Erika Winters Downey

Erika Winters Downey is a seasoned professional in the structural engineering and sustainability sectors, currently serving as the Director of Structural Quality & Sustainability at Clayco since June 2025. In this role, Erika leads structural peer reviews and quality processes while championing sustainability initiatives to reduce embodied carbon. Concurrently, as Associate Principal and Director of Sustainable Structures at Lamar Johnson Collaborative since February 2023, Erika leverages expertise in design and construction to guide project teams on structural and sustainability challenges, with a strong emphasis on data-driven solutions. Previous roles include Senior Engineering Manager at McCownGordon Construction, Regional Engineer at the American Institute of Steel Construction, and Staff Engineer positions at Halvorson and Partners and Wallace Engineering. Erika holds a Master's degree in Civil Engineering and a Bachelor's degree in Architectural Engineering, both from The University of Kansas.