by Kevin Shertz, PE Airports are undoubtedly a “critical infrastructure” in the United States. It is a delicate balancing act to maintain an airport’s security infrastructure, while remaining mindful of the impacts security measures can have on passenger satisfaction and the quest for rapid and seamless travel. An airport carries an intrinsic vulnerability, as it… Read More
by Joe Zagorski, PE Organizations with a large physical plant infrastructure need to plan significant capital investments to maintain a state of good repair. Public transit agencies, colleges and universities, airports, and other large institutions rely on limited public and private resources. They need to make choices on where to allocate precious capital dollars, and… Read More
by Daniel T. Reich, PE and Brian Ehrler, CPE, PMP, LEED® AP History tells us that complex infrastructure projects have many unknowns that create surprises, delays, disappointments, and the need for more time and money, usually after we’re already deeply committed in construction. Well-meaning communities sometimes take on complex projects only to be disappointed. However,… Read More
by Matt Burns, PE Attracting and retaining top talent is critical to the health of a professional service firm. At Burns, we recognize that a strong, cohesive, and authentic employer brand is essential in attracting and retaining the best of the best. A successful employer brand works comprehensively to attract top talent, keep employees engaged,… Read More
by Dave Smith The North American Electric Grid is getting smarter and becoming more resilient. The Grid is considered by many to be the biggest machine in the world, and among the greatest accomplishments of the 20th century. The electric grid came to life when Thomas Edison flipped the switch at his Pearl Street power… Read More
by Matt Burns, PE If positive train control for rail safety is important, what’s taking so long? Positive train control (PTC) is an important life-safety technology that helps prevent human error in passenger and freight train operations. Understandably, there is frustration when loss of life could have been prevented if only safety systems were in… Read More
by Matt Burns, PE Airports are the gateway most travelers pass through when visiting a major city. They create the initial, sometimes lasting impression of the overall journey. Because of this, airports understand how important it is that their destination be distinctive and memorable, as well as enjoyable and efficient. Customer satisfaction surveys are widely… Read More
by Matt Burns, PE Company culture is arguably the most important trait of a professional service firm, and is easily the most difficult to develop and nurture. Culture is the personality of the company, the social and psychological environment in which employees work. It is what clients experience when they do business with us. It… Read More