We are thrilled to announce that Kathryn Sarnecki, PE has been named the 2024 Engineer of the Year by MnSPE. This prestigious recognition celebrates her significant contributions to the engineering profession, her commitment to public health, safety, and welfare, and her tireless advocacy for STEM education.
Kathryn’s achievements extend far beyond engineering. She holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees in engineering, a PE license, and is also a certified Real Estate Broker. Her professional portfolio includes:
- Chief Development Officer of the St. Paul Port Authority, where her leadership continues to drive economic growth and innovation.
- Regularly testifies before the legislature, advocating for impactful changes in engineering and community development.
- Serves on the Board of the St. Paul Chamber of Commerce.
- Featured in a TPT 2 program, where she shared her expertise on the Mississippi River, showcasing her commitment to environmental and public projects.
Kathryn’s dedication to MnSPE spans more than 20 years, during which she has played an instrumental role in shaping the organization as a past MnSPE President. Notably, she stepped up seamlessly when leadership transitions required her to serve additional terms, ensuring that MnSPE’s mission continued without interruption.
Her service extends into multiple facets of the engineering profession, particularly in her role as a passionate advocate for STEM education. Through MATHCOUNTS, MnSPE’s STEM outreach program, Kathryn has:
- Been a consistent role model for young girls involved in the program, inspiring them to pursue careers in engineering.
- Played a crucial role in helping MATHCOUNTS adapt during the pandemic, ensuring the program’s success through a well-attended return to in-person events.
- Contributed as a member of the MATHCOUNTS Executive Committee, further advancing opportunities for middle school students who excel in math.
Kathryn’s advocacy emphasizes fostering the next generation of engineering talent, all while showing young students what is possible with dedication and passion.
Please join us in congratulating Kathryn Sarnecki, PE, on receiving the MnSPE 2024 Engineer of the Year Award! Her commitment to the engineering profession, community leadership, and advocacy for education shows in all she does.