Kate’s father was a food and agriculture engineer. Inspired by his love of problem solving and dedication to improving the way systems work, she pursued a similar career path. She graduated with her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in mechanical engineering from UW – Madison, and then worked as a lecturer in the Mechanical Engineering department for a year, teaching the Energy Systems and Mechanical Measurements labs. She then joined KFI as an energy simulation engineer responsible for energy modeling services.
She now has over 19 years of energy modeling experience with a number of energy simulation software packages including Carrier HAP, TRNSYS, Trane TRACE, EnergyPlus, and EES. She focuses on building load calculations, and energy code compliance work for the commercial mechanical department, identifying ways buildings could run more efficiently. She considers both the mechanical and energy use aspects of a building, but also the building’s use and purpose. “I try to see the building operation from the owner’s perspective and to understand their needs. I need to understand the building programming and the architectural design aspects of the building in addition to the mechanical operation.”
Mother of three, Kate enjoys sharing her love for engineering with the next generation. She volunteers with youth engineering outreach activities in Saint Paul Public Schools, the Roseville Area School District, and at her church. She also volunteers at her church to help keep the building’s HVAC system running efficiently.
