Vision Breeds Innovation
More than just sisters, URBANPORT Co-Founders Meghan Beach and Kara Johnson share a strong passion for challenging the norm to find new and innovative ways to maximize savings and value for their clients. Both embody a growth mindset and undeniable eye for using creativity to translate goals into results. URBANPORT was born of this vision.
Meghan brings a strong background in commercial construction and a commitment to sustainability - Kara, an extensive passion and knowledge for aviation and emerging electric charging technologies, along with patent pending technology. Together, the two have created URBANPORT to serve as a high-performing firm that not only offers clients high-touch service, but also fills a void in the local market for growing transportation needs without increasing noise and air pollution.
Meghan Beach, LEED AP BD+C, CSI CDT, Co-Founder
Meghan brings 28+ years of experience focused on all aspects of commercial construction from early design to preconstruction, construction management, post-construction and relationship development. Having worked for general contractors, design-build firms and building product manufacturers, she brings a unique, wholistic understanding of the process that allows her to provide strong owner representation and capital projects management. She is known for her ability to create dynamic teams and is well versed in the associated nuances and challenges with navigating complex projects in the current market.
Meghan is an active member of CREW Charlotte and the Hospitality and Tourism Alliance (HTA) and holds volunteer board positions with CSI Charlotte (Construction Specification Institute) and Iredell Health Foundation. She brings a passion for developing meaningful relationships in the industry and growing and mentoring the next generation. In her free time she enjoys gardening, cooking, hiking and 'glamping' with her husband Eric and their two children, Alexandra and James.
Education: Bachelor of Science in Building Construction Management, Purdue University
Kara Johnson, Co-Founder
Kara is a Part 107 Unmanned Aircraft General FAA Pilot with 20+ years of product development, technical sales, and patent and prototype engineering experience. She is an innovative and forward thinking engineer with a passion for integrating process improvement into multiple markets, including aviation, automotive, thermal solar, injection molding and pulp/paper industries. Her experience extends to multiple Fortune 500 companies, including Chrysler Automotive, Dow Chemical and General Electric.
Kara's passion for aviation extends to her full family, with husband Terry, also a pilot and their two daughters - one studying Biomedical Engineering at Florida State University and the other a rising senior studying Aerospace Engineering at University of Florida. Both are pursuing their pilot licenses.
Education: Bachelor of Science, Mechanical Engineering, Purdue University
By The Numbers
20+
Years Commercial Construction Experience
Fortune 500
Professional
Experience
25+
Years Product Development, Patent/Prototype Engineering
FAA UAG Pilot
Part 107 Unmanned Aircraft General FAA Pilot