Mae Whiteside Williams, Pe
About Mae Whiteside Williams, Pe
Mae Whiteside Williams serves as the Chief Executive Officer of CKL Engineers, LLC, where she has led the firm in high-profile projects and expanded its operations significantly. She is also active in various organizations, supporting women entrepreneurs and contributing to community initiatives.
Leadership at CKL Engineers, LLC
As Chief Executive Officer of CKL Engineers, LLC since 2009, Mae Whiteside Williams has played a pivotal role in expanding the firm from a one-person operation to a multi-disciplinary organization. Under her leadership, CKL has delivered services in aviation, construction management, and environmental services. The firm has been involved in high-profile projects such as the U.S. 41 South Lake Shore Drive Relocation and the EOWA Pine Dunes Wetland Mitigation. Mae actively participates in every project CKL undertakes, ensuring the firm establishes itself as a strategic partner to various agencies and AEC firms across the country.
Professional Experience
Mae Whiteside Williams has a diverse professional background. She served as the Young Professionals Liaison at the Airport Consultants Council (ACC) from 2022 to 2023. Additionally, she was a member of the Board of Directors at the Lawyers' Committee for Better Housing from 2019 to 2023. Her previous roles include working as an Assistant Project Manager for the City of Chicago from 2001 to 2006 and as a Design Engineer at PERI Formwork Scaffolding Engineering (Pty) Ltd for one year in 2000. Mae also contributed to the Museum of Science and Industry in Chicago as a member of the President's Council from 2019 to 2023.
Educational Background
Mae Whiteside Williams holds an Executive MBA from Georgia Tech Scheller College of Business, which she pursued from 2023 to 2024. She also earned a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from the Illinois Institute of Technology, where she studied from 1993 to 1999. This educational foundation supports her extensive experience and leadership in the engineering and construction sectors.
Community Involvement and Initiatives
Mae is actively involved in community initiatives, having founded the Women STEM Entrepreneurs Breakfast Club to support women business owners. She is also a member of the Lumen Cordium Society of the Archdiocese of Chicago and the Economic Club of Chicago. Her commitment to community service is evident through her efforts to deliver groceries and supplies to residents affected by Hurricane Ian in Fort Myers, Florida.
Presentations and Contributions
Mae Whiteside Williams has contributed to industry discussions, including presenting at the International Bridge, Tunnel and Turnpike Association (IBTTA) on the topic of 'Maintenance of Traffic During Construction Operations.' She has led discussions on driver education, minimizing incidents, and traffic safety technologies, showcasing her expertise and commitment to improving safety in transportation.