Brittany Fiema

Brittany Fiema, Detroit, Senior Principal, Mechanical Engineer

“A serendipitous conversation at a backyard barbecue helped me find my future,” says Brittany.  Just weeks before she headed to Penn State, a party guest steered her toward exploring the architectural engineering program where she earned her degree. “Fate and good fortune aligned for me when President Barack Obama visited our program’s research labs to support a clean energy future.” A decade later, Brittany’s work integrates her passion and expertise in sustainable building systems: the award-winning net-zero energy Administration Building at the historic Edsel and Eleanor Ford House, the first geo-exchange utility plant at the University of Michigan and speaking engagements across the country on decarbonizing campuses and cultural institutions. Brittany is a past president of the Detroit Chapter of ASHRAE and recognized as a Top Woman to Watch in HVAC by Engineered Systems Magazine. When Brittany is away from her screen, family is her main focus. She, her husband, and two young daughters enjoy long weekends in Northern Michigan, Detroit’s variety of museums, and Michigan’s local summer concert series.

20 to Watch: Women in HVAC — Brittany Fiema

Since 2019, Engineered Systems has honored 20 of the industry’s leading ladies through 20 to Watch: Women in HVAC. Learn more about Britanny and why she was selected for this award in 2024.  

Flexing with the Fiemas: Hybrid Work, Life & Balance 

In this video, Brittany and Justin Fiema — a mechanical engineer and architect super-duo (did we mention that they’re also married?) — share a bit about how SmithGroup's flexible scheduling and hybrid work options enable their family to balance professional and personal responsibilities with ease.