Samantha Koch

Samantha Koch works in environmental engineering with a focus on green infrastructure. She earned a civil engineering degree after initially pursuing mathematics and finance but seeking greater impact. Her interest grew through an environmental chemistry class and learning about sustainable urban changes such as trees in road medians. She attributes much of her success to her parents and support system as well as motivation from being in a male-dominated field and a desire for more than basic necessities. Koch values accountability, responsibility, and honesty above all. She advises being open to every opportunity in business interactions and encourages young women entering the field to be a sponge, learning everything possible. Current challenges she notes include public disconnect on sustainability needs, reluctance to invest in sustainable options, and political shifts affecting regulations and job security. A key mentor is Raven, a structural engineer and former internship boss known for her engagement and expertise.