Wendi Goldsmith, CPG, CPSSc
CEO
Bioengineering Group
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2010, 2011
What do you like MOST about being a firm leader?
"I like to help rally people behind the pursuit of a meaningful vision."
Wendi Goldsmith, CPG, CPSSc
CEO
Bioengineering Group
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2010, 2011
What is the MOST important quality you look for in a new hire?
"Creativity for sure, and in particular we hire restless souls who aren’t content to be boxed in to one discipline, and who have, say, a degree in engineering and geology, or landscape architecture and ecology, and then find ways to creatively combine them to define and solve problems better."
Wendi Goldsmith, CPG, CPSSc
CEO
Bioengineering Group
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2010, 2011
What is one thing you have to do/deal with (since you became firm leader) that you didn’t anticipate?
"Addressing cash flow was never something I foresaw or wished for."
Wendi Goldsmith, CPG, CPSSc
CEO
Bioengineering Group
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2010, 2011
What business leader (in or out of the A/E world) do you admire most and why?
"Having had the opportunity to discuss my business with Warren Buffett last year, I not only enjoyed his responses (which were enthusiastic) but came away with a profound admiration for his sense of grounded social mission. He is after practical approaches to achieve solid results, and he is entirely unselfish; in addition to telling DC to tax the wealthy because it makes sense, his philanthropy is huge."
Stacy J. Bartoletti
President and Chief Executive Officer
Degenkolb Engineers
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2001, 2009, 2010, 2011
How many new staff has your firm hired in the past 3 years?
"Degenkolb has been fortunate to see strong demand for our services over the past 3 years and as a result we have grown. We increased our staff size by 10.8% in 2008, 6.3% in 2009, 6.7% in 2010, and anticipate ending 2011 with an increase of 5%. We attribute this growth to our work in the niche market of earthquake engineering and our strong focus on centralization in the company to work together as a team delivering local support and firm wide expertise to our clients."
Stacy J. Bartoletti
President and Chief Executive Officer
Degenkolb Engineers
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2001, 2009, 2010, 2011
What is the MOST important quality you look for in a new hire?
"We have a very rigorous process for screening and interviewing our new hires. We look for technical capability, communications skills, poise under pressure, and leadership skills in addition to many other things."
Stacy J. Bartoletti
President and Chief Executive Officer
Degenkolb Engineers
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2001, 2009, 2010, 2011
What do you like MOST about being a firm leader?
"I enjoy the people aspect of the job the most. It is very satisfying to see others develop and grow in their careers and know that the company will be successful if we create opportunities for our people and invest in their development."
Stacy J. Bartoletti
President and Chief Executive Officer
Degenkolb Engineers
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2001, 2009, 2010, 2011
What is the most challenging thing you have done outside your job?
"The most challenging thing I have done and continue to do outside of my job is to raise a family and be a good husband. My wife and I have two boys (9 and 11 years old) and we are very involved in all of their activities. It certainly keeps us busy. It is also a great challenge to know that we are instilling in them the right values that will guide them through the rest of their lives."
Keith C. Strimple, P.E., C.F.M.
Principal
M & S Engineering, L.L.C.
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2010, 2011
What do you like MOST about being a firm leader?
"I hope and pray that my stewardship is considered by others to be just that – a stewardship of people and their families."
Keith C. Strimple, P.E., C.F.M.
Principal
M & S Engineering, L.L.C.
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2010, 2011
What is the MOST important quality you look for in a new hire?
"Some hands on experience and an attitude that is pleasant to be around."
Keith C. Strimple, P.E., C.F.M.
Principal
M & S Engineering, L.L.C.
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2010, 2011
What is one thing you have to do/deal with (since you became firm leader) that you didn’t anticipate?
"Sooooo many people issues!! "
Keith C. Strimple, P.E., C.F.M.
Principal
M & S Engineering, L.L.C.
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2010, 2011
What is the most challenging thing you have done outside your job?
"Re-marrying a wonderful woman with three wonderful children. The challenges of keeping a blended family (five children in total) are always present, and yet it is very rewarding."
Keith C. Strimple, P.E., C.F.M.
Principal
M & S Engineering, L.L.C.
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2010, 2011
What business leader (in or out of the A/E world) do you admire most and why?
"The business leader that I admire the most is former CEO of Southwest Airlines, Herb Kelleher. He believed, as I do, that a company can be profitable AND be a fun place to work. This philosophy shows up in his quote, “A company is stronger if it is bound by love rather than fear."
Christine Franklin, P.E.
President
Cherokee Enterprises, Inc.
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2007, 2008, 2009, 2011
What do you like MOST about being a firm leader?
"The visionary role of the leader - being able to chart the direction and manage the growth, while maintaining the integrity of the firm's Mission."
Christine Franklin, P.E.
President
Cherokee Enterprises, Inc.
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2007, 2008, 2009, 2011
What is the MOST important quality you look for in a new hire?
"We look for attitude - a great attitude and the willingness to do whatever is required to achieve our goals."
Christine Franklin, P.E.
President
Cherokee Enterprises, Inc.
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2007, 2008, 2009, 2011
What is one thing you have to do/deal with (since you became firm leader) that you didn't anticipate?
"How many decisions you’d have to make in any one day!!"
Christine Franklin, P.E.
President
Cherokee Enterprises, Inc.
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2007, 2008, 2009, 2011
What is the most challenging thing you have done outside your job?
"Help my mother through a terminal illness. It has been the single most challenging event in my life. Before that happened, I used to say run a marathon!!"
Christine Franklin, P.E.
President
Cherokee Enterprises, Inc.
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2007, 2008, 2009, 2011
What business leader (in or out of the A/E world) do you admire most and why?
"Difficult question. There are a few but I’d have to say Bill Gates! Because he ultimately used his wealth to make improve the world with the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation."
Matt Crafton
President & CEO
Crafton Tull
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2011
How many new staff has your firm hired in the past 3 years?
"Our number of staff has fluctuated with the economy. We had to reduce our staff by about 1/3 when the economy south three years ago. We’ve been able to add back about 35 people net since then."
Matt Crafton
President & CEO
Crafton Tull
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2011
What do you like MOST about being a firm leader?
"Seeing the talent of our people at work on our projects."
Matt Crafton
President & CEO
Crafton Tull
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2011
What is the MOST important quality you look for in a new hire?
"Great teamwork attitude."
Matt Crafton
President & CEO
Crafton Tull
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2011
What is one thing you have to do/deal with (since you became firm leader) that you didn't anticipate?
" did an AC/DC Back in Black dance in front of the whole company. That performance made it clear that I was not meant to be a rock star."
Matt Crafton
President & CEO
Crafton Tull
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2011
What is the most challenging thing you have done outside your job?
"Managed to get through the Air Force Academy with most of my sanity intact."
Matt Crafton
President & CEO
Crafton Tull
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2011
What business leader (in or out of the A/E world) do you admire most and why?
"My father, one of the co-founders of our firm, now retired. He embodies integrity, service and a can-do attitude."
Curt Moody, FAIA, NCARB, LEED AP
President & CEO
Moody Nolan
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2009, 2011
What do you like MOST about being a firm leader?
"There are plenty of tough decisions to be made when you are the firm leader, but I enjoy seeing the firm move in a positive direction as a result of my good decisions and as a result of my team's good decisions."
Curt Moody, FAIA, NCARB, LEED AP
President & CEO
Moody Nolan
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2009, 2011
What is the MOST important quality you look for in new hire?
"It isn't just one quality but a balance of experience, education and the right background for the job. Most of our employees work with clients and on teams so it is essential that they exhibit exceptional communications skills and can work well with others."
Curt Moody, FAIA, NCARB, LEED AP
President & CEO
Moody Nolan
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2009, 2011
What is the most challenging thing you have done outside your job?
"Raise a family."
Curt Moody, FAIA, NCARB, LEED AP
President & CEO
Moody Nolan
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2009, 2011
What is one thing you have to do/deal with (since you became firm leader) that you didn't anticipate?
" did not expect some clients to be difficult to work with even though my team has provided them with excellent service and a positive, professional attitude. Thankfully, the majority of our clients want to be fair and honest with the people they work with as much as we do."
Curt Moody, FAIA, NCARB, LEED AP
President & CEO
Moody Nolan
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2009, 2011
What business leader (in or out of the A/E world) do you admire most and why?
"Lewis R. Smoot, Sr., CEO of Smoot Construction. Lewis has always carried himself in a professional manner. He is very humble and cares greatly about others. He advised me that in order to be listened to, I must be successful. In order to be successful, I must listen to others."
Eve Hinman, Eng. ScD., PE
President
Hinman Consulting Engineers, Inc.
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2011
What do you like MOST about being a firm leader?
"I like that I get to craft the work environment of my dreams and get to hire people who have excellent skills in areas where I do not excel. As they say, my job is to hire people who are smarter than I am."
Eve Hinman, Eng. ScD., PE
President
Hinman Consulting Engineers, Inc.
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2011
What is the MOST important quality you look for in a new hire?
" look for people who are passionate about what our firm is doing and who have the discipline to make things happen."
Eve Hinman, Eng. ScD., PE
President
Hinman Consulting Engineers, Inc.
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2011
What is one thing you have to do/deal with (since you became firm leader) that you didn’t anticipate?
"All the people issues are very difficult for me. I continuously work hard to develop new skills in this area but it is always a challenge."
Eve Hinman, Eng. ScD., PE
President
Hinman Consulting Engineers, Inc.
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2011
What is the most challenging thing you have done outside your job?
"Raising children is much more difficult than running a firm."
Eve Hinman, Eng. ScD., PE
President
Hinman Consulting Engineers, Inc.
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2011
What business leader (in or out of the A/E world) do you admire most and why?
"My current favorite business leader works at ZweigWhite - Ed Friedrichs. He truly inspires me. He is able to articulate all the things I feel strongly about but didn't know how to say."
Michael F. DeSantiago, PE, LEED AP BD+C, CEP
President
Primera
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011
What do you like MOST about being a firm leader?
"I think what I have liked most over the almost 25years has been to watch the company grow from three people to over 120 and to see so many people grow with the company."
Michael F. DeSantiago, PE, LEED AP BD+C, CEP
President
Primera
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011
What is the MOST important quality you look for in a new hire?
"Quality character that values collaboration."
Michael F. DeSantiago, PE, LEED AP BD+C, CEP
President
Primera
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011
What is one thing you have to do/deal with (since you became firm leader) that you didn't anticipate?
"The one thing I did not anticipate was the wild swings our economy would go through over these past few years. This created need to manage the company through some difficult times while maintaining our focus on our core values of Quality, Teamwork, Integrity, and Balance."
Michael F. DeSantiago, PE, LEED AP BD+C, CEP
President
Primera
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011
What is the most challenging thing you have done outside your job?
"The biggest, and most rewarding, challenge I have ever taken outside of my career is raising four teenagers, two of which were mine and two through a guardianship arrangement. If there is anything that could prepare one for the ups and downs of running a successful business, raising teenagers would be it!"
Michael F. DeSantiago, PE, LEED AP BD+C, CEP
President
Primera
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011
What business leader (in or out of the A/E world) do you admire most and why?
"That's a tough question. I guess I would have to say Steve Jobs. Of course, all I know about him is what I have learned through the media. What I admire about Mr. Jobs is not just the financial results that Apple has experienced under his leadership. What I most admire is his unbelievable, obsessive focus on quality and innovation. Any business owner in our field will tell you that they want their firm to be known for the value it can provide to its customers, not as the lowest cost solution around. Mr. Jobs has been able to create product after product that were so well conceived and so in tune (no pun intended) with what customers wanted, that they dominated the market despite being far from the lowest cost solution. Give customers what they want and deliver it in a high-quality manner… Not a bad formula for any company."
Rebecca R. Rubin
President and CEO
Marstel-Day LLC
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2009, 2010, 2011
What do you like MOST about being a firm leader?
"The creative process, which involves working with so many individuals - both on our staff and external to the company - who are so dramatically different from one another."
Rebecca R. Rubin
President and CEO
Marstel-Day LLC
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2009, 2010, 2011
What is the MOST important quality you look for in a new hire?
"Someone who has a skills mosaic: passion, sensitivity, analytical skills, and kindness."
Rebecca R. Rubin
President and CEO
Marstel-Day LLC
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2009, 2010, 2011
What is one thing you have to do/deal with (since you became firm leader) that you didn't anticipate?
"The ways in which different values, knowledge base and ethics among employees need to be integrated in order for a firm to function as a whole."
Rebecca R. Rubin
President and CEO
Marstel-Day LLC
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2009, 2010, 2011
What is the most challenging thing you have done outside your job?
"Tried to stay away."
Rebecca R. Rubin
President and CEO
Marstel-Day LLC
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2009, 2010, 2011
What business leader (in or out of the A/E world) do you admire most and why?
"Jeffrey Hollender, for his business ethics and his perseverance in trying to shine a light and offer a perspective for the rest of us."
Thomas M. Hayden, PE
President
Shive-Hattery
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2010, 2011
What do you like MOST about being a firm leader?
"My favorite part of being a firm leader is the great pleasure I take from working with a wonderful professionals who care deeply and equally about our Clients, our Employees and our Business."
Thomas M. Hayden, PE
President
Shive-Hattery
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2010, 2011
What is the MOST important quality you look for in a new hire?
"Once candidates meet the qualifications for education and experience, and assuming they have a real desire to have the job we have available, (call those "threshold" requirements) THE most important quality I look for is "fit" with the company and the people inside and outside the company that the person must work with. This "fit" comes from their personal and business values. Over the decades in this business and our company I've seen very bright, educated and experienced people who just couldn't find a way to work successfully inside our company and with our employees and clients. Something critical was missing in the way they interacted. They needed to move on to another organization where they truly fit and could be successful."
Thomas M. Hayden, PE
President
Shive-Hattery
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2010, 2011
What is one thing you have to do/deal with (since you became firm leader) that you didn't anticipate?
"I became a firm leader in the early 1990's. The one thing that I really didn't appreciate until I got in the job was how difficult it is, and how long it takes, to create major change in project-based professional service firms where everyone wants, and most deserve, a voice in the matter."
Thomas M. Hayden, PE
President
Shive-Hattery
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2010, 2011
What is the most challenging thing you have done outside your job?
"The most challenging thing outside of my job has been to participate in the raising of my children. It's a very important job-involving people who often don't really listen to you, until they are older and a bit wiser themselves!"
Thomas M. Hayden, PE
President
Shive-Hattery
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2010, 2011
What business leader (in or out of the A/E world) do you admire most and why?
"I can't name any particular business leader that I admire. I've been a student of business almost my entire career. I've read a great deal, I've worked with a great many people inside and outside my company. I like to think I've learned a little or a lot from each book and each person. I've seen "the good, the bad and the ugly". I've always tried to do what's right for our clients, our employees and our business. And, I've learned to be very careful in trying to apply general business knowledge to our privately owned, project-based, professional service firm (hint…we're different!)."
H. Kit Miyamoto, Ph.D.,S.E.
President & CEO
Miyamoto International, Inc.
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2007, 2008, 2011
What do you like MOST about being a firm leader?
"Adding values to others and helping others to achieve more than they ever thought they could. Casting totally unrealistic vision and achieving it because no one does it."
H. Kit Miyamoto, Ph.D.,S.E.
President & CEO
Miyamoto International, Inc.
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2007, 2008, 2011
What is the MOST important quality you look for in a new hire?
"Team working ethics, passion and energy."
H. Kit Miyamoto, Ph.D.,S.E.
President & CEO
Miyamoto International, Inc.
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2007, 2008, 2011
What is one thing you have to do/deal with (since you became firm leader) that you didn't anticipate?
"can't have a bad day. I am in the fish bowl!!"
H. Kit Miyamoto, Ph.D.,S.E.
President & CEO
Miyamoto International, Inc.
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2007, 2008, 2011
What is the most challenging thing you have done outside your job?
"Backpacking 20 miles per day 5000 ft gain."
H. Kit Miyamoto, Ph.D.,S.E.
President & CEO
Miyamoto International, Inc.
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2007, 2008, 2011
What business leader (in or out of the A/E world) do you admire most and why?
"Peter Yanev. Ex CEO, EQE International. He made his 2 man firm to 700 strong. The company made significant contribution to humanity through their business expansion and they made money."
Adolfo J. Cotilla, Jr. AIA
President
ACAI Associates, Inc.
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011
What do you like MOST about being a firm leader?
"It’s not just about vision, you can have all the vision in the world and if you don’t have put in place, and maintain, an environment (read: great people) to share and back up your philosophy of promoting good work in a great atmosphere, you might as well pack it up! I don't promote titles at ACAI and maybe it has to do with me wanting to learn what each individual staff is capable of doing because of their personality, ethics and yes, experience and knowledge. But what I do enjoy about being a firm leader is that it gives me the ability to provide staff with some of the experiences and responsibilities I either lacked or missed - for whatever reason - while in my years before the time I founded ACAI Associates."
Adolfo J. Cotilla, Jr. AIA
President
ACAI Associates, Inc.
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011
What is the MOST important quality you look for in a new hire?
"Experience, education, and creativity are certainly important in delivering the work you do but to work within a team so the growth of the individual is one that creates catalystic leverage (ie, 1+1 should always equal 8) within a company setting I always look at the heart of the individual, personality and his or her outlook and "malleability". I always ask: What good is having an excellent person who's a silo waiting to happen? That person would never be happy at our setting and we don't want unhappy hires."
Adolfo J. Cotilla, Jr. AIA
President
ACAI Associates, Inc.
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011
What is one thing you have to do/deal with (since you became firm leader) that you didn't anticipate?
"If there is one thing that I wasn't taught in school (I certainly hope I didn't miss it if it happened a day I didn't go to class) was to step aside and let people do their work because to grow you have to respect and promote responsible people up the line. That means understanding and accepting that there are people that are better than I am at doing certain tasks and my role then becomes one of an advisor or mentor, period."
Adolfo J. Cotilla, Jr. AIA
President
ACAI Associates, Inc.
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011
What business leader (in or out of the A/E world) do you admire most and why?
"There are so many…but to me I don't have to go past the 6 degrees: my Grandfather, my Father in Law and my mentor while at Ellis Naeyaert Genheimer Associates - J. Ed Genheimer. These are all Giants that either directly, after the fact as I learned more about life or indirectly once I learned more about each of them taught me so much about business. They taught me to play with the deck that's dealt, doing the best with people and that it's never over until it's over, that every wall is a door and that it's better to try to succeed and fail than to fail to try."
Adolfo J. Cotilla, Jr. AIA
President
ACAI Associates, Inc.
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011
How many new staff has your firm hired in the past 3 years?
"I am very proud to say that we reacted to what we saw in the economic downturn and did a shift in our way of thinking while promoting our philosophy of a great workplace. This tack of sharing a snapshot of our foresight with staff cemented our relationship and allowed us to, in effect, grow. In the past three years we did two things: invested in the company and diversified within what we believe Architects should be doing in order to stay in the proactive side of the industry. By taking this approach, and without laying anyone off (we did terminate two positions) we hired fifteen (15) new positions, including one rehire."
Daniel Huntsman
President
Huntsman Architectural Group
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2011
What is the MOST important quality you look for in a new hire?
"Although experience and creativity are certainly important, the most important quality I look for in as new hire is attitude. The proper attitude includes a mixture of confidence, humility and a bit of a sense of humor."
Daniel Huntsman
President
Huntsman Architectural Group
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2011
What business leader (in or out of the A/E world) do you admire most and why?
"The business leader that I would most like to meet (and get some advice from) is Roger Penske. He has developed several successful businesses while balancing direct involvement and developing teams to run them while staying at the cutting edge of technology."
Daniel Huntsman
President
Huntsman Architectural Group
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2011
What is one thing you have to do/deal with (since you became firm leader) that you didn’t anticipate?
"I did not anticipate having to deal with such an incredible acceleration in the growth of technology when the firm started 30 years ago. Sometimes those days seem like the Technological Stone Age."
Daniel Huntsman
President
Huntsman Architectural Group
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2011
What is the most challenging thing you have done outside your job?
"The most challenging thing I have done outside the office is to manage an amateur racing career. I raced sports cars at the national level for over 20 years and somehow balanced the time and travel requirements with family and business obligations."
Daniel Huntsman
President
Huntsman Architectural Group
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2011
What do you like MOST about being a firm leader?
"What I like most about being a firm leader is seeing new talent develop in the office and working with a variety of diverse clients in many interesting industries."
Jack Bedessem
President & CEO
Trihydro
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011
What do you like MOST about being a firm leader?
"Our Senior Management Team is made up of relatively young, smart, and hard-working managers and leaders. Many of them, including me, had limited experience managing a business unit or leading a business. Working on a plan for expansion or a strategy to secure a new opportunity, then executing the plan as "One Team" and watching them tackle it together is the most satisfying aspect of being a firm leader."
Jack Bedessem
President & CEO
Trihydro
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011
What is one thing you have to do/deal with (since you became firm leader) that you didn’t anticipate?
"Managing the various personalities, strengths, and weaknesses of key management team members is/was a greater challenge than anticipated."
Jack Bedessem
President & CEO
Trihydro
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011
What is the MOST important quality you look for in a new hire?
"Loyalty, attitude and communication skills, everything else will come with experience and mentoring."
Jack Bedessem
President & CEO
Trihydro
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011
What business leader (in or out of the A/E world) do you admire most and why?
"There is really no one particular business leader that I admire more than another. There have been many influential people in my life, ranging from my father and grandfather to former bosses and advisors that have provided good and some not so good learning lessons. A successful business leader needs to have the confidence to listen, take what you believe is the best advice, file away what you don't like, and then fix a situation quickly and openly when you make a bad decision."
Jack Bedessem
President & CEO
Trihydro
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011
What is the most challenging thing you have done outside your job?
"Raising two daughters to be wonderful young adults, while hoping someday they bring home someone I like."
Irvin R. Heath, Esq.
President
HCR Handex Consulting and Remediation, LLC
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2011
How many new staff has your firm hired in the past 3 years?
"We have hired over 60 new employees as a result of needed replacement upgrades and business expansion needs coupled with some reorganization, expanding the firm's service offerings, and office relocations."
Irvin R. Heath, Esq.
President
HCR Handex Consulting and Remediation, LLC
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2011
What do you like MOST about being a firm leader?
"What I like most about being a leader of the firm is my ability to interface with our Board and shape company strategies and have input into meaningful staff and business growth and development activities. I actively enjoy the challenges we face in today's fiercely competitive market coupled with developing and implementing plans that respond to the downward trends and pressures in the economy."
Irvin R. Heath, Esq.
President
HCR Handex Consulting and Remediation, LLC
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2011
What is the MOST important quality you look for in a new hire?
"Meaningful experience with a record of demonstrated success. High moral standards and a passion to succeed while being successful as a team player."
Irvin R. Heath, Esq.
President
HCR Handex Consulting and Remediation, LLC
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2011
What is one thing you have to do/deal with (since you became firm leader) that you didn’t anticipate?
"The failure of experienced employees to understand new strategies and firm and client expectations required for the company's survival and the maintenance of their employment."
Irvin R. Heath, Esq.
President
HCR Handex Consulting and Remediation, LLC
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2011
What is the most challenging thing you have done outside your job?
"Finish the New York Marathon twice and set a Master's American record at the Philadelphia Penn Relays in the One Mile Relay."
Irvin R. Heath, Esq.
President
HCR Handex Consulting and Remediation, LLC
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2011
What business leader (in or out of the A/E world) do you admire most and why?
"I most admire Steve Jobs for his life's accomplishments, for setting new senior management standards and expectations, his ability to see the next level of change and potential options with almost no limits, for listening, his all-inclusive leadership style and for the way he manages his health issues."
J. Al Pond, PE
CEO
Pond & Co.
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2001, 2002, 2009, 2011
What do you like MOST about being a firm leader?
"It's professionally rewarding to be in a position to help influence the direction and success of a business. I've always taken pride in seeing the results of our leadership team working together to grow our firm successfully; but more so the experience of working together in a collaborative effort during times of adversity."
J. Al Pond, PE
CEO
Pond & Co.
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2001, 2002, 2009, 2011
How many new staff has your firm hired in the past 3 years?
"Net staff additions after turnover has been 70 professionals over the last 3 years. The A/E/P/E Industry is typical of many small businesses that are the backbone of America's economy."
J. Al Pond, PE
CEO
Pond & Co.
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2001, 2002, 2009, 2011
What is the MOST important quality you look for in a new hire?
"Two things: the skills to do the job technically, and character (integrity and ability to work well in a team environment). We can train and develop our staff, but cannot teach character."
J. Al Pond, PE
CEO
Pond & Co.
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2001, 2002, 2009, 2011
What business leader (in or out of the A/E world) do you admire most and why?
"Warren Buffett. Under his leadership, Berkshire Hathaway has outperformed its peers significantly and consistently for 45 years. They have an incredible track record in the financial services industry. Their philosophy is to buy or invest in quality companies, allow them to flourish and do not micro manage the individual company management teams."
J. Al Pond, PE
CEO
Pond & Co.
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2001, 2002, 2009, 2011
What is one thing you have to do/deal with (since you became firm leader) that you didn’t anticipate?
"Dealing with interpersonal conflicts at senior staff levels where firm and individual priorities will sometimes conflict. We try to create an environment where individual success is linked to firm success; but this is not always simple."
J. Al Pond, PE
CEO
Pond & Co.
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2001, 2002, 2009, 2011
What is the most challenging thing you have done outside your job?
"Probably balancing family time with commitments at work in my earlier career. I believe you have to be willing to devote 110 % plus in most businesses to be successful, and our industry is no different."
Sam Hanna, RPLS
President
Surveying And Mapping, Inc. (SAM, Inc.)
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2006, 2007, 2011
How many new staff has your firm hired in the past 3 years?
"In 2009, we employed 116 people. We currently have over 375 employees on staff."
Sam Hanna, RPLS
President
Surveying And Mapping, Inc. (SAM, Inc.)
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2006, 2007, 2011
What do you like MOST about being a firm leader?
"That I don't have to get permission from anyone. I have an idea, and I go do it."
Sam Hanna, RPLS
President
Surveying And Mapping, Inc. (SAM, Inc.)
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2006, 2007, 2011
What is the MOST important quality you look for in a new hire?
"Experience and education are basic qualities for any hire. What I look for most is leadership and entrepreneurial drive."
Sam Hanna, RPLS
President
Surveying And Mapping, Inc. (SAM, Inc.)
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2006, 2007, 2011
What is the most challenging thing you have done outside your job?
"Outside of my job, I would have to say successfully raising five children, particularly navigating the difficulties of their teen years. I am very proud of my children. They all graduated from college, and are married and stable today."
William B. (Brock) Johnson
President
Garver
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2010, 2011
How many new staff has your firm hired in the past 3 years?
"Garver has hired 221 new staffers in the past 3 years. We are fortunate that we have been able to grow through tough economic times."
William B. (Brock) Johnson
President
Garver
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2010, 2011
What do you like MOST about being a firm leader?
"I LOVE to see the plans that we have been working to execute for a long time get traction, and be successful. At Garver, we laid the foundation for the success we have, with the construction of a new culture, creation of the business infrastructure we needed to support growth, and company wide campaigns for growth. I have been fortunate to have growing Garver as the focus of my work for the last 15 years."
William B. (Brock) Johnson
President
Garver
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2010, 2011
What is the MOST important quality you look for in a new hire?
"Blue Chip education and experience are required of our new hires. I love to see new hires that demonstrate an understanding of our business model, and that have the social and networking skills to lead Garver teams and win the confidence of our clients."
William B. (Brock) Johnson
President
Garver
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2010, 2011
What is the most challenging thing you have done outside your job?
"I have had great support from my family (wife of 30 years, and 3 daughters) during my nearly 40 years at Garver. Just like everyone else, my family has faced challenges over that time. During the times my family faced those challenges, I had no problem with work-life balance, and I had fantastic support from my Garver family while I put my family first. I found that my greatest challenge to finding the correct balance to time I spent at Garver, and time I spent with my family, was during normal" times."
William B. (Brock) Johnson
President
Garver
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2010, 2011
What business leader (in or out of the A/E world) do you admire most and why?
"Sam Walton. It just amazes me that he was able to accomplish what he did in one lifetime."
William B. (Brock) Johnson
President
Garver
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2010, 2011
What is one thing you have to do/deal with (since you became firm leader) that you didn’t anticipate?
"One reason I became an engineer was that I had few social skills, and I thought it would be really great to have my success depend on what I knew and how I could apply it. I soon realized that I wanted to lead my aviation team, and then all of Garver, so I kind of reluctantly began to develop leadership skills. By the time I led Garver I fully understood how important it was to build a culture that inspired people to work together to achieve a common goal. Garver's greatest successes have been accomplished when we were most successful at communicating our Goals to our staff."
Sam Schwartz, PE
President, CEO, and Founder
Sam Schwartz Engineering
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2003, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011
What is one thing you have to do/deal with (since you became firm leader) that you didn’t anticipate?
"Trying to collect money from a myriad agencies that each have distinct and arcane rules on how to submit an invoice."
Sam Schwartz, PE
President, CEO, and Founder
Sam Schwartz Engineering
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2003, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011
What do you like MOST about being a firm leader?
"I like people. I love my staff. I enjoy generating business for them and their families. We have a wall of SSE babies, i.e. employees' children, nieces, nephews etc. I sometimes stare at the photo display and get this warm feeling that collectively, and me as CEO, are responsible in part for their welfare."
Sam Schwartz, PE
President, CEO, and Founder
Sam Schwartz Engineering
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2003, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011
What is the MOST important quality you look for in a new hire?
"energy, articulateness and passion"
Sam Schwartz, PE
President, CEO, and Founder
Sam Schwartz Engineering
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2003, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011
What is the most challenging thing you have done outside your job?
"Over the years my wife and I have taken in a half-dozen children in need. Some have thrived, but sadly not all."
Sam Schwartz, PE
President, CEO, and Founder
Sam Schwartz Engineering
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2003, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011
What business leader (in or out of the A/E world) do you admire most and why?
"Mike Bloomberg. I met Mike when he was CEO of Bloomberg, Inc. He was already a billionaire but would pitch in and do whatever was necessary. His office building was immaculate. One day, we were in his lobby on way to breakfast and he saw a speck of paper about 1 inch square. He bent down to pick it up and threw it in the garbage without breaking stride. My feeling is that if a billionaire can pick up garbage I, as CEO, should be willing to do the same and I've done so many times, figuratively and literally, since that day."
Connie S. Cook
President & CEO
EMR, Inc.
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2009, 2011
How many new staff has your firm hired in the past 3 years?
"The total is 171 plus an additional 218 hired to work on the Gulf Oil Spill for a Grand Total of 389."
Connie S. Cook
President & CEO
EMR, Inc.
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2009, 2011
What do you like MOST about being a firm leader?
"The thing I like most about being a firm leader is mentoring our mid-level staff and watching them grow and expand their careers."
Connie S. Cook
President & CEO
EMR, Inc.
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2009, 2011
What is the MOST important quality you look for in a new hire?
"The most important quality I look for in a new hire is personal integrity and high quality character."
Connie S. Cook
President & CEO
EMR, Inc.
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2009, 2011
What is the most challenging thing you have done outside your job?
"The most challenging thing I have done outside my job is complete a 100 mile bicycle race."
Connie S. Cook
President & CEO
EMR, Inc.
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2009, 2011
What business leader (in or out of the A/E world) do you admire most and why?
"I admire my mentor, Ray Pitman, who defines the role of entrepreneur. In his 50+ year business career he started 14 successful businesses. He was innovative, technically excellent, and treated his employees as he would wish to be treated himself. He continues, at age 86, to give back to current business leaders as part of the Helzberg Entrepreneurial Mentoring Program."
Connie S. Cook
President & CEO
EMR, Inc.
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2009, 2011
What is one thing you have to do/deal with (since you became firm leader) that you didn’t anticipate?
"As a firm leader I did not anticipate having to deal with the challenges of rising health care costs."
Phillip G. Coop
President & CEO
EnSafe, Inc.
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2011
How many new staff has your firm hired in the past 3 years?
"About 20 net (10% increase) expecting twice that in 2010."
Phillip G. Coop
President & CEO
EnSafe, Inc.
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2011
What do you like MOST about being a firm leader?
"Working in teams with our staff in client problem solving."
Phillip G. Coop
President & CEO
EnSafe, Inc.
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2011
What is the MOST important quality you look for in a new hire?
"Fit with our culture and intelligence, then experience, the more the better."
Phillip G. Coop
President & CEO
EnSafe, Inc.
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2011
What is the most challenging thing you have done outside your job?
"You mean more challenging than walking away from a great job and starting a new company with no clients, no money and no prospects?????"
Phillip G. Coop
President & CEO
EnSafe, Inc.
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2011
What business leader (in or out of the A/E world) do you admire most and why?
"My partner-- now retired--James Speakman, Ph.D, one of the first Ph.D environmental engineers in the nation and a bright, innovative thinker."
Phillip G. Coop
President & CEO
EnSafe, Inc.
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2011
What is one thing you have to do/deal with (since you became firm leader) that you didn’t anticipate?
"Personnel problems especially the weird ones…makes hiring people who fit with our company culture even more important."
Ramesh Gunda, P.E., PTOE
President
Gunda Corporation
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2009, 2010, 2011
What do you like MOST about being a firm leader?
"I enjoy the satisfaction of being able to help my clients achieve their goals and solve their problems. I also enjoy giving opportunities for our staff to grow professionally and technically, which allows us to better serve the changing needs of our clients and the industry."
Ramesh Gunda, P.E., PTOE
President
Gunda Corporation
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2009, 2010, 2011
What is the MOST important quality you look for in a new hire?
"Willingness to learn. I want to hire staff that are always willing to explore new ideas and try difference things that can lead to innovative and more efficient outcomes."
Ramesh Gunda, P.E., PTOE
President
Gunda Corporation
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2009, 2010, 2011
What is the most challenging thing you have done outside your job?
"One of the most challenging things I have done outside of my job was that I learned, practiced and passed my driver's license exam the day before starting my first traffic engineering job."
Ramesh Gunda, P.E., PTOE
President
Gunda Corporation
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2009, 2010, 2011
What business leader (in or out of the A/E world) do you admire most and why?
"The business leader I admire the most is Warren Buffet for his uncommon practice of common sense."
Ramesh Gunda, P.E., PTOE
President
Gunda Corporation
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2009, 2010, 2011
What is one thing you have to do/deal with (since you became firm leader) that you didn’t anticipate?
"I did not anticipate rapid changes in governmental rules and regulations that impact how I run the firm. There is more red tape than I expected which sometimes restricts innovation and creativity."
William A. Brizee, AIA, CSI, CDP, CCCA, LEED AP
President & CEO
Architects Hawaii Ltd.
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2007, 2010, 2011
What do you like MOST about being a firm leader?
"Continuing the legacy of the firm's previous leaders in positioning Architects Hawaii as the top firm in Hawaii. Last year we were named the Architect Firm of the Year award by NAIOP and I received this award with three of the four past presidents in the 65 year history of the firm. All are still active members on the Board - founding President Cy Lemon passed away some time ago."
William A. Brizee, AIA, CSI, CDP, CCCA, LEED AP
President & CEO
Architects Hawaii Ltd.
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2007, 2010, 2011
What is the MOST important quality you look for in a new hire?
"Experience and Values; values being the more important quality in a new hire. The new hire must have the same values as the firm because all of the experience in the world will not overcome apposing or conflicting values and goals."
William A. Brizee, AIA, CSI, CDP, CCCA, LEED AP
President & CEO
Architects Hawaii Ltd.
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2007, 2010, 2011
What is the most challenging thing you have done outside your job?
"The Rotary Club of Honolulu which I belong to does humanitarian service projects in the Philippines. I have gone for three years now and have helped construct a training center (metal works) for Child and Family Services of the Philippines, a medical clinic for the Bohol Deaf Academy & International Deaf Education Association and re-constructed and re-furbished an elementary school in the impoverished community of Sagada. This is challenging for one who spends most of their time in an air- conditioned office and is very hard work - physical labor on a construction site - especially for someone my age. That said, it is the most rewarding thing I do all year long and I am already looking forward to next year's trip."
William A. Brizee, AIA, CSI, CDP, CCCA, LEED AP
President & CEO
Architects Hawaii Ltd.
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2007, 2010, 2011
What business leader (in or out of the A/E world) do you admire most and why?
"Howard Behar, former President Starbucks International; Howard's book It Is Not About The Coffee" exemplifies it is NOT about what you do but who you are that is the key to success in both your business as well as your personal life. Not only will putting people first get you through the hard times, when times are tough, but it can make a powerful difference in turning a start up coffee company from Seattle into one of the most successful and admired companies in the world."
William A. Brizee, AIA, CSI, CDP, CCCA, LEED AP
President & CEO
Architects Hawaii Ltd.
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2007, 2010, 2011
What is one thing you have to do/deal with (since you became firm leader) that you didn’t anticipate?
"The legal issues..."
Ralph S. Baker, Ph.D.
Chairman and Chief Scientist
TerraTherm, Inc.
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2011
How many new staff has your firm hired in the past 3 years?
"35, representing a staff increase over those three years of over 200%. We attribute this to the widespread acceptance of the effectiveness of our proprietary cleanup technologies, which use heat to remediate contaminated soil rapidly, and without excavation. We are a leader in this growing field, providing services to Fortune 500 companies and governmental clients. Since we also utilize numerous suppliers and subcontractors, the total impact of our growth on job creation has been several times larger than our staff growth, and the prospects for future growth are bright."
Ralph S. Baker, Ph.D.
Chairman and Chief Scientist
TerraTherm, Inc.
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2011
What do you like MOST about being a firm leader?
"Having the ability to make a direct contribution to the development, organizational culture and growth of the company. As a co-founder, and CEO for the first decade of our firm's life, I was able to have a hand in every major decision during the formative years. Now with a great group of professionals guiding the various parts of the company, it's a real pleasure as Chairman to step back a bit while seeing what I started grow to such an extent."
Ralph S. Baker, Ph.D.
Chairman and Chief Scientist
TerraTherm, Inc.
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2011
What is the MOST important quality you look for in a new hire?
"Experience is always the first consideration, but we look at many qualities including references and what our particular needs are."
Ralph S. Baker, Ph.D.
Chairman and Chief Scientist
TerraTherm, Inc.
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2011
What is the most challenging thing you have done outside your job?
"Put my kids through college, at a time when our finances were strained and available aid was not forthcoming."
Ralph S. Baker, Ph.D.
Chairman and Chief Scientist
TerraTherm, Inc.
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2011
What business leader (in or out of the A/E world) do you admire most and why?
"Steve Jobs - who co-founded, and later saved Apple from demise, only later to propel it into one of the most successful companies in the world through his creative vision, leadership, and marketing savvy. Disclosure: my son works there (and loves it!)"
Ralph S. Baker, Ph.D.
Chairman and Chief Scientist
TerraTherm, Inc.
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2011
What is one thing you have to do/deal with (since you became firm leader) that you didn’t anticipate?
"Having to get up and drive down to the office in the middle of the night in response to occasional security alarm calls (thankfully not too often)."
Ken Koornneef, P.E.
President
Nobis Engineering, Inc.
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2011
What do you like MOST about being a firm leader?
"I enjoy working with other people to collectively achieve success. That success can be winning new work, or completing a complicated project, dealing with a difficult situation, or creating change in the organization."
Ken Koornneef, P.E.
President
Nobis Engineering, Inc.
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2011
What is the MOST important quality you look for in a new hire?
"Assuming a prospective hire has the required experience and skills to do the job, we look to make sure we hire for cultural fit."
Ken Koornneef, P.E.
President
Nobis Engineering, Inc.
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2011
What is the most challenging thing you have done outside your job?
"The most challenging thing, which is still in process, I have done outside my job would have to be raising 3 kids. A personal very difficult challenge was to complete in a 64 mile, 8,000 vertical feet of climbing, 11-hour mountain bike race at age 41."
Ken Koornneef, P.E.
President
Nobis Engineering, Inc.
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2011
What business leader (in or out of the A/E world) do you admire most and why?
"I don't have any one business leader that I admire, but I do admire business leaders who are successful but remain humble and calm in virtually all circumstances. They strive to serve the organizations they represent and lead by that example."
Ken Koornneef, P.E.
President
Nobis Engineering, Inc.
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2011
What is one thing you have to do/deal with (since you became firm leader) that you didn’t anticipate?
"I did not anticipate how much time and effort was required to deal with the all the legal and HR related issues that are unavoidable with a firm of and significant size."
Michael R. Hinton
President
Bernardin, Lochmueller and Associates, Inc.
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2011
How many new staff has your firm hired in the past 3 years?
"We have added approximately 40 people in the last 3 years, growing from 140 to 180 since 2008. Our growth over the last 5 years is approximately 65 people."
Michael R. Hinton
President
Bernardin, Lochmueller and Associates, Inc.
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2011
What do you like MOST about being a firm leader?
"The great thing about being a leader in this firm is the creative opportunity which exists to be involved in diverse and worthwhile projects which directly impact upon the quality of life for residents in the markets we serve. The rewards are very tangible."
Michael R. Hinton
President
Bernardin, Lochmueller and Associates, Inc.
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2011
What is the MOST important quality you look for in a new hire?
"The most important quality in a new hire varies to some degree according to their role. Nevertheless, I would place a great emphasis upon experience in the industry since that is not my long suit. Additionally, we look for someone with a demonstrated proclivity to work collaboratively with other team members, even across disciplines."
Michael R. Hinton
President
Bernardin, Lochmueller and Associates, Inc.
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2011
What is the most challenging thing you have done outside your job?
"I am vice chairman of the board of directors for our local Catholic Hospital that is part of a giant national health care system. About 7 years ago, I successfully them to hire a CEO who-- although highly qualified--lacked a masters degree. . I appealed all the way to the board of the system to have them reconsider, arguing that his 30+ years of experience in our system more than made up for his lack of a masters degree. My requests were denied twice, but I appealed again because I felt so strongly that it was the right thing to do. It was a time consuming and frustrating task. It would have been easy, BUT WRONG, to have given up."
Michael R. Hinton
President
Bernardin, Lochmueller and Associates, Inc.
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2011
What business leader (in or out of the A/E world) do you admire most and why?
"I probably most admire Steve Jobs. He truly created the greatest business success story of our time from nothing. He faced seemingly insurmountable odds as he faced off against IBM in a market that they totally dominated. Through his creative and innovative leadership, Apple not only successfully competed with IBM, but captured the personal computer side of the market to such a degree, that IBM virtually conceded that business to them. More remarkably, Jobs has led Apple through decades of market leadership through continuous product innovation and marketing."
Michael R. Hinton
President
Bernardin, Lochmueller and Associates, Inc.
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2011
What is one thing you have to do/deal with (since you became firm leader) that you didn’t anticipate?
"We do a lot of work for local governments (cities and counties). I underestimated the level of political support on both sides of the aisle which was needed to build and maintain relationships. We work hard to avoid local situations which make contributions a requirement for getting work, but it's just a fact that those elected officials are going feel closer and more trusting of those individuals and firms who support their election efforts."
Arthur Mabbett
President
Mabbet t & Associates, Inc.
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2009, 2010, 2011
What do you like MOST about being a firm leader?
"I truly enjoy interfacing with all our staff, providing guidance and assistance and to see them grow professionally and succeed. I enjoy being a mentor."
Arthur Mabbett
President
Mabbet t & Associates, Inc.
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2009, 2010, 2011
What is the MOST important quality you look for in a new hire?
"A strong work ethic, desire to succeed, and leadership attributes are the primary qualities we look for in new members of the firm."
Arthur Mabbett
President
Mabbet t & Associates, Inc.
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2009, 2010, 2011
What business leader (in or out of the A/E world) do you admire most and why?
"President Theodore Roosevelt because he was a hard working, progressive and most talented individual, and didn't take no for an answer. He established specific goals and objectives and worked diligently to succeed in spite of much adversity."
Arthur Mabbett
President
Mabbet t & Associates, Inc.
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2009, 2010, 2011
What is one thing you have to do/deal with (since you became firm leader) that you didn’t anticipate?
"As a leader/mentor, it's difficult to sometimes accept the fact that certain individuals do not gladly accept the opportunities and support provided to assist them to grow and succeed. Some don't even want the challenge and walk away or may change their mind when the going gets tough."
Hugo Blasutta
CEO
MMM Group
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2011
What do you like MOST about being a firm leader?
"The challenge of understanding what motivates each and every member of the MMM team and then creating the environment that helps us succeed individually and collectively."
Hugo Blasutta
CEO
MMM Group
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2011
What is the MOST important quality you look for in a new hire?
"Generosity"
Hugo Blasutta
CEO
MMM Group
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2011
What business leader (in or out of the A/E world) do you admire most and why?
"Steve Jobs for his vision and building of a compelling brand."
Hugo Blasutta
CEO
MMM Group
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2011
What is one thing you have to do/deal with (since you became firm leader) that you didn’t anticipate?
"My colleagues and business associates that give me a hard time for driving a MINI !!!!"
Hugo Blasutta
CEO
MMM Group
The Zweig Letter Hot Firm Winner 2011
How many new staff has your firm hired in the past 3 years?
"1,335"
