2016 40 Under 40 Honoree: Steve Prange, 34

For Steve Prange, leadership can be demonstrated in a variety of ways. The regional office manager for engineering firm Crawford Murphy & Tilly Inc., has shown leadership through professional and civic engagement. His involvement includes serving on the board for the Ozarks chapter of the Institute of Transportation Engineers; working as a member of the local executive committee for the Design-Build Institute of America; and serving on the United Way of the Ozarks Campaign Committee. His contributions also include professional publication in Roads & Bridges Magazine. And he’s just getting started. So far, the 34-year-old already has been involved in projects valued at over $250 million.

What was your first job? My first job was in the agricultural business detasseling corn during the summers for Cargill and Pioneer.  

What is your theme song? “Don’t Stop Believin’,” by Journey.

When did you realize you had grown up? When Dad handed me my first car insurance bill.

What was your professional “aha” moment? I started to see beyond the project in my work on the Morgan Street assignment in Rockford, Ill. That experience forever changed my approach and appreciation for people who take chances and commit themselves towards something bigger than the status quo.   

What do you miss most about the 1990s? It’s got to be a tie between: My Reebok pump shoes with the basketball color pump and my Green Bay Packers Starter jacket.

What historical figure do you identify with most? Ronald Reagan. I grew up near his hometown of Dixon, Ill.