Smita Shah

Smita Shah is the Founder and CEO of SPAAN Tech, Inc., an architecture, engineering, and project management firm with 20+ years expertise in public and private infrastructure projects including transportation, aviation, facilities, and telecommunications systems. She has an extensive business and technical background, earning her Bachelor of Science from Northwestern University, a Master of Science in Civil and Environmental Engineering from M.I.T., and a Post Graduate Certificate in Management Studies from Oxford University.

In recognition of Ms. Shah’s leadership and commitment to the community, she was appointed by President Biden to the President’s Commission on Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders. Additionally, she serves on the Board of the Museum of Science and Industry and as a Trustee of the Lincoln Academy of Illinois and the Harris School Council at University of Chicago. She was the recent past Vice Chair of the Chicago Plan Commission, supporting the development of this great city for the past 14 years. In addition, Ms. Shah serves on the board of MacLean Fogg Company and is a member of the audit committee. She is a Co-Chair of Young President’s Organization (YPO) Chicago, and a member of the Economic Club and Commercial Club of Chicago.

Ms. Shah has received numerous recognitions for her business and civic work, including from Crain's Chicago Business (40 Under 40, Notable NonProfit Leader), American Society of Civil Engineers, and the American Consulting Engineers Council. She served as a U.S. delegate for the APEC Women and the Economy Forum (WEF), and is a recipient of the congressionally recognized Ellis Island Medal of Honor.