Charles Johnston
33 | Dam Group Manager, DuBois & King, Inc.
Residence: Chittenden
Career Highlights: The highlight of my career has been leading the successful rehabilitation of the Upper Wilson Pond Dam, a high-hazard dam in New Hampshire. This complex project demanded both advanced engineering and strong project management, and it earned the D&K Dam Group an American Council of Engineering Companies (ACEC) Engineering Excellence Award. It also contributed to my recognition as Vermont Young Engineer of the Year.
Community Involvement: I currently serve on South Burlington’s Development Review Board for a three-year term ending in 2026, where I help evaluate development applications to ensure they align with the city’s land development regulations. Prior to this, I served on the South Burlington Economic Development Committee as well as the Development Review Board in Monkton, Vermont. These roles have allowed me to contribute to my local community planning and my allowed me to provide my engineering-informed perspective.
I’ve also been an active member of the Freemasons in Bristol, Vermont, since I turned 18. For the past three years, I’ve led our local lodge in organizing charitable initiatives throughout the Bristol five-town community where I grew up.
What motivated you to live and work in Vermont: I’ve always lived in Vermont, and despite traveling all over the U.S., it remains my favorite place. The strong sense of community, natural beauty, and the experience of all four seasons make it feel like our own peaceful slice of heaven.
Favorite part of your job: My favorite part of my job is that I get to do what I love. I’ve always wanted to do something creative that makes a difference, and through engineering, I get to help change the world. It’s rewarding to see my work have a real impact.
What is the best career advice: The best career advice I’ve received is to be passionate about what you do. Your career is one of the longest relationships in your life, and like any meaningful relationship, it deserves your full dedication.
Favorite Vermont escape: My favorite Vermont escape is the New Haven River along Lincoln Road. The river has many places, including Barletts Falls, to go swimming and enjoy the outdoors.
Favorite downtime activity: My favorite downtime activity is relaxing around the fire ring in my backyard with family and friends, followed by stargazing with my telescope.
If you had unlimited access to funds, which cause(s) would you support: If I had unlimited funds, I would support expanding STEM educational opportunities in small Vermont communities. Growing up here, I saw firsthand how many rural schools lack the resources available elsewhere, and I’d want to help bridge that gap.
Where do you see yourself professionally in the next 5-10 years: In the next 5–10 years, I hope to continue leading the Dam Group or Structural Engineering Division at DuBois & King while growing in my role as an employee-owner at D&K.
What career goal(s) would you like to accomplish in the next 5-10 years: The career goals I’d like to accomplish in the next 5-10 years are finishing the design and construction of four flood control dams in Ludlow, Vermont, and expanding the Dam Group at D&K to work on projects throughout the Northeast.
Drawing on your experiences, what advice would you give to someone looking to get involved in community service: Just do it. Every group, from charitable organizations to local government in Vermont, is looking for volunteers and help. Find something that makes you happy and go out and do it.