Senior Principal, Mechanical Engineer, SmithGroup; BAE, Pennsylvania State University
Driven by a passion for sustainability and innovation, Fiema applies sound engineering principles to develop complex HVAC systems that provide resilient, reliable and cost-effective solutions that impact all aspects of thermal comfort, occupant health and energy efficiency for buildings. Fiema works with notable clients and institutions across the country to deliver a range of projects spanning building types and industries. One of her most notable projects is the $34 million, 57,000-square-foot visitor center and administration building for the historic Edsel and Eleanor Ford House in Grosse Pointe Shores, Michigan. As lead mechanical engineer, this complex, high-profile project provided a unique opportunity to bridge her experience working with cultural institutions with her passion for sustainability. Her passion for sustainability is seen in her role as an account manager for the U.S. Department of Energy’s Better Climate Challenge, the next generation of President Obama’s original Better Buildings Initiative. In this role, she works with 12 partners in the multifamily, public and commercial sectors that have committed to reducing their carbon emissions by 50% over the next 10 years. Fiema is a volunteer instructor for SmithGroup’s Exploring Post program, which gives inner-city high school students from across Detroit the opportunity to learn about career paths in the design and engineering field. Outside of work, Fiema is active within the local engineering community. She served as president of the ASHRAE Detroit Chapter from 2022 to 2023 and is a member of the U.S. Green Building Council’s Market Leadership Advisory Board. A mom to two young girls, Fiema and her family enjoy traveling, going to concerts and taking care of their axolotl, Ray.
