Carolyn Hardy Olsen

Hall of Fame Class of 2014


B.S. Civil Engineering, 1963
M.S. Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, 1976


Carolyn Hardy Olsen was born in 1941 in Cheyenne, Wyoming and graduated from St. Mary’s High School.
Carolyn Hardy Olsen
She obtained her bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering at the University of Wyoming in 1963 and California professional engineer license in 1967. She interrupted her career to participate in the Global Smallpox Eradication Program in Liberia 1967-70 and India 1975-77, providing her with an awareness of global environmental and health issues. Her career elevated the profile of women in public works, environmental projects, and water and wastewater management. She encouraged women and minorities to pursue work and education in non-traditional fields.
  • Carolyn served in the Cabinet of Mayor Andrew Young, City of Atlanta, as Commissioner of Water and Wastewater, managing a staff of 1200.
  • She was the Assistant General Manager for the San Francisco PUC managing the operations of the water, wastewater and power systems.
  • She served as Vice President of the Water Programs for Brown and Caldwell and Manager of Civil and Infrastructure Services for Kennedy/Jenks consultants.
  • Carolyn was President of the non-profit international organization, Water for People.
  • She served on the boards of the National Academy of Science, Water and Technology, Water Environment Federation, American Water Works Association, National Drinking Water Advisory Council, Metropolitan Water Agencies and Metropolitan Wastewater Agencies.