Why do we take infrastructure for granted until something goes wrong?

In this episode of On the Surface, Seth Stevens and Jordan Janet sit down with Dustin Boatwright, Chief Engineer of the Little River Drainage District and Vice Chair of the Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission, to explore the systems, investments, and leadership that shape our communities every day.

Dustin shares his journey from growing up around heavy equipment in Southeast Missouri to leading one of the largest drainage districts in the United States and helping guide transportation policy across the state. Along the way, he offers a behind-the-scenes look at how infrastructure projects are funded, built, and maintained—and why they matter more than most people realize.

They explore:

• How the Little River Drainage District transformed Southeast Missouri from swamp land into one of the most productive agricultural regions in the country
• The role infrastructure plays in economic growth, public safety, and quality of life
• How major flood events have shaped modern flood control systems and transportation networks
• Why Missouri has become a national leader in delivering large infrastructure projects
• The challenges of transportation funding and planning for future growth
• What it takes to lead through adversity and make decisions that impact generations
• Why long-term thinking and investment are critical for building stronger communities

From drainage systems and highways to leadership and public service, this conversation reveals how some of the most important work in our lives often happens behind the scenes—and why investing in the future requires vision, courage, and a willingness to do the right thing.

If you're interested in engineering, infrastructure, leadership, or the future of Missouri, this episode offers a fascinating look at the people and projects that keep our communities moving forward.

Thanks for listening!

Check us out:

deltacos.com

Instragram

LinkedIn