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 Master’s degree 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 11 years of energy modeling experience with a number of energy simulation software packages including 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, the building programming, and the architectural design aspects of the building in addition to the mechanical operation.”
Kate is active professionally with the St. Paul Public Schools Construction and Technical Education Advisory Council, and the Society of Women Engineers Outreach Committee because she enjoys sharing her love for engineering with the next generation. Mother of three, she also volunteers with youth engineering outreach activities at church and keeps the building’s HVAC system running efficiently.
