Forty Under 40: Steven Beam, 31

Fort Smith native Steven Beam grew up working for his father, a general contractor, during the summers, which led to an interest in engineering.

“I enjoyed the construction industry and I decided I enjoyed air conditioning at the same time,” he said.

He earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees in civil engineering from the University of Arkansas, and recently completed his MBA at John Brown University. Beam began working part time at Crafton Tull while working on his first master’s.

He now leads the civil engineering and survey group in the firm’s Rogers office, where he is responsible for business development and profitability for the two departments.
Beam said his goal is to do his part to make Crafton Tull the premier choice for architecture and engineering services in Northwest Arkansas.

When he’s not working, Beam lends his time to several organizations, including the Washington County Republican Committee and Northwest Arkansas Emerging Leaders, and teaches a Sunday school class.

Beam is involved in youth sports in Springdale, and enjoys seeing kids benefit from learning about teamwork.

His advice to others is to find ways to get involved and make a difference.

“Don’t be afraid to take leadership positions,” he said. “And don’t be afraid to make suggestions for improvement.”