Celebrating Excellence in Engineering with Kyra Kothawala
Discover the inspiring journey of Kyra Kothawala, a distinguished engineer recognized as a 2024 EC&M 30 Under 30 All-Star, and learn how her passion, dedication, and leadership are shaping the future of engineering at Commonwealth Associates.
In the constantly evolving world of utility engineering, it takes a unique blend of passion, skill, and dedication to stand out. One such shining example is Kyra Kothawala, a brilliant engineer at Commonwealth Associates who has been honored as a 2024 EC&M 30 Under 30 All Star. This prestigious accolade, awarded by Electrical Construction & Maintenance (EC&M) magazine, highlights young professionals who are making significant strides in their fields while celebrating young engineers and professionals who show exceptional leadership, innovation, and contributions to the industry. Kyra's accomplishments make her a deserving recipient. This award is a testament to her hard work, creativity, and impact in her field.
Kyra’s Calling: Engineer in the Making
Kyra epitomizes the innovation and dedication celebrated by the EC&M 30 Under 30 achievement. Her inspiring journey and career insights offer a profound look into her path. Kyra's academic journey began at the Math and Science Center in Kalamazoo, where she simultaneously attended Portage Northern High School. Her participation in a high school robotics team sparked her passion for engineering, giving her early exposure to problem-solving and teamwork, which became the bedrock of her future career. After high school, Kyra found her fit at the University of Michigan receiving her bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering. For Kyra, engineering transcended a mere career choice; it became a calling, shaped by her formative high school experiences and a drive to make a tangible impact. Motivated by the opportunities to innovate, tackle complex problems, and contribute to meaningful projects, she fully immersed herself in the engineering field.
What began as an internship quickly evolved into a full-time position in Commonwealth’s Power Generation department as a Mechanical Engineer. "Commonwealth provided such a supportive environment," Kyra recalls. "From day one, I was entrusted with real-life projects, which made me feel like I truly belonged and accelerated the development of my practical skills and experience."
On top of her daily roles and responsibilities, Kyra is an active champion of diversity, equity, and inclusion at Commonwealth. As the lead chair of the Diversity Council’s Community Committee, she fosters an inclusive environment where individuals feel safe expressing their opinions. Reflecting on her time at Commonwealth, Kyra credits the Diversity Council’s efforts as a key reason for her continued commitment to the company. She appreciates the company’s dedication to creating a collaborative workspace that aligns with her personal goal of promoting diversity and inclusion in the industry. She also appreciates the flexibility of remote work, which complements her adventurous spirit.
Turning Passion into Profession
Kyra's passion for her work shines through in her enthusiasm for the unique challenges and diversity each project brings. She finds immense satisfaction in bringing ideas to life. Her role continually offers opportunities for learning and growth, and she is currently expanding her skillset into project management.
Looking ahead, Kyra aspires to make significant contributions to the engineering field, take on more leadership roles, and mentor the next generation of engineers. Reflecting on her career journey, she emphasizes the importance of perseverance and a growth mindset in navigating her professional path successfully. When asked what advice she would give to her younger self and other aspiring engineers, Kyra says, "Don’t be afraid to ask questions, enjoy learning, and take initiative."
Celebrating Excellence
Kyra's story is a powerful example of passion, determination, and hard work in the utility industry, inspiring aspiring engineers and professionals. Her recognition as one of EC&M’s 30 Under 30 All-Stars highlights her well-deserved accomplishments. Celebrate Kyra's achievement with us, highlighting the incredible talent and potential in the engineering community.
Inspired by Kyra's journey? Learn more about how Commonwealth Associates is shaping the future of engineering. Contact us today.
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