Infrastructure is the foundation of every community, from roads and bridges to power systems and clean water. Behind these essential projects are dedicated professionals like Devin Z. Porr, PE, whose work ensures that infrastructure is built and maintained efficiently.
As the program director for Caltrans’ Building Information Modeling for Infrastructure (BIM4I) Program, Porr is transforming the delivery of infrastructure projects through innovation, collaboration, and sustainability.
A Career Built on Public Service and Passion
Porr’s career in civil engineering is driven by a desire to improve the lives of others. Growing up working alongside his father in the family carpentry business, he developed a deep appreciation for the impact of construction.
“From an early age, I knew I wanted to be part of something that made a tangible difference in people’s lives,” Porr recalls. “That’s why I chose civil engineering — to contribute to building the infrastructure that supports our communities.”
Porr earned a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering from The Ohio State University in 2007 and joined the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) upon graduation. He earned a California Professional Engineer license in 2014. During his tenure with Caltrans, he has served in various roles, including construction field inspector, resident engineer, partnering program manager, assistant chief engineer, and Office of Performance and Innovation chief.
Leading Innovation With BIM4I
In 2024, Porr became the BIM4I program director at Caltrans, a principal transportation engineer position. “Building Information Modeling (BIM) is revolutionizing the way we design, construct and manage infrastructure projects,” he states. “BIM4I is about using technology to enhance collaboration and improve outcomes across the entire project lifecycle.”
Through BIM4I, Porr leads efforts to integrate digital tools into infrastructure delivery, making the process more efficient and sustainable. “We’re using digital platforms to better plan, design and manage projects, which ultimately leads to more efficient and sustainable infrastructure,” he explains.
This initiative ensures that projects get completed on time, within budget, and to the highest quality standards.
Mentorship and Leadership: The Foundation of Porr’s Success
Porr attributes much of his success to the mentorship he received early in his career: “The mentors I’ve had throughout my career have encouraged me to think bigger.” His leadership philosophy centers around teamwork and clear communication. “By fostering a culture of teamwork and open communication, we can achieve the best possible results,” he adds.
One of Porr’s proudest achievements came during the 2017 extreme winter storm events on the California central coast, when he coordinated efforts to reopen major corridors affected by landslides. While he became the face of the recovery efforts, he insists that “the real reward was knowing that our efforts helped people get back on the road and return home safely and quickly.”
Looking Forward: A Vision for the Future of Infrastructure
Porr is focused on expanding the reach of BIM4I and improving infrastructure delivery. “I’m excited about the potential of BIM4I to deliver better outcomes for Californians,” he shares. “In the next five years, I want to see the full implementation of our strategic plans, which will help streamline project delivery, improve collaboration and support that our infrastructure is built to last.”
Porr also aims to continue developing new leaders in the field, ensuring that future generations have what they need to drive innovation in infrastructure: “I want to make sure we’re building a better future for generations to come. I’ve always felt my personal mission and leadership philosophy is ‘to make a meaningful difference by serving others and improving the world, one step at a time.’ Innovation and civil service just happen to be how I’m trying to do that at this time.”
Porr’s leadership and commitment to improving infrastructure continue to shape the future of California’s public works.
