Karen Purcell

Karen Purcell, P.E., is a dynamic engineer, entrepreneur, author and speaker. Karen draws from her personal and professional experiences to help women confidently pursue their interests in the science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) fields and build successful, fulfilling careers.

Born and raised in Harrisburg, PA, Karen’s journey began when she was a high school student and one of her teachers recommended that she take advantage of her strong math and science skills by considering a career in engineering. What began as a suggestion became a life-long passion for Karen, who went on to receive her bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering from Widener University in Pennsylvania.

In 1996 Karen founded her own electrical engineering company—PK Electrical, an award-winning engineering firm that specializes in providing innovative electrical lighting, power, and communication systems for public and private sector clients. Since its creation PK Electrical has provided quality design for more than 3000 projects in 11 states as well as Guam, and has been honored as a five-time finalist on the “Best Places to Work” lists.

During her journey from engineering student to business owner, Karen has become all too familiar with the disproportionate number of women in engineering and the complex factors that contribute to the gender imbalance. Her desire to support girls and women entering her field led her to pen the book Unlocking Your Brilliance: Smart Strategies for Women to Thrive in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math and to share her knowledge as a highly respected speaker on the topic of women in STEM.

Outside of her work in the business world, Karen is active in her community, where she serves as a Girl Scouts leader, a dedicated supporter of Big Brothers Big Sisters and a half marathoner who runs at least 40 miles per week. She currently resides in Reno, Nevada with her husband and two daughters.