2023 40 Under 40: Gavin Stewart, PEng, 34

Associate, Senior Mechanical Engineer, SMS Engineering; BS, Mechanical Engineering, University of Manitoba

By Consulting-Specifying Engineer May 15, 2023

“We need another Gavin” is the phrase commonly used when hiring at SMS Engineering. Initially hired to help with plumbing design, Stewart quickly became proficient in HVAC, fire and hydronics. Stewart is often requested by clients. His personable style is easy to spot, but most impressively, it is his ability to address complex challenges with cost-effective, user-friendly solutions that amazes clients and other designers. He is dedicated to the SMS team, to his profession and to the consulting engineering industry. He possesses a rare talent of being a brilliant designer and businessperson who can apply solutions so the client and company benefit. He’s dedicated to his client base, ensuring they receive the service and return on investment needed. Stewart has been assigned to many renovation projects for his ability to imagine possibilities and then figure out a way to achieve the intended results. His work on the RBC Convention Centre Expansion & Redevelopment challenged him in combining a massive existing structure to that of a new build. Stewart has also been part of many health care renovation projects ranging from air handler replacements to large additions. An active volunteer in the ASHRAE Manitoba chapter, Stewart has served in all the executive positions of the Manitoba Board of Governors since 2012, including president. He also has presented at various conferences. Volleyball has been a passion since high school and he still plays on two teams. In his spare time, he listens to a variety of music types. He is married and has one young daughter.