New Member Spotlight: Molly Pethick

Please join us in welcoming Molly Pethick as a new member to CREW Northern Virginia! 

1. Describe your current position.
As a Mechanical Engineer in GHT's Interiors Studio, I contribute to the transformation of existing spaces by designing innovative, efficient mechanical systems for interior renovations and tenant improvement projects. My role involves evaluating existing building conditions, performing HVAC calculations, coordinating with architects and multiple disciplinary project teams, and ensuring that existing building systems align seamlessly with new design concepts.

I currently support projects for the National Science Foundation in Alexandria, VA, and Marymount University, experiences that have allowed me to engage directly with clients, conduct site visits, and collaborate with some of the industry’s most accomplished professionals. These opportunities have strengthened my technical skills while reinforcing one of the things I enjoy most about engineering: working as part of a collaborative team to bring solutions to life and help shape spaces that better serve their users.

As I continue to grow professionally, I am focused on expanding my technical expertise, earning my Professional Engineer (PE) license, and developing as a leader in the industry. I am currently preparing for the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam, an important milestone in my career. With each project, I look forward to taking on new challenges, learning from those around me, and contributing to designs that make a meaningful impact.

2. Describe your career history.
I have approximately three years of industry experience and have been fortunate to gain exposure to several areas of engineering throughout my career.

My first internship was with D.W. Kozera, Inc., a geotechnical engineering firm in Baltimore, MD, where I worked with Shana Opdyke-Carroll, a former president of CREW Baltimore. Through Shana, I was introduced to CREW and began attending industry events early in my professional journey.

The connections I made through CREW helped me secure my second internship with BKM, Inc. as a Mechanical Engineering Intern. The following summer, I joined Havtech as an Estimating Engineering Intern, where I gained additional exposure to the mechanical engineering industry.

With Shana's encouragement, I applied for and received a CREW Network Foundation Scholarship through CREW Baltimore. As a scholarship recipient, I attended the 2025 CREW Network Convention in Austin, TX, where I met Anya Walker, Growth Manager at GHT and President-Elect of CREW NoVA. That connection ultimately led to my full-time position at GHT.

Looking back, CREW has played an important role in my professional development and has helped shape many of the opportunities I've had throughout my career.

3. What attracted you to CREW NoVA?
What initially attracted me to CREW was the opportunity to connect with successful and influential women across the commercial real estate and AEC industries.

As a student and young professional, I attended CREW events and found myself surrounded by business owners, executives, presidents, and other accomplished leaders. It was inspiring to meet women who had built successful careers and were willing to share their experiences and advice.

I wanted to be part of an organization that encouraged professional growth, meaningful relationships, and mentorship. CREW gives me the opportunity to learn from accomplished professionals, expand my network, and continue developing as an engineer and future industry leader.

4. Name a woman that inspires you and why.
One woman who inspires me is Jacinda Ardern, the former Prime Minister of New Zealand. I had the opportunity to hear her speak at the 2025 CREW Network Convention, and her story left a lasting impression on me.

What inspired me most was her honesty about leadership and responsibility. She spoke about stepping into a role she had not originally expected to hold and having the courage to lead despite uncertainty. During her time as Prime Minister, she also navigated the challenges of motherhood while leading an entire country.

She championed policies that supported working families and working mothers, while also leading New Zealand through significant challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic. Her example showed me that women do not have to choose between having a successful career and having a family. Seeing someone lead with strength, empathy, and authenticity reinforced my belief that it is possible for women to excel in both their professional and personal lives.

5. Tell us about yourself, your family, or a fun fact!
Outside of work, I love spending time outdoors. Some of my favorite activities include hiking and snowboarding, and I'm always looking for opportunities to explore new places.

I also enjoy traveling and have visited several countries, including Spain, Iceland, Singapore, and Peru. One of my favorite destinations has been Alaska. During that trip, I experienced some of the most incredible scenery and wildlife I've ever seen. I went on a boat tour where I saw puffins, whales, and orcas, and I even had the chance to observe grizzly bears in one of Alaska's national parks.

Traveling allows me to experience different cultures, challenge myself, and create unforgettable memories, and it's something I hope to continue doing for many years to come.

Connect on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/molly-pethick/