Meet the Changemakers

Meet the Changemakers

Patrick Mette

WASH Program Manager

FUN FACTS

He ran cross country and sang in choir in high school.

His dungeons and dragons character is way cooler than him.

Patrick's story is about passion, dedication, and a desire to make a difference. As a licensed Civil and Environmental Engineer, he has focused his expertise on water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH), a field that directly impacts the lives of millions.

His dedication to WASH extends beyond professional pursuits. Since 2008, Patrick has volunteered on international development projects, demonstrating a long-standing commitment to using his skills to help those in need. This passion eventually led him to leave the private sector in 2023 and dedicate himself full-time to the mission of EIA.

Patrick's childhood memories paint a picture of an adventurous spirit. He cherished exploring his surroundings with friends, a trait that continues to fuel his love for outdoor activities like hiking, backpacking, and climbing. Yet, Patrick also possesses a strong intellectual side, enjoying reading, science fiction, and board games.

While he finds fulfillment in various aspects of his work, Patrick identifies mentoring and teaching future engineers as the most rewarding experience. Witnessing their growth and contribution to the field brings him immense satisfaction. However, a touch of humor emerges when he mentions his unique accomplishment: winning a mechanical bull riding contest two years in a row at the Arizona Water Association Conference.

Patrick's current dream is to witness the significant expansion of EIA's WASH program in Eswatini. He envisions it reaching the same scale and impact as the organization's established bridge program, highlighting his unwavering commitment to improving access to essential resources and empowering communities.

Patrick's journey from a curious explorer to a dedicated WASH advocate demonstrates the power of passion, dedication, and a desire to leave a positive mark on the world. His story inspires those who seek to combine their professional expertise with a commitment to making a difference.

“Go confidently in the direction of your dreams. Live the life you have imagined.”

-Henry David Thoreau

We're passionate about our people – here's their path in Engineers in Action!

  • 2023

  • Matfuntini Primary WASH Project in Eswatini

  • The Golden Compass by Philip Pullman