As a child, Steph loved playing with Legos® and helping her dad, who was a carpenter, with construction projects around the house in her hometown of Mullen, Nebraska. Originally interested in architecture, she soon realized that she was better at math and science than sketching. When she learned about architectural engineering, it was a natural fit — allowing her to design buildings, but focus on the engineered systems within the building. Steph then went on to get her Master of Architectural Engineering from the University of Nebraska.

What Steph loves most about her engineering career is the opportunity to impact others — it may be a building that will provide much-needed jobs, bring the arts back into a community, or add essential educational spaces. Steph enjoys making a difference in her community — both locally and nationally. She uses her LEED accreditation and expertise as a mechanical engineer to design building systems that are better for the environment, prioritizing energy efficiency and sustainable design.

As a principal at Alvine Engineering, Steph encourages relationships, both professional and community, through the projects she works on. For example, after working on a project that renovated a rundown building for a local nonprofit, Together, she helped Alvine Engineering establish a lasting relationship with the organization. The firm now partners with Together throughout the year to provide volunteer opportunities that support the community.