Katherine Newell Godwin
Katherine Newell Godwin is a seasoned civil engineer with over a decade of experience specializing in structural fieldwork, land surveying, and now civil engineering design. Since beginning her career in 2013, Katherine has developed expertise in creating detailed civil engineering plans and designs, including pump stations, water lines, and other infrastructure projects. Currently, she serves as Design Manager at Hanna Engineering, LLC in Florence, South Carolina, where she also mentors and trains new team members.
Katherine’s passion for engineering stems from a lifelong curiosity about math and understanding the mechanics of how things work. She finds the most rewarding part of her job is seeing her plans come to life—particularly projects related to residential construction, which hold a special place for her.
Her technical skills include Civil 3D, AutoCAD, and 3D CAD modeling, with experience spanning structural steel detailing and land survey drafting. Throughout her career, she has worked with several companies, including LandCAD LLC, Stokes Plumbing & Trenchless Sewer Repair, Ervin Engineering Co Inc, and Cartee-Berry & Associates, LLC.
Katherine earned her Associate of Science degree in Civil Engineering Technology from Florence-Darlington Technical College. Her professional philosophy centers on continuous learning and growth, embracing the idea that in engineering, there is always more to discover and master.
Outside of work, Katherine enjoys spending time with her four pets: two dogs, Reese and Winston, and two cats, Felix and No Name. She also volunteers through her church, reflecting her commitment to community and service.
• Florence-Darlington Technical College - AS
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to the support of my family and the guidance of good bosses and coworkers. Their encouragement and collaboration have been invaluable throughout my career, helping me grow both personally and professionally. Having a strong support system has made all the difference in staying motivated and reaching my goals.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering engineering is to always keep learning and growing. You can never know everything, so stay curious, be open to new experiences, and keep pushing yourself to develop both your skills and confidence.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges I’ve faced is finding balance, especially as a woman in engineering. When I was in school, I was only one of two women in my program, which felt isolating at times. But over the years, being one of the few women has become more normal to me—I’ve learned to embrace it and use it as motivation to keep pushing forward.