Employee Spotlight: Christine Shea, Lead Mechanical Engineering Associate

A member of the Kohrs Lonnemann Heil Engineers, Inc. (KLH Engineers) since 2016, Christine Shea serves as lead mechanical engineering associate in the commercial studio. Her areas of expertise include the design of mechanical systems and heat and mass transfer phenomena—such as piping and duct systems of chiller, boiler and air handling plants—as well as energy management, ventilation, indoor air quality and temperature controls. Christine holds a Bachelor of Science in mechanical engineering from the University of Tennessee.

What led you to a career in engineering?

I have always been interested in figuring out how things work. Once you know how something works, you can find ways to build upon it or improve it. Engineering allows me to combine creative design and problem solving to create new systems or improve on existing ones. Engineering is a space where lifelong learning and advancement is encouraged and valued, which is a great fit for curious minds.

What is one of your most memorable projects at KLH?

One of the most memorable projects for me has been the Rumpke corporate office. I was involved from the start, helping the owners choose which HVAC system type would be best for their building. Since they plan to occupy this building for a long time, choosing an efficient system that would last was a high priority. It became the first chilled beam design I had done and was a great learning experience during the engineering, design and construction phases.

What do you enjoy most about working at KLH?

Working at KLH gives me an opportunity to work on a wide variety of projects across business segments including commercial, civic, healthcare and education. KLH is also committed to redefining what it means to be an MEP consultant. Beyond consulting our owners to make the best decisions for their building, we are also developing new ways to communicate those engineered designs to the contractor. Working closely with contractors and helping close the gap between our floor plans and what they need to order and install in the field has added valuable insight into how to design for cost and time efficiency.

You serve on the Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Cincinnati’s Young Professional (YP) Board. How long have you been involved with the organization? What inspired you to join the YP Board?

My little sister, Ka’Niyah, and I have been matched for over seven years now. In addition to the amazing relationship I have built with her, I have also been on the YP board for about four years. Being a Big has had a huge impact on my life, and hopefully on hers as well. Joining the board gave me an opportunity to support the entire organization and promote others to join the program as Big mentors.

What do you like to do in your spare time?

I love to be outside and active; hiking with my husband and son is a favorite. I also like to make things, whether it’s projects around the house, cooking, baking, or sewing.