Meet Our MEP Engineering Firm Leaders | M/E Engineering (2024)

John came to M/E in 1994 after 5 years in the consulting engineering field. His career in HVAC design has since spanned the healthcare, educational, industrial, municipal, and commercial fields, specializing in the design of chiller plants, laboratories, and research facilities. With a goal of continually raising the bar in quality of work, implementation of new technologies which advance the design process, and staying at the forefront of sustainable design, John rose to the role of Principal in 2005, and later served as Vice President from 2016–2019, overseeing operations within our Rochester office.

Now, As President, John upholds not only M/E's reputation of design excellence, but the company's core values of stewardship, approachability, professionalism, and integrity, remaining as committed to the welfare and success of each employee as he is to that of the business and client relationships.

John received his BS in Mechanical Engineering from RIT. He is a Licensed Professional Engineer in the State of New York and a LEED Accredited Professional.

Bruce joined M/E in 1992, serving several years as Principal before his current role as Vice President. He has dedicated almost the entirety of his 30-year career to working with K-12 schools—a lifelong passion influenced primarily by his family, who are all either educators or school administrators. He has completed over 300 projects with the Rochester City School District, where he also serves as a volunteer mentor. In addition, Bruce's work has extended to dozens of school districts across New York State.

Along with providing high-quality, cost-effective designs that enhance students' experience, Bruce strives to always make the sometimes-mundane design process a fun, rewarding learning experience for his team and for all those involved, with gainful, satisfactory results for the owner.

Bruce holds a BS in Physics from SUNY Fredonia and a BS in Mechanical Engineering from University at Buffalo. He is a licensed Professional Engineer in 6 states and a LEED Accredited Professional. He also serves as the firm’s Corporate Secretary.

With over 30 years' experience in consulting engineering, Brian serves as Vice President, Corporate Treasurer, and as head of the electrical department in our Rochester branch. He specializes in design for highly technical systems found in the laboratories of medical and higher education facilities. However, Brian thrives and enjoys working in a variety of sectors and throughout different engineering fields; he has led the mechanical, electrical, and plumbing efforts in 10 highly successful LEED certified projects, gaining expertise in alternative energy sources.

In addition to quality design, Brian strives to always lead with openness and honesty, valuing the trust and respect of co-workers as greatly as clients.

"We always strive to provide quality, owner-benefitting designs to our clients, and earn the respect of both by listening and being open and honest with all."

Brian received his BS in Electrical Engineering from Clarkson University. He is a Licensed Professional Engineer in New York State and a LEED Accredited Professional.

Mike came to M/E in 2013 and has since served as both Partner and Principal, taking the lead of varied projects in municipal, healthcare, commercial, institutional, and private sectors. Now Vice President, Mike manages operations in our Capital District office and represents the company in the eastern and southern regions of NYS. M/E's continued growth in these areas is owed largely to Mike's influence.

"We have some of the best people in the business and it's an honor working with them!"

Mike holds a degree in Mechanical Engineering from Clarkson University. He is a licensed Professional Engineer and an active member of his community, serving as Chair of the Board of the Columbia Counter Chamber of Commerce, Construction Manager for the Columbia County Chapter of Habitat for Humanity, and Vice President of the Claverack Free Library Board of Directors.

Dave joined M/E in 1999 as a Senior Engineer with 11 years' experience in the consulting engineering community. He was named Plumbing/Fire Protection Group Manager in 2002 and became a shareholder in 2011. As a Licensed Professional Fire Protection Engineer, Dave specializes in the design of automatic sprinkler, standpipe, fire pump, clean agent, and dry chemical fire suppression systems, his expertise including specialized applications associated with Green Building Design. He has also been responsible for the design of numerous industrial gas and liquids systems. His projects cover healthcare, housing, municipal, recreational, and prison sectors―a variety that Dave appreciates, as it always keeps work fresh and interesting.

"Everyone brings a unique perspective to each project. The goal is to encourage creativity and collaborate to find the best alternatives considering the functionality, economics, practicality, and efficiency of our designs."

Dave received his BS in Mechanical Engineering and his MBA from SUNY at Buffalo. He is a Licensed Professional Engineer in New York State, New Hampshire, and Colorado; a Licensed Professional Mechanical Engineer in California; and a Licensed Professional Fire Protection Engineer in Massachusetts and California. He is also a Certified Code Enforcement Official.

Rob joined M/E in 2009 as a Design Engineer, his experience in the industry propelling him quickly to a role as Electrical Group Manager, in 2017 to Partner, and in 2022 to Principal. He now manages operations in our Buffalo office and heads up our Hospitality/Gaming/Entertainment group. Having worked in Seattle, New York City, and Las Vegas prior to joining M/E, Rob has been instrumental in procuring projects in the gaming and hospitality industry that the company had never ventured in before. He has traveled across the country working with clients to develop innovative entertainment projects, from 1.2M SF casino resorts to major lighting solutions in sports arenas and college campuses. Our growth and success in these sectors is owed largely to Rob's influence and commitment.

"A healthy workplace culture is very important to me. My goal is to continue to foster a feeling of family in the office."

Rob received his Bachelor of Architectural Engineering degree from Pennsylvania State University. He is a Licensed Professional Engineer in New York, Arizona, California, Louisiana, Nevada, and Washington.

Matt joined M/E in 2002, earning promotions to Senior Engineer and in 2017 to Project Manager. Since 2019, Matt has served as Partner, managing several unique industrial/manufacturing projects along with the bulk of M/E's work with SUCF and SUNY schools, leading some of the firm's largest, most complex projects within these sectors. The diversity in these manner of projects is a huge draw for Matt; in the last 5 years alone, he's been involved in Binghamton University's renovations to a science building, chiller plant, data center, library, baseball stadium, and a lab research building. His strong technical focus, confident leadership, and careful mentoring of his team create an environment of professionalism, cooperation, and trust necessary to making projects of this scale a success.

"In many cases we are asked to design flexible systems that will allow for future expansion and growth while remaining within the owner's budget. Working on these types of projects allows us to collaborate closely with owners, understand their processes, and in turn develop systems that produce the most economical, sustainable results."

Matt received his BS in Electrical Engineering Technology from Alfred State College and is a Licensed Professional Engineer in New York State. His broad portfolio also includes design of the MCC Downtown Campus, RIT Golisano Institute of Sustainability, Monroe County Crime Lab, and URMC Wilmot Cancer Center.

Garrett joined M/E in 2008, and in the 15 years since has risen to the role of Partner. Though he has provided solutions for educational, healthcare, industrial, and food processing facilities throughout the Northeast, Garrett is most drawn to the dynamic nature of the work in healthcare and higher education facilities. He has designed and managed several high-profile projects in these sectors, primarily at Cornell University and Syracuse University.

"Each project has its own complexities, and each design seems to be more innovative than the last, especially with ongoing efforts to reduce the use of fossil fuels. It makes every day exciting!"

Garrett holds a BS in Mechanical Engineering from Syracuse University and is a Licensed Professional Engineer.

Melanie joined M/E in 2011 as a Senior Energy Engineer. Over the last two decades, she has worked on countless innovative sustainability projects throughout the Northeast and in 2020 was promoted to Partner, taking the lead of our Sustainability/Commissioning and Energy Services Group. She now manages energy conservation related design projects primarily within higher education, K-12, and commercial markets. With her strong background in sustainability and energy reduction, her professionalism and technical knowledge, and her commitment to the quality and constructability of each project, clients have come to rely on Mel's expertise in cost-saving solutions. Thanks to her efforts, the company remains a leader in sustainable building design.

"Sustainability and de-carbonization are becoming essential factors in project goals. We're able to offer our clients meaningful services to drive down energy use in a cost effective way, and provide holistic solutions. This is not just about work, but how we interact with the environment and the impact we leave behind—we have the opportunity to make a positive impact in not only our clients' lives but also the environment. I'm all about bringing positive energy to the group!"

Melanie holds a BS in Mechanical Engineering from Clarkson University. She is a Licensed Professional Engineer, a LEED Accredited Professional, and a Certified Measurement and Verification Professional. Her impressive portfolio includes clients such as Cornell University, SUCF, NYSERDA, and SUNY Alfred.

Rich started with M/E in 1999 as a Design Engineer and has since served as a Project Manager, Associate, and now as Associate Partner. His work revolves mainly around healthcare and higher education sectors—two fields he finds continuously rewarding, as the efforts and designs of his team which turn into state-of-the-art facilities have a significant, positive impact on student experience and the well-being of the broader community.

Rich's support of his team and conscientious attention to detail has consistently impressed both clients and his colleagues, his capabilities reflected in many clients' feedback and desire to have Rich as part of their projects.

"Aligning behaviors, organization, and goals allows a project to be completed efficiently, but more importantly, helps to develop the skill and confidence of each individual on the team. Aligning behaviors, organization, and goals is key to the success of a team and to the continued improvement of the business."

Rich holds a BS in Mechanical Engineering Technology from RIT and is a LEED Accredited Professional.

Peter joined M/E in 2016 as a Senior Mechanical Engineer, his focus HVAC design & commissioning mainly within the K-12 school, higher education, and industrial markets. His performance, knowledge, and dedication in his work led him quickly to a role in project management. Since, Peter has led numerous district-wide capital improvement projects along with other varied renovations across Western New York. In addition to his technical capability, Peter's clear, attentive direction and continual empathy for those in his charge have earned him his recent promotion to Partner.

Peter holds a BS in Mechanical Engineering from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. He is a Certified Commissioning Professional and a USGBC-LEED Accredited Professional.

Craig started his engineering career with M/E in 2004. In the years since, he has both designed and managed a multitude of renovation and new construction projects in the educational, municipal, and manufacturing/industrial fields. His experience, commitment, and remarkable stewardship throughout his work and client relationships have recently elevated him from project management to a position as Associate Partner.

"My main goal is always to allow for a smooth project that is on time and on budget, all while meeting and exceeding expectations of the client. But what's most enjoyable about this work is watching our design have a positive impact on students' experience and education journey."

Craig holds a BS in Mechanical Engineering Technology from RIT.

Beth joined M/E in 2003 as a Senior Designer. She now serves as a Project Manager in our Capital District office, leading projects in educational, industrial, municipal, and commercial fields, as well as in state-operated facilities. Her plethora of technical knowledge, skills, and experience in such varied divisions is owed to Beth's goal and enjoyment of building and fostering relationships with clients based on more personal connections, rather than limiting herself and her team to work by project type alone.

"The most important aspect of any project is the communication you have with the client about their vision and desired goals. Nurturing that relationship and learning how to best provide specific aspects of the project to the client is a rewarding challenge."

Beth holds a BS in Applied Mathematics from Ursinus College. She is a member of the American Society of Plumbing Engineers (ASPE) Capital District Chapter and the National Fire Sprinkler Association, Inc. (NFSA).

Dan joined the M/E team in 2007 as a design engineer, and by 2022 had worked his way up to the senior staff. His exemplary organization, teamwork, and dedication to upkeeping good relationships with clients earned Dan the promotion to Project Manager in our Capital District office. He now leads work in a growing variety of sectors with a focus in healthcare and education.

"Although every job is different and there are many ways to go about the design, I enjoy the diversity and opportunities to learn—procedures that grow and evolve to get to the finish line."

Dan holds a BS in Mechanical Engineering from Union College. He is a member of the American Society of Heating Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) and the American Society of Plumbing Engineers (ASPE). While here at M/E, he has built an impressive list of clients including Samaritan Hospital, New York Presbyterian Hudson Valley Hospital, Saratoga Hospital, Binghamton CSD, Albany Middle School, and Ballston Spa CSD.

Steve joined M/E in 2019 with nearly a decade of experience in project management already under his belt. He currently serves as Project Manager of our Sustainability/Commissioning Services group, a sector he is drawn to for the benefits commissioning work can add to the construction process.

"With the increasingly more sophisticated designs and complexity of building systems, our goal is to implement a process that leaves the client with a functional, well-performing building and that they have the necessary training and resources to be successful. Every project has its unique challenges, but with our well-versed and experienced staff, we have the resources to work through those challenges."

Steve earned his BS in Mechanical Engineering from Clarkson University. He is a Certified Commissioning Professional; a USGBC-LEED Accredited Professional; a Certified Building Enclosure Commissioning Process Provider; and a Certified Commissioning Authority + Building Enclosure.

Aaron is a Project Manager in our Rochester office, specializing in the K-12 School market with a vast knowledge of NYSED requirements. With the Rochester City School District alone, he has completed over 150 projects, including facility modernizations and assessments, performance contracts, and building condition surveys. His work has extended to a multitude of school districts around New York State.

Aaron's professional career reflects his passion for working with the youth of his community, a dedication that extends outside the office—he is also a soccer coach for the Pavilion recreational program, and has coached and mentored the same class of boys from Kindergarten to age 16!

Aaron earned his BS in Architectural Engineering Technology from Vermont Technical College and is a USGBC-LEED Accredited Professional.

Eric serves as a Project Manager in our Buffalo office. With 22 years’ experience at M/E as a consulting engineer, Eric has proven to be a conscientious designer and team leader who takes pride in developing successful solutions for clients. He both thrives and enjoys working in a variety of project sectors, ranging from healthcare, educational, institutional, to industrial facilities. However, Eric notes his work on a renovation and addition of a major hospital as a personal career highlight of his.

“The ability to participate in and influence all aspects of building or improving this kind of facility, that touches so many lives―as well as seeing the resulting, successful energy savings for the owner―is a special and particularly rewarding part of the job.”

Eric earned his BS in Mechanical Engineering from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute and is a Licensed Professional Engineer in New York State.

Mike joined M/E in 2000 and serves as Project Manager in our Buffalo office, responsible for leading a number of projects in the commercial, industrial, and educational fields around Erie County. His design expertise includes power distribution, lighting, fire alarm, data, security, and communication systems.

“There are few professions where you have the opportunity to affect virtually every person’s life without them knowing. Whether designing systems for medical facilities, entertainment venues, collegiate or K-12 schools, seeing the result of your efforts and benefits to the client provides a sense of accomplishment, knowing you've played a role in the experience every person there has.”

Mike holds an Associate's degree in Occupational Studies with a specialty in Computer Aided Drafting Technology from ITT Technical Institute. He is a Lighting Certified Professional and a member of the Illuminating Engineering Society (IES).

Ray has been with M/E since 1999 and serves as a Project Manager in our Buffalo branch. He is primarily responsible for leading educational, commercial, and industrial projects which include power distribution, lighting, fire alarm, data, security, and communication systems. His specialty is in K-12 School projects, of which he has led many in school districts around Western New York.

Ray holds an Associate's of Applied Science in Electrical/Mechanical Engineering Technology from Erie Community College.