Ms. Zhijun “Erica” Lei graduated from Colby College in Maine with a BA degree in Mathematics and Environmental Science in 2020, completing her studies during the Covid-19 pandemic. She began her career in education, teaching at Grand River Academy and Spire Academy in Ohio, where she built strong mentoring skills and a commitment to supporting students from diverse backgrounds. While teaching, Erica was accepted into Stanford University and earned her MS degree in Civil and Environmental Engineering, deepening her interest in sustainable infrastructure and community-centered design.

In 2023, she joined AECOM as a water and wastewater conveyance engineer. She obtained her California Professional Engineer (PE) license in 2025. She now works at California DOT (Caltrans) as a transportation engineer, contributing to projects that enhance safety and mobility across the region. As an active member of ASCE, Erica currently serves as Secretary and incoming Vice President of the San Francisco Section's Younger Member Forum, and as Student Outreach Committee Co-Chair for the ASCE Golden Gate Branch. In these roles, she helps create programs that support students, early-career engineers, and community engagement.