Breaking Boundaries to Build a “Yes, If” Culture

How did you choose engineering as a profession?

As a kid, I was always fascinated with puzzles and putting things together. Blocks, Legos, Lincoln Logs, Tinkertoys, you name it. From age four, my dad would ask me math questions and logic problems, so I grew up loving to solve things and understand how things worked, which naturally led me to structural engineering. It also runs in my family—my grandfather was a professor of civil engineering and my father was a civil engineer.

What areas of engineering do you specialize in?

I enjoy working on different types of projects across a variety of markets, using engineering mechanics and physics principles to solve problems. My main expertise is in finite element analysis, seismic qualification, structural dynamics, and impact analysis. I love building teams of talented engineers to develop creative, practical solutions for engineering challenges.

I find myself gravitating toward projects that are the first of their kind. Those projects are stressful because we have to be the leader and figure out something new. I like diving into those projects because I can lean on a range of sources like journal papers, textbooks, other experts, and also conduct our own research and testing to apply solutions to new areas. Developing cutting-edge solutions is where SGH really shines. We put in the work and have the technical expertise, so we can provide something innovative and practical for our clients.

You joined SGH with more than twenty-five years as an engineer and entrepreneur. What was that transition like?

I owned my own engineering company for many years, but knew I wasn’t finished working when I sold it. I still wanted to do engineering, so I looked for a place that fit me, somewhere with the type of work and culture that I value. I ultimately landed here because the depth and breadth of expertise at SGH are world-class. Previously, I was a big fish in a small pond. Here, I am a small fish in a big pond. It’s great because if there’s a problem I can’t solve, I know that one of my colleagues will have the experience to help me.

There was definitely a learning curve at first to understand new systems, meet new people, and learn what everyone does, but once I traveled around to the offices and got a chance to meet the people and share what I do, I got more comfortable. Now, I’ve worked with folks from around the company on many projects, and we’ve been able to tackle some exciting things.

How would you describe the SGH culture?

I’m always impressed by the professionalism of everyone I work with. There isn’t an ego element—everyone is focused on helping clients, solving problems, and helping each other. The range of expertise here is also something I’ve never encountered at other companies. It’s amazing. We have waterfront engineers, building technology experts, structural professionals, a testing lab, and so many more capabilities. It’s unparalleled, in my opinion, to have that much experience and expertise under one roof.

Beyond the expertise, what sets SGH apart is its approach to problem-solving. I’ve seen other firms build a “No, because” culture. They often approach a client’s need by saying it can’t be done and explaining why that is. In contrast, SGH is a “Yes, if” culture. Here, our default is to tell our clients “yes,” and explain what needs to be done to achieve a successful result. At SGH, creative, outside-the-box solutions are the norm, and my colleagues thrive on bringing unique solutions to clients. It is a great energy to be a part of.