Q+A with Shannon Reichow

How do you describe your job to people outside of the industry?

I design mechanical systems for buildings, which requires knowing many facets of design and construction: piping, plumbing, HVAC, fire protection, and controls. For young school-age children, I just tell them we “make the air” for their classroom.

Why did you decide to become an engineer?

I went through school for social work before I switched over to engineering. I joke that my abnormal psychology classes help me understand my peers better. I originally started in our industry as an application engineer for Johnson Controls designing DDC controls and building management systems. I found myself trying to fix mechanical design errors with controls often enough that I decided to get involved at the beginning of the project where I could make a bigger difference.

How would you describe life at Ghafari?

Busy, challenging and fulfilling. You never know what type of project is going to cross your desk. The people here are top notch and I am grateful to have the privilege to work with so much talent, young and senior alike.

What is the most exciting thing that has happened during your time here?

I visited both Japan and South Korea to learn more about variable refrigerant flow systems, meet with the suppliers’ engineers, and tour the factories there.

What is a key idea or lesson you have learned while working at Ghafari?

Our industry is a team sport. No one person can do this alone. Know your assets and work together to get the job done.

How do you like to spend your free time?

Fishing, going to horse-related events, beautifying the log home with my husband, and spending time with my mom, three-month-old grandson Kayce and daughter Ashlea. I enjoy watching most professional sports and am still a Detroit Lions fan most days.