as an undergraduate and then made his membership official on the very same day he earned his engineering degree in 1965. During the next 57 years, Jim served his Baton Rouge Branch in every capacity and office possible, including chapter president.
“I was tremendously honored to receive this award,” Jim says. “I’ve been blessed to have a career that I love. Every project, no matter the size, is unique, interesting and offers a new challenge and something to learn. Some of my most satisfying moments have been seeing a facility completed and knowing you and your team were a part of it.”
Jim started his career as a bridge design engineer with HNTB. On October 6, 1969, he joined Louis J. Capozzoli & Associates. As a young geotechnical engineer, he worked with Charlie Eustis (GeoEngineers, retired), Dr. Capozzoli and others as the firm established itself as a go-to geotechnical consultant in the Baton Rouge area.
By the late 70s, Jim had risen to a leadership position in the firm. Over the years, Jim has acquired an almost encyclopedic knowledge of local clients, soil conditions and site histories. In 2007, GeoEngineers purchased Louis J. Capozzoli & Associates and gained access to Jim’s expertise.
“The thing I find so remarkable about Jim is that he’s so low-key—just solid,” says colleague Dave Eley. “He’s always there—always has answers, always ready to help—but he’s not a guy who wants or needs to be in the spotlight. If you need someone to count on when you’re in a tough situation, Jim is the guy who’s there. He’s going to help you through it.”
