From the Editor

Architecture and Engineering: Form and Function
Winter solstice has passed and now in February we’re butting up against the Spring equinox, which means every day is getting just a little bit longer. While most Alaskans are thrilled with this slow march toward long (oh, so long) lingering summer days, I find myself already missing the resplendent, frigid days of winter. I love everything about winter in Alaska—the sparkling ice fog; soft, fluffy snow; the way the evening light turns the white landscape a soft pink; and most of all long, cozy evenings at home with my candles lit, a warm blanket on my lap, and a good book by my side.

I fully appreciate that part of the reason I’m able to enjoy winter the way I do is because of decades of engineering innovations that have ultimately helped to provide me with a warm, structurally sound building to call home. For years upon years, engineers have been developing smarter design and construction methods to create safe, functional spaces. When we add in the art of architecture, those spaces become beautiful and even inspiring, so whether we’re at home or at work we can meet our potential in beauty, safety, and comfort.

Coincidentally, February is when the nation celebrates engineers with EWeek. This year’s theme, Pioneers of Progress, is particularly fitting for the Last Frontier.

Kathryn Mackenzie

Kathryn Mackenzie
Managing Editor, Alaska Business

For years upon years, engineers have been developing smarter design and construction methods to create safe, functional spaces. When we add in the art of architecture, those spaces become beautiful and even inspiring.
For many, the highlight of EWeek in Alaska is the awards banquet—this year being held on February 22 at the Egan Center in Anchorage—at which the Engineer of the Year is announced. (Get to know the seven 2019 nominees in the Architecture & Engineering special section.) Speaking of engineer of the year, we’d like to take a moment to recognize the 2018 Engineer of the Year, Amy Mestas, a registered civil and structural engineer who works as a senior associate at PDC Engineers leading the company’s structural engineering group. Mestas has thirteen years of structural engineering experience and eight years of multi-discipline project management experience. She’s worked on many important projects across the state, one of her favorites being the new freshman dormitory for the University of Alaska Southeast.

Thank you to Mestas and all the architects and engineers who make living in Alaska luxurious and comfortable—all year round.

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