SSOE Group Announces Solar and Battery / EV Project Delivery Expert Perlita Schorfheide Has Joined Firm as Vice President, Program Manager

TOLEDO, Ohio, March 14, 2024 – SSOE Group, an architecture and engineering firm ranked the #2 Manufacturing Design Firm by industry-leading Engineering News-Record, is excited to announce that Perlita Schorfheide, PE, CCM, PMP, has joined the firm as Vice President, Program Manager. Schorfheide officially joined the company on March 4, 2024, reporting to Senior Vice President Scott Bussell in the firm’s Complex Projects Division. Read more

Giving clients more for their money through innovative software

In our latest newsletter, we are highlighting the outstanding performance of Jonathan Bolbach and Mark LaBell, winners of SSOE’s Founder’s Award. Their accomplishment — developing the AutoNavis software application — met two of the award’s key criteria: delivering exceptional value to clients by saving them time, trouble, and money and implementing an innovation that leads to improved processes and quality. Read more

BD+C Magazine Article: “U.S. Engineering Firms Cash in on a Volatile, Expanding Market”

This Building Design+Construction article features some of the publication’s “Engineering Giants” who’ve entered new practices and markets that are driving significant growth—a list that includes SSOE Group. While we’ve been at the forefront of the transition to electric vehicles (thanks to our unique experience in the automotive, chemical, and semiconductor markets), we’ve been pursuing these types of projects more aggressively as of late. Today, we’re engaged in more than 20 EV projects across North America. Read more

Pulling back the curtain on VDC

In moving a project from statement of work to completion of construction, regular collaboration between owners, designers, and contractors is no longer a luxury. It is the managerial insurance the project must have in order to stay on schedule and budget. Much of the unbudgeted time and expense incurred by change orders can be attributed to a lack of integration between the players. It’s often because these parties failed to include the resources and intentional effort for collaboration. Read more

SSOE Group’s Continental AG’s New Braunfels, Texas Project Becomes LEED Gold Certified

SAN ANTONIO, Texas, November 8, 2023 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), an internationally ranked architecture and engineering firm, is proud to announce their involvement in the successful LEED® certification of Continental AG’s new state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in New Braunfels, Texas. Continental AG was recently awarded Gold certification for this facility, the second highest designation possible from the U.S. Green Building Council’s (USGBC) Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) green building certification program. The client received LEED Gold certification under the LEED BD+C: New Construction – LEED v4 rating system. Read more

BD+C Magazine Article: “Industrial Building Sector Construction, While Healthy, might also be Flattening”

Greg Brogley, PE, PMP, Strategic Business Unit Manager, Facilities Northern Operations and Senior Vice President, was recently featured in a Building Design+Construction article that showcases the publication’s “Industrial Giants” who reported increases in the sector last year, despite the marginal decline in construction of industrial buildings over the past five years overall. Within, Greg discusses the ever-important need for scheduling due to ongoing supply chain delays and shortages and our Mexico operations’ newfound niche designing distribution centers with automated storage and retrieval systems. The article also highlights the facility SSOE designed in central Mexico for automotive supplier Continental, dubbed “plant of the future” for its innovative bells and whistles. Read more

SSOE conducts search for new Polaris plant location

Huntsville, Alabama has a lot to celebrate. It was recently selected as the site for the new Polaris plant, which will generate up to 2,000 jobs and create a ripple effect that will boost the area’s economy. Huntsville’s Mayor, Tommy Battle, jokingly suggested it was a plate of exceptional barbecue ribs that clinched the high-stakes deal. SSOE’s Alexandra Segers stands by the full story. Polaris selected her from a field of qualified candidates to conduct the site selection process — beginning to end. Alexandra considers this one of the fastest site selection processes of this magnitude she’s ever conducted. To put that in context, she has more than 15 years of experience helping major corporations find the best sites worldwide. Read more

SSOE’s Comprehensive Services Enable Client’s U.S. Operations

When Germany-based KSM decided to advance its global production footprint by setting up operations in the U.S., they enlisted SSOE to help with site selection. SSOE began by developing the site criteria for the company’s new greenfield high-pressure aluminum castings plant into an RFP. SSOE solicited bids from various states, performed site evaluations, recommended a site, and supported negotiations of the settlement contracts.

KSM was very pleased with the results and extended the scope of SSOE’s services with the conceptual design and cost estimate for the Shelby, North Carolina location. We then performed all design and engineering services for the new facility and acted as the Owner’s Representative which included providing an onsite contact.

SSOE used a cost / benefit analysis, including value engineering, to help KSM determine its “must haves” — items required for production support — verses its wants. This analysis helped the client create a facility that projected the image they were looking for while keeping costs within budget. In fact, by applying intense value engineering, SSOE was able to reduce estimated completion cost by 33%.  

To keep the project on track required prioritizing production areas and construction packages. And to keep the budget intact, SSOE drew on its design solutions that had been successful in other automotive applications.

At this point, site work is complete and Phase 1 construction is underway. The design included expansion areas to be built out as needed for future growth of operations.

The Making of a Sustainable Facility

Volkswagen’s new Chattanooga, Tennessee production facility is a model of environmental responsibility and sustainability. SSOE integrated these core values into every level of the project, from design through construction. The site includes outbound logistics, an extensive training center, media center, social hall, cafeteria, technical center, tank farm, recycling center, and fire station.

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The buildings are comprised of a concrete and steel infrastructure with an insulated metal skin. Locally extracted and manufactured materials were specifi ed. To the fullest extent possible, wood, cardboard, metal, and concrete were recycled using a local vendor resulting in nearly 78% (4,602 tons) of construction and demolition waste being recycled or salvaged.

48% of total building materials were manufactured using recycled materials.

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By using ASHRAE/IESNA standards to design the energy consuming systems, the team reduced the amount of energy that will be used in both the facility and manufacturing processes by 42%.

On-site renewable energy sources generate a portion of the buildings’ energy needs. The facility will include a solar park to generate energy.

A white, reflective roofing material was installed on 100% of the roof. It refl ects heat resulting in lower cooling costs and energy savings.

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Significant time and money was invested in order to prepare the brownfield site— previously a munitions manufacturing and testing site. The team stabilized the soils, mitigated the pollution, and relocated an existing stream. Volkswagen set aside 235 acres as permanent green spaces and reserved additional acreage for native or adapted plants.

An extensive storm water conveyance system consisting of bioswales, vegetative ditches, and culverts acts as the primary storm water management system. Specific plants were planted in the ditches and swales to fi ltrate suspended solids.

To reduce the heat island effect, roller compacted concrete was placed in strategic areas of the parking lots and roadways.

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All exterior lights provide only the minimum lighting required for safety to ensure that light does not spill into the night sky and adversely affect the surrounding nocturnal environments through excessive glare.

Measures to promote environmentally friendly commutes include providing bike racks for visitors and employees, showers and lockers for employee use, and preferred parking for those driving low-emitting and fuel-efficient vehicles and those who carpool.

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The HVAC system utilizes ASHRAE 62-2004 as its basis. A construction indoor air quality management program was successfully implemented with the support of all contractors working on-site. A stringent low-emitting materials policy is in place to reduce the use of off-gassing materials within the buildings in accordance with LEED indoor environmental credits 4.1–4.4 and 5.and preferred parking for those driving low-emitting and fuel-efficient vehicles and those who carpool.

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Through low-flow water closets and urinals, the plant achieves a 58% reduction in potable water used for sewage conveyance. Additionally, the plant collects rainwater from its roof for use in the sanitary waste system. Low-fl ow showers and faucets further decrease potable water usage. Together, these strategies save more than 3 million gallons of potable water each year.

All grass and plant species on-site are either native or adapted and are drought-resistant, allowing them to survive without a permanent irrigation system.

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To learn more about the VW facility, visit: www.ssoe.com/platinum

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ENR Names SSOE Group #2 Manufacturing Design Firm in the U.S.

TOLEDO, Ohio, August 2, 2023 — SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), an internationally ranked architecture and engineering firm, is proud to announce its annual Engineering News-Record (ENR) rankings. ENR serves as one of the leading engineering and construction news publications and recently published this year’s Top 500 Design Firms Sourcebook providing market analysis and rankings of the largest U.S.-based AEC firms according to revenue for design services performed in 2022. Read more

There’s a lot at stake when selecting a site for a new facility

Choosing the wrong consultant and especially the wrong property could be detrimental to your project budget and schedule. SSOE provides an overview touching on the important aspects of site selection and the details that will help you make an informed choice on a firm to partner with. In our site selection presentation, we explain our step-by-step process of securing solid ground for your facility, and how our way of working helps save you time, trouble, and money on your project. Read more

Feeling squeezed by greenhouse gas regulations?

Set Up an Effective Greenhouse Gas Monitoring Plan

In this month’s issue of Chemical Processing, SSOE Group’s Anna Koperczak, Senior Environmental Specialist, discusses the upcoming deadline mandated by the U.S. EPA. In this article Koperczak also breaks down the components of a successful monitoring plan necessary to fulfill this federal regulation. Click the link below to read Anna’s article in Chemical Processing magazine. “Set Up An Effective Greenhouse Gas Monitoring Plan”

Our Senior Environmental Specialist, Anna Koperczak, gives expert advice on how to set up a GHG monitoring plan. Anna has more than 20 years experience preparing environmental permits and helping clients comply with environmental regulations for their facilities and processes. She has utilized her extensive knowledge of reporting and permitting requirements for a variety of clients, including those in the automotive, energy, food, chemical, steel, and refining industries.

View the Q&A below

Federal Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Tailoring Rule

Download the complete chart
What is it? In May 2010, the EPA issued a final ruling to increase the major source thresholds for GHGs from
100/250 TPY to 25,000 TPY, effectively “tailoring” the PSD and Title V permit programs to target only “major” GHG sources and major modifications. GHG’s include CO2, N2O, CH4, HFCs, PFCs, and SF6.
Why does it exist? To phase in permitting requirements and reduce the number of applications submitted at one time.
Who does it affect? All facilities applying for, renewing, or revising an air quality permit; or facilities that increase their GHG emissions by 75,000 TPY.
What’s required? Phase 1:Permits Issued Jan. 2, 2011 – June 30, 2011

  • PSD permit: new construction projects or modifications that increase GHG to more than 75,000 TPY are required to conduct a Best Available Control Technology (BACT) analysis.
  • Title V permits: only when applying for a new, renewing, or revising a permit.

Phase 2: Permits Issued July 1, 2011 – June 30, 2013

  • PSD permit: new construction projects that emit GHG emissions of at least 100,000 TPY, and modifications to existing facilities that increase GHG emissions by at least 75,000 TPY.
  • Title V permit: facilities that emit at least 100,000 TPY
How does SSOE help?
  • Help clients understand the permit requirements and how they apply to them.
  • Complete / coordinate permit applications and help revise processes and/or building plans to meet guidelines.
How does SSOE add value? SSOE applies its broad knowledge of industrial processes and facilities and full range of services to identify emissions issues before permits are submitted for review.

Mandatory GHG Reporting Rule

Download the complete chart
What is it? In October 2009, the EPA issued the “Mandatory Reporting of GHGs Rule” that requires industrial facilities to report their GHG data and other relevant information. The Rule is referred to as 40 CFR 98 (or Part 98 Rule).The gases reported include CO2, N2O,and CH4.
Why does it exist? To gain accurate and timely GHG data that will inform future decisions.
Who does it affect? Facilities that emit 25,000 TPY of GHGs, and any of the following facility types:

  • Adipic acid production
  • Aluminum production
  • Ammonia production
  • Certain electricity generation
  • Certain manure management systems
  • Certain municipal solid waste landfills
  • HCFC-22 production
  • Certain HFC-23 destruction processes
  • Lime manufacturing
  • Nitric acid production
  • Petrochemical production
  • Phosphoric acid production
  • Silicon carbide production
  • Soda ash production
  • Titanium dioxide production
What’s required? Facilities that exceed thresholds are required to submit annual reports to the EPA.
How does SSOE help?
  • Help clients understand and interpret industry-specific requirements.
  • Identify processes and sources that emit GHGs.
  • Help create and implement an effective GHG monitoring plan.
  • Identify areas and strategies to decrease GHG emissions and increase efficiency.
How does SSOE add value?
  • Alleviate the cost and time of internal resources.
  • Experienced specialists know what data needs to be collected and calculations performed, as well as how to organize the reports to meet the EPA’s criteria.
  • Full range of services allow us to help implement components of GHG monitoring plan (i.e. integrate meters and controls systems).

Boiler MACT Rule –Major Sources

Download the complete chart
What is it? In February 2011, the EPA issued new regulations regarding the emissions of hazardous air pollutants (HAPs) from industrial, commercial, and institutional boilers.
Why does it exist? To regulate the emissions of HAPs, such as HCl, particulate matter, CO, mercury, and dioxins/furans from major sources of HAPs.
Who does it affect? Facilities with boilers that emit at least 10 TPY of any single HAP and/or at least emit 25 TPY of all HAPs. The rule covers new, reconstructed, and existing boilers.
What’s required?
  • All units with heat inputs less than 10 MMBTU/H are required to have biennial tune-ups.
  • Natural gas fired units with heat input equal to or greater than 10 MMBTU/H are required to have annual tune-ups.
  • All facilities are required to have a one-time energy assessment.
  • All facilities are required to be in compliance within three years of publication of the rules (February 2014).
  • Emissions limits for coal, biogas, and other fuel burning equipment.
How does SSOE help?
  • Help clients understand and interpret specific requirements.
  • Perform required energy assessments / boiler studies.
  • Identify areas and strategies to increase efficiency.
  • Help create a plan to update equipment / processes, and provide engineering and design support.
How does SSOE add value? Experience with various industrial boilers and comprehensive services, qualifies SSOE to identify cause and effect of emissions throughout both facilities and processes and provide integrated solutions.

Question and Answer with Anna Koperczak

Q: We need to develop a reliable monitoring plan to measure the level of greenhouse gas emissions in our facility. How do we get started?

A: To begin, you’ll need to identify the sources of GHG emissions in your facility. The obvious places to consider are any combustion sources, boilers and heaters for example, or the actual production of GHGs. Also look at any chemical reactions that emit GHGs.

Q: Once I know all the sources of emissions, how do I measure them? Are meters the best way?

A: Not necessarily. There are various ways to measure GHGs and you’ll want to determine the most efficient and accurate way for your circumstances. Meters are a common solution. Make sure you use the appropriate meter for the equipment. Consider too that you may already have some metering in place that can be used to measure GHGs. You can use a PLC to gather the information from the meters. Make sure to include the calibration of equipment in your step by step monitoring plan.

Measuring the amount of fuel a piece of equipment uses is another way to calculate the amount of GHGs it emits. Also, the throughput of a piece of equipment can also help you calculate the GHG level.

Another viable option for gathering information is to examine past utility bills and use the reports to determine emission levels over a period of time.

Q: How often do I need to gather information to satisfy the reporting and permitting regulations?

A: You will want to collect your data at a minimum monthly. That way you can see trends in emissions if there are issues.

Q: How long does it typically take to develop and implement a monitoring plan?

A: That depends somewhat on the size of the facility(s). I estimate three to four months for identifying the sources, establishing the best monitoring approach, calibrating equipment, and collecting data.

Q: What are my options for reducing GHG emission levels?

A: You have many options for reducing levels. Among them are converting from coal-fired to natural gas boilers, configuring your process to use fewer, larger boilers (or more small ones), updating older equipment, upgrading processes, recovering waste heat, and installing various types of equipment that reduce emission levels.

We help clients compare these solutions, taking into account the cost of equipment, labor, and maintenance, as well as the results they generate.

Q: When does it make sense to use an outside resource to handle these activities?

A: I think you first have to consider if you have the internal resources to keep abreast of the changing regulations as opposed to an outside resource whose job it is to do so. It is valuable to have the person filing reports know how the EPA wants the information structured and how to compile it efficiently. That comes with experience.

Since understanding current regulations, reporting, monitoring, and permitting require special skills, many companies prefer to use an outside expert rather than increase headcount. Another approach is to use an outside resource to train your staff to do some of the activities—calibrating the monitors and collecting data for example.

Q: What can we expect as next steps from the EPA in regards to reporting and controlling GHG levels?

A: There is little doubt that the EPA intends to eventually mandate that companies reduce their emissions to meet certain levels, regardless of whether they are seeking permits. As part of this, the emission levels of companies will become public knowledge.

Q: How would you advise companies to prepare for public disclosure of their GHG levels?

A: I’m advising our clients to consider how public knowledge of their emissions levels will impact all aspects of their business, the public’s perception of their environmental policies, their relationships with partners and vendors, and perhaps sales. Companies should start now to reduce their levels and see this as an opportunity to gain recognition as an environmental leader.

ENR Top 500 List Names SSOE Group #2 Manufacturing Design Firm in the U.S.

Ford’s SSOE-Designed Tennessee Electric Vehicle Center Featured on Cover

TOLEDO, Ohio, May 15, 2023– SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), an internationally ranked architecture and engineering firm, is proud to announce its newest Engineering News-Record (ENR) rankings, which includes the firm’s move to the #2 spot among manufacturing design firms. This reflects an increase of three spots over last year’s numbers and further solidifies SSOE as the go-to firm for industrial facility design. Read more

SSOE Group Joins Ford and Walbridge for BlueOval City LIVE Event in West Tennessee

The Firm Provided Full Architecture / Engineering Services on New EV Assembly Plant

STANTON, Tennessee, March 29, 2023 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), an internationally ranked architecture and engineering firm, is excited to announce its attendance at Ford Motor Company’s BlueOval City LIVE event to celebrate the automaker’s new assembly plant, named the Tennessee Electric Vehicle Center (TEVC), and BlueOval SK battery facility on-site. Part of Ford’s BlueOval City manufacturing complex, Ford’s TEVC resides on the 4,000-acre West Tennessee Regional Megasite in Stanton. Read more

Reliable Plant Magazine Article: “Lean Project Delivery Optimizes Project Success”

Greg Brogley, PE, PMP, Division Manager, Automotive and Manufacturing at SSOE, dives into Lean Project Delivery in this Reliable Plant Magazine article. Within, he shares some of the trends we’re seeing play out across multiple projects, opportunities to optimize efficiency, and how Integrated Forms of Agreement offer shared risk / reward scenarios that encourage a collective vision of success.

Greg has a proven track record of ensuring project due diligence, responsiveness to clients, and driving teams to evaluate their process to maximize value and efficiency into the projects he oversees. His overall responsibilities include the direction of industrial facility engineers and architects, as well as direction of the business unit with respect to administration and operation of all manufacturing client projects.

To read the full article, click here.

LATINtalk eJournal Article: “Revolutionizing Technically Complex Project Execution in Mexico with EPCM”

Erick Kuri, Mexico Business Leader and Operations Manager, recently authored an article in LATINtalk eJournal. In the article, Erick focuses on how EPCM is a very effective way to optimize project delivery both in the U.S. and Mexico, however, it requires a change of mindset as the EPCM team assumes more ownership for the duration of the project. Read more

CAM Magazine Recognizes General Motor’s Factory ZERO Project as an Outstanding Commercial Construction Project of the Year

DETROIT, Michigan, November 14, 2022 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), an internationally ranked architecture and engineering firm, is proud to be a part of General Motor’s award-winning Factory ZERO Project recently named one of 12 Outstanding Commercial Construction Projects of the Year in Michigan by CAM Magazine. The Construction Association of Michigan (CAM) is a not-for-profit organization consisting of over 2,000 members, including general contractors, subcontractors, equipment and material suppliers, architects, engineers, and service firms. Read more

Forbes Article: “Lucid Motors Begins Construction of Electric Vehicle Factory In Arizona”

Lucid Motors recently broke ground on the first phase of its new manufacturing plant in Casa Grande, Arizona. SSOE Group joined their client at the celebration along with their contracting partner, Walbridge. SSOE will serve as the architect and engineer of record for the 820,000 SF facility, currently designing Phase I of the four-phase master plan that includes a body shop and paint shop with general assembly, as well as a central utility building and auxiliary buildings for production of the Lucid Air, a luxury electric car with 400-mile range battery.

Click here to read Lucid Motors’ official press release. Additionally, this exciting project was featured in Forbes. Read that article here.

Plant Engineering Article: “Three strategies to optimize project satisfaction”

Corey Zachel, PE, LEED AP, BD+C, Department Manager at SSOE Group, recently authored an article in Plant Engineering Magazine which explains how transparent communication, collaboration, and clear design intent are essential to guarantee successful integrated project delivery. Read more

College Planning & Management Article: “The Planning and Design of Workforce Development Centers”

Sonny Hamizadeh, AIA, Principal and Architectural Department Manager for SSOE’s Healthcare, Commercial, and Education (HCE) Division recently authored an article in College Planning & Management. In this article, he shares best practices in the design of workforce development centers in higher education settings. Read more

In the News

SSOE recently announced that they will be providing design services for BMW’s new 1.2 million SF assembly plant in Spartanburg, South Carolina. SSOE will provide the detail architectural and all civil, structural, mechanical, electrical and fire protection engineering services. Kohlbecker is contracted by BMW and partnered with SSOE.

This plant will be responsible for production of the next-generation X3 Sports Activity Vehicle beginning in 2010. The building is being designed to meet the EPACT 2005 standards for “Energy Efficient Commercial Buildings”. This includes increases in insulation in the walls and roof, efficient lighting systems, high efficiency heating and cooling systems and high efficiency hot water systems.

SSOE is ranked 5th nationally in Automotive Design Firms (ENR, 2008) and has performed design for 50% of all automotive assembly plants built in the US over the last ten years. This includes the Toyota Assembly Plant in Blue Springs, MS currently under construction.

Read more

Area Development Article: “Modular Construction Projects Cut Cost and Timelines”

Cliff Reese, PE, Business Leader and Senior Associate at SSOE, recently authored an article in Area Development explaining how obtaining early commitment from both buyers and stakeholders is imperative to a successful modular construction project, which can deliver on cost savings and shorten timeliness. He goes on to discuss how leaders could consider using Advanced Work Packaging (AWP), similar to Lean project delivery, as an option to significantly optimize the efficiency of site-labor costs as well as the project schedule. Read more

SSOE is Proud Sponsor of the Fifth Annual Toledo Jeep Fest

TOLEDO, Ohio, August 3, 2022 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), an internationally ranked architecture and engineering firm, is proud to announce once again their commitment to the upcoming 2022 Toledo Jeep Fest as a Patriot Sponsor. August 12th through 14th, downtown Toledo will host this incredible event that promotes the iconic Jeep brand’s partnership with the City of Toledo—“Home of the Jeep” since 1941. Read more

New Engineering News-Record Rankings Names SSOE Group a Top 2 Semiconductor Design Firm for the 6th Consecutive Year

TOLEDO, Ohio, August 2, 2022 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), an internationally ranked architecture and engineering firm, is proud to announce their annual Engineering News-Record (ENR) rankings, including the firm’s #2 spot as a top semiconductor design firm. Rankings were published in the 2022 ENR Top 500 Design Firms Sourcebook. ENR serves as one of the leading engineering and construction news publications. This list provides market analysis and rankings of the largest U.S.-based AEC firms according to revenue for design services performed in 2021. Read more

SSOE Group Establishes Operations in Austin to Better Serve its Growing Client Base in Lone Star State

AUSTIN, Texas, July 7, 2022 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), an internationally ranked architecture and engineering firm, is excited to announce it has established operations in Austin, Texas. While the firm has been functioning remotely in Austin since 2021 and has already hired a local staff of 25 to support the work from this location, SSOE recently secured an office at 1701 Directors Boulevard, Suite 130, in Austin, Texas with renovations underway in preparation for move-in. This dedicated and growing pool of local talent will support SSOE’s clients based in Texas and across the South-Central U.S., providing full-service design for a variety of project types including large-scale high-tech manufacturing spaces, greenfield facilities, capital improvements, and on-site support for existing operations. Additionally, the firm’s Austin staff will provide support on advanced technology, industrial manufacturing, and architecturally driven projects across all the firm’s market sectors. Read more

IMPO Magazine Article: “When You Don’t Want to Be Interrupted”

Corey Zachel, PE, LEED AP BD+C, Section Manager and Senior Associate at SSOE, recently authored an article published in Industrial Maintenance & Plant Operation Magazine (IMPO) that explains how to avoid shutdowns at manufacturing facilities. In this industry, repairs are inevitable, however complete shutdowns can create a major loss in revenue. Zachel writes that careful planning and tracking, data from previous work, as well as preparing for the unexpected can all help to lessen the chance of a shutdown.

Read more

SSOE Group Providing Engineering and Design Services for Toyota’s First U.S. Automotive Battery Manufacturing Plant

The facility will Produce Lithium-Ion Batteries for 1.2 Million Electrified Vehicles Annually

LIBERTY, North Carolina, June 24, 2022 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), an internationally ranked architecture and engineering firm, is proud to announce that it has been selected by Toyota to provide engineering and design services in support of the automaker’s first U.S. automotive battery plant, named Toyota Battery Manufacturing, North Carolina, further extending their 20-plus year relationship. Read more

Area Development Article: “Due Diligence: Thoroughly Investigating the Technical Aspects of a Site”

Alexandra Segers, Dip.-Ing, Program Manager and International Senior Account Executive at SSOE Group and General Manager of the firm’s Southeast U.S. operations, shares her advice for establishing the suitability of a site in this Area Development article. Evaluating a site with a comprehensive due diligence process that includes adequate research and planning is key to avoiding issues in the design and construction phases. With a lot at stake when selecting a site for a new facility, enlisting the help of an expert to ensure the appropriate studies of the site location and its environment are conducted is the safest bet. Read more

Business Alabama Magazine Article: “5 Major Suppliers Announce Alabama Plants in 2017”

Alexandra Segers, Dip.-Ing, Program Manager and International Senior Account Executive at SSOE Group and General Manager of the firm’s Southeast U.S. operations, was recently featured in Business Alabama Magazine. The article highlights her recent work with BOCAR, a German-owned Tier 1 automotive supplier that enlisted her site selection expertise for the company’s new $115 million, 72-acre site in Huntsville, Alabama. Read more

IMPO Magazine Article: “Effective Preventative Maintenance Plans Begin With ‘Where Are We Now?'”

Corey Zachel, PE, LEED AP BD+C, Section Manager and Senior Associate at SSOE Group, recently highlighted the importance of proactively coordinating manufacturing equipment maintenance schedules in this IMPO Magazine article. Corey suggests pulling in experts to avoid guesswork and rework—and rather than waiting for a breakdown, figure out what’s needed to keep equipment running without a hitch to avoid problems altogether. Through various examples from out in the field, he shares how regular evaluations and preventive maintenance could have helped avoid costly disruptions to production and multiple headaches along the way. Read more

ENR Article: “The Top 500 Design Firms: Worry Despite Strong Markets”

Vince DiPofi, PE, Chief Operating Officer at SSOE, was featured in ENR’s May 2018 cover story, “The Top 500 Design Firms: Worry Despite Strong Markets”. From construction tariffs to talent acquisition, the article highlights some of the concerns surrounding the industry, despite its predicted continual growth. Vince’s commentary focuses on the impact of generative design and its ability to help architects and engineers deliver better solutions to clients. Read more

Chem.Info Magazine Article: “Increase Global Advantage With Energy Assessments: PART II”

Eric Hopkins, PE, Senior Chemical Process Engineer and Senior Associate at SSOE, continues his examination of the advantages of energy assessments in this Chem.Info Magazine article. In Part I of the article, he discusses the importance of planning and how to manage documentation and data disparities. In Part II, he focuses on strategy and involving key stakeholders to optimize the assessment process and qualify your data to achieve better results. Ultimately, a thoughtful, pragmatic approach to energy assessments will allow for continuous global competitive benefits long after the assessment is complete. Read more

Chem.Info Magazine Article: “Increase Global Advantage With Energy Assessments: PART I”

Eric Hopkins, PE, Senior Chemical Process Engineer and Senior Associate at SSOE, guides readers through the value of performing energy assessments to stay competitive despite the ever-changing market demands in this Chem.Info Magazine article. Although conducting an effective energy assessment can have its challenges and constraints, the in-depth data it provides often points plant owners to exactly where spending will be most lucrative for their specific operations. Eric shares his recommendations for navigating gaps in documentation and data and how careful planning upfront can make all the difference. Read more

Plant Engineering Magazine Article: “Planning for Expansion”

Corey Zachel, PE, LEED AP BD+C, Section Manager and Senior Associate at SSOE Group, recently discussed the topic of design-build expansion projects in this Plant Engineering Magazine article. Tight project deadlines combined with competitive, rapidly changing manufacturing environments can result in a myriad of challenges—most of which are avoidable with thoughtful planning. Choosing a plan-oriented approach that brings in all parties to participate early in the design phase can eliminate issues downstream, making costly schedule delays, unnecessary rework, and production shut downs a thing of the past. Read more

BD+C Magazine Article: “Laser Scanners Go Handheld”

Jason Christen, PMP, Senior Account Executive at SSOE, and Mark LaBell, Senior VDC Technical Leader, were both featured in a BD+C Magazine article that examines the rise of 3D laser scanners, which have recently evolved into handhelds. 3D laser scanning is the fastest, most efficient method to capture existing conditions. In addition to allowing us to scan harder-to-reach places, handheld scanners provide the ability to show clients results immediately after taking a scan with a workable model showing an accurate representation of the facility—a major benefit of the technology that often translates into cost savings for our clients. Read more

Area Development Magazine Article: “Scheduling, Planning, and Front-End Loading (FEL) Can Keep Projects Open During Construction”

Gavin Kaleta, PE, LEED AP BD+C, Mechanical Department Manager at SSOE, recently authored an article published in Area Development Magazine discussing the advantages of preliminary project planning, concise scheduling, and front-end loading (FEL) when renovating an existing manufacturing facility. Even experienced teams benefit from deliberate, phased steps early on in a project, which alleviate productivity issues and inefficiency later on. Gavin’s advice for creating significant savings: spend early. By creating room in the budget for early FEL, you’re investing in up-front engineering that consistently delivers long-term cost benefits, while avoiding unplanned downtime and the dreaded shut down. Read more

SSOE Group Providing Design for KOREPlex Facility

KORE Power’s KOREPlex Will Produce Nearly 60 Million Battery Cells Annually

BUCKEYE, Arizona, November 10, 2021 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global project delivery firm for architecture, engineering, and construction management, announced its selection as the A/E services provider for KORE Power’s greenfield advanced manufacturing, battery cell production facility, KOREPlex. KORE Power is the leading U.S.-based developer of battery cell technology for the energy storage and electric transportation industries. The new KOREPlex facility will create more than 3,000 new advanced manufacturing jobs in Arizona and strengthen U.S. energy security by creating a new domestic battery cell supply. Read more

IMPO Magazine Article: “Project Management: Always At The Last Minute”

Corey Zachel, PE, LEED AP BD+C, Section Manager and Senior Associate at SSOE Group, recently authored an article published in Industrial Maintenance & Plant Operation Magazine (IMPO) that encourages early process planning and consistent, inclusive communication to better anticipate the inevitable last-minute changes that occur on manufacturing projects. Using examples illustrating some of the challenges that can emerge late in the project game, Corey shares lessons learned to prepare readers for similar project hurdles. By defining for stakeholders what is driving the project—such as speed to market, product quality, or cost containment—the team is able to prioritize project objectives, while avoiding disputes and mediocre results. Read more

A Golden Double-Take: First Gold LEED™ Utility Facility & First Gold LEED™ Project in Ohio

LEED™, which stands for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, is a voluntary standard for the design of sustainable facilities sponsored by the U.S. Green Building Council. Earning LEED™ certification – especially at the Gold level – means a business is extremely serious about safeguarding the environment.

The lengthy LEED™ certification process rates buildings in six major categories: sustainable sites, water efficiency, energy and atmosphere, construction materials and resources, indoor environmental quality, and innovation and design processes. Honda of America received a Gold LEED™ Award for their Central Utility Building, the utility plant providing power throughout the Honda campus in Raymond, Ohio.

Since Honda R&D Americas Inc. develops innovative technologies in environmental protection, performance and safety, its buildings utilize the latest “green” technologies as well. The award-winning structure, known as Building 10 on Honda R&D’s Central Ohio campus, supplements the original utility plant providing power now and into the future while meeting the goal of providing an energy-efficient utility operation within an energy-efficient building.

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ENR Article: “The Top 500 Design Firms: Market Poised for Takeoff”

Vince DiPofi, PE, Chief Strategy Officer at SSOE Group, was featured in ENR’s May 2017 cover story, “The Top 500 Design Firms: Market Poised for Takeoff”. From healthcare reform and regulation changes to the race to rebuild U.S. infrastructure, the article highlights some of the questions and concerns surrounding the industry following the recent election. Although preliminary indicators point to a strong, healthy market and we’ve already seen an increase in private sector jobs, a theme of caution continues to persist.

Vince, who has experienced nine presidential elections during the course of his career, comments on the buzz surrounding the election and its effect on the industry. He also discusses how potential changes to the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) have already impacted the automotive market, as seen in postponed spending. Read more

Product Design and Development Magazine Article: “How to Reduce Cleanroom Costs by Using Less Energy”

Alan Liddy, AIA, NCARB, Senior Project Manager at SSOE, was recently published in Product Design and Development Magazine on the topic of cleanrooms. Alan explains that keeping cleanrooms clean can come at a lower cost, depending on the cleanroom’s classification, while offering strategies to cut costs without cutting corners. Clean standards continue to climb, but with a few operational enhancements, you can avoid contamination economically. Read more

INFORM Magazine Article: “Front-End Loading for a Successful Capital Project”

Jens Ebert, PE, PMP, Senior Project Manager at SSOE, recently authored this article, which examines the phased approach to project execution referred to as front-end loading (FEL) and its many advantages. Also known as pre-project planning (PPP) and front-end engineering and design (FEED), the FEL approach to project delivery involves early project planning and engineering, so that design changes are easier and cheaper to accommodate, comparatively. FEL is very structured and can require more cost upfront, but projects are less likely to have issues or costly changes, and gives stakeholders an opportunity to make more informed decisions along the way. Read more

Photo Credit - New Braunfels EDC

SSOE Group Performing EPCM Services for Continental AG’s New State-of-the-Art Manufacturing Facility in Texas

Construction Commenced During the June Celebration of Construction Ceremony

SAN ANTONIO, Texas, August 12, 2021 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global project delivery firm for architecture, engineering, and construction management, was hired by Continental AG to perform engineering, procurement, and construction management (EPCM) services for their new 215,000 SF state-of-the-art manufacturing facility located in New Braunfels, Texas. Operations are expected to start in the second half of 2022 and, once complete, the plant will manufacture products for Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) that will help with assisted and automated driving. Read more

SSOE Group is a Proud Sponsor of Toledo Jeep Fest 2021

TOLEDO, Ohio, August 2, 2021 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global project delivery firm for architecture, engineering, and construction management, is proud to announce their commitment to the upcoming 2021 Toledo Jeep Fest as a Patriot Sponsor. This weekend—August 6th through 8th—downtown Toledo will host this incredible event that promotes the iconic Jeep brand’s partnership with the City of Toledo, “Home of the Jeep” since 1941, while celebrating Jeep’s 80th anniversary.

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SSOE’s Matthew Oberts and Jennifer Breault Present on Sustainability at Volkswagen Group of America’s Leadership Exchange

ATLANTA, Georgia, July 26, 2021 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global project delivery firm for architecture, engineering, and construction management, is excited to announce that Matthew Oberts, PE, LEED AP, Senior Vice President and Strategic Business Unit (SBU) Manager, and Jennifer Breault, AIA, NCARB, LEED AP BD+C, Senior Architect and Sustainability Committee Chair, were selected to present at Volkswagen Group of America’s Leadership Exchange hosted by Porsche Consulting in Atlanta, Georgia on July 15-16, 2021. Both Matthew and Jennifer directly support the firm’s automotive and manufacturing clients in their respective roles. Read more

Area Development Magazine Article: “International Location Report: Site Selection in the Auto Industry — A Move to Mexico?”

Alexandra Segers, Dipl.-Ing, PE, MS, General Manager of SSOE’s Southeast U.S. operations, was recently published in Area Development Magazine discussing the worldwide trend of OEMs—and subsequently suppliers—moving operations to Mexico. With this number growing every day, Alexandra reminds readers the Southeast U.S. is still a viable, competitive option for automotive parts production. Read more

SSOE Announces New Rankings from Engineering News-Record Magazine

Firm Named to Five Top 10 Spots

TOLEDO, Ohio, July 6, 2021 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global project delivery firm for architecture, engineering, and construction management, is proud to announce their annual Engineering News-Record (ENR) rankings, which were published in the 2021 ENR Top 500 Design Firms Sourcebook. ENR serves as one of the leading engineering and construction news publications. This list provides market analysis and rankings of the largest U.S.-based AEC firms according to revenue for design services performed in 2020.

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BOSS Magazine Article: “Facilitating a Culture of Global Collaboration with Technology”

SSOE Group is a leader in leveraging the latest technology to enable integrated and collaborative project delivery. SSOE Group was featured in BOSS Magazine, in an article highlighting the company’s technology strategy and culture — both of which are helping provide better solutions to clients. Driven by collaboration, SSOE is using innovative tools and customized applications to deliver high quality projects more efficiently, while working to maintain employee engagement along the way. Read more

HPAC Engineering Magazine Article: “A New Way to Analyze Fan Systems for Optimal Performance, Cost Savings”

Gavin Kaleta, PE, LEED AP, Mechanical and Process Department Manager at SSOE Group, co-authored an article published in HPAC Engineering Magazine that focuses on high-performance fan systems, which are critical to industrial processes. From air flow to duct leaks, the article digs deep into ANSI/AMCA Standard 210/ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 51, sharing real-world applications to optimize fan performance. Read more

ENR Magazine Article: “A Healthy Market Spurs Investment in Plants”

Firms being asked to play a bigger role in providing expertise

Dave Sipes, Chief Operating Officer at SSOE Group, was featured in this article recently published in Engineering News-Record (ENR). The article highlights manufacturing, a particularly robust market currently, and the need within this market to improve processes — with an emphasis on output. Popular among manufacturers is integrated project delivery, a concept that focuses on collaboration and commitment among all parties, which is successfully executed with the help of highly evolved technologies like 3D modeling and laser scanning. Read more

ENR Article: “Design Professionals Must Embrace VDC to Improve Their Profession and Projects”

John Gill, PE, PMP, LEED AP, SSOE’s Director of VDC, was recently published in Engineering News-Record (ENR) discussing the topic of Virtual Design and Construction (VDC). Gill has over 20 years of industry experience and was responsible for the implementation of SSOE’s VDC program. He writes on the many strengths the VDC framework has to offer our industry, and offers some tips for implementing a solid foundation on your next project. Read more

SSOE Group Welcomes Zac Smith to their Southeast Operations as Automotive & Manufacturing Facilities Strategic Business Unit Civil Department Manager

BIRMINGHAM, Alabama, November 20, 2020 — SSOE Group, a global project delivery firm for architecture, engineering, and construction management, is excited to welcome Zac Smith, PE to their Birmingham office as Civil Department Manager for the firm’s Automotive & Manufacturing Facilities (AMF) Strategic Business Unit (SBU). Zac’s addition reinforces SSOE’s strategic commitment to expanding the firm’s Southeast presence and depth of resources in the region to deliver great client service. Read more

Site Selection Magazine Article: “Drive South … of the Border”

Alexandra Segers, Dipl.-Ing, PE, Program Manager and International Account Executive at SSOE Group, was recently featured in this Site Selection Magazine article discussing Mexico as a growing, viable option for major league players in automotive (think Toyota, Ford, and BMW) who are crossing the border to set up shop. BMW sites the country’s high number of international trade agreements as a significant determinant in taking operations to Mexico. Segers, who is no stranger to international site selection and advised BMW on the project, explains that much evaluation goes into the decision-making process, with reliability and water being popular concerns for companies considering an investment in Mexico to better serve their customers.
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Design-Build Institute Article: “An A/E Perspective on Optimizing the Design-Build Strategy”

Matt Oberts, PE, LEED AP, Automotive and Industrial Division Facilities Manager at SSOE, recently published “An A/E Perspective on Optimizing the Design-Build Strategy” for Design-Build Institute of America. In his article, Oberts talks about design charrettes, which he defines as “an intensive, collaborative session that is held as early as possible in the life of the project.” This daylong assembly of project participants — from both the design side and the build side — sets the foundation for a successful project in which goals and objectives are understood, agreed upon, and ultimately achieved. Additionally, the design-build process itself becomes increasingly effective by employing the various components of Virtual Design and Construction (VDC). Through early process planning, and optimal implementation of 3D/BIM technology and measureable benchmarks, a design-build project has the potential to exceed client expectations, regardless of whether the focus is schedule or budget. Read more

Data Center Journal Article: “Case Study: Out-of-the-Box Reliability”

Evan Baker of SSOE Group was recently published in Data Center Journal. Baker, who currently manages the data / fire / security systems group at SSOE and brings over a decade of data center experience to the table, offers his data center reliability know-how in his article “Case Study: Out-of-the-Box Reliability.” Baker highlights three projects in three different market sectors for which SSOE provided data center design and connectivity services. One thing that was static among the differing projects was cost reduction as a result of improved reliability and functionality achieved by variation in data connectivity via integrated voice-data networks and new technologies. Read more

Chemical Processing Magazine Article: “Begin a Project Right”

A thorough process definition lays the foundation for a successful greenfield project

Dale Feldhaus, department manager in Industrial Process Controls at SSOE Group, was recently published in Chemical Processing Magazine. In his article, he discusses the importance of the preliminary phase of a greenfield project, which Feldhaus refers to as the “process definition phase.” Feldhaus has nearly 30 years of experience, specializing in the design, specification, and coordination of controls and instrumentation for projects within the industrial industry. Read more

Power Engineering Magazine Article: “Projects Illustrate Strategies for Comprehensive Design Tools”

Tom Fitzpatrick, Power Department Manager at SSOE Group, co-authored this content-rich article, published in Power Engineering Magazine, that explores the cost benefits of conducting a feasibility study during the planning phase of a project. The article highlights project examples where SSOE’s engineers were able to add even more value to a feasibility study with their ability to quickly and easily assess, and point decision-makers in the right direction.

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Area Development Magazine Article: “The United States: A Growing Competitor for New Manufacturing Plants”

Foreign companies are trending in the direction of the U.S. as they review global site selection options, with suppliers following.

Alexandra Segers, International Senior Account Executive / Program Manager at SSOE Group, shares her insight in this article published in Area Development Magazine. Within, Segers discusses some of the important items — including incentives and cost offsets, utility factors, and workforce availability — that are making the U.S. an advantageous area to consider development, with the Southeast U.S. leading the pack.
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SSOE Announces New Rankings from Engineering News-Record (ENR) Magazine

TOLEDO, Ohio, July 29, 2020 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global project delivery firm for architecture, engineering, and construction management is proud to announce their annual Engineering News-Record (ENR) rankings which were published in the 2020 Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firms Sourcebook. ENR serves as one of the leading engineering and construction news publications. This list provides market analysis and rankings of the largest U.S.-based AEC firms according to revenue for design services performed in 2019. Read more

ENR Magazine Article: “Innovation, Better Cash Flow Create Optimism”

Vince DiPofi, Chief Strategy Officer at SSOE Group, is featured in the July issue of Engineering News-Record (ENR) Magazine. The article discusses current trends in manufacturing, in addition to the new technologies appearing in the automotive sector.

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SSOE Supports Owens Community College’s New Dana Center with A/E Services and Pledge

TOLEDO, Ohio, March 6, 2020 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global project delivery firm for architecture, engineering, and construction management, is proud to announce that they were chosen to perform architecture and engineering services for Owens Community College’s Dana Center, a new advanced manufacturing training center. In addition, SSOE has made a $30,000 pledge for the naming of a conference room to help the College fulfill its funding obligations for this project. The Center, located in Perrysburg, Ohio, is currently in Phase II of construction and is set to be completed in the summer of 2020. Read more

SSOE Group Welcomes Ryan Pruett as Engineering Project Director in Birmingham

BIRMINGHAM, Alabama, February 13, 2020 — SSOE Group, a global project delivery firm for architecture, engineering, and construction management, is excited to welcome Ryan Pruett to their Birmingham office as Engineering Project Director for SSOE Systems, the firm’s construction management business. Ryan’s addition further solidifies SSOE’s strategic commitment to expanding the firm’s Southeast presence and depth of resources in the region to deliver great client service. Read more

SSOE Announces ENR Global Sourcebook Rankings

Firm Ranked in Two Global Top Ten Design Firm Sectors

TOLEDO, Ohio, February 4, 2020 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global project delivery firm for architecture, engineering, and construction management, is proud to announce its Engineering News-Record (ENR) Global Sourcebook Rankings. The rankings were released in the December edition of ENR’s Top Global Sourcebook and provides market analysis and rankings of the largest international AEC firms based on revenue for design services performed outside of the United States. Read more

SSOE’s Sonny Hamizadeh Takes Part in the University of Toledo’s Technology Takes the Wheel Seminar Series

Seminar focused on “Preparing Your Workforce for the Future” of Autonomous Vehicles

TOLEDO, Ohio, December 19, 2019 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global project delivery firm for architecture, engineering, and construction management, is proud to announce the participation of Sonny Hamizadeh, AIA, Principal and Architectural Manager at SSOE, at a recent Technology Takes the Wheel (TTTW) Seminar. The TTTW series is a collaboration between the University of Toledo (UT) College of Engineering and AAA and is a free forum to inform, educate, and engage with participants on the changes that autonomous vehicles will bring in the future. Read more

SSOE Group Announces Appointment of New Principals and Promotions for Planning Year 2020

TOLEDO, Ohio, October 29, 2019 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global project delivery firm for architecture, engineering, and construction management, announced today the appointment of new Principals and organization promotions for their planning year (PY) 2020. Read more

SSOE Group Provides Global Program Management to American Axle & Manufacturing

TOLEDO, Ohio, October 21, 2019 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global project delivery firm for architecture, engineering, and construction management, is proud to announce that they are serving as a global alliance partner for American Axle & Manufacturing (AAM)—a global leader in design, engineering, validation and manufacturing of driveline, metal forming, powertrain, and casting technologies for automotive, commercial, and industrial markets. Read more

New Building Design+Construction Rankings Name SSOE Group a Top 10 Engineering / Architecture Firm for the 7th Consecutive Year

TOLEDO, Ohio, October 10, 2019 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global project delivery firm for architecture, engineering, and construction management is proud to announce their annual Building Design+Construction (BD+C) rankings. Read more

SSOE Group’s Birmingham Office Invites Clients & Partners to Celebrate New Office Space

Open house to take place Thursday, August 22, 2019

BIRMINGHAM, Alabama, August 15, 2019 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global architecture, engineering, and construction management firm, is proud to welcome clients and partners to their recently relocated office space with an Open House taking place at 2204 Lakeshore Drive, Suite 110 in Homewood, Alabama.
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Engineering Inc. Magazine Article: “ACEC 2013 Engineering Excellence Awards”

SSOE’s Volkswagen Chattanooga Plant project is featured in Engineering Inc.’s Grand Award Recipient Article as one of the eight grand award winners for Engineering Excellence at the 47th Annual Engineering Excellence Awards. The $1 billion production facility produces the Passat and became the first and only LEED® Platinum automotive plant in the world, the first LEED platinum industrial campus in the U.S., and the largest platinum project in the U.S. (based on building area). Read more

SSOE Group Performing EPCM Services for Continental AG’s Greenfield Plant of the Future in Central Mexico

Construction Commenced During July’s Groundbreaking Ceremony

AGUASCALIENTES, Mexico, July 19, 2019 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global project delivery firm for architecture, engineering, and construction management was hired by Continental AG to perform engineering, procurement, and construction management (EPCM) services for their new 25,000 sq. m. (nearly 270,000 SF) automotive electronics components production facility located in FINSA Industrial Park in Aguascalientes, Mexico. This facility has been designed as a “plant of the future”, incorporating cutting-edge technologies and energy efficiencies with the goal of achieving LEED® Gold certification. Read more

SSOE Ranked #1 Semiconductor Design Firm in 2019 ENR Sourcebook

TOLEDO, Ohio, July 12, 2019 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global project delivery firm for architecture, engineering, and construction management, is proud to announce their annual Engineering News Record (ENR) rankings, including the firm’s first #1 spot as the Top Semiconductor Design Firm. The rankings were published in the 2019 Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firms Sourcebook. ENR serves as one of the leading engineering and construction news publications. This list provides market analysis and rankings of the largest U.S.-based AEC firms according to revenue for design services performed in 2018. Read more

Area Development Magazine Article: How VW Achieved LEED Platinum-Rated Construction

In the Spring 2013 issue of Area Development Magazine, SSOE’s Laura Orlich is featured and takes an in-depth look at how the Volkswagen’s  Chattanooga Plant achieved LEED® Platinum certification from the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) in April, 2012. Orlich served as the On-Site LEED Coordinator for the Volkswagen project Read more

SSOE Group Selected as Architectural / Engineering Firm for Kenworth Truck Company’s $140 Million Chillicothe Plant Expansion

TOLEDO, Ohio, June 4, 2019 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global project delivery firm for architecture, engineering, and construction management, is proud to announce that they have been selected to provide all A/E services for the Kenworth Truck Company’s $140 Million Plant Expansion located in Chillicothe, Ohio. Read more

Utility Products Magazine Article: “The Dangers of Arc Flash to Unqualified Personnel”

In the October 2012 issue of Utility Products magazine SSOE’s Ed McConnell, PE, discusses how communication, training, and culture changes within an organization can be the solution to minimizing arc flash injuries Read more

SSOE Group Named Top 10 Largest Engineering Firm in Birmingham and Nashville

NASHVILLE, Tennessee, April 10, 2019 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global project delivery firm for architecture, engineering, and construction management, is proud to announce it has been named one of the Top Engineering Firms for both the Birmingham Business Journal and Nashville Business Journal for 2019. The Top Engineering Firms List ranks the top 25 engineering firms based on the total number of licensed professional engineers. SSOE was named the third largest engineering firm in Birmingham, Alabama and the eighth largest engineering firm in Nashville, Tennessee. Read more

The Economist: “Working Partners”

Tony Damon, CEO of SSOE Group, was interviewed for the August 25, 2012 edition of The Economist. Damon provides insight on questions surrounding the increasing presence of work available in China and the effects this may have on jobs locally. In response, Damon states, “global growth is a question of survival, not choice, and that profitable work in China keeps jobs in Ohio”.

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Contractor Magazine Article: “Volkswagen Plant First in Automotive Industry to Attain LEED Platinum Status”

SSOE, global engineering, procurement, and construction management (EPCM) firm is mentioned as the sustainable design and construction lead in Contractor Magazine’s article on Volkswagen’s Chattanooga automotive assembly plant. The article highlights VW’s achievement  Read more

SSOE Group Elects New Members to Board of Directors

TOLEDO, Ohio, December 21, 2018 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global project delivery firm for architecture, engineering, and construction management, announced today the selection of John Pemberton and Nate Czerniejewski as new directors to its board as well as Jim Lewis who was selected by the board to fill a vacant seat. All three individuals were selected by SSOE’s stockholders for their unique industry perspective and diverse background that align with the company’s core markets and future growth objectives. Read more

Site Selection Magazine: “Growth Curves”

Volkswagen’s new Chattanooga, Tennessee automotive manufacturing campus is featured in Site Selection Magazine’s May 2012 issue. SSOE Group’s Brian Spencer, PE and Louise Schlatter, NCARB, LEED AP BD+C discuss the integration of LEED principles into the design of the 2.7 million SF facility. Read more

SSOE Group Reaches $1 Billion Milestone in Documented Savings for Clients

TOLEDO, Ohio, December 13, 2018 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global project delivery firm for architecture, engineering, and construction management, announced today that they have achieved a significant milestone—documenting more than $1 billion in total project savings for their clients. Read more

Architect Magazine: “Planes, Trains and Automobiles – The next generation of automobiles begins with the design of the factory”

SSOE Group is featured in Architect Magazine’s February 2012 issue. This article highlights the design and construction management SSOE performed for Volkswagen’s new automotive assembly plant in Chattanooga, Tennessee.

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SSOE Group Recognized as 2018 MEP Giant

CHICAGO, Illinois October 09, 2018 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global project delivery firm for architecture, engineering, and construction management, is proud to announce it has been named one of Consulting-Specifying Engineer’s 2018 MEP Giants. The MEP Giants program ranks the top 100 mechanical, electrical, plumbing (MEP), and fire protection engineering firms in the United States based on total MEP design revenue. SSOE ranked 45th this year, holding steady at the same spot as their 2017 ranking. In 2016, SSOE jumped 37 spots. Read more

Building Design + Construction Article: “Scan, Deconstruct, Rebuild”

Building Design + Construction features SSOE Group. SSOE’s Joe Gerweck, LEED AP, PMP, and Neil Wakeman, MCSE contributed to this article. Article highlights how laser scanning helped improve construction schedules, plans, and final designs for two Ford Motor Co. reconstruction projects. Read more

Reliable Plant Magazine Article: “Industrial Facilities and Processes: Are You Winning on Both Fronts?”

SSOE Group’s Louise Schlatter, NCARB, LEED AP, and IET’s Tim Stansfield, PE, Ph.D, discuss how strategic master planning can yield capital investment decisions that optimize facilities and process. Read more

Area Development Magazine Article: “The Secrets to Successful Business Facility Location Decisions”

SSOE Group’s Alexandra Segers and Jeff Caldwell discuss why a thorough, expert site investigation is well worth the investment when selecting a new site for a company’s facility. Read more

SSOE’s Alexandra Segers Presents on Current Trends in International Site Selection and the Impacts of Potential / Existing Tariffs and Trade Agreements at the 2018 EDAA Summer Conference

POINT CLEAR, Alabama, August 9, 2018 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global architecture, engineering, and construction management firm, announced today that Alexandra Segers, Dipl.-Ing, PE, Program Manager and International Senior Account Executive at SSOE, and General Manager of the firm’s Southeast U.S. operations, was invited to present at the Economic Development Association of Alabama (EDAA) Summer Conference. The event took place August 5-8, 2018 at the Grand Hotel in Point Clear, Alabama. Read more

SSOE Group Launches New Website to Commemorate Upcoming 70th Anniversary

TOLEDO, Ohio, August 7, 2018 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global project delivery firm for architecture, engineering, and construction management launched a newly redesigned website today. This week, the firm is celebrating 70 years of making clients successful.

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SSOE Group Celebrates 70-Year Legacy on August 8th

TOLEDO, Ohio, August 6, 2018 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global architecture, engineering, and construction management firm, is proud to celebrate 70 years in business this coming Wednesday, August 8, 2018.

SSOE was founded in 1948 when structural engineer Al Samborn returned to his hometown of Toledo after completing his military service to start his own engineering firm. Today, the firm has grown into a Top 10 Engineering / Architecture firm (BD+C) with 1,100 employees in 30 global offices across six countries and is one of Ohio’s largest engineering firms.

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For Third Consecutive Year, SSOE Group Named a “Great Workplace” by Great Place to Work®

TOLEDO, Ohio, August 3, 2018 – SSOE Group (www.www.ssoe.com), a global project delivery firm for architecture, engineering, and construction management is proud to announce their re-certification as a “Great Workplace” by the independent analysts at Great Place to Work®. SSOE earned this credential based on exemplary ratings provided by their employees in an anonymous survey.

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SSOE Announces New Rankings from Engineering News-Record Magazine

Firm Named to Four Top 10 Spots

TOLEDO, Ohio, July 11, 2018 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global project delivery firm for architecture, engineering, and construction management is proud to announce their annual Engineering News-Record (ENR) rankings.

The rankings were published in the 2018 ENR Top 500 Design Firms Sourcebook. ENR serves as one of the leading engineering and construction news publications. This list provides market analysis and rankings of the largest U.S.-based AEC firms according to revenue for design services performed in 2017.

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SSOE Group Expands in China with Chengdu Office

SHANGHAI, China, February 20, 2018 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global project delivery firm for architecture, engineering, and construction management, is proud to announce the opening of their new office in Chengdu, Sichuan province China.

In 2005, SSOE opened its first international office in Shanghai to support a variety of automotive and manufacturing plant-development projects for multinational corporations in and around China. Today it has grown to be one of the firm’s largest offices and experienced its best year on record in the past 5 years in 2017. SSOE’s new Chengdu office will be staffed with local resources and will enhance SSOE’s presence within the Asia-Pacific region. Read more

SSOE Group Named a “Great Workplace” by Great Place to Work® for Second Consecutive Year

 

TOLEDO, Ohio, August 18, 2017 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global project delivery firm for architecture, engineering, and construction management is proud to announce their re-certification as a “Great Workplace” by the independent analysts at Great Place to Work®. SSOE earned this credential based on exemplary ratings provided by their employees in an anonymous survey. Read more

Sentury Tire Selects SSOE Group for Complete Design of 1.4 Million Square Foot Tire Manufacturing Facility in LaGrange, Georgia

LAGRANGE, Georgia, July 11, 2017 – Sentury Tire, a global advanced-technology tire manufacturer of automotive and aircraft tires, selected SSOE Group, a global project delivery firm for architecture, engineering, and construction management, to design its 1.4 million square foot tire manufacturing facility in LaGrange, Georgia. Read more

SSOE’s Louise Schlatter Receives AIA Ohio Mentor Award

TOLEDO, Ohio, October 21, 2016 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global project delivery firm for architecture, engineering, and construction management, is proud to announce that the American Institute of Architects (AIA) Ohio honored Master Architect Louise Schlatter, AIA, NCARB, for her role as a mentor to younger colleagues pursuing a career in architecture. Louise received the award in a ceremony at the Akron Public Library on October 7, 2016. The event was part of AIA Ohio’s 2016 Convention. Read more

SSOE Group Named a “Great Workplace” by Great Place to Work®

TOLEDO, Ohio, June 7, 2016 – SSOE Group, (www.ssoe.com) a global project delivery firm, specializing in engineering, architecture, and construction management is proud to announce their certification as a “Great Workplace” by the independent analysts at Great Place to Work®. SSOE earned this credential based on exemplary ratings provided by their employees in an anonymous survey. Read more

Alexandra Segers of SSOE to Present on Site Selection at the 2015 Summer Conference of the Economic Development Association of Alabama (EDAA)

POINT CLEAR, Alabama, July 10, 2015 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global engineering, procurement, and construction management (EPCM) firm, announced today that Alexandra Segers, Dipl.-Ing, PE, Program Manager and International Senior Account Executive at SSOE, has been invited to present at the Economic Development Association of Alabama (EDAA) Summer Conference. The event will take place July 19-22, 2015 at the Grand Hotel in Point Clear, Alabama. To supplement her presentation “Changes in the Site Selection Process,” Segers will also facilitate a panel discussion on “the New Automotive Corridor”; Dennis Cuneo, Outside Board Member for SSOE will participate as a panelist. Read more

Internationally Ranked Design Firm, SSOE Group, Opens Second Office in Mexico

MONTERREY, Mexico, May 29, 2015 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), ranked 12th internationally among Engineering Firms (Building Design + Construction, 2014), announced today that they have opened an office in Monterrey, Nuevo León, Mexico—their second office in the country. SSOE’s first office was opened in early 2014 in the city of León, Guanajuato, Mexico to support the region’s growing automotive manufacturing base. The addition of the Monterrey office will allow SSOE to better serve for our current food and automotive clients located in Saltillo, Ramos Arizpe, Monterrey, and surrounding areas, with a closer geographical concentration of resources. It is the second office SSOE has launched to serve the growing industrial investment in North America in as many months. Read more

SSOE Group Expands Southeast U.S. Operations with New Atlanta, Georgia, Office

ATLANTA, Georgia, May 05, 2015 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global project delivery firm ranked 4th among Automotive Plant Design Firms (Engineering News-Record, 2014), is proud to announce the opening of a new office in Atlanta, Georgia. The office will serve as the hub for the firm’s Southeast U.S. operations, currently anchored by four existing SSOE regional offices in Birmingham, Alabama; Huntsville, Alabama; Nashville, Tennessee; and Raleigh-Durham, North Carolina.

“SSOE’s expansion into the Southeast U.S.,” comments CEO Bob Howell, “dovetails with the area’s projected growth and will enhance the firm’s expansive portfolio in the region.”

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SSOE Group Announces Employee Registrations and Certifications for Second Quarter of Planning Year 2015

TOLEDO, Ohio, April 24, 2015 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global engineering, procurement, and construction management (EPCM) firm, announced today that 2 employees earned professional registrations and 5 employees earned professional certifications during the second quarter of SSOE’s 2015 planning year. Attainment of professional licensures is strongly encouraged at SSOE. In fact, the company covers the expense of preparation classes and exam fees as well as providing paid time off to take the exam. As an added incentive, once a staff member has passed an exam, they are awarded a recognition bonus.

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SSOE Board Member Dennis Cuneo to Speak at Area Development Magazine’s FDI Forum in Atlanta

 

Atlanta, Georgia, April 9, 2015 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global engineering, procurement, and construction management (EPCM) firm, is pleased to announce that SSOE Board Member Dennis Cuneo will present at the upcoming Area Development FDI Forum and will be speaking on the impact of FDI in relation to the automotive industry.

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