NWA Women in Business: Ali Karr
Residence: Tontitown
Education: B.S., biological engineering, 2018, University of Arkansas
Professional background: Karr started her civil engineering career at Crafton Tull eight years ago, where she is now a vice president leading an infrastructure team in the Rogers office. She is a licensed professional engineer and certified floodplain manager. Karr and her team at Crafton Tull are involved in a multitude of civil engineering projects in Northwest Arkansas, for both residential and commercial sectors.
What was your dream job as a kid, and why? I wanted to be a horse veterinarian. I grew up riding horses and wanted to spend as much time around them as possible. I developed a love for math and science through school, and that ended up translating better for me into engineering than animal science. I love what I do today, but I still ride as often as I can.
What inspired you to pursue the career you are in? My career is focused on land development and creating spaces for communities. I wanted to design and craft spaces that my family and friends would all get to use — like roads, parks, restaurants, shopping spaces and even the neighborhoods we live in. Civil engineering has allowed me to be a part of the design and development of the ever-changing landscape of Northwest Arkansas that I have always called home.
Who are the key types of people (mentors, sponsors, peers) you keep in your inner circle
to help you stay grounded and sharp? I have two or three mentors who have known me since college. These mentors have been in my life for more than 10 years now and have watched me through many stages of my life and career. They have a unique perspective on where I started and what I have become and offer great advice on how I can continue to grow, professionally and personally, and how I can make an impact. I think it is crucial to learn from others and have wisdom poured out onto you.
What advice can you offer to women who want a career in your industry? Take advantage of every opportunity you are given. Go on every site visit, be involved in every new project and use every opportunity to learn from others. This allows you to gain technical knowledge which in turn helps your confidence grow. Confidence and capability are critical, but it is also just as important to admit when you don’t know the answer and find advice or counsel from those who do.
What is the best leadership advice you have ever received? As a leader you are there for your team; they are not there for you. An effective leader is one who leads through service and whose main goal is to help others grow and empower them to reach their full potential.
How do you take care of yourself and maintain good mental health? I make it a point to turn off work whenever I get home and focus on the other aspects of life besides a professional — like a being mother, wife, friend. So much of our time during the day is devoted to work, clients and deadlines, but it is very critical to protect our identities and time outside of the office. Being refueled by playing outside with my kids, having dinner with my family, or enjoying a run by myself all help me come back to work the next day recharged and present.
What’s the best book you’ve read recently? “The Nightingale” by Kristin Hannah. Historical fiction novel set in Nazi-occupied France during World War II. It follows two estranged sisters and how they each survived and aided the Allied forces against German occupation. I love how a story can transport you in time.
What time do you wake up in the morning? Long before the sun, typically 4-4:30 a.m. Best time to get ahead on work for the day or go for an early run.
What’s the next big personal or career challenge you plan to take on? As I continue to grow and advance in my role at Crafton Tull, I want to be able to focus on growing the next generation of leaders. I want to shift from leading projects and a team to leading leaders of teams. The more individuals that can lead and lead effectively make teams strong and sustainable and allow the company to grow and be successful.