Samantha Patke 

A conversation in high school with an engineering major settled Samantha’s career. “I was always good with math and science, and when a family friend sat down to tell me about mechanical engineering, I thought, ‘Yes, this is exactly what I want to do,’” she recalls. More recently, when a client project presented her with the opportunity to take a leading role on mechanical design and coordinating with outside consultants, she discovered a knack for project management. Pivoting seems to come easily to Samantha. An avid softball player (and a regular on the SmithGroup team), Samantha broke her arm on the field one day. Her response? “I took up crocheting,” she responds. “I was told I would not be able to play sports for at least nine months, so I needed a new hobby.” It remains a favorite pastime, along with baking. “I’ve always wanted to open a bakery/café to incorporate my love of coffee and baking,” Samantha explains. “I’m told my chocolate chip scones are to die for.”