2020 40 Under 40: Deborah Reider, PE, LEED AP, 39

Reider is a design leader who started as a mechanical engineer at AKF before growing into a project management role, supervising all MEP design on assigned projects and eventually becoming the partner in charge of AKF’s Midwest presence. Reider gained respect for remaining diligent and detail-oriented with each client through project completion and offering tailored solutions across sectors. One of Reider’s most notable projects was managing the renovation and expansion of Westminster Presbyterian Church in Minneapolis. She succeeded in ensuring MEP systems supported the vision and intended uses for the space while maintaining the splendor of the church’s original gothic architecture. Built in 1897, the church is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. An innovative, ecological rainwater harvesting system was introduced, the first in Minneapolis to use stormwater to flush toilets. This project exemplifies many of Reider’s skills and her passion for leveraging emerging technologies in projects she works on; she has a special passion for finding sustainable design solutions. Because Reider was a former high school participant in the Society of Women Engineers’ student camp, she has volunteered with SWE’s day camp and Girls Excelling in Math and Science program, leading activities and giving presentations. Reider also has been on the ACE Twin Cities Advisory board, Board of the American Council of Engineering Companies Minnesota since 2018 and is a member of the ACEC Workforce Development Committee. She also greatly enjoys devoting her free time to volunteer opportunities, especially when she can mentor a young engineer or student. Outside of work, she loves spending time with her husband and three daughters.

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