Successor Steps Up as Design Alaska President
Photo Credit: Design Alaska
With the departure of Chris Miller as President after twelve years with Design Alaska, the Fairbanks-based engineering firm is promoting Emily Winfield as his successor. Winfield takes the helm of a fifty-five-member staff providing architecture; structural, civil, mechanical, fire protection, and electrical engineering; landscape architecture; surveying; and commissioning services.
Winfield had been leading the firm’s Mechanical Department. Eleven of her twelve years as a licensed professional mechanical engineer have been with Design Alaska. She has led the design of a wide range of projects, including healthcare and recreational facilities, utility distribution systems, and projects in remote locations throughout Alaska. Her client experience spans private industry, municipal, state, and federal agencies, as well as nonprofit organizations.
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February 2026
Winfield holds a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from the University of Waterloo in Ontario, Canada. Before pursuing her engineering career, she earned a bachelor’s degree in political science and psychology from Saint Mary’s University in Nova Scotia. As a Certified Commissioning Authority and Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design Accredited Professional, Winfield is committed to sustainability and believes sustainable solutions must be both practical and resilient.
As Miller transitions into retirement, he is stepping into a supporting role. Jeff Putnam continues as Vice President, leading Business Development and Operations and supporting Winfield. The Mechanical Department gets a new leader, with Marcus Curley earning the promotion.
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