2021 40 Under 40: Kim Pierson, PE, PMP, LC, LEED GA, 33

Assistant Project Manager, Dewberry; MS, Civil Engineering, Kansas State University

By Gary Cohen, Chris Vavra and Amara Rozgus May 17, 2021

Pierson has pursued an interdisciplinary approach to engineering throughout her career. She began with a focus on the design of building systems, including MEP systems. She quickly became proficient in many aspects of sustainable engineering and building performance, including comprehensive energy modeling, code compliance, Revit/BIM management and design. A self-professed jack-of-all-trades, Pierson is most interested in energy audits, facility management and planning for the life of a building, including its equipment and systems. She enjoys assisting clients in understanding how to optimize the building life cycle and where to best allocate funds for repairs, upgrades and new construction. Pierson’s seven years of interdisciplinary experience have made her a versatile team member on a range of projects, including new construction and complex renovations for buildings of all sizes and functions. She has been active in ASHRAE throughout her career and won the 2020 Young Engineers in ASHRAE Developing Leader Award. Away from the office, she enjoys time with her family, including her husband, who serves in the Army and 4-year-old son. They spend at least 20 minutes a day building with Legos, one of Pierson’s childhood passions. She also enjoys traveling, taekwondo, animal welfare and running. She has completed more than 35 5K, 10K and half-marathon races. Pierson is currently learning Korean because her husband will soon be stationed in South Korea for a year.