In a region defined by rapid growth, evolving infrastructure needs, and a rising demand for resilient, future-ready solutions, the Pacific Northwest represents more than a geographic shift — it’s a strategic commitment to shaping the next chapter of industry innovation. From the complexities of urban development in Seattle to the region’s accelerating investment in clean energy, transportation, and water systems, the Pacific Northwest offers a landscape rich with opportunity.
In this Q&A, Noelle Brooks, Regional Executive Director, shares her perspective on the Seattle market, the momentum building across the industry, and how thoughtful expansion positions teams to deliver meaningful impact in one of the country’s fastest-growing regions.
What excites you most about expanding into the Pacific Northwest, particularly the Seattle market?
“Seattle is one of the most exciting infrastructure markets in the country right now. Few regions are simultaneously investing in transportation, utilities, waterfront redevelopment, clean energy, aviation, maritime facilities, and community infrastructure at the scale we’re seeing here. What excites me most is the opportunity to be part of that transformation.
While Cordoba may be newer to the Pacific Northwest, many of our staff are not. Our team has spent decades supporting agencies like Sound Transit, the Port of Seattle, Seattle City Light, SDOT, SPU, WSDOT, and local communities throughout the region. Opening a Seattle office is a commitment to being present, investing in the community, and helping deliver the projects that will shape the region for generations.”
How do you see the industry evolving in the Pacific Northwest, and what opportunities does that create?
“The Pacific Northwest is entering a remarkable period of investment. We have major transit expansions, waterfront improvements, utility modernization programs, clean energy initiatives, seismic resilience efforts, housing needs, and preparations for global events like the current FIFA World Cup all happening simultaneously.
What makes this particularly interesting is that no single discipline can solve these challenges alone. Clients increasingly need partners who can connect planning, environmental services, engineering, project controls, construction management, permitting, and stakeholder engagement into a cohesive strategy. That’s where I see tremendous opportunity. The future belongs to teams that can help agencies move projects from concept to completion while balancing community priorities, funding realities, regulatory requirements, and long-term operational needs.”
What does a typical day look like for you as you lead efforts in this new region?
“No two days are exactly alike, which is one of the things I enjoy most. Some days are focused on meeting with clients and industry partners to better understand their priorities and challenges.
Other days involve recruiting talent, mentoring staff, developing strategy, or introducing Cordoba’s capabilities to organizations throughout the region.
A significant part of my time is spent listening. Every community, agency, and client has a unique perspective on what success looks like. My role is to understand those needs and connect them with the right people, resources, and expertise. Building relationships and creating opportunities for collaboration are at the heart of everything we do.”
What makes Seattle a compelling market for long-term growth?
“Seattle continues to invest in itself. Whether it’s the waterfront, transit expansion, utility modernization, maritime facilities, aviation, housing, or climate resilience, the region understands that infrastructure is critical to economic vitality and quality of life.
I also appreciate that Seattle isn’t afraid to think long term. The same visionary mindset that rebuilt Pioneer Square after the Great Fire and created the Seattle Underground continues today through investments in transit, clean energy, and community infrastructure. That long-term perspective creates opportunities for firms that want to be true partners in the region’s future.”
How are you preparing your team to meet the needs of clients in the Pacific Northwest?
“We’re investing in people first. One of the things that attracted me to Cordoba is the firm’s commitment to developing staff, creating career pathways, and investing in communities. As we grow in the Pacific Northwest, we’re focused on hiring locally, mentoring emerging professionals, supporting internships, and partnering with community organizations and professional associations.
At the same time, we’re bringing the strength of a national firm with experience across transportation, water, energy, facilities, environmental services, and construction management. Our goal is to combine national resources with local relationships and local knowledge so clients receive both depth and responsiveness.”
Why are you proud to lead this expansion effort?
“What makes me proud is that we’re building something intentionally. We’re not opening an office simply to chase work. We’re investing in a region that many of us have called home for years and in clients and communities we’ve supported throughout our careers.
I’m also excited about what this means for the next generation of professionals. The Pacific Northwest is entering one of the most significant infrastructure investment periods in its history. That creates opportunities to mentor future leaders, expand the workforce, and help deliver projects that improve mobility, sustainability, economic opportunity, and quality of life. Being part of that story is incredibly rewarding.”
Background of the Interviewee
Noelle Brooks has spent her career advancing strategic growth initiatives, strengthening regional partnerships, and leading multidisciplinary teams across major infrastructure sectors. Her work focuses on aligning organizational capabilities with emerging market needs, with a particular emphasis on sustainable development, community-centered planning, and long-term regional investment.
