KLH Engineers Promotes Patrick Fernbach and Katie Lemler to Key Leadership Roles
Kohrs Lonnemann Heil Engineers, Inc. (KLH Engineers), a nationally recognized mechanical, electrical and plumbing (MEP) engineering consulting firm, announced the promotion of two long-tenured leaders in support of the firm’s strategic growth and evolving project delivery capabilities.
Patrick Fernbach, PE, WELL AP, has been appointed progressive delivery market practice leader, a newly established role focused on advancing design-build and integrated project delivery approaches while supporting overall market growth. Katie Lemler, PE, has been promoted to director of mechanical engineering, succeeding Fernbach and continuing KLH’s commitment to technical excellence, leadership development and team advancement.
Fernbach joined KLH as a cooperative education student in 2013 and was named a principal in 2023. In his new role, he will lead the firm’s progressive delivery efforts, strengthening collaboration with contractor partners and advancing strategies such as design-build delivery, design for manufacturing and installation (DfMA), and supply chain integration. He is a frequent speaker on mechanical systems design and lean practices and has presented for organizations including the American Institute of Architects (AIA) Cincinnati, the Lean Construction Institute (LCI) Ohio Valley Community of Practice, the Design-Build Institute of America (DBIA) Ohio Valley Region, and the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE). Fernbach holds a Bachelor of Science in mechanical engineering from the University of Cincinnati.
Lemler, a member of KLH since 2014, will lead the firm’s mechanical engineering department, overseeing design innovation, staffing strategies and professional development initiatives. She has played an active leadership role within KLH’s EMERGE employee resource group and the firm’s Leadership Development Program, supporting efforts to foster an inclusive culture and develop future leaders. Lemler is a member of ASHRAE and the American Society of Plumbing Engineers (ASPE) and holds a Bachelor of Science in mechanical engineering from Purdue University.
“It has been a privilege to watch Patrick and Katie grow into respected leaders within KLH and the broader AEC industry,” said Matt Debevec, chief operating officer of KLH Engineers. “Their promotions reflect our long-standing commitment to developing talent from within while positioning the firm to deliver integrated, high-value solutions for our clients.”
About KLH Engineers:
Founded in 1955, KLH Engineers is nationally ranked among leading mechanical, electrical, plumbing and technology engineering firms. The firm leverages advanced building information modeling and proprietary technology solutions to deliver innovative, value-driven designs across the civic, education, healthcare, hospitality, lifestyle, industrial, retail and workplace markets.
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