Author: O'Donnell & Naccarato

O’Donnell & Naccarato Announces Strategic Leadership Reorganization to Position the Firm for Long-Term Growth

Written by O'Donnell & Naccarato on February 14, 2024. Posted in Blog.

O’Donnell & Naccarato Announces Strategic Leadership Reorganization to Position the Firm for Long-Term Growth

The new leadership group will be responsible for broadening the firm’s national reach as O&N continues to expand its footprint in key markets across the country.

O’Donnell & Naccarato (O&N), a leading and employee-owned structural engineering firm headquartered in Philadelphia, announced a strategic reorganization of the firm’s leadership, with Dennis Mordan, PE, SE, serving as firm President.

The new leadership group, under the direction of Chairman and CEO, Anthony Naccarato, comprises senior and accomplished team members, who will be responsible for broadening the firm’s national reach as O&N continues to expand its footprint in key markets across the country.

“This realignment is part of a thoughtful strategic planning process to position our firm for sustained, long-term growth,” Naccarato said. “As we continue to evolve, it’s important that our leadership structure reflects the deeply embedded values of innovation, partnership and superior quality work that have made O&N what it is today. Under this team of industry-leading experts, O&N will continue to be an asset to the firm’s valued clients, employees, and the communities we serve.”

Mordan, who joined the firm in 1989, will manage day-to-day operations, while executing O&N’s overall strategic vision. Naccarato, who had served as firm President since 2013, will lead O&N’s civic engagement efforts, with a focus on firm growth through geographic expansion.

“I am honored to continue O&N’s legacy of unwavering dedication to engineering precision and client satisfaction,” Mordan said. “I look forward to working with this incredible team of leaders as we embark on the next chapter of our growth.”

O&N’s new leadership structure will also consist of:

Chief Financial and Human Resources Officer Melissa Pastras-Brugler, who joined the firm as an accounting clerk in 2002, will direct O&N’s accounting, human resources and culture initiatives.
Vice President and Chief Engineering Officer Scott Bauer, a former Principal with the firm, will oversee all engineering operations and be responsible for project completion and oversight.
Vice President and Chief Marketing and Administrative Officer Michael Herrmann will lead all firm marketing, business development and administration efforts.
Vice President Paul Panzarino, who has more than four decades of industry experience and 10 years with O&N, will continue to drive O&N’s team in the New York Metro region.

These team members all bring deep relationships and a wealth of institutional knowledge to their new roles, with Pastras-Brugler, Bauer and Herrmann having spent their entire careers with O&N.

Since its founding in 1981, O&N has evolved from a three-person firm into a national powerhouse, with more than 120 dedicated professionals across seven strategically located offices. Over last decade, O&N has opened offices in New York City, Indianapolis, Miami, Orlando, Columbus, Ohio and Mountainside, New Jersey, positioning itself as a preeminent structural engineering firm offering solutions across all sectors of the construction industry.

About O’Donnell & Naccarato  

O’Donnell & Naccarato is an employee-owned structural engineering firm operating nationally from our offices in Philadelphia, Mountainside, New Jersey, New York City, Indianapolis, Miami, Orlando and Columbus. With strong experience in every major vertical construction sector, O’Donnell & Naccarato supports the entire lifecycle of a building, starting with the initial structural design to renovations and ultimately to restoration.    

As a partner to design professionals, owners and institutions, our objective is to incorporate each stakeholder’s demands of form, function, schedule and budget into each engagement. O’Donnell & Naccarato is a proud Employee Stock Ownership Plan company, providing all employees the opportunity to share in the success of the firm.  

Celebrating Rod McComas’s Retirement and Tom Miltner’s New Role

Written by O'Donnell & Naccarato on November 27, 2023. Posted in Blog.

Celebrating Rod McComas’s Retirement & Tom Miltner’s New Role

November 27, 2023

O’Donnell & Naccarato announced Rod McComas, P.E., S.E. will retire from the company at the end of this calendar year. Beginning with the merger of McComas Engineering in August 2019 into the O’Donnell & Naccarato family, Rod has been crucial in the growth of the firm’s national presence.

Over his forty-two-year tenure, Rod has been responsible for approximately 10,000 projects in 2,000 cities throughout the United States. Some of the highlighted projects are The Fashion Mall and The Children’s Museum in Indianapolis, IN, Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels in Los Angeles, CA, Republic Air Headquarters in Carmel, IN, United States Penitentiary in Terre Haute, IN, United States Penitentiary ADMAX in Florence, CO, Leavenworth Correctional Facility in Leavenworth, KS, precast concrete wall panels around the U.S., retail stores around the U.S., restaurants around the U.S., and, swimming pools for universities, communities, military, training, Olympic training and U.S. Embassies. Founding McComas Engineering Structural Engineers in 1991, he grew the company in specialized building sectors into a highly profitable and respected entity from coast to coast.

Rod shared his thoughts, stating, “I am fortunate that I had the opportunity to develop many friendships and clients around the United States through my work at McComas Engineering and O’Donnell & Naccarato. Thank you all for the trust you put in me and the teamwork we built on each project. I am confident that our clients are in great hands with Tom Miltner and the entire O’Donnell & Naccarato team.”

For several years, Tom Miltner, P.E., has led the Indianapolis office alongside Rod, and was promoted to the position of principal one year ago. He will continue in his role. Tom, a steadfast presence at McComas Engineering and subsequently O’Donnell & Naccarato for the past 29 years, will take the reins. With more than three decades of engineering experience and a profound understanding of our industry, Tom is poised to continue the legacy of excellence. He is a seasoned leader who participates in all phases of projects, driving our teams to exceed expectations and delivering the most cost-effective structural solutions.

“It’s an honor to be selected to lead O’Donnell & Naccarato’s Indianapolis office,” said Tom Miltner. “I look forward to working alongside my teammates and continue providing the highest quality of structural engineering services to our new and existing clients.”

“We are grateful for the contributions Rod has made to O’Donnell & Naccarato, his leadership and collaboration will be missed,” said Anthony Naccarato, PE, SE, F.ASCE President of O&N. “We are confident in Tom’s ability to take the reins as the new leader of the Indianapolis office and are excited to see all the success that he brings to the role.”

O’Donnell & Naccarato Expands into Ohio

Written by O'Donnell & Naccarato on November 17, 2023. Posted in Blog.

November 17, 2023

O&N Expands into Ohio

We are expanding our national footprint with the addition of distinguished leader and regional director Brian Starrett, BIM Manager Ken Cover, and structural project designer Isabel Chesko. These additions will strengthen our presence in the Ohio region.

Brian Starrett, PE, SE, is a seasoned structural engineer with an impressive track record spanning over three decades. Over the course of his career, Brian has assumed a multitude of roles and has engaged in diverse projects, including the design of steel, concrete, masonry, timber, and metal building structures. His portfolio encompasses a wide spectrum of projects, ranging from aviation and commercial to educational, healthcare, industrial, military, and residential endeavors. This varied experience has provided Brian with a solid foundation for his exceptional ability to solve complex problems. He has established himself as the go-to expert for tackling complex and unconventional challenges, particularly in the context of historical structures. Brian’s dedication to his field is reflected in his professional registrations in over 20 states.

Ken Cover’s career spans 30 years in the field of Building Information Modeling (BIM) and CAD Design. Throughout his extensive tenure, Ken’s professional journey has allowed him to hone his knowledge and skills, emerging as a highly proficient expert in AutoCAD, BIM, including REVIT and Inventor software. Ken has assumed pivotal roles in crafting intricate documents for new construction projects, as well as the renovation and reinforcement of electrical transmission towers, communication towers, and various building types. His expertise extends across a spectrum of materials, including structural steel, concrete, masonry, wood, and cold-formed metal framing, making him a versatile asset in the field. Ken has extensive experience in producing detailed drawings for telecommunications towers, monopoles, transmission towers, and poles. He has had the pleasure of working in the architecture and engineering markets, where he has provided structural drawings and details for a diverse range of projects, spanning from standalone brick-and-mortar stores to expansive warehouses and multi-story buildings.

Isabel Chesko, EIT, is a skilled and committed engineering professional. Her expertise spans a diverse range of design disciplines, encompassing concrete, cold-form metal framing, deep foundations, masonry, modifications and repairs, structural steel, wood, shallow foundations, and a comprehensive understanding of various building codes and standards. Her portfolio is a testament to her versatility, boasting a rich array of projects across academic, recreational, government, and other sectors. Structural engineering is not just a profession for Isabel; it’s her passion. She is drawn to this field because it produces tangible results, with multiple creative solutions to reach a project’s completion. Collaborating with a dedicated team to develop efficient designs and collectively standing behind those decisions are what fills her with pride as a structural engineer.

We are thrilled to welcome Brian, Ken and Isabel to our team and know their skills and expertise will undoubtedly contribute to O&N’s continued growth and success.

Two Offices – Two Moves!

Written by O'Donnell & Naccarato on October 26, 2023. Posted in Blog.

Two Offices – Two Moves!

October 26, 2023

O’Donnell & Naccarato is thrilled to announce the relocation of our Miami and New York City offices. As our firm continues its dynamic growth, these new office spaces not only signify our commitment to accommodating a growing team and an expanding client base but also represent our dedication to fostering enhanced collaboration, innovation, and overall operational efficiency.

Our brand-new Miami location boasts a strategic proximity to downtown Miami, Miami Beach, and Coral Gables. Here, we remain steadfast in delivering top-tier structural engineering services across a diverse range of building types and sizes. The Miami office prides itself on catering to a diverse clientele, spanning a wide array of governmental, institutional, and commercial projects.

Our fresh NYC location positions us at the vibrant heart of Midtown, nestled between the iconic Garment District and the culturally rich Times Square. The new office space radiates with a bright, open layout, generously providing room for collaboration and expansion. This increased space offers invaluable flexibility for our team and better facilitates seamless collaboration with colleagues and clients alike.

The strategic relocation and expansion of our Miami and New York City offices symbolize a pivotal step in our journey as a preeminent structural engineering firm. We are excited to continue serving our clients with the highest levels of expertise and innovation, strengthening our position as industry leaders.

Cori Kwitkin Joins O&N!

Written by O'Donnell & Naccarato on May 10, 2023. Posted in Blog.

Cori Kwitkin Joins O&N!

Cori Kwitkin, PE has joined O’Donnell & Naccarato’s New York office as a Senior Associate, bringing more than 22 years of experience in structural analysis and design to the firm.

Cori’s addition is part of O&N’s larger strategic vision and efforts to expand our team of structural engineering experts and specialists in key markets across the country. A LEED Green Associate and licensed professional engineer in New York and Florida, Cori has specialized in large-scale projects, with an outstanding portfolio that includes projects throughout the U.S. and Asia. She joins O&N from the Hatfield Group, where she served as Associate Principal since May 2021. Prior to that, she worked at Thornton Tomasetti for over 20 years.

Cori has a strong background in project coordination and management on a variety of building types including healthcare, mixed-use, commercial, educational, sport facilities, renovation/tenant fit-out, residential, and aviation. She also has deep experience in peer-review projects and high-rise facilities. Cori has worked on several award-winning projects, including Huntington Hospital Emergency Department, Northwell Health in Huntington, New York; Socar Tower in Baku, Azerbaijan; Seoul International Finance Center in Seoul, South Korea; Cornell University Physical Sciences Building in Ithaca, New York and many others.

Photographs of Michael Miller and Tom Miltner

Michael Miller & Tom Miltner Promoted to Principal

Written by O'Donnell & Naccarato on January 10, 2023. Posted in Blog.

O’Donnell & Naccarato is proud to announce that Michael Miller, PE, SE, and Tom Miltner, PE, have been promoted to Principal. In their new roles, Mike and Tom will be responsible for helping to shape the overall direction of the firm, as O&N continues to expand its footprint in key markets across the country.

Mike Miller is an accomplished structural engineer with more than 18 years of experience at O&N. As Principal, Mike will maintain his existing client relationships and help to grow the firm’s presence in Florida, following O&N’s acquisition of Miami-based Douglas Wood Associates and the opening of an Orlando office last year. Throughout his career, Mike has specialized in complex structures and renovations, working closely with clients and overseeing all aspects of construction to ensure that projects are built on time and within budget.

Tom Miltner is a seasoned leader with more than three decades of engineering experience and a deep knowledge of the industry. Prior to his promotion, Tom served as Regional Director and managed the day-to-day operations of O&N’s Indianapolis office. In his role as Principal, Tom will be focused on building client relationships, as well as accelerating O&N’s growth in the Midwest.

“Mike and Tom are both valued members of our team, and we are thrilled for them to take on this new opportunity,” said Anthony Naccarato, PE, SE, F.ASCE, President of O&N. “Their breadth of experience, project expertise and strong ties with clients and the community will prove invaluable as O&N continues to expand its presence nationwide.”

Mike earned his Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from Pennsylvania State University. During his time with O&N, Mike’s work has focused on major structures, including the Penn Medicine Princeton Medical Center in Plainsboro, New Jersey; the Baptist Medical Center Borowy Family Children’s Critical Care Tower in Jacksonville, Florida; the Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races Hotel in Charles Town, Virginia; and the AmeriHealth Corporate Headquarters in Newtown Square, Pennsylvania. He is a registered Professional Engineer in Florida, Louisiana, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Georgia and Virginia and a registered structural engineer in Georgia.

Tom obtained his Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from Rose Hulman Institute of Technology in Indiana, where he is a registered Professional Engineer. His extensive project experience spans all sizes and markets, including health care, retail, mixed-use, educational, municipal and heavy industrial. Notable current projects include the Westville Correctional Facility in Westville, Indiana; the Genome/List Biotherapeutics Facility in Fishers, Indiana; Republic Airways Training Center in Carmel, Indiana and the United States Penitentiary in Terre Haute, Indiana. He’s also worked on more than 50 assisted-living and short-term care facilities and more than 500 aquatics facilities throughout his time with O&N.

O’Donnell & Naccarato Acquires Miami Firm Douglas Wood Associates, Opens Orlando Office

Written by O'Donnell & Naccarato on October 19, 2022. Posted in Blog.

PHILADELPHIA, PA – O’Donnell & Naccarato (O&N), a leading structural engineering firm headquartered in Philadelphia, PA, has acquired Miami-based Douglas Wood Associates (DWA) as part of the firm’s larger strategic vision to expand its footprint in key markets nationwide. Simultaneously, O&N announced the opening of an additional office in Orlando to support O&N’s rapidly expanding client base in Central Florida.

DWA brings its 30-year track record of excellence and deep-rooted South Florida market knowledge to the growing O&N team, providing a full suite of creative services for all types of buildings and structures. The acquisition places O&N among one of the largest purely structural engineering firms in the country.

“O&N’s continued expansion into Florida has been a key aspect of our growth strategy, and we have found a valuable partner in DWA,” said Anthony Naccarato, PE, SE, F.ASCE President of O&N. “Their outstanding service and unsurpassed reputation in the Florida market, coupled with O&N’s structural engineering excellence, scale of projects, and production capacity, make this acquisition a natural fit for both firms.”

Founded in 1981, O&N has grown from a three-person company into one of the nation’s most prominent consulting structural engineering firms. With offices in Philadelphia, New York City, Mountainside, New Jersey, Indianapolis, and now Miami and Orlando, the firm designs solutions for projects valued at more than $4 billion each year and is responsible for the design of more than 1,000 projects annually across the United States.

Consistent with O&N’s long-term strategic vision, the merger will combine Douglas Wood Associates’ longstanding local Miami relationships with O&N’s vast project experience, significant resources, and national reach to position the firm for continued growth in Florida and beyond.

“Our decision to join O&N allows us to continue DWA’s legacy, while also tapping into new markets and opportunities for growth,” said Douglas Wood, PE, President of DWA. “O&N’s core values are aligned with ours, and we are proud to join forces with one of the most reputable names in structural engineering.”

The acquisition is effective as of September 29, 2022. O&N will welcome 23 employees from DWA, which will operate as Wood / O’Donnell & Naccarato. The combined firm will be registered to perform design and restoration services in all 50 states.

Wood / O’Donnell & Naccarato has completed a number of notable healthcare projects in the Florida market for Ascension Sacred Heart Health, Baptist Health, Jackson Health, and is currently working with Orlando Health. The firm also has a robust roster of commercial, cultural and historic rehabilitation projects, including The Town Center at Boca Raton, Bal Harbour Shops, FSU’s Morcom Aquatic Center, The Space Shop Self Storage in North Miami, The Biltmore Hotel Miami Coral Gables, Trinity Cathedral and the Freedom Tower in Miami.

About O’Donnell & Naccarato

O’Donnell & Naccarato is a structural engineering firm operating nationally from our offices in Philadelphia, New York City, New Jersey, Indianapolis and now Florida with strong experience in every major vertical construction sector. O’Donnell & Naccarato supports the entire lifecycle of a building starting with the initial structural design to renovations and ultimately to restoration.

O&N mourns the sudden loss of beloved 25-year employee, Jonathan J. Brazier

Written by O'Donnell & Naccarato on September 20, 2022. Posted in Blog.

Jon served as the Director of Production Technology at O&N. He created and maintained the standards that are seen by all who view a set of our drawings – he firmly believed that our drawings were a window into what our firm represents. Jon ushered O&N into the BIM generation, presented at numerous AIA and Autodesk University conferences about Revit Structure and performed Quality Control on our projects. Jon’s career started at Fisher Steel as a steel detailer. From there he spent almost 9 years at Pennoni Associates prior to starting at O&N in 1997. Jon will be dearly missed.

Guarini Justice Complex Topping Off

Written by O'Donnell & Naccarato on September 13, 2022. Posted in Blog.

The main building topping out for one of New Jersey’s largest public revitalization efforts took place Friday afternoon and O&N was honored to have some of our team in attendance.

The 405,000-square-foot design-build complex, formally known as the Honorable Frank J. Guarini Justice Complex, sits right in the heart of Jersey City. The main building of the complex includes 24 courtrooms, judges’ chambers, sheriff offices, and court administration. A six-story, 459-space parking garage, and a one-and-a-half story building housing the surrogate and prosecutor’s office, form the remainder of the complex. It is an honor to be collaborating with such a talented team on this project, which is set to open in 2024.

“O&N’s designs have contributed to some of the region’s most notable municipal projects, and we are thrilled to add the Guarini Justice Complex to our roster of transformative projects.” -Anthony Naccarato, PE, SE, F. ASCE, President of O&N

Check out a video of the topping off, below!