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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What is Laser Scanning?

3D laser scanning is the fastest, most efficient method to capture existing conditions of many facilities or sites. Replacing the time consuming and less accurate method of manually recorded field measurements, lasers scan an existing facility or site, creating a point cloud that acts as a highly accurate as-built drawing. Laser scanning is extremely useful when there are no existing drawings or the information on the drawings is outdated for a project. Read more

Veeam Software Customer Story Article: “SSOE Neutralizes Ransomware Attacks with Near-Instant Data Restore from Veeam”

SSOE’s Dominic Torres, Department Manager, and Dan Clark, Senior Systems Administrator, recently participated in a case study with one of our vendor partners, Veeam Software. With our technical experts using data-intensive tools daily to complete our complex designs, data protection is a primary concern. Veeam offers a more automated data protection solution. Read more

Giving clients more for their money through innovative software

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

SSOE Group to Sponsor, Present, and Exhibit at Autodesk University 2023, The Design and Make Conference

TOLEDO, Ohio, November 6, 2023 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), an internationally ranked architecture and engineering firm, announced today their Silver Sponsorship of Autodesk University 2023, The Design & Make Conference where they will exhibit at booth 867, showcasing how they leverage Autodesk solutions to deliver large, complex projects to clients. Additionally, they will have nine experts present four sessions. SSOE’s  Vince DiPofi, PE, Chief Executive Officer; Catherine Myers, PE, President; Jeremy Woodgate, PE, SE, Chief Operating Officer, Advanced Technology and Process Engineering; Mathew Bierschbach, Business Leader; Lauren Collier, Associate AIA, Director, Project Technology; Mark LaBell, Virtual Design and Construction (VDC) Operations Practice Group Leader; Lisa Lewis, Project Management Assistant; James Malcolm, Senior Software Developer; and Jonathan Bolbach, Senior Software Developer, have been selected to speak at this year’s event to be held November 13-15, 2023, at The Venetian Convention & Expo Center in Las Vegas, Nevada. 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

Lab Manager Article: “Using the Cloud’s Latest Technologies for Data Integrity, Security, and Scheduling”

In this recent Lab Manager article, SSOE’s Lauren Collier, Associate AIA, Director of Project Technology, discusses what cloud technology has to offer to the AEC industry. Firms not only need to invest in this technology, but she explains how it will only be optimally beneficial if frontline leaders recognize and champion the benefits and engage in the necessary processes for their employees’ success. Read more

LIDARNews: “Lessons in Quality Construction and Engineering”

SSOE was recently featured in a LIDARNews article on how the company utilizes Cintoo Cloud to host and manage their point cloud data. Cintoo allows SSOE’s point cloud files to be easily uploaded into a compressed 3D mesh format to provide collaboration with anyone, anywhere, satisfying their corporate goals of agility and collaboration.

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Virtual Design & Construction (VDC): Steel

The beginning of a new era in construction project delivery.

VDC Steel is an innovative application of SSOE’s virtual design technology that seamlessly integrates steel design, and fabrication, delivering exceptional quality with reduced cost and a compressed schedule.

Virtual Design and Construction is not just a new software or tool—it’s an industry-wide shift in the process for delivering construction projects. In fact, VDC has been compared to the shift that took place when digital cameras were first introduced to the photography industry. With our VDC Steel capabilities, SSOE is well positioned to offer our clients the benefits of this new approach to project delivery since it is in an area where we excel; we have been working with steel structures for 65 years, starting with our first project.

VDC Steel takes a 3D/BIM model beyond design intent and into the design details, shop drawings, fabrication, and procurement. For example, most are familiar with the benefits of clash detection utilizing a 3D model. However, in a VDC application the clash detection is done using the detailed design—exactly as the project is going to be built, not just the design intent. This results in much more powerful and accurate clash detection.

Historically, SSOE has been an industry leader in recognizing the opportunities that result from shedding traditional methods and fully leveraging available technology for the benefit of our clients. This includes our early adoption of 3D / BIM as a tool to reduce inefficiencies and errors in the design process. While BIM has now been widely adopted by both designers and contractors, to-date the intelligence capabilities of the model and efficiencies of utilizing a single model from design through construction have not been fully leveraged. Often, contractors and fabricators must create additional 3D models from the designer’s 2D drawings, which is wasteful and inefficient, and creates more opportunities for errors. VDC is a process change that removes the barriers to using the same intelligent 3D model from design through construction. It reduces the number of handoffs, compresses the schedule, eliminates errors, tightens material quotes, and results in a completed project that is closer to the original design intent. It also improves the ultimate design by revealing issues more generalized drawings miss.

VDC Steel is just one piece of the shift being generated by Virtual Design and Construction. We are excited because it’s a piece our clients can leverage to immediately experience significant benefits.

Benefits of VDC Steel:

Streamlined and seamless integration through one virtual model that produces:
Fabricator ready models
Approved shop drawings
CNC programs
Mill order lists

Exceptional Quality
Advanced clash detection
Limited field errors
Methodical control from design to construction

Reduced Cost
Optimized detailing in a virtual environment
Accurate bids and estimates
Reduction in field change orders

Reduced schedule by a minimum of 4 weeks
Steel lead times Design and approval process
Analysis and options

 

Digital Builder: “Autodesk Construction Cloud Introduces New Data Sharing Capabilities to Transform Construction Collaboration”

SSOE’s Luis Ángel Garcia, Project VDC / BIM Specialist in our León, Mexico office, was featured in this Autodesk Digital Builder blog article announcing the much-anticipated Bridge application. Aptly named, this transformational new collaboration capability connects project data for internal and external teams within the Autodesk Construction Cloud. Read more

SSOE’s Lauren Collier Named a 2023 Autodesk Construction Champion

TOLEDO, Ohio, September 1, 2023 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), an internationally ranked architecture and engineering firm, is proud to announce that Lauren Collier, Director of Project Technology at SSOE, has been named a 2023 Autodesk Construction Champion. The Autodesk Construction Champions is an annual, global awards program that recognizes 25 construction thought leaders who are making waves in the industry by driving innovation and change. Learn more about Collier by viewing her Construction Champion profile here. Read more

Visual Effects — Faster, Better, Cheaper

With technology’s ability to generate high quality graphics on everything from movie screens to smart phones, clients are expecting design concepts to be delivered in impressive graphics—often early in the design phase. In fact, 3D renderings and fly-throughs are effective in many situations. They enable a more thorough review of the facility or campus, help promote the project, support fundraising and groundbreakings, and build consensus within the organization. In addition to being a powerful tool for envisioning the big picture, photo-realistic renderings help users evaluate lighting, color / materials schemes, and understand more clearly the relationships between different areas. Read more

Lab Manager Article: “BIM Tools Provide Construction Advantages”

Lauren Collier, Associate AIA, Department Manager, VDC Global Initiatives and Senior Associate at SSOE Group, recently authored an article in Lab Manager describing how 3D modeling utilizing BIM 360 provides visualization, transparency, and collaboration while also helping projects remain flexible and within budget. BIM 360 is a game-changer for the AEC industry by providing a tool that offers a detailed depiction of the project development in an open and highly collaborative environment. Read more

Building Design+Construction Article: U.S. Engineering Firms Ride on Waves of Innovation

SSOE was recently featured in this Building Design + Construction article “U.S. Engineering Firms Ride on Waves of Innovation” which highlights innovation as being engineering firms’ “best foot forward” in terms of staying competitive. The article opens with a project example where we saved one of our automotive clients over $250,000 by streamlining data capture, utilizing laser scanning, implementing innovative workflows, and more.

To read the full article, click here.

Plant Engineering Article: “Laser Scanning Optimizes Costs, Helps with Standards”

SSOE’s Mark LaBell, Senior Virtual Design and Construction (VDC) Technical Leader, recently authored an article in Plant Engineering. Laser scanning, among the world’s most cutting-edge technologies, is rapidly becoming universally adopted. This article discusses how stakeholders who use laser scanning can increase project efficiency and speed with lower initial costs. Read more

4D: Construction with Less Guess, Less Stress

3D has made it possible to view the design of a complete structure, its sections, and systems, and to rotate them all from the comfort of a keyboard. This leaves less to the imagination during the review process and construction. Add a sophisticated Gantt chart schedule and you can know a lot about how a project is going to come together. If progress stopped right there, we’d have a level of technology whose capabilities will intrigue us for a long time. But, it hasn’t. 3D is merging with the final dimension—time—in a way that will make the construction of complex, time sensitive projects more predictable. We’re entering the era of 4D.

To understand how 4D works, imagine if you could travel forward into time and set up a camera at a job site that takes a picture each day, from multiple perspectives, of a project being constructed. Impose on each frame a readout of the day the shot was taken, make each element of the construction clickable and data-rich, and you will have an idea of what 4D portrays—before construction even starts. Basically, it is an “animated,” intelligent sequence of a virtual project being constructed. 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

SSOE’s Lauren Collier Named Autodesk’s 40 Under 40 Champions of Construction 2022

TOLEDO, Ohio, November 28, 2022 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), an internationally ranked architecture and engineering firm, is proud to announce that Lauren Collier, Director of Project Technology at SSOE, has been named to Autodesk’s 40 Under 40: Champions of Construction 2022. This annual, global awards program recognizes professionals under the age of 40 who are making big waves in the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) industry for their creativity, forward-thinking, and dedication, particularly over the last several months. Read more

LiDAR News Article: “Artificial Intelligence Assists with Reality Capture Workflows”

Tony Sabat, BIM / CAD Technical Specialist at SSOE, explains in this article featured on the LiDAR News blog how artificial intelligence (AI) is the next step in improving the reality capture workflow. He notes that with AI, time is saved working on an unedited heavy dataset and creates an easier workflow further into a project. Additionally, the ability of these solutions to create a concise dataset for the user proves incredibly valuable in making design decisions and maintaining a successful project. Read more

SSOE Group’s Lauren Collier Promoted to Director of Project Technology

TOLEDO, Ohio, August 30, 2022 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), an internationally ranked architecture and engineering firm, is proud to announce the promotion of Lauren Collier, Associate AIA, to Director of Project Technology.

Collier started her career at SSOE more than 15 years ago as an architect in training who transitioned to technology taking on the role of BIM / VDC Technical Specialist. In this position, she specialized in the research and development of current and future architectural software and worked on advancements in BIM technologies. Since joining the firm, she has held positions of increasing responsibility including Technical Leader, BIM / CAD; Section Manager, Design Technology; Section Manager, VDC Global Initiatives; and most recent Department Manager, VDC Global Initiatives before her promotion to Director of Project Technology. Read more

SSOE’s Lauren Collier Conducts Autodesk BIM / VDC Master Class

TOLEDO, Ohio, June 23, 2022 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), an internationally ranked architecture and engineering firm, announced today that Lauren Collier, Virtual Design and Construction (VDC) Department Manager, has been selected to conduct an Autodesk Master Class for those currently pursuing or interested in advancing their career in BIM / VDC—a growing profession. Read more

Manufacturing Automation Magazine Article: “Insights to Capture the Full Benefit of Laser Scanning”

Mark LaBell, BIM / CAD Technical Leader, recently authored an article on laser scanning featured in Manufacturing Automation Magazine. Within, Mark discusses how laser scanning speeds up a project, reduces costs, and improves safety. Although there are challenges when adjusting laser scanning for specific projects, he writes that understanding project goals is key. Laser scanning is quickly becoming the go-to tool for reality capture—replacing the time consuming and less accurate method of manually recorded field measurements and ultimately creating an incredibly realistic and detailed 3D model. The article dives deeper into insights and benefits of using this innovative technology.  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

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

SSOE’s Mark LaBell Named Autodesk’s 40 Under 40 Champions of Construction 2021

TOLEDO, Ohio, November 3, 2021 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global project delivery firm for architecture, engineering, and construction management, is proud to announce that Mark LaBell, Head of Innovation at SSOE, has been named to Autodesk’s 40 Under 40: Champions of Construction 2021. This annual and global awards program recognizes professionals under the age of 40 who are making big impacts, demonstrating exceptional leadership, and displaying their ability to inspire, educate, and advance the industry in ways worth admiring. Read more

More Design for Your Dollar

The time has now come where the pretty pictures translate into tangible benefits to our clients. “The biggest benefit from Building Information Modeling (BIM) technology is that it allows us to do investigation faster – to provide design options quickly and more thoroughly,” explains David Semproch, architect. “Design is about continuously searching for the best answer from many possible solutions. Building Information Modeling allows us to harvest a lot more information sooner, providing key details that influence other design decisions.”

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SSOE’s Lauren Collier to Present at Autodesk University 2021

TOLEDO, Ohio, September 23, 2021 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global project delivery firm for architecture, engineering, and construction management, announced today that Lauren Collier, Associate AIA, Department Manager of VDC Global Initiatives and Senior Associate, has been selected to speak at Autodesk University (AU) 2021. The global event will be held digitally October 5 – 14, 2021. Read more

Modelo Blog Article: “Design Manifestos”

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

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

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

Building Design + Construction Magazine Article: “Managing Risks with Laser Scanning Gives AEC Firms an Edge”

Mark LaBell, BIM / CAD Technical Leader, was interviewed for this recent article on laser scanning featured in BD+C Magazine. Within, Mark discusses SSOE’s rapid and widespread adoption of 3D laser scanning to capture existing conditions of facilities or sites and reviews the investments needed in not only software, hardware, and personnel training, but also third-party vendor relationships needed to fully support laser scanning data processing and modeling. Laser scanning is quickly becoming the go-to tool for reality capture—replacing the time consuming and less accurate method of manually recorded field measurements and ultimately creating an incredibly realistic and detailed 3D model. 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

SSOE Group Provided Architectural and Engineering Services on Recently Completed Beaumont Health Cardiac Intensive Care Unit

TROY, Michigan, February 22, 2021 – 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 on the recently completed Beaumont Health System Cardiac Intensive Care Unit (CICU) in Troy, Michigan. 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

Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Magazine Article: “Virtual Design & Construction Brings All Parties Together”

In this article featured in the October, 2015 issue of Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Magazine, SSOE’s Ed Royzman, PE and John Gill, PE, PMP take readers through an overview of Virtual Design & Construction (VDC) and its role in removing barriers between the phases of project delivery. Royzman and Gill take a look at how the benefits of VDC were leveraged on one FDA-compliant pharmaceutical project – providing significant value for process validation by allowing designers, fabricators, and contractors to input detail into the model. This resulted in a more accurate picture of building conditions, with the added benefit of all commissioning and validation efforts recorded for future facility adaptation. 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

SSOE Group’s Mark LaBell to Participate in Webinar Panel Discussing Cintoo Cloud during the Virtual SPAR 3D Expo & Conference 2020

TOLEDO, Ohio, September 23, 2020 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global project delivery firm for architecture, engineering, and construction management, announced today that Mark LaBell, Senior VDC Technical Leader, has been selected to participate in a webinar panel during the SPAR 3D Expo + Conference 2020. This event will be held virtually on September 24, 2020, from 11am – 12pm ET. Read more

SSOE’s Jeremy Woodgate Co-Authors North American Engineering Executive Council’s “Passing the Baton – Better Project Handoff Processes with BIM” Whitepaper

TOLEDO, Ohio, September 21, 2020 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global project delivery firm for architecture, engineering, and construction management, is proud to announce that Jeremy Woodgate, PE, SE, Senior Vice President and Strategic Business Unit (SBU) Manager, Advanced Technology, is among 10 executives from the North American Engineering Executive Council (EXC) who recently co-authored “Passing the Baton – Better Project Handoff Processes with BIM”, a whitepaper challenging the status quo of the current capital delivery supply chain. 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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SSOE Group to Host 31 High School Students during Annual “Engineer for a Day” Program

TOLEDO, Ohio, February 14, 2020 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global project delivery firm for architecture, engineering, and construction management, will host 31 students from local area high schools; Tecumseh, Dundee, and Ida, as part of Engineers Week. Focused on promoting entry into the engineering profession, Engineers Week takes place February 17 – 21, 2020 in locations across the country. Engineers Week is a way to increasing the understanding of and interest in engineering and technology careers and helps address the shortage of talent in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) careers by increasing public dialogue about the need for engineers and other STEM professionals. Read more

SSOE’s Mark LaBell Recognized as a Top Autodesk University Las Vegas 2019 Speaker

TOLEDO, Ohio, December 27, 2019 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global project delivery firm for architecture, engineering, and construction management, announced today that Mark LaBell, Senior VDC Technical Leader, recently received an honorable mention from Autodesk. He was recognized as a Top Autodesk University 2019 Speaker for his hands-on lab “ReCap to the Max! How to Edit, Document, and Coordinate,” which covered how to edit point cloud projects in ReCap software for all disciplines and project types. Read more about session here. Read more

Journal of the National Institute of Building Sciences Article: “Win-Win BIM: How USACE and Industry Established Mutually Beneficial BIM Requirements”

Design Technology Section Manager, Lauren Collier, is featured in a recent article in the Journal of the National Institute of Building Sciences. The article explores the development of the USACE / Industry BIM Committee as well as the challenges and successes the committee experienced in improving design and construction deliverables for the USACE through the use of BIM.  Collier was appointed to the USACE BIM Advisory committee in January 2012.

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Tony Sabat, One of SSOE’s Top BIM Experts, to Present Two Sessions at the Joint AEC Next and SPAR 3D Technology Expo + Conference 2019

ANAHEIM, California, May 03, 2019 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global project delivery firm for architecture, engineering, and construction management, announced today that Tony Sabat, BIM / CAD Technical Specialist, has been selected to present two sessions during the AEC Next and SPAR 3D Technology Expo + Conference 2019. This event will be held May 21 – 23, 2019 at the Anaheim Convention Center in Anaheim, California. Read more

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

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

SSOE VDC Expert Mark LaBell to Present at Advancing Construction Technology Conference

CHICAGO, Illinois, July 27, 2018 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global project delivery firm for architecture, engineering, and construction management, announced today that Mark LaBell, Jr., Senior Virtual Design and Construction (VDC) Technical Leader, has been selected to present at the Advancing Construction Technology 2018: Improving Field Productivity conference, which will take place August 20-22 in Chicago.

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Progressive Engineer Magazine Article: “SSOE, High-Tech Engineering Nothing New”

This article profiles SSOE’s recent growth, hiring outlook, and use of technology based on an interview with SSOE Senior Vice President Dave Sipes, PE. 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 Group’s Kevin Costello and Chris Baker Honored by the Toledo Chapter of the American Institute of Architects

TOLEDO, Ohio, May 11, 2017 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global project delivery firm for architecture, engineering, and construction management, is privileged to announce that two of their own were selected for awards by the Toledo Chapter of the American Institute of Architect (AIA). Kevin Costello, AIA, was named “2017 AIA Toledo Architect of the Year” and Christopher Baker, AIA Associate, was named “2017 AIA Toledo Emerging Professional of the Year”. The awards were presented to Costello and Baker during the Honors Awards Program on April 21, 2017 at the Blarney Event Center in Downtown Toledo, Ohio. 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

SSOE and Autodesk Host First Reality Capture Summit

TOLEDO, Ohio, May 26, 2016 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global engineering, procurement, and construction management (EPCM) firm along with Autodesk, Inc., an American multinational software corporation that makes software for the architecture, engineering, construction, manufacturing, media, and entertainment industries, hosted their first Reality Capture Summit on Thursday, May 12, 2016 at SSOE’s world headquarters. Read more

SSOE BIM Expert Mark LaBell to Present on Laser Scanning at the Spring BIMForum 2016

MINNEAPOLIS, Minnesota, April 8, 2016 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global engineering, procurement, and construction management (EPCM) firm, announced today that Senior VDC Technical Leader, Mark LaBell Jr. will speak at this spring’s BIMForum: BIM and the Built Environment, to be held on April 20 & 21at the Hyatt Regency Minneapolis. Read more

LaBell of SSOE to Present “Demystifying Large Point Cloud Data Sets for Simple Integration on Complex Projects” at SPAR 3D’s 2016 Annual Conference

THE WOODLANDS, Texas, March 29, 2016 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global engineering, procurement, and construction management (EPCM) firm, is proud to announce that Mark LaBell, BIM/CAD Technical Leader, has been selected to present at SPAR 3D’s 2016 Conference. The event will be held April 11-14, 2016 at The Woodlands Waterway Marriott Hotel and Convention Center in Texas. 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

Mark LaBell of SSOE to Present “Reviewing the Role of Laser Scanning to Create Preliminary 3D Digital Representations of a Structure to Incorporate into BIM Models” at the BIM Integration Congress 2015

San Francisco, California, August 14, 2015 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global engineering, procurement, and construction management (EPCM) firm, is proud to announce that Mark LaBell, BIM/CAD Technical Leader at SSOE, has been selected to present at BIM Integration Congress 2015. The event will be held August 26-27 at Hotel Kabuki in San Francisco, California. Read more

Two SSOE BIM Experts Presenting at the 2015 North American Revit® Technology Conference

Washington, D.C., July 20, 2015 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global engineering, procurement, and construction management (EPCM) firm, announced today that two BIM specialists from the company’s Portland, Oregon, office will present at the fifth annual North American Revit Technology Conference at the Crystal Gateway Marriott in Washington, D.C., July 23 to 25, 2015. Read more

Mark LaBell of SSOE to Present “Demystifying Large Point Cloud Data Sets for Simple Integration on Complex Projects” at Midwest University Conference for Autodesk Users

Prior Lake, Minnesota, February 27, 2015 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global engineering, procurement, and construction management (EPCM) firm, is proud to announce that Mark LaBell, BIM/CAD Technical Leader at SSOE, has been selected to present at Midwest University’s 2015 Conference. The event will be held March 26-27 at Mystic Lake Casino Hotel in Prior Lake, Minnesota.

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Three SSOE BIM Experts Selected to Present at the 2014 North American Revit Technology Conference

PORTLAND, Oregon, June 16, 2014 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global engineering, procurement, and construction management (EPCM) firm, announced today that three BIM specialists from the company’s Portland, Oregon, office have been selected to present at the fourth North American Revit Technology Conference at the Renaissance Schaumburg Convention Center Hotel in Chicago on June 19 to 21, 2014.

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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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SSOE BIM Expert to Present at Autodesk University 2013

LAS VEGAS, Nevada, November 26, 2013 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global engineering, procurement, and construction management (EPCM) firm, announced today that BIM/CAD Technical Specialist, Jason Rostar, has been selected to speak at Autodesk University 2013. The event will be held December 3-5, 2013, at the Venetian Hotel in Las Vegas, Nevada.

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Gill of SSOE Group Named Director of Virtual Design and Construction

TOLEDO, Ohio, November 19, 2013 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global engineering, procurement, and construction management (EPCM) firm, is proud to announce John Gill’s appointment as SSOE’s Director of Virtual Design and Construction (VDC). In his new role, John will be responsible for implementation of SSOE’s VDC program.

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SSOE Group Design Technology Expert Selected to Attend Autodesk’s Revit Gunslinger Event in Waltham, Massachusetts

Waltham, MA, November 6, 2013 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global engineering, procurement, and construction management (EPCM) firm, is proud to announce that BIM/CAD Technical Specialist, Victoria (Torrie) Prescott, LEED AP BD+C, has been selected to attend and participate in the invitation-only 2013 Autodesk Gunslinger Event for Revit testing November 12-15th at the Autodesk headquarters in Waltham, MA.

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SSOE Group to Host 40 High School Students during Annual “Engineer for a Day” Program

TOLEDO, Ohio, February 18, 2013 – Approximately 40 students from five area high schools will get hands-on experience from a team of engineers when they spend part of their day at SSOE’s Toledo headquarters for the “Engineer for a Day” program. SSOE Group, a global EPCM firm (www.ssoe.com), and area firms are promoting entry into the engineering profession by participating in Toledo Engineer’s Week, taking place February 18-22, 2013. SSOE has been a part of the Toledo community for over 60 years and has grown to be the largest engineering and architectural firm in the region.

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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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Two SSOE BIM Experts to be Featured at Autodesk University 2012 in Las Vegas, Nevada

Las Vegas, NV, November 9, 2012 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global engineering, procurement, and construction management (EPCM) firm, announced today that Lauren Collier, Associate AIA, BIM/CAD Technical Leader and Mark LaBell, BIM/CAD Technical Specialist, both of SSOE, have been selected to present at the 2012 Autodesk University Conference. Collier will be presenting in conjunction with the United States Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), while LaBell will be co-hosting a panel session focused on mobile application integration with current design “cloud” computing and storage.

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Army Corps of Engineers Releases New BIM Deliverable Standards with the Help of SSOE Group

Toledo, Ohio, October 31, 2012 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global engineering, procurement, and construction management (EPCM) firm, is proud to announce that two of its BIM/CAD experts played a significant role in the development of newly released U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) project deliverable standards for BIM applications. Lauren Collier, Associate AIA and John Eddy, PE were appointed to the USACE BIM Advisory committee in January 2012.

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SSOE Group Experts to Present at “Oracle Collaborate” 2012 Conference

Las Vegas, Nevada, April 19, 2012– SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), an international engineering, procurement, and construction management (EPCM) firm, announced today that two of their project controls experts will present at the Oracle Collaborate Technology and Applications Forum, April 22-26, 2012 in Las Vegas, Nevada.

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SSOE Group Expands Southeast U.S. Presence with Second Acquisition in 2012

TOLEDO, Ohio, April 2, 2012 – SSOE Group, an international EPCM firm, announces the acquisition of CRS Engineering & Design Consultants, a 50-person mechanical, electrical, and plumbing engineering firm with offices in Birmingham and Huntsville, Alabama. The acquisition will expand SSOE’s Southeastern U.S. presence, broaden CRS’s reach to international markets, and provide both firms’ clients access to enhanced services and resources.

CRS has been in business for over 36 years and is a multi-discipline engineering and design-consulting firm specializing in healthcare, government, higher education, and other institutional facilities. CRS offers services in electrical engineering, plumbing engineering, fire protection engineering, mechanical and HVAC engineering, lighting design, telecommunication design, and security system design.

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U.S.- based EPCM Firm SSOE Group Acquires India Firm During its Most Successful Year Ever

Toledo, Ohio, January 23, 2012 – As economists debate the state of the economy and where it’s headed— SSOE Group, a U.S. – based engineering, procurement, and construction management (EPCM) firm is thriving. In recent years, in the heart of what some are calling a mild depression, SSOE maintained profitability and earned its highest revenue numbers ever. In fact, in its 2011 fiscal year, it posted its largest revenue in the company’s 64-year history. This is proof that SSOE is demonstrating some of the growth strategies and simple shifts in mindset that other businesses will likely embrace in order to succeed in today’s economy. For SSOE, a priority in recent years is a shift in international growth, as indicated by the recent acquisition of NKS Design Technologies Pvt. Ltd. (also known as d-Tech) in Mumbai, India.

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SSOE Group Experts to Present at Autodesk University 2011 Conference and Exhibition

Las Vegas, Nevada, November 08, 2011– SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), an international engineering, procurement, and construction management (EPCM) firm, announced today that two of their BIM/CAD experts are to present at the Autodesk University’s 2011 Conference and Exhibition, November 29 – December 1, 2011 in Las Vegas, Nevada.

SSOE’s Mark LaBell, Jr. and Melinda Hoffman are scheduled to present “The Autodesk® Revit ® Visualization Toolbox: Simplifying Presentations with Showcase® and 3ds Max®” at 1:00 p.m. on December 1, 2011. This class will educate Revit users on how to export files from Autodesk Revit Suites to Autodesk Showcase and Autodesk 3ds Max in order to create a “Visualization Toolbox”. Best practices for which export to use and when and how to create scene behavior and alternatives will be covered. LaBell and Hoffman will demonstrate creating quick animations and still renderings, how to get quick renderings with lighting settings, basic walkthroughs, and basic material assignments. Attendees will also learn how to utilize a render farm for faster rendering times in 3ds Max.

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SSOE Group Puts its “Tech Power” On Display

Toledo, Ohio, May 17, 2011 – SSOE Group puts the power of technology to work on its government projects and will put those capabilities on display at the upcoming Joint Engineer Training Conference and Expo (JETC) May 25-26 at the Gaylord Texan Resort and Convention Center in Grapevine, Texas.

Mike Duffey, PE, Director of Federal Programs, will attend on SSOE’s behalf. “We have the capabilities to design government facilities with ease through BIM technology. SSOE understands how and when to leverage 3D, 4D, and daylighting—among others—to achieve goals and objectives for the building,” said Duffey. Read more

SSOE Places in Worldwide BIM Competition

July 1, 2004 – SSOE is proud to be among one of the 164 firms nominated by Bentley Systems for their prestigious BE Awards of Excellence, which honor Bentley users and their extraordinary work improving the world’s infrastructure.
The 2004 BE conference was hosted by Bentley Systems, a leading provider of software for the world’s infrastructure. The BE conference is Bentley’s premier professional training event with more than 400 training courses and technology updates, project presentations by Bentley users. Read more