Announcing Our New Principals
We are pleased to introduce the 2025 class of new principals: Joanna Pyun, Charlie McGowan, and George Howe. Each has demonstrated exceptional leadership, innovative contributions to the industry, and unwavering dedication to AEI, our partners, and clients.
Please join us in celebrating their achievements and this next generation of firm leaders.
Joanna Pyun, PE
Joanna joined AEI’s San Francisco office in 2017 as a piping engineer, bringing extensive technical expertise and a client-focused approach. She has played a pivotal role in decarbonization efforts such as the Big Shift at UC Davis, the Clean Energy Campus at UC Berkeley, and Lawrence Berkeley National Lab’s electrification. Joanna has been instrumental in advancing sustainable energy solutions as the leader of AEI’s San Francisco Mechanical Group and an Energy & Utilities Market Leader. Her ability to foster strong client relationships and drive impactful projects is a key contributor to our success in the West Coast energy market. Joanna’s innovative mindset and commitment to sustainability continue to shape AEI’s approach to future energy challenges.
Charlie McGowan, PE
Charlie joined AEI in 2010 as a mechanical engineer in the Phoenix office, contributing to healthcare, science and technology, and aviation projects before transitioning to the energy and utilities (E&U) market. He has played a pivotal role in complex projects such as the University of Arizona Cancer Center, Banner University Medical Center’s central utility plant (CUP), and Valleywise Health Roosevelt Campus’ CUP. As an E&U Market Leader, Charlie has significantly expanded AEI’s presence in the Desert Southwest and West Coast. His work emphasizes energy efficiency, renewable energy, and sustainability. Charlie’s technical expertise, project management skills, and commitment to client success will continue to drive exceptional project outcomes.
George Howe, PE
George joined AEI's Chapel Hill office in 2004, specializing in energy and utilities and focusing on hydraulic and thermal stress analysis modeling. He expanded his expertise into master planning, design, and construction administration for large-scale utility plants and distribution systems across the nation. With two decades of experience, George has played a key role in the design and implementation of utility infrastructure for major university campuses and complex utility master planning projects. His technical leadership, collaborative approach, and ability to build long-lasting client relationships have been integral to AEI's success with clients such as the University of North Carolina, University of Virginia, and Northwestern University. George’s innovative solutions and dedication to mentoring team members continue to drive AEI’s growth and reputation in the industry.