From Early Career to Expert: Meet Sarah Kuchera

Sarah Kuchera started her career with ccrd partners (now WSP) in 1997 after graduating from Kansas State University with a degree in architectural engineering. From the Dallas office, Sarah moved into healthcare projects, with her first major challenge being the George Washington University Hospital project as lead electrical engineer. Over the years, Sarah managed several hospital projects, became studio lead in Dallas and eventually partner. When ccrd partners joined WSP in 2014, she took on larger roles, including overseeing the property and buildings team in California in 2016 and then leading national initiatives, leading to her current position as the U.S. strategic planning leader. Her journey reflects a pattern of stepping into challenging roles and a dedication to mentorship—both learning from seasoned leaders and guiding those earlier in their careers.

Can you describe a pivotal moment or project that significantly advanced your expertise?

Throughout my career, I've often found myself stepping into roles unexpectedly for various reasons, and each time the support from my colleagues was crucial. Sometimes, I lacked confidence initially, but knowing I had a safety net allowed me to stretch and grow. One memorable mistake was mis-specifying a transformer, which led to a costly error. I remember going home just almost in tears. I feared the worst, but my team reassured me, emphasizing that everyone makes mistakes and learns from them. This support taught me professionalism and resilience. Now, I strive to create a safe environment for others to learn and grow, understanding that failure is part of the journey.

How have you seen the organization evolve since you started? And how has this impacted your career development?

So many things have changed. When I started, my lens was small. The expansion of WSP has opened countless avenues for professional development and impactful work. I often share with newcomers that while they may be early in their careers, the leadership opportunities here are immense. Our ability to tackle planet-changing challenges excites me, and I’m continually amazed by the potential for future growth and the incredible projects we can undertake together.