Marwa Ayad, project manager for the Utility Infrastructure Campus-Wide (UICW) project at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS), is leading efforts to upgrade and expand the airport’s utility systems as part of the broader Journey With AUS expansion program. Ayad, who holds degrees in electrical, civil, and geotechnical engineering, oversees infrastructure upgrades that will support new facilities such as the New Arrivals and Departures Hall and Concourse B.
According to Ayad, “The UICW project is the invisible engine behind the AUS expansion—upgrading and extending critical utilities to support the airport’s future growth.” She explained that her team is responsible for a range of components including stormwater drainage systems, chilled and hot water piping, medium voltage power distribution centers, power duct banks, telecommunication duct banks, and reclaimed water piping.
Ayad emphasized long-term planning in her approach. “We’re not just building for today- we’re laying the groundwork for the next decades of airport operations,” she said. The project aims to build redundancy into electrical and telecommunication systems to ensure reliable service. “We’re building redundancy, especially in electrical and telecommunication systems—to ensure uninterrupted service and resilience,” Ayad noted.
Environmental considerations are also a priority. “We’re integrating advanced stormwater and water quality management systems to mitigate environmental impact,” she stated. She added that features like water quality and deicing ponds are designed both to protect local ecosystems and support airport functions.
As part of preparing for construction, Ayad manages teams collecting subsurface data using hydro excavation—a non-destructive method involving pressurized water—and boring drills for material sampling. These activities provide accurate information needed for installing new utility infrastructure across campus.
Coordination with other projects is a key challenge due to ongoing expansions at AUS. Ayad meets regularly with various Austin Aviation departments to align utility work with terminal expansions, roadways, and other facilities. She said, “One of the most complex aspects is coordinating with other AUS Expansion and Development projects—ensuring our utility work aligns with terminal expansions, roadways, and other facilities.”
Ayad acknowledged that much of this work happens behind the scenes but directly benefits travelers through improved climate control, reliable power supply, and smoother operations throughout the airport. “While passengers may never see these systems, they’ll feel the benefits—better climate control, reliable power and smoother operations across the airport,” she said.
Engagement with stakeholders forms another core aspect of her role. “I believe in engaging stakeholders early and often—before decisions are made—so they feel heard, informed, and empowered. This approach builds trust and reduces surprises especially in a dynamic environment like an active airport,” Ayad explained.
Summing up her objectives for UICW’s development phase—which is currently underway—Ayad stated: “Our goal is to deliver a utility system that’s not only robust but also adaptable to future technologies and needs.” Construction on this foundational infrastructure is expected to begin next year.
