Sorensen helps visualize construction’s future

Mariya Sorensen is spurring innovation in the construction industry with every project she undertakes.

As an integrated-construction coordinator at Mortenson Construction’s Milwaukee office, she uses augmented- and mixed-reality technology to visualize how engineering plans will work in the physical world.

“AR and MR models allow users to see the space layered with graphics in full scale,” Sorensen said. “Walking and interacting with the space gives customers an additional understanding of what the space will look and feel like before it is constructed and allows more input in the design phase.”

These technologies also help field workers monitor projects to learn if they are proceeding according to plan.

“Mariya’s persistence and passion for driving innovation helps her and her team meet new challenges and achieve innovative success,” said Mark Peterson, integrated-construction manager at Mortenson. “Mariya helps the team think ahead, plan smarter and leverage technology to improve our construction processes.”

Sorensen is now working on the Dwight and Dian Diercks Computational Science Hall project at the Milwaukee School of Engineering. The job led her to develop a full-size augmented-reality model and virtual-reality renderings, which were presented to those who attended a groundbreaking ceremony held for the project.

Praise for that event resulted in augmented reality also being used for the John Michael Kohler Art Center’s new Art Preserve.

Sorensen said she always knew she wanted to work in engineering. She majored in modeling and the computer design of electronics at the Belarusian State University of Informatics and Radioelectronics in Belarus. After she moved to the U.S., she earned a second degree in architectural technology from Milwaukee Area Technical College.

“While in college I realized construction was the one thing that I wanted to do,” Sorensen said. “I love the challenges that every day brings and the reward of seeing the accomplishments at the end of the project.”

Sorensen now works with high school and college students interested in construction careers. She said it’s some of the most important work she does.

“Through mentoring, I support and encourage confidence of young girls, which may help increase diversity within construction,” Sorensen said. “I always tell other women that no matter what your passion is, there’s a place for you in construction.”