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MAY/JUNE 2016 1 May/June 2016 GETTING UP CLOSE WITH DRONES IS YOUR FIRM READY FOR TAKEOFF? GOING BEYOND THE BLUEPRINT HOW BUILDING INFORMATION MODELING IS TRANSFORMING THE INDUSTRY

Transcript of Engineering Georgia - See Page 34

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MAY/JUNE 2016 1

May/June 2016

GETTING UP CLOSE WITH

DRONES IS YOUR FIRM READY FOR TAKEOFF?

GOING BEYOND THE BLUEPRINTHOW BUILDING INFORMATION MODELING IS TRANSFORMING THE INDUSTRY

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2 ENGINEERING GEORGIA

2

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MAY/JUNE 2016 3

TABLE OF CONTENTS

20

28

20 GETTING UP CLOSE WITH DRONES

26 GOING BEYOND THE BLUEPRINT

34 MERGERS AND ACQUISITIONS

58WE'VE GONE DIGITAL!

Visit EngineeringGA.com to read and share this issue.

40

6 THE PULSE

40 PROFILES

42 STRATEGIES

48 ASSOCIATION NEWS

58 ENGINEERS BEYOND THEIR CAREERS

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EDITORIALBOARD

CHAD BECKER Kimley-HornJEFF CORBIN Parsons

STEPHANIE DAMMEN-MORRELL Hussey Gay BellERIK M. GRANDOWSKI CPSM, Pond & Company

RICHARD D. “RICK” GURNEY P.E., Keck & Wood, Inc./ASCE GeorgiaBETH HARRIS CPSM, United Consulting/SAME Atlanta Post

JENNIFER HEAD ACEC GeorgiaJENNY C. JENKINS P.E., McGee Partners, Inc./ASHE GeorgiaBRIAN O'CONNOR P.E., T.Y. Lin International/ASHE Georgia

JOHN PIERSON Georgia Tech Research Institute/ASCE GeorgiaMICHAEL PLANER P.E., PES Structural Engineers/SEAOG

BILL RUHSAM P.E., PTOE, Michael Baker International/ITE GeorgiaJACK SEIBERT P.E., GEF

THOMAS TRUE P.E., Rochester & Associates, Inc.BILL WELLS ITS Georgia

MALIKA REED WILKINS Ph.D., State Road & Tollway Authority/WTS AtlantaLISA S. WOODS P.E., HNTB Corporation

PATTI ZACHARY Heath & Lineback Engineers, Inc.

Publisher: Michael “Sully” Sullivan

Editor-in-Chief:Sasha Ugi

Managing Editor:Nikki Welch

Creative Director | Designer:Sabrina Tongren

www.in8-design.com

Contributing Editors:Ellen BermanKasie BollingLori JohnstonJeff Mitchell

Contributing Photographers:Christine Hall PhotographyJustin Evans Photography

Accounting & Advertising Services Manager:Brittney Love

Advertising Sales:ACEC Georgia

233 Peachtree StreetSuite 700

Atlanta, Georgia 30303(404) 521-2324www.acecga.org

Send change of address to:ACEC Georgia

233 Peachtree Street, Suite 700, Atlanta, GA 30303or email [email protected]

Facebook.com/EngineeringGAwww.EngineeringGA.com

Engineering Georgia 2016 is published bi-monthly by the American Council of Engineering Companies of Georgia (ACEC Georgia) and its partner associations ASCE, ASHE, GEF, GSPE, ITE, ITS, SAME, SEAOG and WTS. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without

permission is prohibited.

In8 Design, ACEC Georgia, and its partner associations ASCE, ASHE, GEF, GSPE, ITE, ITS, SAME, SEAOG and WTS, as well as their

representatives, employees and agents, are held harmless from any claim, demand, liability or action on account of, or in any way arising out of, the client’s advertising, products and services, or its

participation in Engineering Georgia.Atlanta Post

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T he great philosopher Ferris Bueller once said, “Life moves pretty fast. If you don't stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it.” The same could be said of the speed of change in the trends and

technology that impact the business of engineering. The speed of this change can be daunting and there is a natural discomfort when the familiar way of doing things is disrupted. But, with disruptive change comes new opportunities. Firms that recognize this and embrace the opportunities offered by new technologies and business trends will have a distinct competitive advantage over those that fail to look around once in a while and miss them. The articles in this issue are focused on some of those changes.

In our cover story, we take a bird’s eye view of how commercial drones are already changing the way engineering and surveying

do many things that were either not possible or cost prohibitive to do before. Aerial photography, land surveying and mapping, environmental and safety inspections,

of the many applications in which drones are being used to get better, more useful information – and in many cases, less expensively than traditional methods. For all companies, providing better service to clients less expensively will always be a competitive advantage.

In addition, many people view Building Information Modeling (BIM) as merely a new technology – a way to take design information that used to be shown on 2D plans and render it in a 3D computer model that a client can virtually tour and use to suggest tweaks that lead to a better design. But in our second feature article, we learn that when properly applied, BIM is more than a technology; it’s a tool for upending the traditional linear model

and builder to work together collaboratively, rather than sequentially. Clients are starting to realize the cost, time and collaboration advantages

computer model, but as a collaborative process – will also have a new competitive advantage to offer their clients.

And, while these new technologies and industry standards emerge, mergers and acquisitions (M&A) continue to remain a fact of life in

gaining a larger geographic footprint or expanding their range of practice disciplines. But, ask anyone who has been through a merger and they will tell you that the compatibility of the two

been involved in both successful and unsuccessful mergers to share

reading for anyone who might be considering an M&A transaction.

Publisher’s | LETTER

Engineering Georgia

The last article I want to highlight is our spotlight on House Bill 943 (HB 943), which was signed into law by Governor

are not a topic that will make you a hit at cocktail parties (trust me, I’ve learned this the hard way), they are something that can have potentially far-reaching impacts on your business. We take some time in this “Business of Engineering” issue to explain what the new law prohibiting uninsurable broad form

Georgia led the effort to get this legislation enacted into law and we are proud of the positive impact it will have on the business climate for design professionals in Georgia.

Finally, I can’t end without mentioning the upcoming Georgia Engineers Summer Conference (to be held at Disney’s Contemporary Resort at Walt Disney World® Resort). Walt

Disney was not an engineer, but he did have his own engineering company, WED Enterprises, which

was owned by him alone, separate from the Walt Disney Company ( WED was acquired

by the company after Walt’s death and renamed Walt Disney Imagineering). At

WED, he assembled the best engineers and architects, as well as all of the other creative disciplines needed to turn his dreams into realities. His ultimate plan was for Walt Disney World® Resort to be the site of a futuristic “Experimental Prototype Community of Tomorrow” (Epcot®, for short) where people would

actually live, work and play and the latest technological innovations

would be incorporated, providing a model of transportation and urban

planning for other cities to follow. Although Walt’s version of Epcot® was never realized,

the version of Walt Disney World® Resort that did get built was still a monumental engineering and

infrastructure achievement; in fact, it was the largest private

At this year’s Conference, you can see some of the behind-the-scenes engineering and infrastructure that makes the magic happen, including a tour of the hidden tunnels underneath the Magic Kingdom® Park itself! More importantly, you can take advantage of the business-focused seminar content and unsurpassed networking opportunities that the Georgia Engineers Summer Conference is known for. To register, go to acecga.org and click on the summer conference link. All of us at Engineering Georgia magazine hope to see you there!

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The Pulse | NEWS BRIEFS

ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION DIVISION DIRECTOR RELINQUISHES ROLEGovernor Nathan Deal announced that the Director of the Environmental Protection Division (EPD) of the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, Jud Turner, will step down from his role effective June 1, 2016. Turner was appointed Director by Governor Deal in January 2012 and will continue to serve as a member of the state’s water litigation team as a Special Assistant Attorney General.

CERM CHAMPIONS BASKETBALL FOR SECOND YEAR STREAK

Corporate Environmental Risk Management, LLC (CERM) took home the championship trophy in the annual Architecture & Engineering Basketball League Championship. This win marks the second year that CERM has taken the top spot in the league.

ATLANTA GAS LIGHT MERGER WITH SOUTHERN COMPANY WINS APPROVALSouthern Company's acquisition of AGL Resources Inc. has been approved by Georgia energy regulators. Once complete, this $12 billion deal will create the second-largest utility company in the nation.

POND & COMPANY WINS IMPACT REGIONAL BUSINESS AWARDSNorcross-based Pond & Company, a nearly 400-person engineering,

IMPACT Regional Business Award and International category award from the Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce. The IMPACT Regional Business

industry categories during an awards ceremony held in late May.

HEADS OF ATLANTA AIRPORT AND WATERSHED DEPARTMENT DISMISSED

Aviation General Manager for the world’s busiest airport will be replaced by Interim General Manager Roosevelt Council, who currently serves as the

also announced the end of Jo Ann Macrina’s tenure as Commissioner of Watershed Management. William Johnson, the city’s Deputy Chief

GDOT CELEBRATES 100TH YEARThe Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) launched its Centennial Kick-Off on April 20, 2016. Governor Nathan Deal signed a proclamation declaring 2016 as the Department’s centennial year. Statewide events and exhibits are scheduled to take place throughout the year in recognition. Additionally, an independent study from Cambridge Systematics was released, in parallel with the Kick-Off,

economic development and safety improvement stemming from the $10 billion plan unveiled by Governor Nathan Deal in January.

ENERGY AND WATER SAVING PROJECTS UNDERWAY AT TWO STATE AGENCIESGeorgia Environmental Finance Authority (GEFA) announced the North Georgia Mountains Authority (NGMA) and GDOT have entered into energy performance contracts which will provide energy and water savings of approximately $16.6 million. Each of these state agencies partnered with an energy services company and conducted an Investment Grade Energy Audit to determine the appropriate energy and water conservation measures to implement. The agencies will complete energy and water conservation projects and use the provided savings to fund the work. Energy performance contracting improves

of conservation.

KINDER MORGAN SUSPENDS WORK ON PALMETTO PIPELINE PROJECTKinder Morgan Inc. has suspended work on a $1 billion petroleum pipeline project which would affect select parts of Georgia. The announcement comes following the State Legislature's passage of a temporary moratorium on the use of eminent domain in pipeline construction.

FINAL DESIGN WORK STARTED ON I-285/GEORGIA 400 INTERCHANGENorth Perimeter Contractors, a partnership of three engineering and construction companies, has started work on the I-285/Georgia 400 reconstruction. The project, which directly involves the development partners, GDOT and the State Road and Tollway Authority, is slated to take four years to complete.

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SEAOG HANDS OUT STRUCTURAL DESIGN AWARDSThe Structural Engineers Association of Georgia (SEAOG) celebrated its

creativity in structural design across seven categories. While Merit Awards were given in each category, the year’s Outstanding Project Awards went to:Category 1: New Buildings under $5 Million in Construction Cost University of Georgia Structural Engineering Testing Hub Laboratory Project

Category 2: New Buildings between $5-$25 Million in Construction Cost Georgia Power Environmental Testing Laboratory Project

Category 3: New Buildings between $25-$75 Million in Construction CostNational College Football Hall of Fame Project Sykes Consulting, Inc.

Category 4: New Buildings over $75 Million in Construction Cost Reinsurance Group of America’s Global Headquarters Project

Category 5: New Bridge and Transportation Structures Broad Avenue Veterans Memorial Bridge over the Flint River Project Heath & Lineback Engineers

Ennis Hall Renovation and Seismic Upgrades Project Palmer Engineering Company

Category 7: Other Structures Stealth Sculpture Project

SEAOG also recognized John Hutton, P.E., S.E. of Uzun+Case Engineers with the Individual Achievement Award. Above, Hutton (center)

accepts his award from Jim Sailors of Sailors Engineering Associates, Inc. (left) and Housh Rahimzadeh of Diversakore LLC (right). b

Stealth is a contemporary urban sculpture designed by Tristan Al-Haddad and his team at Formations Studio in collaboration

with Jim Case of Uzun+Case Structural Engineers. The piece is a monolithic cast-in-place reinforced concrete form standing

33 feet tall in the plaza of the Promenade Tower at 1230 Peachtree Street in the Arts District of Midtown Atlanta.

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HB 943 SIGNED INTO LAW BY GOVERNOR NATHAN DEAL

Representatives from ACEC Georgia, AIA Atlanta and Peachtree Government Affairs joined bill sponsors State Representative Carl Rogers and Senator

Charlie Bethel as Governor Nathan Deal signed HB 943 into law.

On Tuesday, April 26, Governor Nathan Deal signed HB 943 into law. This important legislation, which was introduced at ACEC Georgia's request and which was sponsored by Rep. Carl Rogers (R-Gainesville),

clauses in contracts for engineering, architectural and/or land surveying services.

for damages arising from a project without regard to which party actually caused the loss or whether the party assuming the liability is even negligent at all. Engineers and architects who have signed these

professional liability policy or policy endorsement available that would insure this type of additional risk. As a result of HB 943 being signed into law, those types of clauses will be "against public policy and void and unenforceable" to quote the language of the new O.C.G.A. 13-8-2(c), which will become effective as of July 1, 2016 (note that contracts entered into prior to that effective date would not be affected).

ACEC Georgia members and President and CEO Michael Sullivan with Senator Johnny Isakson during Hill visits to the nation’s Capitol earlier this spring.

ACEC GEORGIA POLITICAL ADVOCACY AT THE NATIONAL LEVELACEC Georgia leaders gathered in Washington, D.C. to meet with members of Georgia's Congressional delegation, including Congressman Buddy Carter, Congressman Tom Graves and Congressman Barry

about being a part of next year’s advocacy efforts, visit acecga.org.

ACEC Georgia members Kevin McOmber of Clark Patterson Lee, Jay Wolverton of Wolverton & Associates, Doris Willmer of Willmer Engineering, Darrell

Rochester of Rochester & Associates and incoming Chairman Charles Ezelle of Thomas & Hutton, with President and CEO, Michael Sullivan (center).

POLITICAL PULSE

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The Pulse | NEWS BRIEFS

ASCE GEORGIA MEMBERS’ VOICES HEARD DURING 2016 LEGISLATIVE FLY-IN TO D.C.Several Georgia members were among the more than 200 ASCE members from across the country recruited to Washington D.C. for the annual ASCE Legislative Fly-In to advocate on Capitol Hill for infrastructure improvements.

ASCE Georgia members with U.S. Congressman Rob Woodall.

Members of the Georgia section head to their meetings on Capitol Hill: ASCE

Region Five Director Melissa Wheeler, ASCE President

Richard Morales, ASCE Georgia Past-President Katherine Gurd, ASCE Georgia

Legislative Chair Jeffrey Chiu, ASCE

Georgia Past-Presdient Rebecca Shelton and ASCE

Georgia Past-President Ray Wilke.

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and Duty to Defend Clauses in Georgia

THE GROWING PROBLEMFor years, architects and engineers have had to contend with clients demanding that they sign contractual provisions in which the

were coupled with verbiage that saddled the design professional with an additional duty to defend the client against any claims arising out of the project, even before the question of whose negligence caused the claim had been established. However, the professional liability insurance that engineers or architects are covered by does not insure these types of additional contractual liabilities. Engineers and architects who sign contracts with these

taking on this uninsurable potential liability.

As a result of this growing problem in Georgia, the American Council of Engineering Companies of Georgia (ACEC Georgia)

formulate a plan for tackling the issue. The

by Emily Meador of Kimley-Horn, with the active participation of myself and a few other key players in the Georgia architecture and engineering (A&E) marketplace, including the American Institute of Architects (AIA

BROAD FORM VERSUS LIMITED FORM

into two general categories: broad form and limited form. Broad form clauses require the indemnitor to assume the liability of indemnifying the indemnitee for any damages, losses or expenses arising from the project. This duty arises without regard to which party is at fault and, in many cases, even if the party at fault is the indemnitee themselves or another third party. Phrased

me asking you to indemnify me for everyone’s negligence, even my own, and even if you may not have been negligent at all. Broad

held responsible for its own actions, but not the negligent acts of others.

clauses seek to indemnify the indemnitee for damages, losses or expenses only to the extent they are caused by or result from the negligence, recklessness or intentional wrong conduct of the indemnitor. Limited form

INDEMNIFICATION AND INSURANCEMany contract drafters do not understand how A&E professional liability insurance (PLI) is different from commercial general liability insurance (CGL). For example, PLI only insures the professional and only for professional (as opposed to contractual) liability; insuring the negligence of others is not allowed and adding other parties as an “additional insured” is not allowed. By contrast, CGL policies allow for coverage of contractual liability and also allow for a client or owner to be added to the policy as an additional insured party. Additional insured status allows owners to tender a defense for third party claims to the CGL policy. Unfortunately, engineers and architects cannot avail themselves of a GCL policy because CGL policies exclude coverage for damages related to professional services, like the services provided by an A&E

recourse for design professionals and A&E

against negligence in performance of their professional services.

Even the most skilled transactional lawyer may not be an expert on the nuances of professional liability insurance for engineers and architects, especially regarding how PLI coverage would

clauses is largely a “cut and paste” problem; contract clauses that might make sense in one context (where the indemnitors can be insured by a CGL policy and the clause is insurable) don’t make sense in contracts for engineering or architectural services (where only PLI is available and the clause is not insurable). Lawyers simply

they come across in other contracts (including contracts they may have drafted for that client to use with contractors, for example) and use them in engineering and architectural contracts.

Since PLI policies do not allow additional insureds on the policy and only pay for damages

of professional services, when broad form

used in design contracts, there is actually no

point design professionals should remember is that the coverage provided by the PLI insurance company is not affected by the obligations

agree to language outside of the coverage the PLI provides.

The majority of clients/owners do not

and duty to defend clauses in the A&E context are uninsurable. Clients want the

and would likely not even ask for broad form

clauses were uninsurable. On the other hand,

language because they do not understand what they are agreeing to or sometimes fail to read the contract at all.

GEORGIAHOUSEBILL

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POLITICAL PULSE

clauses are insisted upon by the client and therefore avoid exposing the company or their

may feel that they cannot afford to turn down projects or negotiate when the client is a large or important one. In any of these situations,

advisor, insurance carrier and/or attorney.

THE RISKShifting risk to a party who cannot obtain insurance for that risk is not in the interest

potentially massive amount of liability and risk for a project while simultaneously putting

is also not in the best interest of the clients/owners. In the event there is an issue and the

into play, the client/owner will want the

only as valuable as an indemnitor’s ability to pay. Less than 10 percent of civil cases go to

when the defendant is uninsured. Getting

negotiating with an insurance company.

THE ANSWER: LEGISLATIONThe interconnected issues and concerns discussed above were the motivation for

experienced a similar trend and addressed the problem with legislation; a total of forty-three states have enacted various “anti-

EFFECTIVE JULY 1, 2016, THE NEW GEORGIA LAW (O.C.G.A. § 13-8-2(C))PROHIBITING THE USE OF BROAD FORM INDEMNIFICATION WILL READ:

A covenant, promise, agree-ment, or understanding in or in connection with or collateral to a contract or agreement for engineering or architectural services purporting to require that one party to such contract or agreement shall indemnify, hold harmless, insure, or defend the other party to the contract or other named indemnitee, in-

agents, or employees, against liability or claims for damages, losses, or expenses, including attorney fees, is against public policy and void and unenforce-

for damages, losses, or expens-es to the extent caused by or resulting from the negligence, recklessness, or intentionally wrongful conduct of the indem-nitor and/or other persons em-ployed or utilized by the indem-nitor in the performance of the contract. This subsection shall not affect any obligation under workers' compensation or cov-

relating to workers' compensa-tion, nor shall this subsection apply to any requirement that one party to the contract pur-

-

policy endorsement.

has over 10 years of experience in the insurance industry working as an underwriter for some

indemnity’’ statues to date. Of those forty-three states, eighteen states prohibited broad

every state allows limited form indemnity.

HB 943 sought to amend Georgia’s existing law (O.C.G.A § 13-8-2) dealing with illegal and void contracts. The bill was introduced by State Representative Carl Rogers (R-Gainesville)

of America during the 2016 legislative session and was ultimately signed into law by Governor Nathan Deal on April 26, 2016.

duty to defend clauses will now be "against public policy and void and unenforceable" to quote the language of the new O.C.G.A. § 13-8-2(c). The new law applies to both public and private clients and will become effective of July 1, 2016. Note that contracts entered into prior to that date are not affected.

The amendment of O.C.G.A. § 13-8-2(c) is a major win for the A&E industry, as well as for

entities, which will gain from an expanded pool

projects where routine use of uninsurable

to no longer submit proposals.

The tireless efforts of ACEC Georgia, AIA and many other key players in the industry led to the passage of this amendment to O.C.G.A § 13-8-2 and is an important step forward in the A&E industry and the PLI insurance world.

to face the choice of turning down projects

risk being assumed in contracts. In sum,

and duty to defend clauses as against public

project delivery team, including the owners and clients.

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AMEC FOSTER WHEELER welcomed Barry Brown as the new Bridge Design Leader for its Georgia Environment and Infrastructure Americas business. In this new role, Brown will be responsible for building and managing bridge

across the state. He has more than 30 years of design and management experience and holds both a Bachelor’s degree

in Civil Engineering from Georgia Tech and a Master’s degree in Business Administration from Georgia State University.

ASCE GEORGIAASCE: P.E., Richard Morales, F.ASCE, P.E., Katherine McLeod Gurd, F.ASCE, P.E., Raymond Wilke, F.ASCE, P.E. and Steven McCutheon, F.ASCE, P.E. Ph.D. The ASCE Membership Application Review Committee elects ASCE members to Fellow through a review of professional accomplishments and contributions. Of the more than 3,000 Georgia ASCE members, as well as 150,000 national ASCE members, fewer than 3.5 percent are Fellows.

ATC GROUP SERVICES and CARDNO have separated into two distinct

ATC Group Services in March 2012. ATC Group Services, a professional

ATLANTA BELTLINE INC. (ABI) welcomed Henry Ikwut-Ukwa as its new Transportation Director. Ikwut-Ukwa will lead the effort to implement the 22-mile Atlanta BeltLine Transit loop with the Atlanta Streetcar crosstown network, as well as implementation of the Atlanta BeltLine 46-miles of complete streets and accompanying elements of the Connect Atlanta Transportation Plan and the Streetcar System Plan. Prior to joining ABI, Ikwut-Ukwa was the manager of planning and development with the Birmingham Jefferson County Transit Authority in Birmingham, Ala. He also previously served as manager of transit system planning for MARTA for nearly six years.

THE CITY OF GAINESVILLE hired former Georgia Environmental Finance Authority (GEFA) Water Resource Division Director, Linda MacGregor, as its Water Resource Director. During her time with GEFA, MacGregor served as a Senior Program Manager, where she coordinated a range of water resource projects and assisted with implementing the Governor’s Water Supply Program.

Barry Brown

CHATHAM ENGINEERING COMPANY, LLC, a Savannah-based

Charles Cobb, P.E. and Stephen Swanger, P.E.

GOODWYN, MILLS AND CAWOOD, INC. merged with Smyrna-based Stevenson & Palmer Engineering, Incthe Goodwyn, Mills and Cawood, Inc. name. Stevenson & Palmer has provided professional engineering services to communities throughout Georgia for more than 50 years, helping build public infrastructure, manage water resources and promote community development.

GWINNETT VILLIAGE COMMUNITY IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT’S Board has named Marsha Anderson Bomar as its new Executive Director. Anderson Bomar has more than 40 years of experience in transportation and community development, including founding her

a member of the Duluth City Council since 2006.

HUSSEY GAY BELL welcomed Michael Snare as a Senior Project Representative. Snare will be responsible for overall construction inspection of water and sewer piping, pump stations, water/wastewater treatment plants, grading streets and sites, paving, storm drainage and concrete projects for the firm. Snare has four years of experience, including past involvement with large-

scale projects completed for the Georgia and Florida Departments of Transportation.

INGENIUM ENTERPRISES, INC. is the new name of Grimail Crawford, Inc

MWH GLOBAL announced two promotions: Dean Bell to Senior Vice President for the company and Mark Beumer to Vice President.

NEWCOMB & BOYD promoted six employees to Partners: Donald Walker, Gregory Johnson, David Chandler, Jeffrey Linde, Steven Severini and Todd Mowinski.

NOVA ENGINEERING AND ENVIRONMENTAL welcomed Gary R. Watkins, AIA, LEED APProject Manager. Watkins has more than 30 years of comprehensive architectural experience spanning educational, institutional, municipal

promotion of Brian Schiessle, also based out of Kennesaw, to Geotechnical Services Manager.

Michael Snare

The Pulse | ON THE MOVE

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MAY/JUNE 2016 13

PRIME ENGINEERING welcomed Edward Page as a Project Engineer for its Industrial Department. Page’s background encompasses focused experience on fueling storage systems, pipelines and terminal design.

REEVES YOUNG COMMERCIAL CONTRACTORS welcomed Mike IezziSouthern Polytechnic State University and has more than 16 years of vertical construction experience.

SALAS O’BRIEN and Minick Engineering, Inc. announced they are joining forces and will adopt the Salas O’Brien name. Minick Engineering is known for its mechanical, electrical and plumbing engineering consulting services and boasts a strong history of projects across all markets throughout Georgia and the Southeast. Together, the combined

SYSKA HENNESSY GROUP, INC., expanded its operations with a new Tim Campbell, the

veteran Ben Coe and healthcare expert Vince Lord.

UNITED CONSULTING'S Beth Harris, CPSM, has been selected by the Society of Marketing Professional Services (SMPS) to serve as its At-Large Delegate, a two-year term on the National Board of Directors. Harris is a Past President of SMPS Atlanta and currently serves the Society

Chair.

VHB expanded its Atlanta team with the addition of Alex Levy as a Senior Ecologist. Levy brings more than 26 years of professional experience in wetland determinations, protected species investigations, general ecology studies for transportation, utility and site development impact planning, permitting and National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) compliance documentation to this new role.

WSP I PARSONS BRINCKERHOFF appointed Bruce Moulds, P.E. as Southeast Regional Business Development Director. In his new position, Moulds will be responsible for developing and implementing business development strategy for transportation and infrastructure projects, as

Michael J. Churchill as a Senior Supervising Mechanical Engineer.

Beth Harris

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The Pulse | OUT & ABOUT

ACEC GEORGIA INAUGURAL PAC GOLF TOURNAMENT: Joe Macrina of Wolverton & Associates with Representative Christian

Coomer, ACEC Georgia President and CEO Michael Sullivan, Senator Frank Ginn and Senator Butch Miller.

ACEC GEORGIA INAUGURAL PAC GOLF TOURNAMENT: Dale Jones and Jeff Dingle of Jacobs.

ACEC GEORGIA INAUGURAL PAC GOLF TOURNAMENT: The Pond

& Company golf team included: Tony Parker, John Cassidy, Mike

Magahey and Bill Sloan.

2016 ASCE CHARITY GOLF TOURNAMENT: Mike

Marasa of Hayward Baker gives a presentation on

the 2014 National Corvette Museum Collapse.

ASHE 2016 JIM MCGEE SCHOLARSHIP GOLF TOURNAMENT: Scott Jordan of American Concrete Pipe

Association, Jason Hewatt of Forterra Building Products, Beau Quarles of the Georgia Department of

Transportation and Sam Drake, also of Forterra.

ACEC GEORGIA INAUGURAL PAC GOLF TOURNAMENT: Matt Calak and Warren

Dimsdale of Heath & Lineback Engineers, Inc. with Jim Willmer (pictured center)

of Willmer Engineering, Inc.

ASHE 2016 JIM MCGEE SCHOLARSHIP GOLF TOURNAMENT: Jennifer Aulick Etheridge of Aulick

Engineering, along with Paul Murphy, Tom Montgomery, Paul Condit and Ben Clopper of Michael

Baker International.

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ASHE 2016 JIM MCGEE SCHOLARSHIP GOLF TOURNAMENT: Brian O’Connor of T.Y. Lin

International, Emily Kosmalski of Terracon played alongside Kelli Weigle and Wesley Brock of THC, Inc.

GEORGIA ITE MARCH MONTHLY MEETING: Mallory Scates and Sydney Jenkins,

both Kimley-Horn employees, during the monthly meeting at Maggiano's

Cumberland.

GEORGIA ITE MARCH MONTHLY MEETING: Mike Blanchette and Jinwoo Seo

of Kimley-Horn with Julianne Bolls of Arcadis and Bing Zhang of Kimley-Horn at

the monthly meeting.

SOUTHERN DISTRICT OF ITE TRAFFIC BOWL: Georgia Tech Traffi c Bowl Team,

Maria Palma, Ben Wallach and Calvin Clark representing the Georgia Section of

ITE. Georgia Tech ended up with a second place fi nish!

GEORGIA ITE MARCH SOCIAL: Members enjoying an afternoon at Monday Night Brewing in Atlanta, GA.

ASHE 2016 JIM MCGEE SCHOLARSHIP GOLF TOURNAMENT: Scott Gero of AECOM, Mario Macrina

and Angela Snyder of Wolverton & Associates and Greg Ramsey of CH2M.

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The Pulse | OUT & ABOUT

ACEC GEORGIA FUTURE LEADERS PROGRAM: More than 50 participants graduated from the 2015-2016 program.

SMPS/ACEC GEORGIA JOINT TRANSPORTATION PANEL: Shamoin

Parks with Casting Services Group and Makenna Yeargain with Pond &

Company prior to the panel discussion.

ACEC GEORGIA FUTURE LEADERS PROGRAM: Holly Bauman of

T.Y. Lin International, Melissa Crosby of Amec Foster Wheeler, Ivan

Carranza of Amec Foster Wheeler, along with Jesse Simmons and Dan

Brown of Pond & Company.

ACEC GEORGIA LEADERSHIP PLANNING RETREAT: Tanya and Randall Bagwell of

NOVA Engineering and Environmental with

Bruce McNitt of Arcadis.

ACEC GEORGIA LEADERSHIP PLANNING RETREAT: AECOM’s Don Harris with wife, Debbie, pictured with Juliet and John

Heath of Heath & Lineback Engineers and Incoming ACEC Georgia Chair, Charles Ezelle of Thomas & Hutton.

SMPS/ACEC GEORGIA JOINT TRANSPORTATION PANEL: Panelists John Ray of Gwinnett

County Department of Transportation, Ann Hanlon of North Fulton Community Improvement

District, Jim Wilgus of Cobb County Department of Transportation and Treasury Young of Georgia

Department of Transportation with Moderator Michael Sullivan (center) of ACEC Georgia.

ACEC GEORGIA LEADERSHIP PLANNING RETREAT: ACEC Georgia Chair Roseana Richards of Pond & Company, Norma and Dave

Goershel of Amec Foster Wheeler along with Mindy and Michael Planner of PES Structural Engineers.

SMPS/ACEC GEORGIA JOINT TRANSPORTATION PANEL: Bobby Darnel and Jeff Doubrava of S&ME with Russ Danser of

Edwards-Pitman Environmental.

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18 ENGINEERING GEORGIA

The Pulse | EVENTS CALENDAR

ASSOCIATED GENERAL CONTRACTORS OF GEORGIA ANNUAL CONVENTION

The Westin Hilton Head Island Resort and Spa2 Grasslawn AvenueHilton Head Island, SC 29928

The 2016 AGC Georgia Annual Convention offers plenty of networking opportunities and recognition programs, as well as an informative business session and golf tournament. Make plans to join AGC Georgia and invite your colleagues and families to join, too!

Cost: $675

Register at www.agcga.org

GEORGIA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATIONBOARD BREAKFAST

7:30a.m. – 9:00a.m. Crown Plaza Atlanta – Midtown590 West Peachtree Street NWAtlanta, GA 30308

Save the date to join WTS Atlanta for its annual State Transportation Board of Georgia Breakfast event.

Learn more at www.wtsinternational.org/atlanta

2016 GEORGIA ITE SUMMER SEMINAR: AIM HIGH

The King and Prince Beach and Golf Resort201 Arnold Road, St. Simons Island, GA 31522

Hosted by the Georgia section of ITE, this annual conference provides valuable technical sessions in a relaxed environment, networking with some of Georgia’s transportation leaders, the opportunity to earn PDHs and fun for the whole family.

Cost: $305 – ITE Members; $355 – Non-Members; $255 – Public Sector

Register at www.gaite.org

GEORGIA ENGINEERS SUMMER CONFERENCE Disney’s Contemporary ResortWalt Disney World® ResortLake Buena Vista, FL 32830

This event will offer an exclusive look at the bleeding edge technology and innovation used to build and maintain Walt Disney World® Resort, as well as the opportunity to network with industry leaders, earn PDHs and use discounted

Contemporary Resort!

Cost: $600 – ACEC Georgia, ASCE, GEF, GSPE and IEEE Members; $800 – Non-Members Register at www.acecga.org

GEORGIA MUNICIPAL ASSOCIATION’S 2016 ANNUAL CONVENTION

Savannah International Trade and Convention Center1 International Drive, Savannah, GA 31402

This year’s GMA convention, themed “Cities in Play,” will enable attendees to participate in an array of recreational activities and sessions focused on what cities are doing to engage their

Foundation’s Chief Playmaker, Steve Gross, will serve as the convention’s keynote speaker.

Cost: $410 GMA Members; $560 Non-members

Register at www.gmanet.com/Training-Events

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SUMMER SOCIAL 2016

6:00p.m. – 9:00p.m.Topgolf – Midtown1600 Ellsworth Industrial Boulevard NWAtlanta, GA 30318

Hosted by AIA Atlanta, the Circle of Trust Atlanta and ULI Atlanta, the

and beverages, high-tech golf and networking with more than 200 of

professionals. No golf experience is required. In fact, 85 percent of Topgolf customers are inexperienced.

Register at www.aiaatl.org

ACEC GEORGIA FUTURE LEADERS PROGRAM KICK OFF

3:30p.m. – 5:30p.m.755 Club at Turner Field 755 Hank Aaron Drive SW, Atlanta, GA 30315

To kick off the 2016-2017 Future Leaders Program, hosted by ACEC Georgia, attendees will take a DISC Assessment to better understand their own strengths and weaknesses in communicating and working with others, while also learning strategies for relating to other personality types. Over the course of nine months, the Future Leaders Program trains talented, up-and-coming engineers on topics such as business development, presentation skills and accounting.

Cost: $725

Register for the 2016-2017 program at www.acecga.org

ITS GEORGIA ANNUAL MEETING AND EXHIBITIONS

Callaway Gardens Lodge and Spa4500 Southern Pine DrivePine Mountain, GA 31822

This conference provides a forum for attendees to learn about new technologies and changing trends in the ITS industry, as well as network with fellow professionals. The conference theme is “ITS

Georgia is embracing to elevate technology solutions in transportation.

Learn more at www.itsga.org

ANNUAL WTS ATLANTA SCHOLARSHIP LUNCHEON

Save the date for WTS Atlanta’s yearly scholarship lunch as it awards two undergraduate and two graduate scholarships to female students in the

Learn more at www.wtsinternational.org/atlanta

2016 GEORGIA TRANSPORTATION SUMMIT

The Classic Center300 North Thomas Street, Athens, GA 30601

Save the date for the largest transportation event in Georgia. A partnership of ACEC Georgia, the

Georgia Department of Transportation, Georgia Chamber of Commerce and Georgia Transportation Alliance, this event provides engineers with

bridges to ports and airports.

Learn more at www.acecga.org

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Engineering GA | FEATURE

GETTINGUPCLOSEWITH DRONESSites, but Concerns Remain Before Commercial Use Really Takes Off

DRONES HAVE AN EYE FOR DETAIL.

items as small as a cooler in a truck. But, the potential for drones is much bigger. Businesses that use them can expect cost savings, fewer safety risks and a faster ability to gather critical data to design and build structures.

Weber-Snapp’s employer, Atlanta-based Environmental Planning

for client assessments. “Now we decided to try to do the drone instead, over a regular plane,” said Weber-Snapp, an Environmental Engineer and Senior Scientist. “The drone is half the price, which is a big thing.”

By Lori Johnston

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MAY/JUNE 2016 21

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) expects sales of drones for commercial use to rise from 600,000 in 2016 to more than 2.7 million drones

reach 2.5 million this year and increase to seven million in 2020.

In the engineering, construction and architecture industries, these unmanned aircraft are primarily used for land surveying, engineering

inspections and monitoring structures such as roads and pipelines.

to create 2D photos and 3D models with lifelike representations of the site. High-resolution images and video produced by drones can also be used for marketing and advertising.

“It’s hard to capture the feats engineers perform for their clients with just a camera on the ground,” says Don Eberly, President and CEO of

design and construction industry who have used drones.

Aerial photography, inspections, surveys and construction are among the top commercial applications in Georgia for unmanned aerial vehicle operators that hold a government-required Section 333 exemption, according to the Association for Unmanned Vehicle Systems International (AUVSI). This Section 333 exemption refers to the FAA

Concerns about privacy and liability remain, as companies use drones to capture footage and data. “Technology is being developed faster than society is able to adopt rules and regulations to monitor and control it,” says Orrin B. MacMurray, P.E., FACEC, Chairman Emeritus of New York-based C&S Worldwide Holdings, Inc. b

FlyWorx, based in Atlanta, has worked for a variety of clients,

including the Serenbe community. Credit: FlyWorx

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22 ENGINEERING GEORGIA

Engineering GA | FEATURE

A geo-referenced orthophoto is created using a drone that shot 450 photos for a

Credit: FlyWorx

CURRENT USESDrones are nothing new, says MacMurray, a former American Council of Engineering Companies (ACEC) Chairman and 2012 ACEC New York

far back as the mid-1800s. They have been used by hobbyists for decades and regularly by the military since the 1970s.

As a consulting engineer, MacMurray represents ACEC on a Federal Aviation Administration committee working to establish rules on how small unmanned aerial vehicles can be operated beyond visual line of sight. “The technology has taken on a greater degree of visibility because of its military use and the fact that we can make sensing devices and cameras so small and light they can be put on the vehicles,” he says. “More and more are entering the environment.”

Some unmanned aerial vehicles are as large as the military drones,

have rotors, are small, can hover and are light enough to be carried by a person. But, they are often unable to carry heavy loads. Fixed-wing craft, which are more like those used by the military, can’t hover — a

Interest in drone shoots is increasing on projects such as bridges, stadiums and highway construction, like bypasses, Eberly says. For

of construction. The stadium is set to open in 2017. “You just can’t capture the essence of those types of heavy construction projects that span long distances without a drone. The inclusion of drones makes it more possible,” he says.

For one of its clients, FlyWorx circumnavigated an Atlanta high-rise that had sustained tornado damage. The drone provided a solution for what would have been a complicated, long and expensive process, possibly requiring humans to physically evaluate the damage, says Roman Molla, President of FlyWorx. His Atlanta-based aerial drone imaging company was founded in 2014 and operates with a Section 333 exemption.

Last year, Burns & McDonnell, which is based in Kansas City, Missouri,

help manage and reduce safety risks, simply by removing the need for a human to pilot an aircraft or to be on the ground in a potentially dangerous site, and especially when evaluating projects such as facility and transmission line routes.

The company says using these remotely operated aircraft could reduce the need for environmental permits, since engineers may no longer need to put boots on the ground to collect measurements and data, and

and money. “While the FAA continues to explore additional leeway for the use of UAVs throughout the country, utilities and other commercial

report by Burns & McDonnell.

Sensors and cameras attached to the drone take high-resolution photos by the second that are saved with data points, such as GPS coordinates, elevation and volume metrics, and surface temperatures, Molla says.

The millions of data points FlyWorx’s cameras and sensors collect are used to create 3D models and 2D images, such as orthophotos, that

such a uniform scale it can be used to measure true distances. Ortho-

data, such as high-resolution generated, geo-referenced 2D maps, Molla says. Airplanes also can be used to create the 2D maps and 3D models, but the images are not as high-resolution and the process can be longer and more expensive, he says.

Bob Gonsalves, President and CEO of UAVUS (U.S. Association of Unmanned Aerial Videographers), the nation’s largest membership association of commercial UAV operators, says some of his members

gauge the volume for clients and track progress at a worksite.

Often, video and photo shoots using a drone happen a few times over the life of the project, if there’s the budget to capture each phase, Eberly says. But the commercial application is still new enough that Eberly’s

them.

SURVEYING THE LANDSCAPE FOR DRONESBeing a drone operator does not make you exempt from rules operating

in April 2014, has more than 5,000 registered members. Almost every Section 333 exemption application that the company writes for its members includes uses such as infrastructure surveying and aerial inspection, he says. Georgia has 84 companies with Section 333 exemptions, according to AUVSI. b

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AERIAL ACRONYMSUAVs: Unmanned aerial vehicles (can include devices or controls and can be equipped with various sensors, such as a video and still cameras)

UASs: Unmanned aerial systems (normally comprised of a control station for a human operator and one or more UAVs)

UAMS: Unmanned aerial mapping systems

BVLOS: Beyond visual line of sight

MAY/JUNE 2016 23

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24 ENGINEERING GEORGIA

Engineering GA | FEATURE

Companies have had more wiggle room, in terms of where and when

“At the same time, equally important, it’s necessary. No one wants to be involved in a drone photo shoot or drone shoot that would not be safe, viable or reasonable. It’s important to protect people’s privacy and safety,” he says.

The restrictions are still loose, Eberly says, but he expects rules about how and where drone shoots can be conducted to become more

be careful about where and how they execute drone shoots, such as

must keep the drone high above the street, while making turns.

While the technology is moving fast, new regulations are coming slowly, Gonsalves says. The FAA has set the ceiling at 400 feet for most operations, including many of those with exemptions that allow the commercial use of unmanned aerial vehicles outside of restricted airspaces. “There are

Gonsalves says. “For some applications, this is all evolving, but right now those are the limitations that have to be considered.”

Beyond that, however, there is little FAA guidance, and legislators have

passed a bill that would have made it illegal to use a device to capture images where there is an expectation of privacy, such as a backyard.

Governor Nathan Deal vetoed the bill in May, however, arguing that the state should allow the FAA the chance to complete its guidelines before adding a layer of potentially competing rules. In the interim, the Governor announced he would issue an executive order to create a commission to propose state-level guidelines that can be used until the FAA acts.

FUTURE USES FOR UNMANNED VEHICLES

with FlyWorx on three sites, including a manufacturing plant in Milledgeville. “We are kind of rare,” she says. “It’s the same thing when people began using GIS; now everybody is using it.”

AUVSI projects drones will create more than 70,000 new jobs from 2015-2017 and more than 100,000 by 2025, with an economic impact of $82

states have not yet used them for Georgia projects, or for work by their

However, a 2014 study from Georgia Tech, commissioned by the Georgia

aerial vehicles, including for construction site measurements, bulk material measurements and airport inspection. GDOT uses drones to

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MAY/JUNE 2016 25

University of Georgia researchers are testing a prototype that uses ultrasound sensors on unmanned aircraft to relay information which can help operators map the interior of structures and guide them to locations. The research is conducted as part of a contract with Southern Co., which plans to use unmanned aircraft to improve reliability and enhance crew safety.

However, the immediate future of commercial drone use might run into turbulence.

rules and regulations under development may force a closure if they restrict drones from

Firms must pay attention to regulations and liability concerns, which often cause companies to hire government-approved operators instead of purchasing their own drones. They also face a learning curve, from making sure the aerial vehicle hovers over the correct property and can adjust to the height of structures and topography. “It’s not always going to be easy to use the technology,” MacMurray says.

months later, they tell him, ‘my drone is in a tree.’ “Think very hard before you get into it thinking you can do it yourself,” he says.

However, drones aren’t expected to be the only choice as engineering, architecture and

continue to use airplanes for work in large, wooded areas or wetlands, she says.

MacMurray reminds folks that unmanned aerial vehicles are just another tool for collecting data

and information. “I think, as professional engineers and design professionals, it’s

that it’s our responsibility to judge whether the quality of the data

that’s generated by these tools is adequate for the purpose

we’re going to use it for,” he says.

High-resolution photos taken from a drone helped create a geo-

referenced 3D model and orthophoto for

FlyWorx clients.Credit: FlyWorx

BY THE NUMBERS

The projected economic impact of unmanned aerial vehicles for Georgia.

DIRECT EMPLOYMENT+++++

2016: 668++++++++

2017: 1,003+++++++++

2020: 1,161+++++++++++

2025: 1,481

TOTAL EMPLOYMENT IMPACTssssss

2016: 1,299sssssssss

2017: 1,949sssssssssss

2020: 2,256sssssssssssss

2025: 2,880

TOTAL DIRECT SPENDING$$$$$$

2016: $65.7 million$$$$$$$$$$

2017: $98.6 million$$$$$$$$$$$

2020: $114.1 million$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$

2025: $145.7 million

TOTAL ECONOMIC IMPACTwwwww

2016: $126.3 millionwwwwwwww2017: $189.5 million

wwwwwwwww2020: $219.3 million

wwwwwwwwwww2025: $279.97 million

Source: “The Economic Impact of Unmanned Aircraft Systems Integration in the United

States,” March 2013, Association of Unmanned Vehicle Systems International

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Engineers, architects and contractors were drawn to their professions not just to build things, but by the desire to build them better. The best design and construction professionals are always on the lookout for ways

that constantly evolving technologies can provide them with a new competitive edge to build things better than ever before. Building Information Modeling (BIM) technology offers one of the most powerful tools for not only building better buildings and infrastructure, but also for transforming the process of how they get built.

of a design, which were formerly represented on two-dimensional plans, and transforms them into a three-dimensional computer model that can be displayed in a way to allow owners and clients to “walk through”

or addressed at the project’s earliest stages and for changes to be made to the design before construction has commenced.

BIM is more than just software. It’s a tool for true collaboration (not just coordination) between owners, design professionals and builders that allows for accurate and up-to-date information to be shared in real time, which will in turn make the 3D BIM model a true resource for effective decision making. The better design and decision making resulting from BIM is reducing the cost of construction, as well

that has been improved by engagement from all the stakeholders (owner, designer and contractor) working collaboratively, rather than

cost, time and collaboration advantages that BIM offers, and design

advantage over those who are late to adopt.

Engineering GA | FEATURE

A BRIEF HISTORY

suggested by American engineer, inventor and digital pioneer, Douglas C. Englebart, in his 1962 paper titled Augmenting Human Intellect¹:

These lists grow into an ever more-detailed, interlinked structure, which

Going BEYOND the BLUEPRINTHow BIM (Building Information Modeling) is Transforming

By Kasie Bolling

26 ENGINEERING GEORGIA

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MAY/JUNE 2016 27

graphical user interface (GUI), the SKETCHPAD program, constructive solid geometry (CSG) system, boundary representation (brep), human-computer interaction (HCI), Building Description System (BDS), Graphical Language for Interactive Design (GLIDE), GDS, EdCAAD,

precursors to what we now know as BIM technology. In the early 1980’s,

software available on a personal computer. Graphisoft’s ArchiCAD, now in its 19th imagining, is still widely used today by both Windows and MAC users. In addition, an ever-increasing number of BIM software is

including Autodesk Revit, Graphisoft EcoDesigner, Bentley Structural Modeler, Tekla BIMSight and EcoDomus.

riding that wave for some time. Those that haven’t risk being left behind.

MAKING THE LEAPRichard Burroughs, President of Atlanta-based Applied Software

of BIM technology as soon as possible. “The transition from the 2D world to the 3D world offers an improvement in the ability to design, understand and operate anything from a building to a stretch of highway. Technology continues to accelerate and deliver functionality. Firms just have to jump in and be smart about gaining the access and training necessary to start catching up with earlier adopters.”

Matt Sweeney, P.E., BIM Program Manager at PES Structural Engineers, Inc. agrees with that assessment, “PES has been employing BIM technology for

BIM tool, AutoDesk Revit, as the future of our industry. They chose a select few to start training and getting familiar with the technology through small pilot projects internally in order to stay ahead. I was included in

we do everything in Revit: 20-story concrete towers, complex churches, industrial parks, multi-family residential projects and more.” b

GSFIC. The two were photographed at GSFIC headquarters, where statewide BIM standards are researched and developed.

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28 ENGINEERING GEORGIA

While BIM technology strengthens the development and ease of designing elaborate, large-scale structures, Sweeney recommends starting small and using the application to make slow improvements.

discipline. Formulate a general strategy to determine how big of a change you want to make and how quickly you’re prepared to make

looking to improve understanding, employing the help of online training tools, like LYNDA.com and CADlearning.com, is a tangible way

who's been working in the BIM framework for a while and is happy to discuss change management.

should have in place before introducing its team to BIM technology:Leadership that is committed to this change of direction and prepared to embrace the process Openness to engaging a consultant to bring BIM technology in-house and marry people to the process Designation of a project staff person who wants to lead the way,

keep on going down the road. Burroughs says this particular aspect is

evolve there will be a persistent learning curve.Ongoing research both online and with peers. If done properly, this

Proper hardware and software to achieve desired resultsAdequate internet connectivity and access to the cloudThe right external partners. Burroughs adds that once up and running, external partners might not be experts in sharing information or setting up the model for proper collaboration.

BIM TECHNOLOGY BENEFITS TO FIRMSWhile getting started may seem somewhat daunting, the advantages to entering the BIM arena are hard to ignore:Gaining an Advantage:

to large-scale, complex projects.Improved Communication and Enhanced Collaboration:As more and more partners jump on the BIM bandwagon, there are increased opportunities for invaluable information sharing among all team members, including the owner, designers, subcontractors and more. With greater information sharing, greater collaboration and project transparency between team members follows.Early Insights: Thanks to the level of detail in the deliverable, BIM technology helps partners determine potential costs while identifying and correcting challenges before they become on-site problems.

Engineering GA | FEATURE

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MAY/JUNE 2016 29016MAY/JUNE 29MAY/JUNE /JUNE 2016

A UNIQUE APPLICATION OF BIM TECHNOLOGY

The Georgia State Financing and Investment Commission is currently animating a model of the State Capitol for historic purposes.

“There are a number of interesting uses for this project. On one hand, students can explore the animation and click on a portrait hanging in the hall to learn more about the person depicted. On the other hand, we can examine a variety of scenarios if a hostage situation were to take place. There are lots of possibilities where BIM technology is concerned – some we may not have even thought of before.”

- Marvin Woodward, Deputy

Investment Commission

Time and Money Saver:the owner has an opportunity to view the project in greater detail before construction begins, BIM can help reduce the number of change orders, ultimately saving time and money. By implementing BIM technology in-house

can help expedite the review process and speed up delivery of a construction project.

When considering BIM technology from the client’s perspective, Sweeney

time interpreting 2D plans. 3D modeling in BIM is really impressive and helps them grasp exactly what you’re talking about. As a result, clients become more invested and involved.”

“The BIM movement is global and it’s growing,” added Burroughs. “In some countries, it’s required. Whereas in Europe, it’s more widespread, the U.S.

movement gets more complex over time, the sooner you adopt, the more time and money you’ll save. Research shows that companies that adopt BIM tend

important that you understand your clients and their needs. It’s also important

“Owners are seeing the value of BIM technology. They know that it can help control project costs, offer a better suited project upon completion, equate to a

and provide facility management data. For that, they are willing to pay a premium for BIM experts. BIM is driving change in the industry through improved risk management and collaborative relationships. If you need more convincing, simply look to the Lean principles: focus on effectively delivering value to your customer and seek continuous incremental improvement.” b

The 12-monitor wall at GSFIC's headquarters, shown above with a depiction of the Georgia Captiol South Parking Deck, allows clients to experience a

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Engineering GA | FEATURE

RECENT TRENDS IN BIM TECHNOLOGY AND WHAT’S ON THE HORIZONHaving had a decade of BIM usage upon which

of the moment. “We can share information even quicker than we used to. The cloud allows us to collaborate with team members and clients in real time. Another exciting recent development is

coordination and modeling to another level.”

As far as the near future is concerned, Sweeney projects that BIM users will see more improvement in communication of the processes so nothing is lost in translation. He hopes that there will also be improvements to collaboration tools.

“Keep expecting the BIM movement to continue to grow,” he said. “Eventually, we will get to the

the owner and the designers to

whole team working together to put together an accurate, well-coordinated building model rather than throwing information blindly over a

next couple of years, tools will get considerably better to achieve this. I would like to see analysis tools work in conjunction with modeling tools and for design models to truly become part of the construction

coordinated design and construction process, at the end of the day you’ll have a better building.”

reality and the incorporation of drone technology, Burroughs indicates that this is an exciting time for advanced users. Of course, advancements in BIM technology present a lot of potential value to progressive owners.

“Their involvement in the process can help determine the information they wish to get out of the project,” said Burroughs. “For instance, data can be appropriately structured so it’s consumable by the owner’s operation, maintenance, systems and facilities departments. They can take the metadata provided about the systems within the model and operate them at a better level and lower cost. The data can also help them manage maintenance and renovations a lot easier. Best of all,

distant future, most things will be connected. Based on how a building is modeled, ‘smart buildings’ can incorporate software and sensors to

sensors can monitor temperatures, equipment and number of people

software can adjust HVAC control systems, turn off lights in an empty room and perform energy analytics in real-time. We’re not entirely there yet, but it’s coming.” b

A project rendering (top) demonstrates the stark contrast and advantage of BIM technology over the traditional 2D view of the same building (bottom).

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FROM THE GROUND UP: UNDERGROUND UTILITIES TO SATELLITES

A large number of BIM-related software exists to serve a wide variety of disciplines. As just one example among many, AutoDesk® Infraworks 360® preliminary engineering and design software provides tools that are unique to civil-based projects that entail infrastructure planning – such as laying the groundwork for a highway – in a real-world context, using cloud capabilities. Infraworks can access Google Earth satellite data for typography and land planning. What might have taken a large team weeks to complete in the past can now be completed in just a couple of days by a team as small as two engineers. From that data, a 3D model can be created – complete with the location of utilities. These models can prove highly effective in public hearings, particularly when compared to a hand-drawn rendering. For instance, if neighbors are concerned about an obstructed

throughs to dispel any fears. Once it’s time to

to contractors at the jobsite via mobile devices.Image by Matt Sweeney / PES Structural Engineers, Inc.

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32 ENGINEERING GEORGIA

information stored therein for management and future maintenance. The ‘M’ in BIM stands for modeling, but it can also represent management.

From a client perspective, Woodward believes this level of technology takes what would normally be 2D rendering to an interactive 3D model

spaces ahead of construction in order to avoid claims like “it’s not what I envisioned” upon the project’s

throughs in the most dramatic fashion, GSFIC uses a video wall at its headquarters comprised of 12 interconnected HD monitors for a large-scale experience that can be shared by a room full of people.

To provide clients with a more intimate 360° experience, both GSFIC and McCarthy Building Companies Southeast Division use Virtual Reality as part of its BIM offering. McCarthy’s Southeast Division

hospital project in the City of Atlanta. Virtual Reality employs the same

a headset as opposed to looking at a screen.

VIRTUAL VISIONARIESThe Georgia State Financing and Investment Commission (GSFIC) recently found value in the use of BIM technology when working on the reconstruction of the Gross Anatomy Lab at the Medical College of Augusta. Although an architect designed the BIM model for the project,

the project for a more engaging experience.

“The most important aspect of adding animation to BIM is the chance to experience a building before it is built and make better decisions in order to drive down costs, speed up the time to build and eliminate

eco-friendly construction practices are extremely important in Georgia,” explained Marvin Woodward, Deputy

“In order to perfect the animation, it’s important to get the right people in the room at the right point in

building. In addition to initial planning and design, BIM technology can be used for estimating, scheduling and even facility maintenance.

“Our role is on both the front-end and the back-end. On the front end, we animate the model so the client can experience the building, and

“The most important aspect of adding animation to BIM is the chance to

experience a building before it is built.”

The use of Virtual Reality, while still a new technology, continues to grow in use within the engineering and construction industries, as demonstrated by McCarthy Southeast Division's recent implementation.

Engineering GA | FEATURE

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“Virtual Reality was just one of the innovative approaches we took on this project,” shared Shannon Lightfoot, VDC Manager at McCarthy’s Southeast Division. “Although Virtual Reality has been used by McCarthy in other

our division. We partnered with VIMTREK to make sure our deliverable was as high quality as possible. Virtual

adds realism and a better sense of scale than one might derive by looking at a 2D rendering on paper or even a 3D model on a computer screen. A hospital comprises a

restrooms, labs, etc. Through the use of Virtual Reality, the client is given a tour of those spaces in greater detail. Through their headset, they can see a rendering of the virtual reality environment. They can actually look on the wall and see the different components that might be there, then help us perfect the design by talking through their expectations. This process involved people

members of the medical team. Their impressions add to

level of detail, it’s easier to spot potential issues and resolve them earlier in the process.”

VDC Engineer at McCarthy, Alexa Malusky offers Virtual Reality up as the next best thing to being there. “Everyone’s excited when they put the headset on. This is new technology that offers an incredibly immersive experience. Even before we are awarded the project, this technology also makes a great impression during pursuits. We can take a headset to pitches and give prospective clients an opportunity to not only see, but experience what we’re conveying.”

Lightfoot believes that the technology is only going to get better and will be available to the masses in time. And, as Virtual Reality becomes more readily accessible, it will not only become something that’s easier for

that clients will come to expect.

“Virtual Reality offers a better way to engage all parties in the design and

edge of technology. Virtual Reality is the next evolution of the Building

Source:

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34 ENGINEERING GEORGIA

By Ellen Berman

Engineering GA | FEATURE

The most successful marriages begin with great communication, shared goals and mutual respect. But, a match made in heaven is not the same as a merger made in Georgia. Just as couples quibble, so do companies. And,

a cultural mismatch can land a merger or acquisition on the rocks. New management often steps in as the meddlesome mother-in-law, tampering with employees’ comfortable work styles and alienating employees, resulting in broken relationships and disruptions to productivity.

dramatic managerial shift, anonymously shares, “before, the company

conversations going on that you could participate in, and people would come out in the hall to discuss and solve different issues. Engineers need to be around other engineers to be creative.”

Once this merger was completed however, company dynamics drastically changed. “Now when you want a meeting, you go in for a brainstorming session in a conference room and there’s no spontaneity. Everyone keeps their doors closed. We have no say in the direction of the company and management says we have to answer to ‘Wall Street’.”

As this example proves, culture is one of the most important aspects

dwindling group of disillusioned staff, stakeholder engagement is a must

is not possible, there is a clear danger of creating an atmosphere of distrust, while destroying company culture.

TAKING THE NECESSARY TIME For Goodwyn, Mills and Cawood (GMC) and Smyrna-based Stevenson & Palmer, discussions for an acquisition began more than two years before the decision was eventually reached in April 2016.

MERGERS

Corkey Welch, former President of Stevenson & Palmer and now Senior Client Manager for the Georgia operations of GMC says, “By the

into the deal, not only because I knew their top executives’ personalities,

Jim Teel, Jr., Atlanta Vice President of GMC, which has grown through various acquisitions over the years to more than 300 employees across the Southeast, agrees. “We’d been getting to know the people and priorities at Stevenson & Palmer for an extended period of time and it was quickly evident that both our groups were focused on clients.”

Once the executive teams were on-board, employee engagement became the next vital step. “We found it’s best to bring folks along slowly,” says Teel. “We didn’t just hand out roles. We involved our engineers before we merged. They are the foundation of our service team, and we believed that if they felt alienated and not part of the process, it would make it a lot tougher.”

Know the Ropes Before Tying the Knot

ACQUISITIONS

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Details of GMC’s game plan and vision were negotiated with employee input; fear of the unknown was ameliorated and employees didn’t feel the need to jump ship. Two months prior to the closing, staff conferences were held where human resource, accounting, support services and

compensation, and, they were excited that the merger would offer them more resources to do their jobs and the opportunity to enhance their skill sets. “When everyone’s brought into the process, the change doesn’t come about as a total 180,” says Teel.

Another important value to both parties was that a family atmosphere be preserved. “We want the merger to be a combination of not only business practices and ideals, but also of relationships,” says Welch.

corporate hub, where after a day of hard work, corn-hole boards and other team oriented activities will give employees the chance to get together in a casual setting.

UNDERSTANDING COMPANY FOUNDATIONSAlan Agadoni, Senior Vice President of National Programs for ATC Group Services LLC, headquartered in Lafayette, La., can vouch for the importance of communication. He has been on both sides of the table

while getting to know each other.”

But, as the companies began focusing on integration, problems emerged. ATC’s lower-margin, lower-rate business model, which encouraged

offerings. There was “a lack of alignment in our markets, clients and overall business strategy,” shares Agadoni.

Tony DiMarino, a Cardno Branch Manager, agrees. “Cardno and ATC

previous leadership was pushing for rapid growth.”

According to Agadoni, rather than adapt their large-scale accounting platform to ATC’s business model, Cardno tried to implement its systems. “Everyone underestimated the productivity impact of integrating our accounting and other systems. We spent a lot of time trying to make that

even when the numbers add up, people need to feel they are a part of the team. Above all, it’s about building a partnership based on mutual respect.

“People felt they weren’t being listened to and their opinions didn’t matter. We started losing people and many were questioning their

There were groups of people who thought the merger was a hunting ground for opportunities. There’s a big difference between people working together versus people trying to get ahead and exploit each

you are acquiring without hurting morale, you are fooling yourself,” says Agadoni.

will certainly be brought to bear on ATC’s most recent merger with Sage Environmental Consulting, and with Cardno as they expand their service offerings across global markets.

Agadoni adds, “The bright spot is that our clients stuck with us and we kept the team together and now are looking to grow with our acquisition of Sage.”

“It all comes down to doing due diligence,” says DiMarino. “Look deeper and assure the leadership, the work groups and the path match.” b

“Compatible cultures are crucial to any merger. People work for your

organization because of who they work for and with, but most often it’s

the culture they work in.”

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36 ENGINEERING GEORGIA

Engineering GA | FEATUREEngineering GA | FEATURE

ALLEVIATING EMPLOYEE CONCERN Communication between staff from both companies early in the merger process was a fundamental aspect of Massachusetts-based VHB’s acquisition of Atlanta-based GT Hill Planners Corporation in late 2015.

Todd Hill, Environmental Services Manager for VHB and Principal at GT Hill prior to the merge, shares that at the beginning, “we looked at all our clients and the issues each one would have in order of priority.”

parties, as well as allow for a seamless transition for their clients.

Erin Murphy, Managing Director for VHB Atlanta and former President of GT Hill, agrees. “We had an enormous amount of communication with upper management, which helped make the employees feel integrated very early on.”

Town-hall meetings also paved the way for employee engagement and

minutes of our conversations, but after the merger, we addressed career

they could take things to the next level. We are a young company and it helped to discuss these things with their peers. This gave them a sense of ownership of the process,” adds Murphy.

package, as well as new arenas for career growth. “For example, a lot of times you work on a particular geography and learn all the species in that area, but aren’t exposed to things that are more exotic. It excited our staff to be able to work in other areas,” says Hill.

Employees of GT Hill did have to adapt to VHB’s work style. For instance, VHB employees typically have laptops and can conduct more business remotely. Hill had to convince his staff that it was time to upgrade their computer system by integrating it with VHB’s system. And, to promote camaraderie, Hill says they have convinced their new coworkers to continue Band Shirt Fridays, where employees wear a favorite rock band t-shirt to work.

their service offerings and work cultures to geographic markets. Hill’s

yourself. Make sure you will continue working on things that you enjoy.”

DEVELOPING KEY COLLABORATIONWhen San Jose, Calif.-based Salas O’Brien joined forces with Atlanta’s HESM&A Consulting Engineers, employees weren’t given advance notice. But Stan Everett, HESM&A’s Managing Principal, made sure employees knew that it was an opportunity to broaden their client

more training and advancement. A four-page document of FAQs was b

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38 ENGINEERING GEORGIA

Engineering GA | FEATURE

professionals, including 20 staffers acquired from KLG Consulting Engineers. According to Everett, nothing much has changed. “We’ve shared knowledge bases and employees have had functions together. At the local level, the transition was easy. We worked very hard to communicate everything. If you don’t, employees assume the worst. Salas O’Brien believes in best practices, so sometimes they convert to our way or we convert to theirs. The important thing is we truly believed

compatibility. Everett adds, “Compatible cultures are crucial to any

for and with, but most often it’s the culture they work in. Work has to be fun, as well as rewarding, and people have to be growing and feel like they are accomplishing something.”

BUILDING STRONG COMMUNICATIONJim Hamilton, former President of Southern Civil Engineers, Inc. (SCE), is certain that the success of his company’s merger with Kimley-Horn and Associates, Inc. hinged on shared values.

Hamilton says, “We spent a lot of time talking about values before the acquisition. We talked about culture and what the culture would be like. There is a difference between going from a 15-person to a 2,500-person company. At the base of it all, we had some common values that were really important to us.”

Both companies were driven by integrity, honesty and high expectations. And, both are high-achieving companies who focus on caring for clients and employees. These values were the glue that, over a period six months prior to closing the deal, helped bond the two companies and groove SCE into Kimley-Horn’s operation.

“It’s like any big endeavor,” says Hamilton, “you have to plan it out well. SCE existed for 30 years and we weren’t going to make the change unless we knew it was the right thing. As engineers, we make sure every component is in our formula for success. And Kimley-Horn’s transition team made it happen; their Southeast regional team, including IT and

to know each other, too.”

intensive, off-site culture and philosophy seminars to discuss approaches to managing projects, interacting with clients, accounting procedures and handling problems. They also enjoy weekly ice-cream socials as a way to get to know one another better.

its small-practice feel. “We are connected across the country. We have the same internal relationships, and yet, are part of the bigger practice.” It has been three years since the merger, and only two of the 15 SEC employees have left.

Ideally, this is how all mergers and acquisitions should be. Employees

that what they most value about their work will not disappear. The transition should be a time to honor the company’s accomplishments while continuing to work towards the betterment of the company and the success of its clientele. Quite possibly, preserving the positive qualities of each entity is the key to perfect matchmaking when

“We spent a lot of time talking about values before the

acquisition. We talked about culture and what the culture

would be like. There is a difference between going from a 15-person to a 2,500-person

company. At the base of it all, we had some common values that were really important to us.”

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40 ENGINEERING GEORGIA

By Nikki Welch

COMING SOON TO ATLANTA:

the LIVINGBUILDING

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Profiles | PROJECT SPOTLIGHT

Over the past few decades, the Georgia Institute of Technology (Georgia Tech) has focused its attention on

creating a standard of institutional excellence within not only the state, but across the globe. The University continues to set records, make monumental discoveries and push the boundaries of advancement. One recent noteworthy project is known as The Living Building Challenge.

In 2015, Georgia Tech received a $30 million grant from The Kendeda Fund, a private

“the most environmentally advanced education and research building ever constructed in the Southeast,” according to a press release from the school.

According to the Cascadia Green Building Council, a leading advocate for progressive

of the Living Building Challenge, Living Buildings are a structure that “generates all of its own energy with renewable nontoxic resources, captures and treats all of its water,

must meet requirements listed under seven ‘petals:’ site, water, energy, health, materials, equity and beauty.

Given the complexity and novelty of the

help select the design team for the venture. “The ideas competition was a fascinating process that set the perfect tone for this important project,” said Barry Berlin, a long-time advisor for the Kendeda Fund who

oversees the Atlanta program. The competition served as an environment to share ideas and designs, engage together as a community and promote a learning atmosphere for students and professionals, alike.

Three teams participated in the design

Each of the teams had to focus attention not only on the architecture behind the building, but also civil, electrical, mechanical and structural engineering, as well as plumbing,

care to consider the local community and climate needs.

The winning Living Building concept was

Lord Aeck Sargent, in partnership with Seattle-based Miller Hull, the company responsible

urban building of its kind and commonly

the world.”

“Lord Aeck Sargent’s deep knowledge of the Southeast, coupled with Miller Hull’s experience designing one of the most iconic commercial living buildings in the world, make this an optimal partnership for all involved,” said Berlin.

Joseph Greco, President of Lord Aeck Sargent,

to love architecture as an undergraduate student, so the opportunity to be involved with a project as transformative as this is really an honor.”

The winning design is expected to go into construction in 2017 and will take 12-18 months to complete.

Design projection created during the ideas competition by Lord Aeck Sargent and The Miller

Hull Partnership. The lifelike rendering depicts the Georgia Tech Eco-commons post-construction.

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42 ENGINEERING GEORGIA

Long-gone is the belief that social media is solely for personal use or marketing products and services to

look to build their brand, a well-rounded social media marketing plan presents a budget-friendly forum to regularly connect and meaningfully engage with their target audience.

According to Social Media Examiner’s 2015 Social Media Marketing

understanding social media’s role in growing and promoting their

imperative to their business. Facebook and LinkedIn were listed in the study as the two most essential social networks, with Facebook taking the clear lead in usage by Business-to-Consumer marketers and LinkedIn in usage by Business-to-Business marketers. Although, 66 percent of participants indicate they plan to increase their use of Twitter

video in the past few years.

development of a loyal fan base and lead generation. The most commonly used content leaned heavily visual, with a focus on photos

and graphics, followed closely behind by blogging, thought leadership and video.

If your company hasn’t dipped its toe into the social media ocean, it’s

using social media as a way to brand themselves, but they’re learning

relevant subjects, as well as consistently including company logos across

Once a foundational understanding and presence is established, compelling images and thoughtfully written content can help convey a company’s story. And, in today’s mobile marketplace, target audiences such as prospective clients and future hires have increased access to the

To gain clearer insight into the engineering industry’s use of social media, Engineering Georgia

best practices for reaching external audiences and engaging internally b

NETWORKINGinTHE NEW AGE

By Kasie Bolling

Strategies | MARKETING

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44 ENGINEERING GEORGIA

FAVORITE SOCIAL MEDIA PLATFORM?Barker: “I like to use a blend of platforms

platform could and should have a slightly

platform we adopted. It allows you to interact with and engage the local community. On the other hand, Twitter provides a quick, more ‘in the moment’ way to live tweet from events and professional conferences. Aside from the limited 140-character text, you can showcase photos of site visits and completed projects. You can also share other related pages’ content through retweets. Thanks to our talented Media Director, Sanna Haynes, we’ve been more intentional of our use of video on YouTube and other platforms,

another real growth opportunity for us.”

Marino: “YouTube. Statistics show that companies using videos for promotion

than non-users. If you visit NOVA’s YouTube channel, you’ll see we’ve created the NOVA Academy, which consists of a series of informative videos on each of the services we provide. It’s just another way we provide useful information to our audience, share our industry expertise and demonstrate who we are to prospective clients and potential hires. Videos prove a great way to boost search rankings and engage visitors.”

Zachary: “Facebook. I like the fact that you can relate to your audience on a more personal level and the response is more immediate. It’s like you’re actually connecting with people on Facebook, rather than just ‘entities’.”

WHY SHOULD ENGINEERING FIRMS HAVE A SOCIAL MEDIA PRESENCE?Barker: “One big reason is that very few

and interacting with your clients online, it provides another way to understand them better. It’s also a great way to demonstrate

credibility to the client and the communities

Marino: “Social media is a great way to get your brand out there affordably. In addition to boosting your brand, it’s an excellent tool

current and prospective clients. My ultimate goal is to get the word out about the services we provide at NOVA, in a way that promotes online participation and conversation. I want

we’re not high enough in the search engines for potential

media. When I see our clients, potential clients, and even our competitors commenting and

I’m doing something right!”

Zachary: “One of the most important reasons is to let people know that you are here and in business. It’s a simple way to keep that online presence up-to-date. If not, they might wonder ‘Why is it that your company is not technologically up-to-date?’ A

them to do a little research on who you are and what you do. They may determine that

some of your posts around activities your employees are doing.”

FAVORITE USE OF SOCIAL MEDIA?Barker: “As a professional planning

transportation and communities, we love interacting where we have a chance to be

TODD BARKER, AICPPRINCIPAL & SENIOR CONSULTANT

ADRIAN COLLABORATIVE

TRACEY MARINOCORPORATE MARKETING DIRECTOR

NOVA ENGINEERING & ENVIRONMENTAL

PATTI ZACHARYMARKETING MANAGER

HEATH & LINEBACK ENGINEERS, INC.

PANELISTS

THE BEST TIMES TO POST

12 to 1p.m. on Saturdays & Sundays 3 to 4p.m. on Wednesdays 1 to 4p.m. on Thursdays & Fridays

7:30 to 8:30a.m., right around 12p.m. & 5 to 6p.m. on Tuesdays, Wednesdays & Thursdays; also, 10 to 11a.m. on Tuesdays

12 to 3p.m. from Monday through Friday 5 to 6p.m. on Wednesdays

Source: Hubspot

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MAY/JUNE 2016 45

We use social media to share our place in the community, post about upcoming events, offer wisdom through great quotes and interesting articles and share photos of our team in action.”

Marino: “There’s not just one simple answer. A good rule of thumb is to have a healthy mix of content. A lot of companies only post information that is referred to as “look at me-see what we’re doing.” This type of self-promoting content becomes boring, and eventually your audience will tune out. It’s wise to provide industry information and news your audience can use. I strive to provide 75 percent industry-related topics and only 25 percent of posts for tooting our own horn.”

Zachary: “I like to post about projects and employees’ involvement. I’ve found that

at an event or standing before a recently

Tagging the people in the photo increases

what works best for your company, post a variety of things and discover what appeals most to your audience.”

MOST SUCCESSFUL SOCIAL MEDIA CAMPAIGN OR PRACTICE?Barker: “Last September, we hosted the Adrian Collaborative Community Art Show in Downtown Duluth. In terms of sheer engagement, our multiple platform social media campaign to promote the event

initiatives and arts enrichment in developing communities overseas.”

Marino: “Considering the fact that we had no social media presence a year ago, I’d have to say the majority of our success in that arena has come from building that online presence from the ground up and watching our audience grow. b

THE 80/20 RULE IN SOCIAL MEDIA

According to industry standards, only 20 percent

of social media posts should

initiatives with strong calls-to-action. The remaining 80

percent should be devoted to posting interesting news in order to engage audiences,

encourage shares and grow post or page “likes” organically. Some ideas include quotes, industry

news, geographically pertinent updates or

questions – anything that will elicit a positive response and

get a conversation started.

Source: Social Media Today

Strategies | MARKETING

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46 ENGINEERING GEORGIA

It has proven an excellent way to get our brand out there, while saving marketing dollars that might not be as effective if spent elsewhere. The only cost is my time to get in front of people on a regular basis. It’s important to keep it interesting by identifying posts that will encourage conversations and potentially go viral. With the right content and effective

NOVA’s website.”

Zachary: “We recently tapped into the massive ‘#ILookLikeAnEngineer’

We posted a photo of a few of the female engineers at our company with that hashtag, and found that they received the most likes and shares of anything we’ve posted to date.”

ANY ADVICE FOR OTHER FIRMS?Barker: “I strongly recommend starting

to what you can maintain. Because the main cost of social media is your time, it’s important to strike a balance so that you can be consistent

DID YOU KNOW?

80 PERCENTof Facebook users visit the

platform daily and

81 PERCENT of adult internet users have

a Facebook account.

CONNECT WITH ENGINEERING GEORGIA ON FACEBOOK! FIND US AT

FACEBOOK.COM/ENGINEERINGGA

Source: GlobalWebIndex

We try to keep a balance between shared content from industry sources and our original content that is a mix of ‘social’ and technical/project topics.

Determine how often to post and what kind of content you’d like to share. Remember that consistency is more important than frequency.”

Marino: “Endeavor to increase your ‘link-ability’ by posting blogs, along with

that points back to your company and your website. I highly recommend investing in video production.”

Zachary: “My best advice would

audience, post regularly and keep your website up-to-date. It’s also important to respond to people who comment on your updates or post to your wall in order to keep them engaged.”

Strategies | MARKETING

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48 ENGINEERING GEORGIA

ROSEANA RICHARDS, P.E., LEED APPond & Company

ACEC Georgia [email protected]

www.acecga.org

Association | NEWS

GET CONNECTED TO ACEC GEORGIA

facebook.com/ACECG

twitter.com/ACECGA

linkedin.com/company/acec-of-georgia

bit.ly/ACECGAYouTube

acecga.org

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ASCE Georgia attendees with ASCE 2016 Opal Awards Gala Winner Dr. Rudolph Bonaparte P.E.

2016 ASCE Outstanding Projects andLeaders (OPAL) Gala in Washington D.C.The American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) hosted hundreds of civil engineering professionals, including several people from Georgia, to celebrate the engineering profession at the 2016 Outstanding Projects and Leaders (OPAL) Gala in Washington, D.C.

Lifetime Achievement Award winners in

Education, Government and Management;

Engineering Achievement (OCEA) Award;

RICHARD MORALES, M.SC, F.ASCE, P.E.LB Foster

ASCE Georgia [email protected]

www.ascega.org

and newly awarded ASCE Fellows. This year, ASCE Georgia’s own member Dr. Rudolph Bonaparte, P.E. was awarded the prestigious OPAL Award for Design. To learn more about the Gala, please visit www.ascega.org.

ASCE Georgia Congratulates Newest Fellows ASCE Georgia would also like to congratulate its newest members to be named a Fellow of

founded in 1852, making it the oldest engineering society in the United States. The Membership Application Review Committee elects ASCE members to Fellow through a review of professional accomplishments and contributions. Of the more than 3,000 Georgia ASCE members, as well as 150,000 national ASCE members, fewer than 3.5 percent are Fellows. To learn more about becoming a Fellow, visit www.ascega.org.

ASCE Georgia Charity Golf Tournament

Proceeds from the ASCE Georgia Charity

the ASCE Georgia Younger Members’ Nicaragua Missions Trip to design and build a pedestrian bridge in the jungles of Nicaragua; 75 golfers helped raise more than $15,000 for the cause

As part of the festivities, attendees also participated in two technical presentations: Mike Marasa with Hayward Baker spoke on the Corvette Museum

Gorrie (pictured above) presented on the Galveston Bridge Replacement

ASCE 2016 Opal Awards with National President Mark Woodson, P.E.

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50 ENGINEERING GEORGIA

BRIAN O’CONNOR, P.E.T. Y. Lin International

ASHE Georgia [email protected]

www.georgia.ashe.pro

Association | NEWS

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS!

EAGLE SPONSORSAECOMEdwards-Pitman Environmental, Inc. ForterraLandair Surveying CompanyMcGee Partners

BIRDIE SPONSORSHeath & Lineback Engineers Inc.S&MESoutheastern Engineering, Inc.

PAR SPONSORS1st Engineering, Inc.American Engineers, Inc.CH2MKeck & Wood, Inc.Kimley-HornLong EngineeringMichael Baker InternationalPlatinum GeomaticsPrimacq GroupS&METerraconTHC, Inc.TranSystemsT.Y. Lin InternationalWolverton & Associates, Inc.

The Croy Engineering team took top honors as the Tier 1 winners: David Webb, Scott McNally, Tom Robinson and Eric Brisse

Tier 2 winners: Daniel Sabia with Pond & Company, Jon Pierce, Ron Osterloh with Pond & Company, Randy Boykin with Heath & Lineback Engineers (third from right)

McGee Partners’ Luke Taylor, Tommy Crochet and Candice Thomas with

Drew Pitman of Parsons Brinckerhoff (second from right)

Jay Ashtiani with United Consulting, Joe Macrina with Wolverton & Associates, Allen

Krivsky with Heath & Lineback Engineers and Stan Hicks with KCI Technologies

enjoy a day on the golf course

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We would like to take this

in the background who keep the Georgia Engineering Foundation (GEF) running year after year. As volunteers for GEF, these leaders are supporting the people who mentor the students who will become the next generation of engineers. These “top dogs” support GEF in a myriad of ways.

ANNUAL SCHOLARSHIP AWARDSFirst, they conduct annual scholarship awards, which involve the review of approximately 200 applications for the 45 awards given out each year. This is a complicated task as contacts need to be set up with the various universities in Georgia to encourage students to apply and for interviews of the applicants. Each

along with grade averages reviewed and validated. In-person interviews are conducted by numerous volunteers. Then, after all this

is presented to a committee for scholarship selection. Selections are also complicated due to the varying criteria associated with many of the scholarships. The “top dog” currently leading this effort is and his predecessors have included

and .

GEF SCHOLARSHIP BANQUETSecond, they set up the annual GEF Scholarship Banquet. This involves not only dedicating time to set up the banquet, but

RAYMOND J. WILKE, P.E.City of Atlanta GEF President

[email protected]

also reaching out to sponsors. Many hours go into coordinating the presenters for each scholarship, pulling together scholarship winners’ biographies, seating presenters and scholarship winners together and making sure the appropriate checks are in each envelope presented to the scholarship winners. In addition, an Annual Report is developed and printed for distribution at the banquet. For the last few years, the “top dogs” supporting this effort are and , whom we extend much gratitude and thanks. If you would like to sponsor this event in 2016, contact Steve at [email protected].

STUDENT MENTORINGThird, they support elementary and high school student mentoring activities each year. These activities include MATHCOUNTS, Future Cities Competition, Georgia Science Fair, Exploring Engineering Academy, Rockdale Magnet School and The Science and Mathematics Academy at Benjamin E. Mays High School. The “top dogs” supporting these initiatives include and

. Pulling together these activities each year means GEF reaches and mentors hundreds of future engineers.

LEADERSHIPFinally, let’s not forget our leaders, as these are the people who provide guidance and direction. Our current leader is Other recent leaders include and , as well as President-Elect

and Secretary .

Students comment on building smart cities at the Museum of Design Atlanta (MODA) during the 2015 Exploring Engineering Academy. GEF

volunteers help make this camp possible each year, providing valuable experiences to the next generation of engineers

GEF’s President and “top dog,” Ray Wilke, P.E.

BECOME ONE OF THE “TOP DOGS!” JOIN GEF AND HELP MENTOR THE NEXT GENERATION OF ENGINEERS.

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52 ENGINEERING GEORGIA

RECOGNIZING LUTHER O. COX, P.E.

achievement of one of our Board Members.

Fellow of the National Society of Professional Engineers (NSPE) for his years of service and

local chapter level of GSPE. At our last board meeting, I was able to present Luther with

this is just an achievement along the way and it doesn’t mean he can stop now. I only

is no stop in him! His commitment to GSPE over the years has been invaluable and this

him. Please join me in congratulating Luther on this achievement and thanking him for all he does for GSPE and the engineering community.

KEVIN BERRY, P.E.Hodges, Harbin, Newberry and Tribble, Inc.

GSPE [email protected]

www.gspe.org

IT TAKES A VILLAGE…

takes a lot more than one person and I would be remiss if I didn’t take this opportunity to thank those who make GSPE possible. Our board has some great folks who provide man hours to keep things going. Thanks to all of

I also owe a huge thanks to our Executive Director, Carolyn Jones. Carolyn has

works diligently on our projects and programs to ensure their success. Thank you for everything you do, Carolyn!

MOVING ON

it’s time for me to move on and welcome our incoming GSPE President, Jason Cooper, P.E. I’m looking forward to working with Jason as he continues to provide leadership to GSPE. I hope you’ll consider joining Jason and the rest of the state board at our annual GSPE Planning Session on July 19, 2016 in Atlanta. We’ll spend some dedicated time planning out the year and refocusing our view to ensure we are achieving the vision and mission of GSPE.

JULY 19, 2016GSPE Planning Session

Atlanta

OCTOBER 2016New P.E.

Recognition DinnerAtlanta

Association | NEWS

Please join me in congratulating

Luther on this achievement and thanking him for all he does for GSPE

and the engineering community.

JOIN US

Luther O. Cox, P.E. with GSPE President Kevin Berry, P.E.

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SEAN COLEMAN, P.E., PTOEKimley-Horn

ITE Georgia [email protected]

www.gaite.org

in as one of those summer daydreamers. But, did you know that there is a way to get both summertime fun at the beach while also networking with your peers and growing professionally? Come join us at one of the premier transportation conferences in

GAITE 2016 Summer Seminar!

The Summer Seminar will once again be held at The King and Prince Beach & Golf Resort on beautiful St. Simons Island from Sunday, July 17 to Wednesday, July 20. The Summer Seminar is an excellent venue to hear great technical presentations, build connections and catch-up with colleagues in a phenomenal beach setting. Still not convinced that the Summer Seminar is for you? Here are some of the highlights:

EARN up to 12 PDHs and six ACIP CM credits at the technical sessions.CONNECT with colleagues over a seafood buffet at the Welcome Reception, over burgers at one of the many beachfront cookouts and over drinks at the poolside bar.RELAX with your family and friends at one of many pools and awesome beachfront.

It is hard to believe that we are nearly halfway through 2016 and summer fun is just around the corner! I’m sure

that many reading this article can’t wait to leave work behind and head to the beach, lake or mountains, and you can count me

ENJOY a round of golf at the Jimmy Roper Classic Golf Tournament and a round of cornhole on the beach.EXERCISE by participating in the annual 5k or the always competitive volleyball tournament.CONTRIBUTE to our student scholarship at the entertaining Scholarship Reception cocktail hour and auction.DINE AND LAUGH at the Tuesday Night Banquet; and, don’t worry about your

movies and making crafts during this time.PARTY at the Dancing/Dessert Social, which is fun for all ages! Don’t believe me that an engineering conference can have a fun dance party to close out the event? Just like our Facebook page at “Georgia Section ITE” or search #gaite2015 on Instagram to see all of the great pictures from years past.

If you have never been to a Summer Seminar and are 35 or younger, you are eligible for the First Annual Young Professional Scholarship! Believe me, once you go as a young professional, you’ll be hooked and want to come back year after year. Please visit www.gaite.org/summer-seminar for details on the Seminar and Scholarship.See you in St. Simons!

S

Meredith Emory, ITE Georgia member, received the Southern District of ITE Young Member of the Year Award at the Annual Meeting in Nashville, Tenn.

ITE Georgia Immediate Past President, Andrew Antweiler, received the award for

Best Section in the Southern District of ITE.

GEORGIA ITE’S RECOGNITION AT SOUTHERN DISTRICT OF ITE’S ANNUAL MEETING

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54 ENGINEERING GEORGIA

A snapshot from ITS Georgia’s March 2016 Board Meeting

THE BUSINESS OF ITSThanks to advancements in intelligent transportation systems (ITS) technology and delivery systems, the movement of people and goods today is just as much about information as it is vehicles and roadway infrastructure. With Smart Cities initiatives, Autonomous Vehicles (e.g. Google car) and Connected Vehicles, technological advances are driving the future of transportation funding.

The return on investment for the $14 million spent on the Georgia Department of Transportation’s (GDOT) Transportation Management Center in 1996 is well documented. GDOT estimates commuters save 3.2 million hours and $45 million in fuel per year due to better incident management through ITS deployment, even while metro Atlanta’s population grew from approximately 3.5 million to more than 5.7 million. It’s hard

rapid and appropriate response to incidents.

The future of ITS funding looks bright. Congress has appropriated more than $250

ITS research and deployment. The annual global market for ITS is expected to reach $35 billion by 2020, with the U.S. accounting for 40 percent of total market share, according to a report by Research and Markets.

MIKE HOLT, P.E., PTOEWSP | Parsons Brinckerhoff

ITS Georgia [email protected]

www.itsga.org

It’s not only governments spending on ITS in

which have their U.S.-based operations headquartered in Georgia, are leaders in onboard ITS systems focusing on safety and

with these automotive manufacturers, as well as other vendors, to develop and deploy AV/CV technologies to facilitate greater congestion management and mobility throughout the region.

KNOWLEDGE AND NETWORKING: THE 2016 ITS GEORGIA ANNUAL MEETING AND EXHIBITIONSTwo key components of the business of ITS Georgia include:

Providing our members with industry knowledge

Turning our awareness into solutions for clients and constituents through networking

Our members’ best opportunity to gain the latest ITS knowledge and develop project solutions is our Annual Meeting, scheduled for September 25-27, 2016 at the beautiful Callaway Gardens Lodge and Spa in Pine Mountain, Georgia. The conference provides a forum for attendees to learn about new

technologies and changing trends in the ITS industry, as well as network with fellow ITS professionals. The conference is attended by a wide variety of industry leaders, including transportation system owners and managers, consultants, equipment vendors and software developers. The conference theme this year is “ITS Georgia

Georgia is embracing to elevate technology solutions in transportation. Building on recent successes, the state and local agencies within Georgia are collaborating to improve transportation systems and traveler

challenge of congestion, our Annual Meeting will showcase the best practices and future opportunities for the ITS industry in Georgia.

This year marks the 20th year of ITS in Georgia and the 20th anniversary of the

catalyst for Georgia’s deployment of ITS infrastructure throughout the metro Atlanta area, including the NaviGAtor System.

The Annual Meeting will feature speakers covering a broad range of topics including:

For more information about the conference, please visit the ITS Georgia website at www.itsga.org.

Association | NEWS

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MAY/JUNE 2016 55

SOUTHEAST FEDERAL AGENCY SYMPOSIUM

networking event kicked off the Symposium, which was a huge success. Even the non-golfers were swinging their clubs. The following day, nearly 100 attendees participated in informative sessions led by representatives from CDC, EPA, FEMA, GSA, NPS, USACE and VA. The luncheon keynote speaker was Thomas J. Cunningham, Ph.D., Chief Economist for the Metro Atlanta Chamber. Dr. Cunningham provided the audience with an economic update on the southeast and nation.

CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR NEW OFFICERS AND DIRECTORS!

Atlanta Post Luncheon on June 16 at Dunwoody Country Club. Visit www.sameatlantapost.org to register for this event.

2016-2017 OFFICERSHoward AyersPresident

Matt Haupt, P.E., CPP, BSCPAtkinsVice President

Beth Harris, CPSMUnited ConsultingPast President

Sherri Smith, CPSMGHDSecretary

Amita KotwaniVintek Consulting GroupAssistant Secretary

BETH HARRIS, CPSM United Consulting

SAME Atlanta Post [email protected]

www.sameatlantapost.org

Bob Marbury, P.G.Black and VeatchTreasurer

Brian Dance, P.E., S.E.Innovative EngineeringAssistant Treasurer

2015-2017 DIRECTORS

2016-2018 DIRECTORS

Atlanta Post

SAME Atlanta Post President, Beth Harris, with Larry McCallister, USACE

Tim Bemisderfer with National Parks Service

SAME Atlanta Post President-Elect, Mike Blount with AECOM, gives

an update from headquarters

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56 ENGINEERING GEORGIA

SEAOG held its Excellence in Structural Engineering Awards Banquet on April 16 at the Capital City Club in downtown Atlanta.

as a great opportunity for structural engineers

and celebrate innovation and creativity in structural design.

EXCELLENCE IN ENGINEERING AWARDSThere are seven categories and two awards

an Outstanding Project Award. The seven categories, along with the project winners, are:

Category 1: New Buildings under $5 Million in Construction CostUniversity of Georgia Structural Engineering Testing Hub Laboratory Project: Uzun+Case EngineersOutstanding Project Award Winner

Category 2: New Buildings between $5-$25 Million in Construction CostGeorgia Power Environmental Testing Laboratory Project: Uzun+Case EngineersOutstanding Project Award Winner

Saint Michael the Archangel Roman Catholic Church: Palmer Engineering CompanyMerit Award Winner

MICHAEL PLANER, P.E.PES Structural Engineers

SEAOG [email protected]

www.seaog.org

Category 3: New Buildings between $25-$75 Million in Construction CostNational College Football Hall of Fame Project: Sykes Consulting, Inc.Outstanding Project Award Winner

Porsche Cars North American Headquarters: KSi Structural EngineersMerit Award Winner

Category 4: New Buildings over $75 Million in Construction CostReinsurance Group of America’s Global Headquarters Project: Uzun+Case EngineersOutstanding Project Award Winner

Charlotte VA Health Care Center: Walter P MooreMerit Award Winner

Category 5: New Bridge and Transportation StructuresBroad Avenue Veterans Memorial Bridge over the Flint River Project: Heath & Lineback EngineersOutstanding Project Award Winner

Category 6: Forensic, Renovation,

Ennis Hall Renovation and Seismic Upgrades Project: Palmer Engineering CompanyOutstanding Project Award Winner

Helix-on-Main: Walter P MooreMerit Award Winner

Category 7: Other StructuresStealth Sculpture Project: Uzun+Case EngineersOutstanding Project Award Winner

Winners of SEAOG’s Excellence in Structural Engineering Awardswere recognized during the annual banquet on April 16

Association | NEWS

Hennessy Jaguar Land Rover Canopy: Palmer Engineering CompanyMerit Award Winner

INDIVIDUAL ACHIEVEMENT AWARDSEAOG also presented an award for Individual

contributor to the structural engineering profession over the course of his/her career. The winner for this award was John Hutton, P.E, S.E. of Uzun+Case Engineers. John began his career in Atlanta at Lockwood Greene, moved on to John Portman and Associates and

is currently licensed as a S.E. in six states and as

Past President of SEAOG. He currently serves on various committees including, but not limited to, the National Council of Structural

and Wind Code Advisory Committees, Steel Deck Institute Standards Canvas Committee and the Georgia Special Inspections Guidelines Committee for SEAOG/ACEC (Chairman). He regularly presents to architects and engineers on topics such as Georgia and North Carolina special inspections requirements; design provisions for disaster resilient construction and storm shelters during tornados and hurricanes; and ASCE 7-10 wind load provisions for components and cladding design. John has been a great mentor to many structural engineers in the community.

LEADERSHIP TRANSITIONFinally, this June will mark the end of my term as President of SEAOG. During the past two years, with the help of the Executive Committee and other engineers across Georgia, SEAOG has continued to grow and

to continuing to help SEAOG thrive in the coming years.

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MAY/JUNE 2016 57

As we focus on the Business of Engineering in this issue of Engineering Georgia, WTS Atlanta

interviewed four women engineers who are all at different levels in their career. Hear what they have to say about why they became an engineer and sound advice for aspiring women engineers.

SHERL WHITECivil Engineer, HNTB

Education Bachelors of Science in Engineering, South Carolina State UniversityMaster of Science in Engineering, the University of Illinois at Chicago

InspirationAs a child, I wondered how things were built and I had a great fascination with bridges and roadways. In high school, I decided to research which discipline of engineering would teach me about bridges and roadways.

AdviceEngineering is an exciting and challenging career for women who want to learn the basic mechanics of how our society thrives in everyday life. I encourage women to become a part of this growing aspect of technology. Obtaining the P.E. license is an important part of the profession for growth opportunities in both consulting and the public sector.

REGAN HAMMOND, AICP ARCADIS U.S, Inc.

WTS Atlanta [email protected]/atlanta

Atlanta Chapter

IF YOU ARE A PROFESSIONAL WORKING IN THE TRANSPORTATION FIELD IN THE METRO ATLANTA AREA,

JOIN WTS ATLANTA! VISIT US AT WWW.WTSINTERNATIONAL.ORG/ATLANTA

TO LEARN MORE.

MARY SISAYEngineer 1, WSP/Parsons Brinkerhoff

Education Bachelors of Science in Civil Engineering, Illinois Institute of TechnologyMasters of Science in Structural Engineering,Illinois Institute of Technology

InspirationAs a child, I was always fascinated by skyscrapers and highway interchanges (e.g. the clover leaf ). I found out that those were designed by Civil/Structural engineers. I decided to become one to help positively impact the environment.

AdviceMy advice would be to develop their technical competency and also develop a passion for

positive brand for themselves.

I also believe that since engineering is a

mentor who will give an honest insight into the

SWE, etc. in order to network and potentially

time job offer when they graduate.

ANGELA SNYDER, P.E.Civil Engineer, Senior Project Manager Wolverton & Associates

Education Bachelors of Science in Civil andEnvironmental Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology

InspirationI loved taking things apart and putting them back together as a child. I always wanted to know how things worked. And, I was pretty good in math.

AdviceWomen are naturally great problem solvers. That’s really all you need to be a good

engineers the best in the industry. Getting a P.E. is a major accomplishment and should

not give up. You will pass!

ANNIE GILLESPIE, P.E.Director of Engineering, SRTA/GRTA

Education Bachelors of Science in Civil and Environmental Engineering, Georgia Institute of TechnologyMasters in Environmental Engineering,Georgia Institute of Technology

Inspiration I actually wanted to be a math major in college, but my dad (who was a math major) told me that I should study engineering ‘because there will still be plenty of math, but it will be

with that logic.

AdviceVolunteer to do any task that’s available at

even if it’s not your chosen specialty. You’re more capable than you think you are. You’ll

disciplines and you can be available to take advantage of future opportunities.

Hear what

four successful women engineers

had to say...

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A sailing regatta at The Savannah Yacht Club, where the Oetgens are members.

By Nikki Welch

58 ENGINEERING GEORGIA

ENGINEERS BEYOND THEIR CAREERSTHE ENGINEER: JENNIFER OETGEN, P.E.

Principal and Head of Water and Wastewater, Hussey Gay Bell

Growing up in Minneapolis, Minn., Jennifer Oetgen, P.E. initially started her college career at The University of Rhode Island, where she attended for two years. But, upon her decision to go into engineering, “got a lot of support from my Midwestern-family

graduated from Purdue with a degree in Civil Engineering and went on to get her Master’s Degree in Civil and Environmental Engineering from The University of Iowa.

While still in college, Oetgen joined a friend on a road trip to California to deliver a sailboat to its new owner. There, she met her now-husband Eric, a Savannah, Ga. native, who was also out west for a sailboat race. The two now reside just

outside the coastal city on Whitemarsh Island with their three children: seven-year-old Ella,

Oetgen has been employed with Savannah-based Hussey Gay Bell for 16 years, joining the company right out of graduate school. She and her family are members of Isle of Hope Methodist Church, as well as The Savannah Yacht Club. Oetgen, herself, stays involved in the community by actively volunteering with the Ronald McDonald House and will become a Board Member for Urban Hope Savannah later this year.

THE SAILOR:

“The University of Rhode Island had, and still has, a very strong

and I was able to sail all over New England as part of the sailing team. I then continued to sail competitively during my time at Purdue University.”

As a mom of three, as well as Principal and Head of the Water and Wastewater

Department at Hussey Gay Bell, Oetgen now enjoys

a more relaxed sailing lifestyle. She sails

with her husband, a three-time Olympic-trial sailing competitor, as a weekend pastime. “We

are planning to travel to meet up with some sailing friends in Nantucket this summer.”

“The greatest thing about sailing is that you develop friends for life through the sport. It’s

and her husband are hoping to pass along to their children. “Our son, Will, just sailed on

and loved it!”

HOW DOES YOUR ALTER EGO IMPACT YOUR EVERYDAY LIFE?

“The Savannah Riverwalk is one of Hussey Gay Bell’s signature projects. Having a familiarity with the water gives me a broader understanding of coastal engineering needs, which is very useful in my job. Knowledge of the tides and shorelines has certainly helped when it comes to crossing waterways with pipelines and designing outfall structures.”

ANY ADVICE TO OTHER ENGINEERS ABOUT STRIKING A BALANCE?

Even though Oetgen works a great deal, she sees the importance of having a

healthy work/life balance. “I work for a good company with a supportive

staff: we’re a family. I try to push

department. That mindset gives everyone the chance

to greater enjoy their off-time, pursuing hobbies

and spending time with family, away

Jennifer Oetgen with her family

“The greatest thing about sailing is that you develop friends for life through the sport.”

Family photo by Christine Hall

Photography

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