Optima would like to congratulate Mark Hyatt, P.E. and Byron Ford, P.E. on becoming our latest LEED Accredited Professionals.
Optima is honored to be part of the Augustalee Team. See http://www.corneliusbromont.com/team.html
By Janet Kropinak
Alternative energy is a hot ticket item and one that has either grabbed or been brought to the attention of every American. No one argues its importance, not just as an economic issue, but also because of the impact of traditional fuels on the environment, as well the implications of energy dependence for nation security.
Globally, people are increasingly integrating solar into their electricity and heating systems. Coupled with tax incentives and rebates to ease the initial costs, solar is quickly becoming the smart choice—both financially and environmentally—for home and business owners alike.
Erik Lensch and Chris Salmon share a commitment to solar energy and ensuring a better quality of life for future generations through the deployment of clean, reliable, and sustainable energy solutions. As co-founders of Argand Energy Solutions, they are helping meet these growing demands.
Keith Pehl, PE participated in the 2008 NCACTEA Fall Conference as a Panel Member for the Architectural Section to help integrate our industry with the high school ciriculum.
In appreciation of all the opportunities provided to us from our clients, Optima Engineering will host the annual Client Appreciation Christmas Party on Dec. 11th , 2008. The party will be at our new location 1927 South Tryon Street Suite 300 Charlotte, N.C. 28203
Optima Engineering’s new PV (Photovoltaic) system was commissioned and began producing power. The power produced is being supplied to the utility grid as part on the NC green power program. The PV system is part of Optima Engineering’s new LEED Platinum office upfit that is nearing completion with a planned occupancy date of November 21, 2008. The system is designed to produce 8.5 KW which will offset power consumed for lighting and computers in the new office.
Brian Thompson, P.A. was a judge for the “2008 Excellence in Construction” awards for the Carolinas Chapter of the Associated Builders and Contractors, Inc. (ABC).
Without hesitation, the founder of Optima Engineering names the mixed-use Villages at Lake Norman as the firm’s most engaging project.
Keith Pehl, Optima president, calls the 110-acre development "very different" because so much of its 3.5 million square feet are subterranean, including loading docks and parking. It’s quite an exercise to ventilate such space, make it water tight, properly light it—and stay within budget.
Pehl relishes in stiff tests for his 16-year-old company that specializes in electrical, mechanical and plumbing engineering as well as fire protection and lighting design, with a focus on green precepts.
"It’s fun to do something that is hard and challenging," Pehl says. "We strive to hire good quality engineers and retain them. Part of that is challenging them, and part of that is getting challenging projects."
Congratulations to our recent promotions! Jack Page to Senior Project Manager, Cathy Sealy to Business Manager, Byron Ford to Principal, Steve Daley to Managing Principal, and Brian Thompson to Managing Principal.
Optima Engineering would like to congratulate Daniel A. Revilla, he graduated with an Associate in Applied Science Degree - Civil Engineering Technology from Central Piedmont Community College.
Steven L. Bobo, P.E. electrical project manager for Optima Engineering P.A. has been elected as the 2008-2009 President of the South Carolina Society of Professional Engineers.
- Optima Engineering would like to welcome Shane Nault, P.E. LEED AP to our Mechanical Engineering Division.
- Optima Engineering would like to welcome Sara Collins to our Administrative Support Team.
- Optima Engineering would like to welcome 2 Interns who will be learning and helping us this summer - Kevin Shaver (Mechanical Intern) and Brooke Baird (Administrative Intern).
Students in the Architecture, Construction, and Engineering Mentor Program unveiled their plan and 3-D model at the first ACE banquet. Keith Pehl volunteered as a Mentor with the ACE Mentor Program to work with high school students to increase awareness of career opportunities in architecture, construction and engineering.
http://www.cms.k12.nc.us/includes/gfi.asp?fileHandle=5369.asp
Keith Pehl along with Erik Lensch of Argand Energy gave a lunch presentation to the local AIA COTE (Committee on the Environment) about Solar Photovoltaics. They presented the latest economic analysis and the latest industry trends on the power producing solar products. The presentation touched on latest products, efficiencies, recent building trends, and future trends of the industry. See the Powerpoint Presentation
Keith Pehl was a panel member at the Five Ventures Conference held at UNCC. He spoke on the pros and cons of Entrepreneurship.
Optima Engineering would like to welcome Michele A. Hendricks as a designer in our Electrical Division.
Ronald V. Almond, P.E. - Vice President of Optima passed his exam to become LEED Accredited.
- Mark Hyatt passed his P.E. exam and is now registered in Virginia.
- Mike Mazzone passed the exam to become LEED Accredited.
