ENR Selects UMN Image by Wendy Placko for Photo Contest

Wendy Placko's striking photo captures a boiler assessment as part of the firm's involvement in the University of Minnesota's University System Wide Energy and Utility Plan. In a dark, windowless space, the engineers used flashlights to illuminate a furnace, creating a unique, candid image. Wendy enjoys low-light photography and often brings a camera to job sites to capture moments like this. She notes that engineers are usually so focused on documenting their work during inspections and pre-construction tasks that they often overlook photographing the interesting processes they’re involved in.

ENR received over 1,000 submissions, with 42 winning images and 8 honorable mentions featured in the February 2025 issue. Click here to view the online version and here for the digital edition of the print issue. 

RMF's Minnesota team, together with the company's infrastructure group, is currently leading and developing a comprehensive energy and utility master plan at the University of Minnesota, Twin Cities. These plans will ensure reliable energy production and distribution, while also aligning with the University’s Carbon Avoidance Plan (CAP) and MPact-2025 goals for decarbonization.