2021 40 Under 40: Kristen Butts, PE, LEED AP, 39

Associate Principal, Altieri Sebor Wieber LLC; MAE, Penn State University

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

Butts is a talented engineer who has a natural motivation to think, design and lead outside the box. She uses her gifted eye to look for the optimal solution in every situation and has a continuous drive for excellence, vision and innovation. Butts has a thorough knowledge of all trades, a deep interest in architecture and a resolute goal to deliver the best results for the firm’s clients. Her favorite projects are the ones that provide a challenge in terms of architectural integration. She believes creative solutions are often needed to support architectural integrity and the architect’s vision. Her comprehensive knowledge of all MEP trades, valuable architecture acumen, uncommon ability to convey the importance of the successful integration of engineering systems within the overall architectural scope and vision and natural inclination to dig deeply into design challenges to find innovative ways to resolve underlying issues have made her an invaluable resource to her clients. Butts’ contributions are also felt throughout the firm, ensuring that clients are not the sole beneficiaries of her knowledge and talents. She is captain of the firm’s education team and a member of the marketing and business development team. She also has led Altieri’s participation in an employee engagement survey for the past three years. When not working, Butts spends time with her family, dedicates herself to yoga and running and is an avid reader of fiction and nonfiction books that challenge and entertain, much like her work life.