Our Friend

We stop to celebrate the life of Michelle Motchos – our colleague and friend. A proud graduate of Virginia Tech, Michelle is remembered for her work and commitment to the Columbia community. From volunteering at Midlands Technical College and Mathcounts to serving as a volunteer judge for VEX Robotics, Michelle touched the lives of those around her.

"I've had the opportunity to work with the most gifted professionals throughout my career. Leaning on the shoulders of a stronger person gives you a certain amount of confidence - confidence you just can't learn by yourself."

"Michelle's dedication to her career and to the engineering profession set her apart from her peers. Her love for the Columbia community, coupled with her stellar work ethic showed not only through her professional resume but also through her extensive community involvement."

– Keith Branham, PE, LEED AP, Principal – Director of Engineering

Michelle was involved in both the National and the SC Council of Structural Engineering Associations, the American Society of Civil Engineers, and the National Society of Professional Engineers.

Michelle received the 2018 Engineer of the Year Award at the South Carolina Society of Professional Engineers (SCSPE) Conference. That same year, she was also named Engineer of the Year by NSPE's Columbia Chapter.

Serving the Community

Heavily involved with Mathcounts, Michelle mentored students as they discovered their passion for engineering. “Science is cool and something all kids should find enjoyable," said Michelle. "Students often find math (and science) challenging. Mathcounts shows the fun in math and how we use it in our everyday lives." In addition to Mathcounts, Michelle worked with Palmetto Parrotheads, Columbia Hookies, and the Columbia Museum of Art.

"It's important to invest in future talent through mentoring and in promoting a larger conversation around equity and inclusion so that others find the same rewarding opportunities I had."

– Michelle Motchos, PE, LEED AP BD+C

MICHELLE'S MOST MEMORABLE PROJECTS

Darla Moore School of Business

National Bean Market Museum

James E. Clyburn Research Center

Florence County Judicial Complex

York County Government Center

CaroMont Health Freestanding Emergency Care Center

“I am deeply grateful to those who have supported me over the last two decades. As engineers, we strive to better the lives of the communities we serve."

– Michelle Motchos, PE, LEED AP BD+C

Your family at Stevens & Wilkinson is forever grateful for your love, friendship, and many professional accomplishments. You will always remain a part of our family.