Dr. Kara Boyles became the City of South Bend’s first female city engineer in January 2017, bringing extensive experience from her background in both the public and private sectors. She has played an integral role in South Bend’s comeback by spearheading some of the largest infrastructure projects in the City’s history. To date, Kara has overseen more than $120 million of infrastructure and development projects in South Bend. While the mayor is the face of South Bend’s revitalization, Kara is one of the key team members leading behind-the-scenes efforts to make it happen.
As city engineer, she oversees the development, design, construction and inspection of all public works and capital improvement projects. Kara joined the City in 2014, serving as the first deputy director of public works for two years, before taking on the role of city engineer. Prior to the City, Kara served as the assistant city engineer for the City of Elkhart and a project manager for American Structurepoint. She managed environmental engineering projects for cities throughout the state of Indiana.
A registered professional engineer in Indiana, Kara is a member of the American Society of Civil Engineers, Society of Women Engineers, Water Environment Federation and the American Association of University Women. She also teaches a teaches a community-based project leadership course at the University of Notre Dame. Kara received the 2020 ATHENA award from the South Bend Regional Chamber of Commerce for her career success, community service and for actively assisting women in their achievement of professional excellence and leadership skills.
Beyond her career, Kara is a mother, wife, mentor, fitness instructor and servant leader, participating in several church’s mission trips. Most impressively, her fellow co-workers and partners describe her as fierce, quick on her feet and courageous. She creates a positive, collaborative work culture built on trust and balance where people can grow and thrive.
Kara holds a doctorate in engineering from the University of Notre Dame. She earned a Master of Science and Bachelor of Science in civil engineering from Bradley University. She is currently pursuing her Masters of Business Administration at Indiana University South Bend.