When you think of a boutique, what pops into your mind? Probably not a civil engineering firm, but Powers Hill Design is just that – small, homegrown and offering something you can’t get anywhere else.

This nontraditional approach to engineering is very reflective of co-founder and president Nisha Powers. Born in India, she came with her family to the United States when she was 9 years old and grew up mainly in upstate New York. Although she conformed to her family’s wishes to major in engineering, she says she felt “boxed in” – so she decided to take some time away and return to India for intensive training in classical Indian dance. “During that time, I realized that I DID love engineering and wanted to go back to it. I just needed to come to that decision on my own,” she says.

With strong faith and a determination to carve out a different route, Nisha is making strides in the engineering world, one typically dominated by men. And along the way, she’s received countless recognitions, including Tri-State Defender’s Woman of Excellence Award, UPN 30 News’ Phenomenal Woman Award, the Ruby R. Wharton Outstanding Community Service Award and a “Top 40 Under 40” recognition from Memphis Business Journal. We are excited to introduce this trailblazer as our newest FACE of Memphis!

To read the complete story by Gaye Swan - A freelance writer, mom of twins, avid traveler, and local foodie, Gaye loves meeting new people and bringing their stories to life, go to: https://styleblueprint.com/memphis/everyday/nisha-powers/