SDAF Partner Q&A with KPFF
Eric Lehmkuhl, Managing Principal of the San Diego Office
Q: Tell us about your firm’s origin story and where you are today:
A: KPFF Consulting Engineers was founded in Seattle in 1960 and is now one of the largest civil and structural engineering firms in the country. It has steadily grown to 1,400 employees in 30 offices. The San Diego office was launched in 1994 and has grown to a staff of about 90 people.
Q: Where do you see yourselves in the regional market?
A: KPFF San Diego has historically focused on structural engineering of all types of structures including new buildings, bridges, and solar structures, and retrofit and renovation of existing buildings.
Q: Do you have a specialty and if so – what is it?
A: We practice in many markets so picking one is difficult. Common areas of practice that we specialize in include schools, community colleges, and universities, along with residential and office building design of all types. Some practice areas that are not as common include Performance Based Design, industrial structures, and solar structures.
Q: What sets you apart from other firms?
A: We have the size and experience to meet even the most demanding schedules. We can bring company-wide resources to help with unusual technical challenges. Our business model is very flat and entrepreneurial.
Q: What is your favorite and least favorite part of what you do?
A: Favorite: Helping clients make their dreams a reality. Least favorite: Dealing with bureaucracy.
Q: What was your most challenging project ever and why?
A: 7th and Market. Twin towers with a skybridge at the 23rd level!
Q: What sets your employees and partners apart from others? A: We are very responsive, and client centered. We value feedback from all parties to make our projects better. Our culture is both entrepreneurial and collaborative at the same time.
