College of S.T.E.M. Alumni Spotlight: Hugo Angeles

Originally from the Peruvian Andes, Hugo Angeles came to the United States nearly 30 years ago to pursue educational opportunities. After earning a Civil Engineering degree from the University of Nebraska nearly two decades ago, Hugo Angeles moved to Southern Utah to work in geotechnical engineering. Recognizing the complexity of the region's geology, he returned to school to pursue a degree in Geology and transferred to SUU. With the help of Dr. Robert Eves, Angeles completed the remainder of his coursework and graduated Magna Cum Laude in Geoscience from SUU in 2020. Recently, he earned a master's degree in Geological Engineering from Missouri University of Science and Technology, further strengthening his technical foundation.

One of the most influential experiences during Hugo's time at SUU was his discovery of his passion for structural geology. The field labs at Red Hill were particularly transformative, offering him hands-on opportunities to interpret complex geological features from a structural perspective. Studying such dynamic geology so close to campus solidified his interest and helped shape his future career path.

Angeles also credits the SUU faculty for their unwavering support throughout his studies. Just one example of this is Dr. Jason Kaiser, who had a great impact on Angeles' academic journey by offering consistent encouragement and support, all while helping him balance a demanding schedule that included full-time work at a consulting firm in St. George.

Currently, Angeles serves as a Geotechnical Manager at Landmark Testing and Engineering, a consulting firm based in St. George that has supported projects across Utah, Arizona, and Nevada for nearly 30 years. In this role, he oversees project feasibility and risk analysis, applying geological principles gained through his education. As a licensed Professional Geologist in Utah, Angeles has been with the company for five years and continues to build on his expertise. He plans to begin a PhD program at Missouri University of Science and Technology that focuses on Geophysics and Remote Sensing, fields that play a critical role in modern geotechnical consulting.

Angeles also teaches Engineering Geology courses at Utah Tech and online through Missouri S&T because of his passion for education and mentorship. He is also committed to supporting the next generation of professionals by helping facilitate internship opportunities at Landmark Testing and Engineering, giving students valuable exposure to the consulting side of geotechnical engineering. If you are interested in applying geological science in the construction and engineering industry, contact Hugo at hugo@landmarktesting.com.

SUU's Walter Maxwell Gibson College of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (CSTEM) offers diverse programs that are supported by over 100 dedicated faculty and staff members focused on student-centered and experiential learning. The College hosts an annual Research Symposium and maintains specialized centers like the Ashcroft Observatory, the SUU Water Lab, the Frehner Museum of Natural History, and more.

Tags: College of STEM Alumni

Contact Information

Brooke Heath
435-586-5400
brookeheath1@suu.edu