Amy Pitcher – Miron Construction

When Amy Pitcher graduated from college in 2008, jobs in the construction industry were scarce.

The housing bubble had burst, banks were collapsing and companies were laying off employees. The economic turmoil during this time period would become known as the Great Recession.

Pitcher, who earned a dual bachelor’s degree in civil engineering and mechanical engineering, took the first job that became available at a company called Kiser Hydro. As a project engineer/project manager, she took care of the field services work and mechanical components for hydroelectric dams.

When the company was sold, Pitcher was recommended to Miron Construction for her niche knowledge base in this arena. Since 2017, Pitcher has been Miron’s resident hydropower expert, with her main role overseeing mechanical maintenance and installation work with hydroelectric dam projects.

Her focus has been on equipment removal, rebuilding and reinstalling turbine units, and tainter gate work. Pitcher is well known in the hydropower industry due to her industry expertise in hydroelectric-type components and turbines, which is one of her biggest strengths and what sets her apart from other industry professionals.

“Clients respect Amy’s transparent communication style, blend of civil and mechanical engineering prowess, and trustworthiness — she gets the job done,” said Lindsey Sirianni, marketing coordinator for Miron.

“She has the ability to make owners feel comfortable, while also bringing technical recommendations about their facility they hadn’t considered before. Her down-to-earth attitude and calm, driven demeanor ensure clients enjoy the experience of working with her and continue to come back with more of their projects.”

Pitcher said that the challenges in her work vary from day to day.

“Sometimes challenges I face are having difficult conversations with clients or subcontractors, resolving conflicts between parties or successfully completing the scope of work,” she said. “Whatever the challenge is, I try to keep an open mind to overcome and work through it.”