Even in high school, Jayme Klecker enjoyed a logical approach, navigating a linear path from challenge to solution. With a career spanning over two decades, Klecker’s journey into engineering was driven by his passion for mathematics and problem-solving, traits he honed early on in his academic pursuits at North Dakota State University, where he earned both his BS in Civil Engineering and MS in Environmental Engineering.
Having joined AE2S in 2012, Jayme brought with him a wealth of experience, including serving as the Environmental, Health, and Safety Manager at Wausau Paper for seven years. His transition to AE2S coincided with the boom in the Bakken oil fields that propelled AE2S into a period of significant growth.
Reflecting on his career, Jayme cites AE2S’s dynamic environment and collaborative spirit as key factors that have fueled his professional growth and satisfaction. “AE2S has never been afraid to take on a challenge and turn that challenge into an opportunity, to both try and grow the business but also to provide new opportunities for employees,” he says. “It’s a high-energy workplace. People like to get things done, but they also like to celebrate their successes together and enjoy each other’s company.”
Jayme is particularly enthusiastic about AE2S’ approach to mentoring, which allows him to both mentor younger engineers and learn from their fresh perspectives. He’s been an integral part of AE2S wastewater work for more than 12 years and that isn’t changing. But Jayme is ready to wear multiple hats in his expanded role and looks forward to ramping up focus on the AE2S Industrial Practice.
“Jayme’s industry experience, motivation, and technical acumen along with his deep commitment to providing top-notch client service make him exceptionally well suited to lead AE2S into expanding in the industrial client market,” said Jeff Hruby, PE, AE2S Chief Development Officer. Klecker’s appointment as AE2S’s inaugural Industrial Practice Leader marks a significant milestone in the company’s evolution.
Throughout his career, Jayme has been involved in several landmark projects, including pioneering the first construction management at-risk (CMAR) project in North Dakota and serving as Engineer-on-Record for South Dakota’s first municipal membrane bioreactor wastewater treatment plant. These projects not only showcase AE2S’s technical expertise but also highlight his ability to innovate and deliver exceptional results.
Outside of his professional achievements, Jayme remains active in various professional organizations, having served as the past President of the Minnesota Wastewater Operators Association and maintaining memberships in the Water Environment Federation and Society for Protective Coatings. His dedication to professional development underscores his commitment to staying at the forefront of industry advancements.
Beyond work, Jayme enjoys exploring the natural beauty of northern Minnesota, indulging in outdoor activities such as fishing on Gull Lake, where he once reeled in a notable 28″ walleye. As a recent empty nester, now that his son and daughter have graduated from University of Wisconsin schools, he looks forward to travel and future adventures, including a planned visit to Munich’s Oktoberfest in 2025.
