Alum brings clean water and sanitation to remote Alaskan communities
When Charlie Hampton ’20 packed up and moved nearly 4,500 miles from Virginia to Alaska, he was following his purpose, not searching for adventure.
In the 49th state, he ended up finding both.
The civil and environmental engineering alumnus now designs drinking water and wastewater systems for some of the most remote communities in the country. From the foundation he gained in Blacksburg to the rugged landscapes of Alaska, Hampton’s journey has been anything but ordinary.
What led you to civil and environmental engineering?
I’ve always been drawn to math and the hard sciences, and I wanted a career that let me work outdoors. By junior year, I focused on water and wastewater treatment — a discipline that combined environmental purpose and outdoor involvement and that aligned well with my strengths.
What is life like as a civil engineer in Alaska? Can you give us a peek into the projects keeping you busy?
I now work with CRW Engineering Group in Anchorage, where I'm deeply involved in drinking water and wastewater projects. Most are for communities located off Alaska’s road system. These projects aim to provide piped water and upgraded sewer systems where none previously existed.
For one project, in Aniak (with a population of 539), we are interviewing residents and evaluating existing wastewater lagoons. Another project in Napaskiak (with a population of 563) has our team designing a new water treatment and distribution system and upgrading their wastewater collection and treatment.
My focus is on wastewater treatment design — upgrading lagoons and systems so that these communities can move from hauled water and “honey buckets” to having safe, reliable water and sanitation. The impacts, which include healthier lifestyles and clean drinking water, are clear and deeply meaningful.
Moving from Virginia to Alaska is quite a leap. What drew you there and what has life been like for you in Alaska?
It all began in August 2021 when I submitted a few applications to Alaska engineering firms - almost on a whim. I received an offer quickly and was in Alaska just six weeks later. I started in environmental consulting, which was a tremendous learning experience, but eventually transitioned to a design role with CRW Engineering Group, one of my former clients. My manager in my current position, Ryan Moyers '98, is also a Hokie.
Outside of work, Alaska has been an incredible fit. I grew up in Marion, Virginia, and love outdoor hobbies like hunting, fishing, and backpacking. Anchorage has a community of people who love rugged adventure and camaraderie. I also found deep community through work, church, and my home life — and I got married this past June.
From a professional standpoint, Alaska is full of opportunity. Civil engineers are scarce, which makes the local demand high.
When you were sitting in class at Virginia Tech, did you picture yourself doing the kind of work you do now?
Honestly, as a student, I would have been thrilled just to work on water and wastewater. I never could have imagined doing it in remote Alaska. My career has been anything but boring. I’ve met so many fascinating people and seen incredibly wild places. It’s been an unlikely, unforgettable adventure and I’ve loved every moment.
