SSOE Group Names Recipient of the Firm’s First Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) Scholarship

NASHVILLE, Tennessee, February 9, 2024 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), an internationally ranked architecture and engineering firm, is proud to announce that Ciera Wheeler is the recipient of its first Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) scholarship. Read more

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

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

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

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

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

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

Giving clients more for their money through innovative software

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

Pulling back the curtain on VDC

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

LATINtalk eJournal Article: “Navigating the Complexities to a Successful Outcome”

Erick Kuri, Mexico Business Leader and Operations Manager, recently authored an article in LATINtalk eJournal. Many industry leaders from other countries want to establish operations in or transfer them to Mexico. As part of this process, it’s imperative that they understand the complex process of obtaining permits and other legal aspects. These may vary from one region to another but are equally complex nationwide. One of the biggest challenges companies face is the time it takes to navigate legal and permitting requirements, which is often not built into the project schedule. In the article, Erick shares key perspectives and strategies for the permitting and legal process that owners need to navigate in Mexico. Read more

SSOE Group Announces León Office Expansion Amid Continued Growth in Mexico

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

SSOE Group’s Avondale Estates Town Green and the Steele Bridge Project at The Lofts at Centennial Yards Win Urban Land Institute Atlanta Awards of Excellence

ATLANTA, Georgia, October 25, 2023 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), an internationally ranked architecture and engineering firm, is proud to announce that two of its projects have recently received Urban Land Institute (ULI) Atlanta Awards of Excellence. ULI Atlanta held its 27th Awards of Excellence program in September, recognizing 17 new developments and initiatives across Georgia. The program recognizes outstanding real estate development projects or initiatives that exemplify ULI’s mission to shape the future of cities for transformative impact worldwide. Among those project winners included SSOE’s Avondale Estates Town Green and the Steele Bridge at The Lofts at Centennial Yards. Read more

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

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

Read more

SSOE Group Acquires Integrated Engineering Services (IES)

TOLEDO, Ohio, October 16, 2023 – SSOE Group, an internationally ranked architecture and engineering firm, is delighted to announce the successful acquisition of Santa Clara, California-based Integrated Engineering Services (IES), effective October 13, 2023. This strategic move marks a significant step forward for both organizations, ushering in a new era of expanded capabilities and enhanced service offerings for our valued clients.

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Fostering Scientific Excellence and Interaction

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

Making Steel—Big Business and Big Work

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

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SSOE Group Recognized as 2023 MEP Giant

TOLEDO, Ohio, September 18, 2023 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), an internationally ranked architecture and engineering firm, is proud to announce it has been named one of Consulting-Specifying Engineer’s 2023 MEP Giants. The MEP Giants program lists the top Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing (MEP), and fire protection engineering firms in North America based on total MEP design revenue. Named as an MEP Giant by Consulting-Specifying Engineer for over a decade, the firm ranked 27th this year. Read more

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

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

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

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

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

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

Area Development Article: “Optimizing Market Share in the EV Industry”

SSOE’s Brandon Darroch, PMP, Southeast Division Manager, along with Matthew Patterson, Senior Account Executive and Industrial Business Development, recently co-authored an article in Area Development. With powerful growth projections for the electric vehicle (EV) market, this article discusses how manufacturers should start their project planning early—taking into account labor, energy, and supply chain needs. Firms like SSOE have the capabilities to assist clients within nearly every component of the EV and battery total supply chain: EV production facilities, lithium recycling facilities, battery cell production facilities, and raw material processing. Read more

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

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

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

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

Read more

ENR Magazine Article: “In-House Owner Teams and Designers Can Increase Productivity by Fully Embracing the Cloud”

Justin Lipsey, VDC Specialist at SSOE, wrote an article recently featured in the industry-leading publication Engineering News-Record (ENR) titled “In-House Owner Teams and Designers Can Increase Productivity by Fully Embracing the Cloud.” A proponent and early adopter of Autodesk’s BIM 360 platform, Justin discusses the advantages of cloud technology services and its ability to allow project teams to steer the direction, improve protocols, and reap the long-term benefits of closer, more informed collaboration. Read more

Medical Construction and Design Article: “Beneath the Surface”

Amy Cope, IIDA, RID, EDAC, NCIDQ, CHID, Certified Healthcare Interior Designer and Section Manager, and Jennifer Hrosko, IIDA, NCIDQ, CHID, Certified Healthcare Interior Designer, recently co-authored an article featured in Medical Construction & Design. In the article, Amy and Jennifer examine the evolution of surface, materials, and furnishings in response to infectious diseases. Read more

ENR Magazine Article: “Top 500 Design Firms: Designing for the New Normal”

Matthew Oberts, PE, LEED AP, Strategic Business Unit Manager, Automotive and Manufacturing Facilities, Senior Vice President at SSOE, was featured in ENR’s May 2021 cover story, “Designing for the New Normal”. This article highlights how ENR’s Top 500 Design Firms spent 2020 adapting to a pandemic. Matt’s commentary focuses on the significant number of new employees SSOE added throughout last year and the innovative ways that management is getting to know these new individuals. He goes on to discuss the technology enhancements made by SSOE in 2020 that allow for greater collaboration with partners and owners anywhere, including in the field. Read more

BD+C Magazine Article: “Atlanta’s David T. Howard School Completes Redesign and Rehabilitation Project”

SSOE | Stevens & Wilkinson’s David T. Howard Middle School project was recently featured in Building Design+Construction. 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.

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

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

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

SSOE Group Welcomes Scott Bussell, New Senior Vice President, Principal Program Manager

AUSTIN, Texas, February 28, 2023 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), an internationally ranked architecture and engineering firm, is excited to announce the addition of Scott Bussell, PE, to the firm’s Complex Projects Division. Bussell will serve as Principal Program Manager. Read more

Food Engineering: Food Engineering’s 43rd Annual Plant Construction Survey Article:

Jens Ebert, PE, PMP, Principal Division Manager, and Tim Michalski, PE, Department Manager, both of SSOE Group, were recently featured in this Food Engineering magazine article. Based on the publication’s annual survey, this year’s article discusses how COVID-19 is overshadowing project planning and construction while decreasing already short labor supplies. Additionally, Editor Wayne Labs goes on to write three supplementary articles to discuss site-related issues, Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) facility design criteria, and automation trends including integration and flexibility. Read more

Medical Construction & Design Article: “Beyond Access”

Robert Siebenaller, AIA, LEED AP BD+C, Senior Project Manager / Architect, and Loni Leveridge, AIA, NCARB, LEED AP, EDAC, Architect, recently authored an article in Medical Construction & Design. In the article, Robert and Loni emphasize the benefits of meeting or exceeding healthcare facility ADA compliance such as greater access for the aging American population, healthier environments, and overall consumer satisfaction. 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

Panasonic Energy Selects SSOE Group for Engineering and Architectural Design of $4 Billion Electric Vehicle Battery Plant in Kansas

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

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

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

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

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

Food Engineering Article: “Expectations for conveniently packaged specialty pet food create challenges”

Ed Gerken, PMP, LEED AP, and Sam Thurber, PMP, both senior project managers at SSOE Group, were recently featured in an article in Food Engineering Magazine. With people treating their pets as members of the family, pet food manufacturers find they have to produce pet food as though it were human food, which—combined with food safety regulations—creates a lot of pressure to stay competitive. In this article Ed and Sam, as well as other industry professionals, discuss how the growth of consumer demands and regulations, is modernizing pet food operations. Read more

SSOE Group Celebrates Start of Construction for Ascend Elements’ Apex 1 Greenfield EV Battery Materials Manufacturing Facility in Kentucky

$1 Billion Investment to Produce Sustainable Lithium-Ion Cathode Active Material for Electric Vehicles

HOPKINSVILLE, Kentucky, November 7, 2022 SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), an internationally ranked architecture and engineering firm, recently attended the ceremonial groundbreaking for Ascend Elements’ 500,000 SF greenfield facility in Southwest Kentucky, known as “Apex 1.” The facility will reside on a 140-acre campus and will utilize the fast-growing start-up company’s innovative Hydro-to-Cathode™ direct precursor synthesis process technology. SSOE, providing preliminary design services for the first-of-its-kind facility, is part of the design / build team with construction partners Turner and Kokosing, who also attended the groundbreaking. Read more

Chemical Processing Article: “Help Executives Make the Right Project Decisions”

Eric Hopkins, PE, Senior Chemical Process Engineer at SSOE Group, recently authored an article in Chemical Processing where he explains how sound decision making is the key to a successful business. He writes that fact-finding and extensive preplanning before the detailed project planning phase will assist in this process.

With over 25 years of experience leading and executing industrial process projects around the world, Eric’s broad technical background all Read more

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

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

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

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

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

SSOE’s Glass Experts to Attend and Exhibit at 83rd Conference on Glass Problems

COLUMBUS, Ohio, October 18, 2022 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), an internationally ranked architecture and engineering firm, will attend and exhibit at the 83rd Annual Conference on Glass Problems from October 31 – Nov 3, 2022. SSOE’s glass engineering experts Brian Kleman, Tim Schaeffer, Mike McCauley, Holly Stover, Mike Mitchell, and Eric Dirlam will be in attendance. This event will take place at the Greater Columbus Convention Center in Columbus, Ohio. It is organized by the Glass Manufacturing Industry Council and Alfred University and endorsed by The American Ceramic Society. Read more

Food Engineering Article: “Complying with FSMA for pet food manufacturing”

Sam Thurber, PMP, and Ed Gerken, PMP, LEED AP, both senior project managers at SSOE Group, were recently featured in an article in Food Engineering Magazine. In the article Sam and Ed, as well as other industry professionals, discuss how most architects, engineers, system integrators (SIs), and machine / equipment builders can assist pet food manufacturers in FSMA compliance from their past human food processing experiences. Read more

ENR Article: “Quality Control, Support Key to Maximizing the Value of Laser Scanning”

SSOE’s Mark LaBell, Senior Virtual Design and Construction (VDC) Technical Leader, recently authored an article in Engineering News-Record (ENR). Laser scanning is among the world’s most cutting-edge technologies and is starting to become adopted universally. This article discusses how leaders must tweak their current quality assurance / quality control processes to make laser scanning a successful tool for their business. Read more

New Equipment Digest Article: “Ingenious Innovations for Scanning”

SSOE’s Mark LaBell, Senior Virtual Design and Construction (VDC) Technical Leader, recently authored an article in New Equipment Digest. With the need to do more with less becoming more prominent in recent years, project teams are finding it increasingly necessary to stretch budgets and deliver quickly. This article discusses how laser scanning is a primary solution for budget optimization and that, with the right combination of expertise and technology, project teams can achieve things that were never possible in the past. Read more

Food Engineering Article: “Consumer Demands, Regulatory Requirements Shape Pet Food Processing Trends”

Sam Thurber, PMP, Senior Project Manager, and Jonathan Conrad, LEED AP, Mechanical Design Lead, at SSOE Group, were recently featured in this article in Food Engineering Magazine that discusses how consumer trends are driving pet food processing projects and the similarities between human and pet food production. Read more

SSOE Group Providing Architecture and Engineering Services for Ascend Elements’ Georgia-Based Brownfield Lithium-Ion Battery Recycling Facility

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

Food Engineering Article: “Food Engineering’s 2019 Plant Construction Survey Shows Tax Cuts Spur Investment”

Joe Badalamenti, PE, PMP, Senior Account Executive, and Jens Ebert, PE, PMP, Principal Division Manager at SSOE Group, were recently featured in this Food Engineering magazine article. Based on the publication’s annual survey, construction projects were on the rise in 2018 thanks to federal tax breaks, consolidation in the food and beverage industry, and the need for flexibility in production. However, fast-track production schedules created a greater need for skilled laborers, which the industry is currently lacking.

Nonetheless, this year’s survey contains some surprises. Joe and Jens, as well as other AEC experts, weigh in on what other trends they’ve experienced over the last year. Read more

Plant Engineering Article: “IEEE 1584 – 2018 Changes Offer a Robust Upgrade”

Ed McConnell, PE, Master Engineer at SSOE, recently authored an article in Plant Engineering Magazine where he explains the new arc flash standards for IEEE 1584. In November of 2018, a complete revision was issued. This article summarizes the significant changes and addresses the major impacts of these revisions when it comes to electrical systems to minimize the risk to employees and contractors. Read more

Food Engineering Article: “Balancing Capital Investment with Long-Term Sustainability Goals”

Ken Gruenhagen, PE, PMP, Division Manager in SSOE’s Food and Consumer Products Division, is featured in a recent issue of Food Engineering. The article explains the importance of food processors evaluating what they need, both now and in the future, to ensure each part of their line will enable them to meet current and future sustainability goals.

Within, Ken discusses the importance of making a proper investment in training to support newer technology. If the company fails to do this, the time required to diagnose and address issues can quickly negate the improved efficiencies that the more complex equipment provides. Additionally, he emphasizes the significance of ease of changeover between products—as a result of a discontinued product or modification, shorter production runs, or a change in packaging—must be considered as it has a large impact on line availability. Read more

Area Development Article: “The Value of Laser Scanning to Your Food Facility Project”

Mike Vetter, PE, PMP, Senior Project Manager and Senior Associate for SSOE’s Food and Consumer Products (FCP) Division, recently authored an article in Area Development. In this article, he discusses how capturing the data of an existing food processing facility though laser scanning can help with the buildout of a new or customized operation. Read more

Lab Equipment Article: “Meaningful Involvement”

Suzan Huff, AIA, NCARB, LEED AP BD+C, Master Architect and Senior Associate at SSOE, recently authored an article in Lab Equipment Magazine where she explains in detail how meaningful involvement in the planning and design process of a lab project will ensure a uniquely suitable and successful project outcome.

User representation on the project team ideally needs to involve all parties affected, at all levels and departments. This includes senior managers, seasoned scientists, and intermediate management, with each individual bringing a unique and different perspective for the duration of the project. While this is no small task, she details a strategy of success to accomplish this. Read more

SSOE Group Recognized as 2022 MEP Giant

TOLEDO, Ohio, August 25, 2022 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), an internationally ranked architecture and engineering firm, is proud to announce it has been named one of Consulting-Specifying Engineer’s 2022 MEP Giants. The MEP Giants program lists the top Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing (MEP), and fire protection engineering firms in North America based on total MEP design revenue. Named as an MEP Giant by Consulting-Specifying Engineer for over a decade, the firm ranked 23rd this year, up 23 spots from their 2021 ranking. Read more

SSOE Group to Serve as Architect and Engineer on YKK AP’s New Residential Products Manufacturing Facility in Georgia

Added Capacity, Advanced Technology, and Enhanced Work Environments will Position YKK AP and its Employees for Sustainable Growth

ATLANTA, Georgia, August 16, 2022 – YKK AP America Inc. (YKK AP) announced it will invest up to up to $125 million in an expansion that will include a new residential window and door manufacturing facility and additional machinery and equipment in Macon, Georgia. The facility will serve as a model plant for the company’s future North American manufacturing plants, featuring advanced sustainable manufacturing and enhanced work environments for employees. SSOE Group will serve as architects and engineers and JE Dunn Construction will serve as the construction manager for the Macon manufacturing facility.
Read more

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Read more

Processing Magazine Article: “4 Insights into Resolving Vibration in Cleanrooms”

Dewayne Galyon, Basebuild Technical Specialist at SSOE, offers his top four insights for maintaining a facility’s cleanroom conditions in this Processing Magazine article. With a variety of highly developed tools available, measuring, monitoring, and managing cleanroom facility conditions is indeed more easily achievable than ever before, but still not without its trials. Within the article, Dewayne drills down into vibration issues, which are caused by something moving or rotating, that often damage equipment or affect the product. Although allowable vibration varies from cleanroom facility to cleanroom facility due to size and standards, a vibration problem can be an ambitious one for clients to solve on their own as there is typically not a clear-cut, direct route to resolution and necessitates a thorough understanding of both infrastructure and equipment. Read more

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

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

Assembly Magazine Article: “Computational Fluid Dynamics Software Saves Time, Cuts Costs”

Dewayne Galyon, Basebuild Technical Specialist at SSOE, spotlights the value that computational fluid dynamics (CFD), a simulation software that models airflow, offers when designing a cleanroom environment in this Assembly Magazine article. Dewayne urges readers to avoid trial and error methods to keep characteristically high construction costs at bay, while starting the project off right with clean, complete data within the model. He drives his points home with project examples throughout the article, including an overview of a fast-track multi-basebuild, ISO 4 cleanroom installation project that helped SSOE solidify our ongoing relationship with Micron Technology. Read more

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

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

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

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

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

Plant Engineering Magazine Article: “Planning for Expansion”

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

SSOE Group Announces Office Expansion and Continued Growth in Mexico Operations

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

Distiller Magazine Article: “Optimize Project Cost with Foresight”

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

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

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

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

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

Food Engineering Magazine Article: “Food Processors Balance Cyber, Physical Security”

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

SSOE Receives AIA Georgia Design Award for the Historic Preservation of Atlanta Public Schools’ David T. Howard Middle School Renovation and Addition Project

ATLANTA, Georgia, October 29, 2021 – SSOE (www.ssoe.com), a global project delivery firm for architecture, engineering, and construction management, announced its recent design award win from the American Institute of Architects Georgia Chapter (AIA Georgia). The firm took home the 2021 Honor Design Award in Renovation / Restoration and Adaptive Reuse Over $1M for the recently completed David T. Howard Middle School project. Read more

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

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

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

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

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

SSOE’s CEO Vince DiPofi Joins Owens Community College at Grand Opening Ceremony of $9.6M Dana Center

SSOE Provided Architecture, Engineering, and Interior Design Services on this Award-Winning Facility Project

TOLEDO, Ohio, October 8, 2021 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global project delivery firm for architecture, engineering, and construction management, was proud to be a part of Owens Community College’s grand opening ceremony that took place this past Wednesday, October 6, 2021. The event showcased the $9.6 million Dana Incorporated Advanced Manufacturing Training Center—also known as the Dana Center—a 59,000 SF facility created in response to labor market needs for preparing skilled workers for in-demand jobs. Read more

SSOE Group Announces Employee Certifications for Fourth Quarter of Planning Year 2021

TOLEDO, Ohio, October 5, 2021 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global project delivery firm for architecture, engineering, and construction management, announced today that 11 of its employees earned professional certifications during the fourth quarter of SSOE’s 2021 planning year. Attainment of professional licensures and certifications is strongly encouraged at SSOE. 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. ­­­­

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

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

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

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

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

SSOE Group Recognized as 2021 MEP Giant by Consulting-Specifying Engineer

TOLEDO, Ohio, September 16, 2021 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global project delivery firm for architecture, engineering, and construction management, is proud to announce it has been named one of Consulting-Specifying Engineer’s 2021 MEP Giants. The MEP Giants program lists the top mechanical, electrical, plumbing (MEP), and fire protection engineering firms in North America based on total MEP design revenue. SSOE ranked 46th this year, up one spot from their 2020 ranking, and has been named as an MEP Giant by Consulting-Specifying Engineer for over a decade. Read more

SSOE | Stevens & Wilkinson’s Shayla Merritt Named a 2021 Phenom by Columbia Regional Business Report

COLUMBIA, South Carolina, September 13, 2021 – SSOE | S&W, a global project delivery firm for architecture, engineering, and construction management, is proud to announce that Shayla Merritt, Associate and Senior Marketing Coordinator, was recently named a 2021 Phenom by the Columbia Regional Business Report (CRBR). Read more

Viridi Parente Meets Increasing Demand for Safe, Reliable Battery Technology with 70,000 SF Facility Expansion

SSOE Group, a global project delivery firm for architecture, engineering, and construction management, is proud to announce their involvement with Viridi Parente’s 70,000 SF facility expansion in Buffalo, New York. SSOE is providing mechanical, structural, electrical, data / fire / security (DFS), as well as fire protection engineering services on this project. Read project manager Nicholas Bryan’s thoughts on the project within Viridi Parente’s press release below.

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

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

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

Photo Credit - New Braunfels EDC

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

Construction Commenced During the June Celebration of Construction Ceremony

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

SSOE’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

SSOE Announces New Rankings from Engineering News-Record Magazine

Firm Named to Five Top 10 Spots

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

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TRC’s SMARTCenter Project Receives Honor Award at ACEC Ohio 2021 Engineering Excellence Awards Celebration

Photo Credit: Transportation Research Center

TOLEDO, Ohio, July 2, 2021 – SSOE Group, a global project delivery firm for architecture, engineering, and construction management, is proud to announce their role on Transportation Research Center’s (TRC) new Smart Mobility Advanced Research & Test Center (SMARTCenter) project, which recently received an Honor Award at the American Council of Engineering Companies (ACEC) Ohio 2021 Engineering Excellence Awards Celebration.

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Plant Engineering Magazine Article: “Sound Design Principles Result in Better Safety, Reliability”

Thomas Nestor, PE, responds to some common electrical challenges faced on projects, and guides readers through examples of careful pre-planning strategies in this article recently published in Plant Engineering Magazine. Thorough research combined with a unified, “holistic” approach can help meet invariable objectives such as budget adherence, plant safety, reliability, and productivity. Capturing accurate, comprehensive information and fully understanding existing conditions, although laborious and often difficult, is critical as it directly correlates to the success of a project. Read more

SSOE Group Announces Employee Licensures and Certifications for Second Quarter of Planning Year 2021

TOLEDO, Ohio, April 7, 2021 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global project delivery firm for architecture, engineering, and construction management, announced today that 12 of its employees earned professional certifications during the second quarter of SSOE’s 2021 planning year. Attainment of professional licensures and certifications is strongly encouraged at SSOE. 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.­­­­

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

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

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

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

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

SSOE Group Announces Employee Licensures and Certifications for First Quarter of Planning Year 2021

TOLEDO, Ohio, January 11, 2021 – 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 first quarter of SSOE’s 2021 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.­­­­

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

Firms being asked to play a bigger role in providing expertise

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

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

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

SSOE Group’s Owens Community College Dana Center Project Receives Excellence in Workforce Development Award from Ohio Economic Development Association

Owens Nominated by SSOE for this Prestigious Award

TOLEDO, Ohio, December 15, 2020  SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global project delivery firm for architecture, engineering, and construction management, is proud to announce that their Owens Community College Dana Advanced Manufacturing Training Center project has been awarded the 2020 Annual Excellence in Workforce Development by the Ohio Economic Development Associations (OEDA). This award recognizes unique approaches to any aspect of workforce development and acknowledges an organization that has developed innovative practices and programs. Read more

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

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

Laboratory Design Magazine Article: “Lab Renovations: Four Significant Challenges”

SSOE Group’s Alan Liddy, AIA, NCARB, PMP, Senior Project Manager, and Deborah Suzan Huff, AIA, NCARB, LEED AP BD+C, Senior Associate and Architect, co-authored this technical how-to article in Laboratory Design Magazine. Lab design is unarguably involved and often perplexing, but Liddy and Huff share their lab-savvy design tips, offering solutions to four critical, yet common challenges. A project team equipped with details can ardently tackle these challenges by engaging intercommunication coupled with proficiency. Read more

SSOE’s Catherine Myers Receives 2020 Women of Vision Award

TOLEDO, Ohio, November 3, 2020 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global project delivery firm for architecture, engineering, and construction management, is proud to announce that the Daily Journal of Commerce (DJC) Oregon has named Catherine Myers, PE, Chief Operating Officer, Executive Vice President of SSOE as a 2020 Women of Vision Award winner. Catherine received the award in a virtual ceremony on Thursday, October 22, 2020. DJC’s Women of Vision honors women who are shaping our built environment with their leadership, mentoring efforts, community involvement, and the promotion of industry diversity. Read more

Chemical Processing Magazine Article: “Begin a Project Right”

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

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

SSOE Group Provided Engineering Services for Award-Winning Children’s Hospital of Alabama Project

Inpatient Behavioral Health Unit Expansion Receives
Birmingham Business Journal Building Birmingham 2020 Award

BIRMINGHAM, Alabama, October 2, 2020 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global project delivery firm for architecture, engineering, and construction management, is proud to announce that one of their projects has recently been recognized as a Birmingham Business Journal (BBJ) Award recipient. The Children’s Hospital of Alabama’s Inpatient Behavioral Health Unit Expansion project won the BBJ’s Building Birmingham 2020 Award. Read more

SSOE Group Announces Employee Certifications for Fourth Quarter of Planning Year 2020

TOLEDO, Ohio, October 1, 2020 – 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 fourth quarter of SSOE’s 2020 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.­­­­

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

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

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

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

SSOE Group Recognized as 2020 MEP Giant

TOLEDO, Ohio, September 28, 2020 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global project delivery firm for architecture, engineering, and construction management, is proud to announce it has been named one of Consulting-Specifying Engineer’s 2020 MEP Giants. The MEP Giants program ranks the top 100 mechanical, electrical, plumbing (MEP), and fire protection engineering firms in the United States based on total MEP design revenue. SSOE ranked forty-seventh this year, up five spots from their 2019 ranking. Read more

Laboratory Design Magazine Article: “Should your project undergo commissioning?”

David Wilson, PE, LEED AP, Senior Mechanical Engineer at SSOE Group, recently authored this article in Laboratory Design Magazine. The article explores when it’s worth it to consider commissioning for your facility through three case scenarios encountered by an HVAC commissioning expert. What is observed through testing and verification may prevent expensive operational problems from occurring, by detecting flaws and inefficiency prior to the end of the warranty period. The best approach is to be proactive in knowing what you need before it’s too late. Read more

Food Engineering Magazine Article: “Stop the leaks before they stop your business”

James Yerke, PE, CEM, Section Manager and Senior Associate at SSOE Group, was featured in this Food Engineering Magazine article that discusses inefficiency and loss/costs caused by physical leaks within a facility, namely air and water, and different tools available to find them and fix them. Leak problems will exacerbate further as time goes on, increasing costs if not corrected. When it comes to leaks, it’s in your best interest to dig into the issue before the issue digs into your bottom line.

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