#Eweek2025 Spotlight | Samantha Joyce
Artistically inclined to deliver expert structural design.
For National Engineers Week 2025, we’re sharing stories from Cushing Terrell’s engineering talent to learn more about how they chose their profession and what makes them tick.Â
Who (or what) inspired you to become an engineer?
Growing up, I took art classes and have always been artistically inclined. At the same time, I excelled in math and enjoyed problem-solving. Structural engineering felt like the perfect blend of both worlds as it not only requires technical precision but also a creative, artistic mindset. I believe structural engineering is an art form in itself; we need to have spatial awareness to bring an architectural vision to life while ensuring the integrity and functionality of a structure.
What is your area of expertise and why did you choose it?
I’m a structural engineer primarily for high-end custom residential and multifamily projects. These types of projects align well with my artistic side and, because they’ll be someone’s home, they tend to be more personal. With homes, there’s often structural detail that’s more intricate and complex. I also love working with wood, which is a very creative and flexible detailing material.
Tell us something about the field of engineering that is surprising or not common knowledge.
Structural engineering isn’t just about running calculations all day. While math and analysis are important, a huge part of the job involves creative problem-solving, collaboration, and big-picture thinking with a strong team of talented architects, contractors, and other engineers to bring a client’s vision to life — all while balancing aesthetics, functionality, and safety. There’s a lot of satisfaction in seeing a design evolve through teamwork.
What things can you not help but engineer in your life?
I love exposed structures in both older and newer buildings, especially exposed wood elements. I often find myself mentally analyzing their connections — how beams, columns, and fasteners come together — not just from a structural standpoint, but as an art form. There’s something beautiful about the way materials interact, and I appreciate it when engineering is showcased rather than hidden.
What piece of advice would you give a young person interested in becoming an engineer?
Find a mentor and learn as much as you can. Engineering is a constantly evolving field, and having someone to guide you can make a huge difference in your growth. Ask questions, seek out hands-on experience, and never stop being curious. The more you expose yourself to real-world problem solving, the better prepared you’ll be to tackle challenges in your career.
Sam at a Glance
- Structural Engineer
- Living in Missoula, Montana
- Defining characteristics: Detail-oriented, analytical, creative, collaborative
- Interests: Loves spending time outdoors with her husband (also an engineer), fishing, backpacking, camping, hiking, cross-country skiing, and packrafting. Gardening is another passion of Sam’s as well as cooking/baking (currently really into cupcakes). Most of all, she’s excited to share adventures and hobbies with her soon-to-be one-year-old!
Sam shares her love of gardening by bringing in fresh flowers to the Missoula office.
Samantha, husband, and daughter on baby’s first camping trip in Glacier National Park.
