Four Fundamental Enablers of VDC

Within SSOE, we’ve identified four fundamental enablers of VDC—essential elements to have in place for truly successful implementation of VDC project delivery.

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#1: Information capture (laser scanning) – for an accurate picture of current conditions. 3D laser scanning is the fastest, most efficient method to capture existing conditions of many facilities or sites. This replaces the time consuming and less accurate method of manually recorded field measurements. Now, lasers scan an existing facility or site creating a point cloud that acts as a highly accurate as-built drawing. The point cloud can be referenced into a 3D model to avoid collisions with the proposed design and costly rework in the field—resulting in an incredibly realistic and detailed 3D model of an existing facility.

#2: Coding structure for models – to allow data mining to automate and enhance certain functions, like quantity take-offs for estimating. This requires each model element have a unique code, and also that coding is consistently used from the very onset of a project. This concept encourages a more holistic approach to project delivery by leveraging data embedded in the models to improve and optimize other project efforts such as estimating, quality assurance, safety, documented savings, and more.

#3: Internal integration of the model – the ability to integrate design efforts between disciplines; one example is conducting multi-discipline reviews within the 3D model. SSOE’s 3D design review sessions bring together discipline leads before a client coordination meeting to hash out the agenda for the next meeting with project stakeholders. The agenda is a critical component in driving coordination success and serves as a framework to identify specific issues that need to be addressed during the meeting to move the project forward. One key benefit is that the internal review engages the design leaders by getting them into the model to find, track, and proactively resolve issues, as opposed to simply reviewing drawings prior to the meeting. Issues that require resolution or decisions from the client are captured within the model, and any later input from project stakeholders is added to keep a visual record of changes.

#4: External model collaboration during the execution of the project – the processes and technology required to gather input and create alignment with the fabricators, trades, and contractors into the model during construction. Methods to facilitate this collaboration, such as Interactive Planning (IAP) sessions, are also essential, even before the development of the model.

Coordination within the model takes place as various trade partners enter routing and fabrication-level detail (including hangers, supplemental supports, etc.) into their trade models which are used to generate submittal drawings for approval. These individual models are brought into one coordination model to uncover conflicts and avoid costly issues in the field that would otherwise be missed.  For example, on one project, once detailed models of the fire suppression systems and mechanical systems were put into the coordination model, it was discovered that there wasn’t enough clearance around the fire suppression system and the mechanical system design was adjusted prior to construction.

Performing external model coordination does for the entire construction project what internal model integration does for cross-discipline coordination. It highlights interferences, provides one “source of truth” for making adjustments, and drives the discussion and collaboration needed between partners to improve project outcomes so the owner knows exactly what will be built in the field.

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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

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

The icing on the cake: almost $20 million in documented savings

In the AEC industry, when a client asks for a project to be completed “faster, better, and cheaper,” chances are they will be told that two out of three is about as good as it gets. Thanks to technology, integrated delivery methods, and an exceptional team effort, SSOE raised the bar and delivered on all counts on a recent project for a global leader in the food industry.

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SSOE Group Announces León Office Expansion Amid Continued Growth in Mexico

LEÓN, Guanajuato, Mexico, October 26, 2023 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), an internationally ranked architecture and engineering firm, is proud to announce the expansion of its León, Guanajuato, office—a direct result of the firm’s continued focus on and investment in its Mexico operations. Last month, an open house reception, consisting of a special town hall with a ribbon-cutting and blessing ceremony, was held to inaugurate the expansion of SSOE’s León operations as it now occupies a third additional floor within the office complex. Read more

Making Steel—Big Business and Big Work

Whenever a company needs new manufacturing facilities to capture market share, getting up and running quickly is critical. It needs to pick a firm with solid experience, one that won’t flinch at challenges that might arise, and will do what it takes to meet an aggressive schedule. In this case, the firm is SSOE. The market is the oil and gas industry and the product is high quality API Grade steel tube – over 500,000 metric tons annually.

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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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LATINtalk eJournal Article: “Optimizing Project Success in Mexico through EPCM”

Erick Kuri, Mexico Business Leader and Operations Manager, recently authored an article in LATINtalk eJournal. In the article, Erick shares his perspective on how EPCM gives owners substantially greater insight into the entire project cycle. In addition, EPCM results in fewer surprises that might challenge a project for cost, schedule, or quality reasons.

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Area Development Article: “Strategies for Accelerating Project Execution”

Brandon Darroch, PMP, Southeast Division Manager and Senior Associate, and Brian Arend, PE, LEED AP, Department Manager and Senior Associate at SSOE Group, recently co-authored an article in Area Development. The article discusses how pandemic-related project delays have prompted manufacturers to investigate alternative project-delivery approaches to make up for lost time. Read more

LATINtalk eJournal Article: “Forging Innovation in Transition”

Erick Kuri, Mexico Business Leader and Operations Manager, recently authored an article in LATINtalk eJournal. In the article, Erick shares insight on how mega-retailers are seeing a rise in online shopping, which means a growing necessity for building large distribution centers. This new type of building, as well as many of them being in Mexico, creates challenges these retailers have not previously faced. Erick explains that technology can assist in making the work process much smoother. Read more

New Equipment Digest Magazine Article: “Define Your Competitive Advantage through BIM 360”

Lauren Collier, Associate AIA, Department Manager, VDC Global Initiatives and Senior Associate at SSOE Group, recently authored an article in New Equipment Digest. In the article, Lauren discusses the benefits of implementing the BIM 360 cloud-hosted environment, especially now that a great number of project teams are working remotely from their homes as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. She explains that because of the collaborative accessibility of the platform, all stakeholders can see what is happening in real-time, making it much easier to capture consensus and sign-off at every phase of the project. Read more

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

AEC Next Article: “Drones Are Getting AEC Professionals to Ask the Right Questions About Reality Capture”

Tony Sabat, BIM / CAD Technical Specialist and one of several licensed drone pilots at SSOE, discusses the shift in reality capture as a result of drone / unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) technology in this AEC Next article—spoiler: reality capture is now easier than ever. Using this non-destructive technology to generate a 3D model can be a game changer, allowing you to turn assets into detailed, accurate deliverables. With the drone’s speed, mobility, and safety, it has become the most efficient method for capturing the existing conditions of many facilities and sites, with added benefits downstream. Read more

SSOE Group Announces Office Expansion and Continued Growth in Mexico Operations

LEÓN, Mexico, January 21, 2022 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global project delivery firm for architecture, engineering, and construction management, is proud to announce continued growth and investment in their Mexico operations. That growth has resulted in expanding and renovating current office space in León, Guanajuato to accommodate our growing team and creating a more flexible and collaborative office for our employees. Additionally, staff will move toward a permanent hybrid / collaborative office model in the near future. SSOE’s León office is now the firm’s third largest office behind their Toledo, Ohio headquarters and Portland, Oregon location. 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

Food Engineering Magazine Article: “Food Plant Construction Survey: Safety, Consumers Drive Expansion”

Processors realize that existing facilities must be updated and expanded to meet food safety regulations and increasing and challenging customer demands.

Sam Thurber, Senior Project Manager at SSOE Group, was recently featured in this Food Engineering Magazine article that explores the results of the publication’s annual Food Plant Construction Survey. Sam and other experts discuss the numbers, including the amount of expansions and renovations as compared to new construction, and growing consumer demands, such as non-GMO, gluten-free, and clean label products, that continue to drive projects and a focus on food safety. Read more

iReport Source Article: “Safety Hero”

Robert “Scott” Goodwin, COSS, Corporate Safety Manager at SSOE Group, was recently named a “Safety Hero” by iReport Source and was featured in a Q&A session on his role, responsibilities, and background. An active volunteer firefighter since 1984, Scott has over 30 years of experience in safety. In addition to supporting SSOE’s 1200+ employees in 20+ offices in 6 countries in his role as Corporate Safety Manager, he also serves as Lieutenant Firefighter for Ballville Township, Ohio. He is passionate about safety—one of SSOE’s core values—and is committed to supporting our global safety initiatives and safety-always culture. Read more

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

Area Development Magazine Article: “Streamlining the Construction Project to Deliver Ahead of Schedule and Below Budget”

New Virtual Design and Construction (VDC) for steel technology seamlessly integrates steel design, fabrication, and erection with reduced cost and a faster schedule.

Josh Zimmerman, VDC Steel Section Manager at SSOE, is featured in the November issue of Area Development Magazine. Within, Josh describes how Virtual Design and Construction methodology can be applied to the steel detailing process and result in significant schedule reduction. This is accomplished by creating fabrication-ready models quicker and earlier in the construction workflow—moving the timing of steel detailing to occur congruently with structural design on the project. Two examples are explored in the article, one saving 2.5 months on the construction schedule through early coordination of design and detailing associated with VDC Steel. Read more

SSOE Group’s Lean Experts to Present at the 23rd Annual LCI Congress

PHOENIX, Arizona, September 27, 2021 –SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global project delivery firm for architecture, engineering, and construction management, announced today that several of their Lean project delivery experts will present at the 23rd annual Lean Construction Institute (LCI) Congress on October 19 – 22, 2021 at the Phoenix Convention Center. Read more

Area Development Magazine Article: “A Business-Driven Approach to Utility Infrastructure”

Jim Lewis, Electrical Controls Department Manager and Principal at SSOE, recently authored this informative article in Area Development Magazine advising readers to take a business-driven approach to utility projects. Whether your project is driven by production capacity, energy efficiency, regulatory requirements, or environmental sustainability, the ultimate objective is to add value to the business. Jim shares examples showing how a utility challenge can be turned into a business advantage. Read more

SSOE Group’s Youngstown State University Excellence Training Center Project Holds Ribbon Cutting to Commemorate Grand Opening

TOLEDO, Ohio, August 31, 2021 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global project delivery firm for architecture, engineering, and construction management, is excited and proud to announce their Youngstown State University Excellence Training Center (ETC) project hosted a ribbon cutting at the end of July. The ETC, located in Youngstown, Ohio, is a $12 million facility that will serve as an advanced manufacturing education and workforce training facility.
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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

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

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

GlobalAutoIndustry.com Article: “Tropicalize a Project Plan to Keep it On Schedule — Deploying Projects in Mexico When Timing is Everything”

Cultural and commercial variances between the U.S. and Mexico can sometimes result in construction delays or expensive component substitutions. When strategic plans rely on heavily maintaining schedules, the following insights, which are often grouped under the head of tropicalization, should add confidence to the planning and executing of projects here in Mexico. Read more

Food Engineering Article: “38th Annual Plant Construction Survey: Fast track project delivery”

Joe Badalamenti, PE, PMP, Business Development Executive at SSOE Group, was recently featured in this article in Food Engineering Magazine. Based on the publication’s annual survey, food and beverage projects were on the uptick in 2014, and Badalamenti and other AEC experts weigh in on what’s trending and why. From renovations to greenfield projects, processors are loosening their money belt, but spending sensibly — making purchases that improve efficiency, with a focus on food safety and increased automation. These improvements are a win-win for processors, helping them differentiate themselves among the pack of competitors while getting product to market for less. 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

Laboratory Design Magazine Article: “Univ. of South Carolina, Horizon I Research Facility, Columbia, S.C.”

SSOE was featured in this Laboratory Design Magazine article highlighting a recently constructed five-story, 125,000 SF science and technology facility for which SSOE provided mechanical and electrical services, in addition to fire protection construction documents. This facility, referred to as Horizon I, supports programs in engineering, technology, scientific research, and industrial development of alternative energy sources—also serving to adjoin the University of South Carolina’s main campus and its “new urban ‘innovista’ research campus. Read more

Food Engineering Magazine Article: “Put positive pressure on facility airflows”

Mark Hoffman, Department Manager at SSOE Group, was recently featured in this article in Food Engineering Magazine. The article works to demystify airflow and room pressure questions in relation to food production, and offers expert suggestions to ensure cleanliness is achieved and cross-contamination avoided — namely at points in the process where the product is most vulnerable. From pressure differential gauges and processors, to filtration options and software tools, this article effectively covers a lot of ground, offering a collection of valuable tips that are far from intuitive. 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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ARCHITECT Magazine Article: “Designing in a Cloud”

A roundup of tools and services that architects are using to break free from company servers and physical boundaries.

Lauren Collier, Assoc. AIA, design technology section manager at SSOE Group, is featured in this article recently published in ARCHITECT Magazine. The article reviews recent industry trends related to cloud-based system use, going beyond file sharing and backup. Companies are beginning to incorporate the cloud into schematic design, project management, energy performance analysis, renderings, and other outsourced tasks. The cloud offers adept speed that releases us from our dependency on less-efficient company servers, and generating productive collaboration.

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Chemical Processing Magazine Article: “Learn from the West Fertilizer Plant Explosion”

Third party assessments can provide crucial insights.

Peter Wilmarth, RA, an architect at SSOE Group with over 35 years of experience, offers his thoughts as to how those of us in the chemical industry can gain insight from the West Fertilizer plant explosion in his recent Chemical Processing Magazine publication. The tragic blast occurred in 2013 in West, Texas — killing 15 people and injuring over 160 — and elevated the issue of safety in relation to hazardous industrial processes.

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SSOE Group’s Alyson Dinca Named President of the Construction Specifications Institute’s Huntsville Chapter

HUNTSVILLE, Alabama, July 1, 2020 SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global project delivery firm for architecture, engineering, and construction management, is proud to announce the recent appointment of Alyson Dinca as the new President of the Construction Specifications Institute’s (CSI) Huntsville Chapter. CSI is a national association dedicated to improving the documentation, management, and communication of building information as used by the construction community. Read more

University Business Magazine Article: “How Are Colleges Retooling for Sustainability”

Joe Kunkle, AIA, PE, LEED AP, principal account executive at SSOE Group, recently authored an article in University Business Magazine, turning the spotlight on ways universities are now preparing their students for an economically sustainable future, while also shifting their perceptions and values in a greener direction.

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Area Development Magazine Article: “Effective Manufacturing Construction Project Management: On Site, and On It”

The article “Effective Manufacturing Construction Project Management: On Site, and On It” in Area Development Magazine’s 3rd Quarter issue discusses how an on site owner’s representative solves problems and adds value by assuring coordination of trades and maintaining project focus. In addition, John Hernandez, Section Manager at SSOE discusses how hiring the right person for the job, whether a current employee, member of a consulting engineering firm on the project, or a member of a firm with no other project contract will save the client time, trouble, and money while completing their project.

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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 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

Food Engineering Magazine Article: “36th Annual Plant Construction Survey, The Push for ROI”

Food Engineering’s 36th Annual Plant Construction Survey reports that last year there was an increase in reportable projects over the previous year. This trend is expected to continue into 2013 and beyond. SSOE’s Ken Gruenhagen, Food and Consumer Products Division Manager, comments on the factors he believes to play a part in this increase, what projects are of upmost importance to plant and facility managers, and what he expects for the future as capital plans are made.

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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

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 Honored at 2019 Ohio BWC and Safety Council of Northwest Ohio Recognition Awards Ceremony

TOLEDO, Ohio, May 31, 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 recognized for their safety accomplishments by the Bureau of Workers’ Compensation (BWC) and Safety Council of Northwest Ohio. The BWC and the Safety Council of Northwest Ohio presented their 65th annual safety recognition awards on Wednesday, May 15, 2019. Read more

SSOE Group Welcomes Matthew Patterson as Senior Account Executive for their Southeast U.S. Operations

SSOE Has Four Southeast U.S. Locations

ATLANTA, Georgia, May 2, 2019— SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global project delivery firm for architecture, engineering, and construction management, is excited to welcome Matthew Patterson to their Atlanta office as Senior Account Executive for their Southeast U.S. Operations. Matthew’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

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 Ranked Top 5 International Semiconductor Design Firm by ENR

TOLEDO, Ohio, January 30, 2019 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global project delivery firm for architecture, engineering, and construction management, is proud to announce that it has been ranked fifth by Engineering News-Record (ENR) in their 2018 Top International Semiconductor Design Firm rankings. The rankings were released in the December edition of ENR’s Top Global Sourcebook and are based on revenue. SSOE was ranked the #2 Top Semiconductor Design Firm in the U.S. by ENR in a previous issue. 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

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 Celebrates 2 Million Working Hours without Injury with FerroTec in China

HANGZHOU, China, September 04, 2018 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global project delivery firm for architecture, engineering, and construction management, is proud to celebrate an exceptional safety milestone of 2 million working hours injury-free with FerroTec, a leading manufacturer of advanced material, component, and assembly solutions in Hangzhou, China. Read more

Three SSOE BIM Experts to Present Five Sessions at Autodesk University 2017

LAS VEGAS, Nevada, November 2, 2017 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global project delivery firm for architecture, engineering, and construction management, announced today that Department Manager, VDC Global Initiatives, Lauren Collier, Associate AIA; Charles Berteaux IV, BIM / VDC Section Manager Advanced Technology Strategic Business Unit; and Mark LaBell Jr., Senior VDC Technical Leader have been selected to speak at Autodesk University 2017. The event will be held November 14 – 16, 2017 at the Venetian Hotel in Las Vegas, Nevada. Read more

SSOE Experts Lauren Collier and Mark LaBell to Present at Annual 2017 Ohio Facilities Construction Commission Conference

TOLEDO, Ohio, August 2, 2017 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global project delivery firm for architecture, engineering, and construction management, announced today that Lauren Collier, VDC Department Manager, and Mark LaBell Jr., Senior VDC Technical Leader, have been selected to present at the annual Ohio Facilities Construction Commission (OFCC) Conference. This year’s event takes place over the course of four different dates in locations around the state of Ohio: August 15th in Columbus, August 23rd in Cincinnati, August 30th in Cleveland, and September 12th in Columbus. Read more

SSOE Hires New Division Manager for Growing Asia-Pacific Operations

TOLEDO, Ohio, August 1, 2017 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global project delivery firm for architecture, engineering, and construction management, recently welcomed back Paul Spinazze as Division Manager and Senior Associate for their Asia-Pacific Operations. He previously worked for SSOE from 1987 to 1994 as an electrical engineer / project manager. 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 Group Recognized as one of the Fastest-Growing Architectural, Engineering, Planning, and Environmental Consulting Firms in the U.S.

TOLEDO, Ohio, June 26, 2017 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global project delivery firm for architecture, engineering, and construction management, has been ranked as a “Hot Firm” by management consulting and research firm Zweig Group. This ranking signifies that SSOE is one of the fastest-growing architecture, engineering, planning, and environmental consulting firms in the United States. Read more

SSOE Celebrates 3,000,000 Work Hours with No Recordable Injuries

TOLEDO, Ohio, May 9, 2017 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global project delivery firm for architecture, engineering, and construction management, is excited to announce the achievement of a significant safety milestone, three million hours worked with no recordable incidents as of March 30, 2017. A recordable injury is an injury that results in any of the following: death, days away from work, restricted work or transferred to another job, medical treatment beyond first aid, or a loss of consciousness. Read more

SSOE VDC Experts to Present at Autodesk University 2016 on Laser Scanning / Reality Capture Best Practices

LAS VEGAS, Nevada, October 26, 2016 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global project delivery firm for architecture, engineering, and construction management, announced today that Senior VDC Technical Leader, Mark LaBell Jr. and VDC / BIM Section Manager Tony Paupert have been selected to present at this year’s Autodesk University. The event will be held November 15 – 17, 2016 at the Venetian Hotel in Las Vegas, Nevada. Read more

SSOE’s Douglas Furia to Present on Virtual Design & Construction at the Fall 2016 BIMForum

ATLANTA, Georgia, October 11, 2016 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global project delivery firm for architecture, engineering, and construction management announced today that Project VDC / BIM Coordinator, Douglas Furia will speak at the Fall BIMForum, to be held October 17-19, 2016 at the Hyatt Regency Atlanta. Read more

Howell and Gill of SSOE to Present at the 18th Annual Lean Construction Institute LCI Congress

CHICAGO, Illinois, September 16, 2016 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global project delivery firm for architecture, engineering, and construction management, announced today that CEO Bob Howell and Director of Virtual Design & Construction (VDC) John Gill will present at the 18th annual Lean Construction Institute (LCI) Congress in Chicago, October 5 – 6, 2016. Read more

Three SSOE Strategy & Technology Experts to Present at the Association for Strategic Planning (ASP) Annual Conference

SAN FRANCISCO, March 11, 2016 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global engineering, procurement, and construction management (EPCM) firm, announced today that Chief Strategy Officer, Vince DiPofi, PE, along with Dan Vining, General Manager, EPCM, and Lauren Collier, Associate AIA, Integrated Project Delivery Specialist, have been selected to speak at the Association for Strategic Planning (ASP) Annual Conference. The event will be held March 16 – 18, 2016 at the Sheraton Fisherman’s Wharf in San Francisco, California. Read more

SSOE Group Welcomes New Corporate Safety Manager

TOLEDO, Ohio, March 8, 2016 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global engineering, procurement, and construction management (EPCM) firm welcomes Robert “Scott” Goodwin, COSS as Corporate Safety Manager. Scott comes to SSOE from Associated General Contractors (AGC) of Northwest Ohio where he served as the Director of Safety and Training.

In this role, Goodwin is responsible for providing safety leadership, training, and guidance. This includes conducting safety audits and inspections for SSOE’s corporate facilities and construction work sites as well as developing contractor qualification standards, reporting safety metrics, and authoring weekly safety tips for staff as well as the company’s safety blog. Read more

SSOE BIM Experts to Present at Autodesk University 2015

au-pass-600x325[1]LAS VEGAS, Nevada, November 24, 2015 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global engineering, procurement, and construction management (EPCM) firm, announced today that BIM/CAD Technical Leader, Mark LaBell Jr. and BIM/CAD Technical Specialist, Mike Musgrave have been selected to speak at Autodesk University 2015. The event will be held December 1-3, 2015 at the Venetian Hotel in Las Vegas, Nevada. 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 Bob Howell as the Next President and CEO

Toledo, Ohio – June 3, 2014-— SSOE’s Board of Directors announced today that it has selected Bob Howell to be the next President and CEO of SSOE Group—a global engineering, procurement, and construction management (EPCM) firm . Effective December 3, 2014, Bob Howell will assume the reins from current CEO, Tony Damon, who announced his plans to retire late last year.

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SSOE Group Announces 2013 Founder’s Award Recipients

TOLEDO, Ohio, February 27, 2014 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global engineering, procurement, and construction management (EPCM) firm, is proud to announce the selection of nine employees and one consultant as recipients of their 2013 Founder’s Award. Initiated in 2008, the Founder’s Award recognizes exemplary execution of SSOE’s core principles—innovation through quality improvements and value-added solutions, great client service, and diversification. Two project teams were the focus of this year’s awards for their substantial contribution to our clients’ success and documented savings of time, trouble, and money. Combined, these two projects, the State of Tennessee’s Memphis Regional Megasite and a program of projects for U.S. Smokeless Tobacco Co. have a documented millions in potential savings for the clients.

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Internationally Ranked Design Firm, SSOE Group, Opens León, Mexico Office

LEÓN, Mexico February 14, 2014 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), ranked 10th internationally among Manufacturing Design Firms (ENR, 2013), announced today that they have opened operations in León, Guanajuato, Mexico—their first office in the country. SSOE now has operations in eight countries. Over the next three years, SSOE plans to hire 25-30 individuals to support the León office. SSOE’s expansion into Mexico continues the company’s trajectory of international growth; the firm has added nine offices in new geographic markets in the last three years through both acquisition and organic expansion.

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Volkswagen and SSOE Group Proud Recipients of ACEC Engineering Excellence Grand Award for World’s First LEED® Platinum Automotive Manufacturing Plant

Toledo, Ohio, May 31, 2013 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global engineering, procurement, and construction management (EPCM) firm along with their client Volkswagen Group of America is proud to announce that it has received one of eight Grand Awards for Engineering Excellence at the 47th Annual Engineering Excellence Awards—a national juried competition sponsored by the American Council of Engineering Companies (ACEC). The award, presented in honor of the new Volkswagen Assembly Plant in Chattanooga, Tennessee, was presented to SSOE and Volkswagen representatives at an award gala in Washington D.C. on April 23, 2013.

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SSOE Group and Evergreen EDC Announce Merger

TOLEDO, Ohio, January 14, 2013 – SSOE Group, a global engineering, procurement, and construction management (EPCM) firm, and Evergreen EDC, a multidiscipline engineering, design, and construction management firm, today announced a merger of the firms. The merger will expand both firms’ geographic reach as well as provide their clients access to enhanced services and resources. The merged entity will operate under the SSOE Group name after a brief transition period.

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SSOE and General Motors Celebrate 2,000,000 Safety Man-hours in Shanghai

Shanghai, China, October 23, 2012 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global engineering, procurement, and construction management (EPCM) firm, along with General Motors (GM), celebrated another significant safety milestone recently. Two million hours have been worked with no recordable incidents during Phase 2 of construction of GM’s first Chinese automotive research and development (R&D) facility, otherwise known as GM China’s Advanced Technical Center. The new facility, currently being constructed in Shanghai, celebrated two prior safety milestones of 500,000 hours worked without a recordable accident back in September 2011 and 1,000,000 hours worked without a recordable accident just five months ago in April 2012.

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SSOE Group Presents at the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers (SHPE) 2012 National Conference

Fort Worth, Texas, September 6, 2012– SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global engineering, procurement, and construction management (EPCM) firm, announced today that Carlos Valenzuela, CCM,Construction Department Manager at SSOE, will be one of three to speak during the SHPE Civil and Industrial Engineering Discipline Luncheon at the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers (SHPE) 2012 National Conference taking place November 14-18, 2012 at the Fort Worth Convention Center in Texas.

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SSOE Designed Volkswagen Chattanooga Plant named Edison Green Award Gold Winner

Chattanooga, TN, May 15, 2012 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global engineering, procurement, and construction management (EPCM) firm, is proud to announce that the Volkswagen Chattanooga Assembly Plant has been awarded the prestigious Gold 2012 Edison Green Award, the highest honor among Green Award winners. The award recognizes “excellence personified by Thomas Alva Edison, inspiring the drive to remain in the forefront of innovation, creativity and ingenuity in the global economy.”  The Green Award specifically recognizes the environmental and sustainability achievements at Volkswagen Chattanooga. SSOE performed architecture, engineering, and construction management for this $1 billion+ production facility which produces the 2012 Passat. SSOE also functioned as the Project Team Administrator (PTA) and Design Lead for all LEED credits.

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SSOE and General Motors Celebrate 1,000,000 Safety Man-hours in Shanghai

Shanghai, China, April 10, 2012 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), an international engineering, procurement, and construction management (EPCM) firm, along with General Motors (GM), is celebrating another significant safety milestone. One million hours have been worked with no recordable incidents during Phase 2 of construction of GM’s first Chinese Automotive Research and Development (R&D) facility, otherwise known as GM China’s Advanced Technical Center. The new facility, currently being constructed in Shanghai, reached its’ first milestone of 500,000 hours worked without a recordable accident just seven months ago, during construction of the Advanced Materials Laboratory Building, or Phase 1, which opened on September 21, 2011.

SSOE and GM were both represented during the celebration. President and Managing Director of the GM China Group, Kevin Wale, applauded the group noting, “This is truly a remarkable achievement – made possible only through the conscious effort each person put forth day in and day out to continuously review surroundings and look out for hazards on the job site before starting work. Safety is not just about numbers. It’s about protecting workers from injury. I want to congratulate the SSOE construction team and contractors on-site for managing the success of this project and for working with GM to support our safety program.”

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