SSOE’s VDC Technical Leader Evan Collier, CM-BIM, recently authored a Consulting-Specifying Engineer article where he focuses on the challenges the AEC industry faces, particularly with requests for information (RFIs) and internal communication. He also discusses how data and visualization can help improve communication, even in large projects.
SSOE’s Business Leader Greg Verhoff, LEED AP; Senior Project Manager Telly Davis; Department Manager Mike Vetter, PE, PMP; and Senior Project Manager Ed Gerken, PMP, LEED AP, were recently featured in this Food Engineering Magazine article. Based on the publication’s annual survey, this year’s article discusses how the COVID-19 pandemic had lasting effects on the food and beverage supply chain. Author Wayne Labs also dives into trends the industry is seeing as well as the top issues clients face.
Part of SSOE’s Year-Long 75th Anniversary Celebration
TOLEDO, Ohio, August 16, 2023 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), an internationally ranked architecture and engineering firm, is excited to announce Mom’s House of Toledo as the recipient of its nationwide “Building the Future” Contest. The firm kicked off various activities internally and externally as part of a year-long 75th anniversary celebration. Read more
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
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
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
TOLEDO, Ohio, May 30, 2023 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), an internationally ranked architecture and engineering firm, is pleased to announce its made its 150th hire in 2023 on the heels of being named a Great Place To Work for the sixth time. As the firm outpaces its 2022 performance in both revenue and market share, SSOE views the recruitment and retention of top talent as a strategic focus. The firm continues to prove its investment in its employees, delivering on SSOE’s vision of “designing and building the future for our clients, colleagues, and communities.” This certification is the most distinctive employer-of-choice recognition that companies aspire to achieve, and the only recognition based entirely on how employees feel about their workplace. Read more
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.
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
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
ATLANTA, Georgia, April 26, 2023 — SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), an internationally ranked architecture and engineering firm, is excited to announce the hiring of Viviana Donikian as Director, Talent Management and Development. Donikian will be based in SSOE’s Atlanta, Georgia, office and will report directly to the firm’s Senior Vice President, People and Culture, Brad Rowe. Read more
SSOE heard it loud and clear. “This is our world headquarters and we want to show it.” It’s a predictable requirement for the world headquarters of a global company; however it’s not often that laboratories are the main focus of the space. Kemin, however, understood their laboratories were the best means to demonstrate to customers their passion for innovation. Read more
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.
On December 23, 2011, U.S. EPA promulgated proposed amendments and changes to the National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants (NESHAP) for industrial, commercial, and institutional boilers and process heaters at both major and area sources of hazardous air pollutants (HAP) emissions. A major source is a facility that has the potential to emit greater than 10 tons per year [tpy] of any single HAP and/or greater than 25 tpy of total HAPs. An area source has the potential to emit less than 10 tpy/25 tpy).
DE SOTO, Kansas, December 22, 2022 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), an internationally ranked architecture and engineering firm, is excited to announce it has been selected by Panasonic Energy Co., Ltd., a Panasonic Group company, to provide primary engineering design and architectural design oversight for Panasonic’s electric vehicle (EV) battery plant in De Soto, Kansas. Read more
Challenging. Competitive. Rich with opportunities. From where we sit as a global provider of EPCM services, those words sum up the world’s current economic landscape. Our management team, like yours, studies information on economic trends and their affect on the production of goods and provision of services worldwide. Our expansion plans are all about being wherever our clients want to be. READ MORE
Whether our clients decide to further expand within their home country or break new ground across the globe, increasingly the projects have tight schedules. The most obvious reason is the faster the products can be manufactured, the sooner they can generate revenue. Once the decision is made to develop the facility, time becomes a key factor. As the completion date draws near, every week is measured by production gained or lost. If the facility is to be developed in an unfamiliar location, working with a company that lacks global experience invites delays and missteps. READ MORE
“It’s a small world after all” is proving more and more true – except when selecting a site for a new location across the globe. When a company is faced with finding a site for a new facility thousands of miles and several cultures removed from “home,” the distance factor can seem insurmountable. SSOE’s site selection services neutralize the difficulties this challenge poses. READ MORE
TOLEDO, Ohio, December 13, 2022 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), an internationally ranked architecture and engineering firm, celebrates the election of new members to the firm’s Board of Directors, the appointment of four new principal owners, and two promotions to Vice President within the organization. Read more
SSOE | Stevens & Wilkinson’s Kimpton Sylvan Hotel project was recently featured in Northside Neighbor. Originally built in the early 1950s by Atlanta architect James C. Wise, the post-war efficiency apartment building has been restored to its previous mid-century modern style after previous renovations converted the building into senior housing and condominium units. The SSOE | S&W design team transformed the condominium units into a 216-key hotel that now features a restaurant and bar, courtyard dining, private pool, and rooftop lounge.
To read the full article, click here.
SSOE | Stevens & Wilkinson’s David T. Howard Middle School project was recently featured in The Atlanta Journal-Constitution. The school was originally opened in 1924 and closed more than half a century later in 1976. SSOE | S&W served as the lead architecture and engineering firm on this award-winning $52 million renovation and expansion project, while Lord Aeck Sargent provided historic rehabilitation, landscape design, and building skin design.
To read the full article, click here.
Facility to Become North America’s Largest Battery Recycling Operation
COVINGTON, Georgia, September 21, 2022 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), an internationally ranked firm with decades of experience delivering projects in the Southeast U.S., is providing architecture, engineering, procurement, construction, and commissioning services for Ascend Elements’ 154,000 SF commercial-scale, lithium-ion battery recycling facility. Ascend Elements, a vertically integrated battery recycling and engineered materials company, is investing $43 million into its new Covington, Georgia facility, strategically located near several electric vehicle (EV) manufacturing hubs and lithium-ion battery producers. Read more
Dewayne Galyon, Basebuild Technical Specialist at SSOE, offers insights into cleanroom humidification challenges in this New Equipment Digest article. While there are numerous complex cleanroom challenges, humidity is a major factor in keeping cleanrooms free of electrostatic charge and moisture. Within the article, Dewayne explains how it takes a seasoned professional to analyze various changes and determine which are indicative of deeper issues and which are the result of a small change in operating. He then goes on to speak to the humidification specific challenge and the solutions.
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.
Alexandra Segers, Dip.-Ing, Program Manager and International Senior Account Executive at SSOE, and General Manager of the firm’s Southeast U.S. operations, was recently featured in Area Development where she shares her advice for picking the best time to select a site location for a new project. The site selection phase will lay the groundwork for the design and construction phases that follow. Therefore, it is important that the team enlists the help of an expert consultant to ensure the site location is managed correctly. Read more
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
TOLEDO, Ohio, October 1, 2021 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global project delivery firm for architecture, engineering, and construction management, is excited to publicly announce the firm’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Statement, which SSOE rolled out internally in September.
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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
LEEDing the way for food processors looking to achieve sustainable operations.
SSOE’s Jennifer Breault, AIA LEED AP BD+C, Architect, and Laura Orlich, NCARB, LEED AP BD+C, Senior Architect, were recently featured in this Food Engineering Magazine article exchanging options and advice for food processors looking to go LEED. Without a specific rating system currently in place for them, food processors are left with a collection of potentially daunting tasks if they desire sustainable operations—with a plethora of certifications and levels to consider. Not to worry, this informative article reveals how LEED certification can still be a totally viable option. And even better, it’s a golden opportunity for examining the efficiency of your process and gathering insight into achieving tangible results on your “triple bottom line”. Read more
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
Insights into Planning Your Next Distillery Project
Joe Badalamenti, PE, PMP, Senior Account Executive at SSOE, takes readers through the front-end loading (FEL) process in this Distiller Magazine article. In the current market, distilleries are consistently challenged to plan new facilities and upgrade existing ones, and using a team led by seasoned professionals to employ FEL can make all the difference in terms of maintaining the budget, scope, and schedule. In this article, Joe draws out the benefits of FEL stage by stage—and the proof is in the results. Read more
Dewayne Galyon, Basebuild Technical Specialist at SSOE, dives back into statistical process control (SPC) in this Reliable Plant Magazine article. SPC—a method of quality control that assists manufacturers in maximizing production, minimizing waste, and keeping costs down—consists of multiple procedures designed to monitor conditions critical for maintaining process control, which vary depending on the type of facility. Dewayne walks readers through his guidelines for fully leveraging the advantages of SPC, which can make significant impacts to a plant’s bottom line when correctly applied to a process. Read more
Dewayne Galyon, Basebuild Technical Specialist at SSOE, illustrates his keen understanding of statistical process control (SPC) in this article recently featured in Processing Magazine. An essential tool for controlling quality in cleanroom manufacturing processes, SPC works to identify problem areas and increase optimization, uncovering contaminant sources farther down the production line that may have otherwise remained undiagnosed. Read more
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
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
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
Evan Baker, Data / Fire / Security (DFS) Manager at SSOE Group, was recently featured in this Food Engineering Magazine article. Cybersecurity is a growing priority for food manufacturers as network connectivity within facilities increases. The boost in information flow enhances a facility’s vulnerability to an attack—-cyber or physical—-that can result in stolen intellectual property, compromised trade secrets, a damaged reputation, and more. To mitigate exposure to security threats, the article offers a number of suggestions, including developing a comprehensive security plan with company-wide buy-in. Read more
“This is a phenomenal enterprise,” began Ohio Governor Bob Taft at a press conference at SSOE’s headquarters on July 18. “There is more work getting done here more quietly then anyplace in the entire state of Ohio. What this company does is incredible and it is a great success story. [SSOE] is a company that is investing and growing and expanding here and has an impact world wide. In fact, just this year I was very proud to present SSOE an “E” Award for Excellence in Exporting for the second time. They come with me on my trade missions. They are operating in China and Europe; they are operating in Mexico. They are truly a global enterprise.”
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
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
Sonny Hamizadeh, AIA, Senior Account Executive at SSOE Group, was recently featured in Modern Healthcare in an article highlighting the recent uptick in building renovation and conversion projects in the healthcare industry—as seen in the publication’s annual Construction and Design Survey results. Sonny explains that new construction is still prevalent, but when renovating is more practical and cost-effective, many clients are now considering that route. The feature goes on to detail SSOE’s recent renovation project for ProMedica Health System, still under construction, which the article appropriately dubs a “whopper remodeling job”. The project requires transforming two historical industrial structures in Toledo, Ohio into what will soon be ProMedica’s corporate headquarters. The design consists of repurposing a 19th century landmark steam plant and connecting it to a former bank building to create an office space for nearly 1,000 employees. Complex to say the least, the urban revitalization effort also required the demolition of two deteriorated 20-story brick smokestacks, which were replaced with smaller steel replicas that required close coordination with National Register of Historical Preservation officials. Read more
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
Industry survivors must embrace shifting paradigms in order to remain competitive in the private sector.
Suzan Huff, RA, LEED AP BD+C, Master Architect at SSOE, recently authored an article in Lab Manager Magazine highlighting three concepts trending in commercial laboratory design: flexibility, transparency, and positive branding. With traditional lab practices changing, the spaces themselves are being modified to accommodate. In addition to creating open, adaptable spaces, Suzan also recommends incorporating movable / convertible items, such as furniture, to create an easily transformable, dynamic group environment and interior and exterior image branding to better appeal to the public. Read more
Act fast to solve complicated issues in semiconductor cleanrooms.
Gavin Kaleta, PE, LEED AP BD+C, Gavin Kaleta, PE, LEED AP BD+C, Mechanical Department Manager at SSOE, recently authored an article in Controlled Environments Magazine on how to resolve the ever-present issues that go hand-in-hand with semiconductor cleanrooms. Whether dealing with the demands that go along with initially constructing and certifying a cleanroom or maintaining it, Gavin recommends working with an experienced project team to help determine quick solutions to avoid any hitches in productivity. Read more
TOLEDO, Ohio, January 14, 2021 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global project delivery firm for architecture, engineering, and construction management, announced today the appointment of six new Principals as a result of their recent acquisition of Stevens & Wilkinson (S&W), a 100-year-old architecture, engineering, and interior design firm with offices in Atlanta, Georgia and Columbia, South Carolina. The acquisition was finalized on December 31, 2020, expanding the firm’s geographic footprint in the Southeast U.S., market expertise in the general building arena, and overall portfolio. Read more
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
Eric Wagner, NICET, Data / Fire / Security (DFS) Designer, was featured in a Security Systems News Q&A session on his role, responsibilities, and background. Trained in Six Sigma with nearly 25 years of DFS experience, Wagner shares some of the emerging technologies being used today in video surveillance and mass notification systems. Read more
Global Architecture, Engineering, and Construction Management Firm Expands Geographic Presence, Design Expertise, and Market Capability with Strategic Acquisition of Southeast Design Firm with Offices in Atlanta, Georgia and Columbia, South Carolina
ATLANTA, Georgia, January 4, 2021 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global project delivery firm for architecture, engineering, and construction management, is pleased to announce the acquisition of Stevens & Wilkinson (S&W), a 100-year-old design firm with offices in Atlanta, Georgia and Columbia, South Carolina, and their sister interior design studio IDEA|SPAN. The alliance, finalized on December 31st, expands the Southeast U.S. presence, market capabilities, and overall portfolio of both firms. Read more
Lauren Collier, Associate AIA, was recently featured on Modelo Blog’s “Design Manifestos” discussing her career path to Virtual Design and Construction (VDC) Manager. With over 10 years of industry experience, Lauren offers a glimpse into her professional journey – from making the decision to study architecture and interning with SSOE, to her evolution into the project execution realm. Now a key member in SSOE’s VDC initiative, she’s responsible for enforcing corporate BIM / VDC standards and developing innovative new technology strategies and processes. Read more
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
Joe Badalamenti, PE, PMP, Business Development Executive at SSOE, was recently featured in this article in Food Engineering Magazine. Joe and other AEC experts weigh in on what’s trending in the food and beverage industry. Based on the publication’s annual survey, the industry has seen a peak in the number of construction projects recorded in 2015 — the highest number in the last 10 years. The driver? Food safety. Read more
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
SSOE experts, John Gill, PE, PMP, Director of Virtual Design and Construction, and Mike Duffey, PE, Principal Account Executive, explore the many benefits of combining an integrated approach with Virtual Design and Construction (VDC) to achieve a collaborative aerospace facility. With this approach, significant advantages result, including a more transparent and collaborative team environment that fosters participation and valuable input during the early stages of a project, increased flexibility and efficiency during the project’s development in the virtual world, and reduction of RFIs. On average, SSOE has seen 20%+ schedule reduction through strategies including concurrent engineering and the use of prefabrication and modularization. Read more
SSOE’s Ryan Cousino, Project Manager with over 10 years of healthcare project experience, was recently published on the topic of life safety compliance—specifically a section of the Joint Commission’s survey assessing Life Safety Code NFPA 101 compliance. He recommends seeking assistance from a qualified architecture / engineering firm such as SSOE to prepare for this, guaranteeing a trouble-free outcome. Read more
Evan Baker, Data / Fire / Security (DFS) Manager at SSOE with over 10 years of experience, recently authored this illustrative article detailing best practices for designing an effective hospital mass notification system (MNS). Today’s technology allows for customized life-safety messages to be communicated in real time in various ways, with many features varying by vendor. Evan writes that a successful MNS design starts with calculated planning and the involvement of many parties—including the building’s architect, fire protection engineer, hospital personnel, insurance provider, and code officials—to help determine priority MNS features. Read more
Gavin Kaleta, PE, LEED AP BD+C, Mechanical Engineer at SSOE, recently authored an article in New Equipment Digest discussing the benefits of zero unplanned downtime, or ZUD, and how it increased the success of a high-stakes semiconductor research fabrication facility (fab) project. By forecasting and planning for the challenges in construction execution — and because of our design team’s experience in advanced technology and complex projects — SSOE was able to avoid unplanned downtime, which can lead to very costly repercussions, especially as it relates to critical chip development. Gavin details how to build the best team possible for a high-pressure facility renovation. Read more
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 Magazine’s 37th Annual Plant Construction Survey takes a look at key trends such as sanitation, food safety, and efficiency which have influenced projects in 2013. Jerry Rudie, Senior Project Manager at SSOE provides his observation of the move toward increased expansions to existing plants rather than new plant construction. In addition, Rudie reports on the move toward further automation of processes in order to reduce labor costs and justify additional capital expenditures.
Food Engineering Magazine’s May 2014 issue features an article on the potential risks in the food industry for tampering and how to prepare / prevent incidents from occurring. Within, security experts from SSOE and two other corporations provide insight on the most effective tools to ensure food manufacturers are always prepared and equipped with the proper security measures for their facility.
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
Tom Fitzpatrick, Power Department Manager, provides tips and recommendations for meeting national pollutant-emission standards published by the EPA in early 2013 in an article featured in HPAC Engineering Magazine.
The deadlines are approaching for compliance with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) new national standards governing the emission of hazardous air pollutants (HAP) from industrial, commercial, and institutional boilers. Since most major source facilities whose emissions exceed the standard will need to make significant capital improvements or operational changes, decision makers need to weigh the “what ifs” that can impact their compliance strategy. Among these are the future cost of natural gas; the likelihood of new and/or more stringent emission limits; and the potential for increased operating costs associated with the use of coal and biomass.
TOLEDO, Ohio, December 20, 2018 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global project delivery firm for architecture, engineering, and construction management, announced today that two project teams have been selected as recipients of the firm’s Founder’s Award and five individuals have been selected as recipients of Leadership Awards. Read more
TOLEDO, Ohio, October 11, 2018 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global project delivery firm for architecture, engineering, and construction management, announced today the appointment of two new Principals, effective January 1, 2019. SSOE’s Board of Directors named Jens Ebert and Brad Rowe as principal owners of SSOE. Read more
SSOE is mentioned in this article by Building Design + Construction magazine discussing ways for building teams to utilize new online tools for complex project document management. SSOE and partners employed relatively new collaboration software Read more
TOLEDO, Ohio, October 1, 2018 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global architecture, engineering, and construction management firm, announced today that they are proud to be a sponsor of the 8th Annual Midwest Urban Design Charrette hosted by the Toledo Design Center (TDC). This event will take place October 5-7, 2018 at the TDC at One SeaGate in downtown Toledo in the Garden Room. SSOE’s sponsorship will provide lodging for all 28 students and 5 instructors attending this event. Read more
TOLEDO, Ohio, September 27, 2018 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global architecture, engineering, and construction management firm, announced today that several of their architectural experts were invited to present at the 2018 AIA Ohio Convention. This event will take place on October 4-6, 2018 at the Renaissance Toledo Downtown Hotel. Read more
NASHVILLE, Tennessee, September 13, 2018 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global project delivery firm for architecture, engineering, and construction management, has again partnered with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation on their Hiring Our Heroes (HOH) Corporate Fellowship Program (CFP). The HOH CFP is designed to train transitioning service members on skills needed to succeed in the civilian workforce. This is done through a 10-week program that consists of educational programming and on-the-job training opportunities for service members while still on active duty. As part of the program, service members gain private-sector work experience and education to help close the gap in employment for transitioning service members. SSOE will participate for a fifth time as a corporate partner with the HOH program by welcoming two new fellows as Assistant Project Managers. Read more
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
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 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.
TOLEDO, Ohio, April 19, 2018 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global project delivery firm for architecture, engineering, and construction management, announced today that eight of its employees earned professional certifications during the second quarter of SSOE’s 2018 planning year. Attainment of professional licensures and certifications is strongly encouraged at SSOE. In fact, the company covers the expense of preparation classes and exam fees as well as provides paid time off to take the exam. As an added incentive, once an employee has passed an exam, they are awarded a recognition bonus. Read more
TOLEDO, Ohio, March 26, 2018 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global project delivery firm for architecture, engineering, and construction management, announced a new employee benefit today: the Flexible Work Arrangement (FWA) Program. The program was an idea that came from SSOE’s Millennial and Gen X CEO Advisory Committees, Sustainable Design Committee, and Employee Culture brainstorming sessions. Read more
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
TROY, Michigan, January 18, 2018 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global project delivery firm for architecture, engineering, and construction management, is proud to announce that they provided architectural and engineering services to Henry Ford Health System for the installation of the world’s first FDA approved commercially available linear accelerator (LINAC) based, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) guided radiation therapy system that can image and treat patients simultaneously. Read more
TOLEDO, Ohio, January 8, 2018 – 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 architectural and engineering services for four new elementary schools as part of the Fremont City Schools district rebuild project in partnership with Munger Munger + Associates Architects Inc. Read more
TOLEDO, Ohio, December 12, 2017 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a project delivery firm for architecture, engineering, and construction management, announced today the selection of Lori Gillett and Catherine Myers as new directors to its board. Both individuals were selected by SSOE’s shareholders for their unique industry perspective and diverse background that align with the company’s core markets and future growth objectives. Read more
TOLEDO, Ohio, December 11, 2017 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a project delivery firm for architecture, engineering, and construction management, is proud to announce that Jennifer Hrosko, IIDA, NCIDQ, CHID, a senior interior designer with the firm, recently passed the American Academy of Healthcare Interior Designers (AAHID) examination and earned the prestigious Certified Healthcare Interior Designer (CHID) certificate. Read more
NASHVILLE, Tennessee, November 21, 2017 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global project delivery firm for architecture, engineering, and construction management, is partnering with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation on their Hiring Our Heroes (HOH) Corporate Fellowship Program (CFP). The HOH CFP is designed to train transitioning service members on skills needed to succeed in the civilian workforce. This is done through a 12-week program that consists of educational programming and on-the-job training opportunities for service members while still on active duty. As part of the program, service members gain private sector working experience and education to help close the gap in employment for transitioning service members. Read more
TOLEDO, Ohio, October 24, 2017 – SSOE Group, a global project delivery firm for architecture, engineering, and construction management, is proud to announce the addition of three new professionals to their rapidly growing healthcare, commercial, and education business unit: Bob Siebenaller, Erin Curley, and Andy Burell. Read more
TOLEDO, Ohio, September 18, 2017 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global project delivery firm for architecture, engineering, and construction management, is proud to announce they have been recognized with a Platinum Award from ConstructSecure, a leader in contractor assessment, for their high score on the independent Construction Safety Assessment Program (CS-Safety). Evaluated in both civil engineering and surveying, the firm received a 98-point score out of 100 possible points—a result of SSOE’s safety-always culture. Read more
We are saddened by the devastating effects that hurricanes Harvey and Irma have produced over the past few weeks.
We share the grief of those who are affected by these storms, and also share the desire to help. Last week, we were a part of WTOL News 11’s Hurricane Harvey Relief Telethon locally, matching donations up to $5,000. This week, we are teaming with 13abc in Toledo for their Hurricane Irma Relief Telethon, again matching donations up to $5,000.
Join SSOE and our employees in helping those who have lost their homes and loved ones. Please give today by visiting the www.redcross.org/ssoegroup and choose either Hurricane Harvey or Hurricane Irma under “I Want to Support”. Read more
TOLEDO, Ohio, August 25, 2017 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global project delivery firm for architecture, engineering, and construction management, is partnering with Toledo Public Schools (TPS) on a pilot apprenticeship program to engage students at the high school / pre-college level and provide them exposure to science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) careers. Today, engineering is one of the fastest-growing, best-paid careers for recent college graduates, and this growth is projected to continue into the future. Read more
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
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
HILLSBORO, Oregon, July 28, 2017 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global project delivery firm for architecture, engineering, and construction management, announced today the appointment of Catherine “Cathy“ Myers, PE, to their Advanced Technology (AT) leadership team. Cathy started with the firm on July 10, 2017 and is currently working to transition responsibility from Interim Strategic Business Unit (SBU) Manager, David Sipes, PE, Chief Operating Officer (COO), within the coming months. She will effectively assume her new role as AT SBU Manager at the start of SSOE’s upcoming performance year, October 1, 2017. Read more
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
TOLEDO, Ohio, July 10, 2017 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global project delivery firm for architecture, engineering, and construction management, announced today that three of its employees earned a professional registration and 10 employees earned professional certifications during the third quarter of SSOE’s 2017 planning year. Attainment of professional licensures and certifications is strongly encouraged at SSOE. In fact, the company covers the expense of preparation classes and exam fees as well as provides paid time off to take the exam. As an added incentive, once an employee has passed an exam, they are awarded a recognition bonus. Read more
In his Green Report, reporter Michael Schlesinger highlights SSOE’s efforts in alternative energy. SSOE’s Jerry Carter, Business Leader of Sustainable and Renewable Solutions; Tim Bolbach, PE, Master Engineer; and Glen Blohm, CFM, Facility Manager are interviewed. Read more
SAN FRANCISCO, California, June 21, 2017 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global project delivery firm for architecture, engineering, and construction management, announced today that several of its semiconductor manufacturing experts will be joining business and technology leaders, researchers, and industry analysts in attending SEMICON West 2017 on July 11th – 13th, 2017. Organized by SEMI and celebrating its 47th year, SEMICON is the flagship annual event for the global microelectronics industry. Read more
TOLEDO, Ohio, May 18, 2017 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global project delivery firm for architecture, engineering, and construction management, announced the appointment of Brian Lloyd as Senior Account Executive. He is responsible for the growth of SSOE’s industrial process business with a main focus on services to chemical manufacturing clients.
Prior to joining SSOE, Brian was a director of sales and marketing in the Cincinnati area covering the Ohio, Kentucky, and Indiana territory. Additionally, Brian spent 9 years of his career working in a technical services consultant role, serving clientele in a wide range of industries including healthcare, higher education, utilities, and manufacturing. In total, he has 14 years of professional experience providing architectural and engineering services to commercial and industrial clients. Read more
BIRMINGHAM, Alabama, February 28, 2017 – 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 Birmingham Business Journal’s 2017 Top 25 Engineering Firms. The BBJ Top Engineering Firms List ranks the top 25 engineering firms in Birmingham, Alabama based on total number of licensed professional engineers – SSOE was named 4th largest engineering firm in Birmingham. Read more
TOLEDO, Ohio, February 16, 2017 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global project delivery firm for architecture, engineering, and construction management, will host nearly 40 students from local area high schools including Ayersville, Ida, Lake, and Start, on Tuesday, February 21st as part of Engineers Week. Focused on promoting entry into the engineering profession, Engineers Week takes place February 20 – 26, 2017 in locations across the U.S. Engineering is one of the fastest-growing, best paid careers for recent college graduates and this growth is projected to continue into the future. Read more
TOLEDO, Ohio, January 10, 2017 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global project delivery firm for architecture, engineering, and construction management, announced today that two of its employees earned professional certifications during the first quarter of SSOE’s 2017 planning year. Attainment of professional licensures and certifications is strongly encouraged at SSOE. In fact, the company covers the expense of preparation classes and exam fees as well as provides 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. Read more
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
TOLEDO, Ohio, October 18, 2016 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global project delivery firm for architecture, engineering, and construction management, announced today that three of its employees earned a professional registration and four other employees earned professional certifications during the fourth quarter of SSOE’s 2016 planning year. Attainment of professional licensures and certifications is strongly encouraged at SSOE. In fact, the company covers the expense of preparation classes and exam fees as well as provides 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. Read more
TOLEDO, Ohio, July 13, 2016 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global architecture, engineering, procurement, and construction management firm, announced today that one of its employees earned a professional registration and 12 additional employees earned professional certifications during the third quarter of SSOE’s 2016 planning year. Attainment of professional licensures and certifications is strongly encouraged at SSOE. In fact, the company covers the expense of preparation classes and exam fees as well as provides 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. Read more
TROY, Michigan, July 1, 2016 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global architecture, engineering, procurement, and construction management firm, is proud to announce the addition of three new professionals to their rapidly growing healthcare practice, which has experienced double-digit, year-over-year growth for 12 consecutive months. Renata Cirillo, RA, Matthew Paterson, PE, and Robert White, RA, recently joined SSOE’s healthcare group. Read more
TOLEDO, Ohio, May 19, 2016 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global engineering, procurement, and construction management (EPCM) firm is proud to announce that Michael Duffey, PE, Principal Account Executive, has been nominated to serve as the next President of the American Council of Engineering Companies (ACEC) Ohio, effective July 1, 2016. Read more
TOLEDO, Ohio, May 6, 2016 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global engineering, procurement, and construction management (EPCM) firm, announced today that an employee earned a Master Architect designation, two employees earned a professional registration, and eight employees earned professional certifications during the second quarter of SSOE’s 2016 planning year. Attainment of professional licensures and certifications is strongly encouraged at SSOE. In fact, the company covers the expense of preparation classes and exam fees as well as provides 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. Read more
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
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
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