Published November 18, 2024

DISCOVER WHY IN-HOUSE ENGINEERING BENEFITS CLIENTS

An architect and Senior Architectural Design Technician collaborating at a computer collaborating

In today’s world, we all need to embrace technology in order to expand our reach and manage projects efficiently. At MSKTD, it’s no different. That said, the speed and depth of collaboration and communication that occur naturally when we are together in person—whether on job sites, in meetings, or under the same roof—are unparalleled.

It’s one of the main reasons that we’ve taken the time over the last 46+ years to build a robust team of in-house professional engineers specializing in Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing (MEP), Structural, and Civil engineering. This full-service approach, where architects, engineers, project managers, and support staff work closely together, benefits our clients and projects in significant ways.

“Projects with clear documentation and communication are designed and built on time and on schedule.”
— Mike Nichter, Senior Mechanical Engineer and Principal

UNDERSTANDING THE COMPLETE PROJECT HISTORY
One major benefit of having an in-house engineering team is the built-in communication and comprehensive project management. At kickoff meetings, we all come together to discuss the project approach and expectations as we work through schematic design. This collaborative thread continues throughout design development, construction documents, and even the construction phase. When the entire team is involved from start to finish, we can see the complete picture and understand why decisions are made or changed. And our shared network ensures quick and easy access to full documentation, even after project completion.

“Communication is the key to a successful project. When we can collaborate in person, it’s easier to coordinate details when something changes.”

— Kerry Schoeph, Senior Civil Engineering Designer

Two engineers collaborating at a table

STREAMLINING COMMUNICATION AND PROBLEM SOLVING
At MSKTD, our open work environment fosters frequent and consistent communication. Because many of our people have been with the firm for so long, we’ve learned each other’s unique strengths and abilities. Much like a seasoned sports team, we can communicate and work together effectively because we know each other’s capabilities so well.

“With our team of in-house engineers, all the players are together, working in tandem.”
— Jeff Harless, Senior Structural Engineer and Senior Associate

The ability to solve problems effectively and efficiently benefits the project timeline and can improve overall project cost and client satisfaction as well. When we are the single source of information, and we can simply walk over to someone’s desk to discuss changes that arise until there’s an agreed upon resolution, that fact alone saves time and keeps things moving forward.

Person walking through the MSKTD Indianapolis office.

SHARING IN-DEPTH EXPERIENCE (EVEN ACROSS MARKETS)
Our senior engineers have built up historical knowledge that provides an in-depth, comprehensive understanding of our clients’ specialized needs. This knowledge often extends across our other markets, which enhances our problem-solving capabilities. It also gives our up-and-coming engineers an opportunity to expand their knowledge and perspectives. And because we have a full compliment of experienced engineers, external project members have asked us to provide another set of eyes to review design/construction documents or to give a second opinion regarding a design solution.

“We’ve learned from each other’s strengths, so we know where to turn with any questions because we understand each other’s unique skills, specialties, and experience. This efficiency helps us solve project roadblocks effectively.”
— Jeff Harless, Senior Structural Engineer and Senior Associate

HEIGHTENING CONFIDENTIALITY
Strict confidentiality is crucial with advanced manufacturing and hygienic design projects, not just for establishing and maintaining trust, but because people’s jobs, trade secrets, and even supply chain security are on the line. We have measures in place to protect confidentiality when working with consultants, contractors, and construction crews, who are based both in Indiana and across the nation. Yet, one way our Hygienic Facility Design group can contain confidentiality is by leveraging the expertise of our in-house structural, civil, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) engineers, which limits the project’s exposure. And in the process, all our engineering groups have developed specialized expertise, insights, knowledge, and know-how for the unique requirements of those clients.

“Our engineers respect our clients’ needs for confidentiality. Reducing the number of people sharing information, by keeping everything in house helps.”
— Kerry Schoeph, Senior Civil Engineering Designer

MSKTD is a full-service firm dedicated to delivering exceptional project experiences from start to finish. Our top priority is exceeding client expectations and bringing their visions to life by assembling the right team based on project scope, size, client requests, requirements, and desired outcomes. Regardless of project size or budget, we approach every project the same—with comprehensive project management and consistent communication. This approach fosters close collaboration and leverages our collective knowledge to help ensure successful project outcomes.

The blog was written based on the content and input given by these three individuals. Headshot images • Mike Nichter, Senior Mechanical Engineer and Principal • Jeff Harless, Senior Structural Engineer and Senior Associate • Kerry Schoeph, Senior Civil Engineering Designer
CONTRIBUTORS:

Jeff Harless,
Senior Structural Engineer and Senior Associate

Kerry Schoeph,
Senior Civil Engineering Designer

Mike Nichter,
Senior Mechanical Engineer and Principal