RENO, Nev. – The Discovery, Northern Nevada’s premier science center, announced today the appointment of Karen Purcell, founder, owner and president of PK Electrical, Inc., to its Board of Directors.
Purcell brings more than 30 years of leadership in engineering, business development and STEM advocacy to her role at The Discovery. As the leader of a thriving multi-state electrical engineering and design firm, she has dedicated her career to advancing innovation and creating opportunities for the next generation of scientists, engineers, and problem-solvers.
“We are honored to welcome Karen to The Discovery’s Board of Directors,” said Heather Norton, CEO of The Discovery. “Her passion for STEM education and her dedication to inspiring women and girls in technical fields perfectly align with The Discovery’s mission to spark curiosity and empower future innovators.”
Purcell founded PK Electrical in Reno in 1996 after beginning her career at a consulting firm in Las Vegas. Under her leadership, PK Electrical has grown to provide full-service design for power, lighting, communications and energy systems across commercial, educational, transportation and municipal projects in multiple states.
In addition to her business success, Purcell is a nationally recognized advocate for women in STEM. She authored “Unlocking Your Brilliance: Smart Strategies for Women to Thrive in STEM” and established annual STEM scholarships through the Nevada Women’s Fund to support women pursuing technical degrees. Her contributions to the community and the engineering profession have earned her numerous honors, including Entrepreneur of the Year, Most Influential Leader to Know and Philanthropy Hero.
“Joining The Discovery’s board is an opportunity to help expand access to hands-on STEM learning and empower young people, especially girls, to see themselves as future engineers and innovators,” said Purcell. “I believe that early exposure, mentorship and curiosity-driven learning can change lives and strengthen our community.”
Purcell also serves on the Nevada Board of Professional Engineers and Land Surveyors, the Sage Ridge School Board and the JUSTin Hope Foundation board, where she continues her advocacy for inclusion, opportunity and education in Northern Nevada.
Outside of work, Purcell enjoys running and spending time at Lake Tahoe with family and friends.
For more information about The Discovery, visit nvdm.org.
# # #
About The Discovery
The Discovery creates interest and engagement in science for all. Through unique, hands-on programs, exhibitions and events, The Discovery creates learning experiences that range from simple curiosity to deep understanding, empowering a community of critical thinkers. The Discovery is a locally founded nonprofit 501(c)3 organization. To learn more about The Discovery and how you can help support the museum’s mission, visit www.nvdm.org.
