Dedication to our craft propels us forward

Showcasing the knowledge, skill and experience of RMF’s technical staff is at the core of what drives Kyle and his work. He has honed his creative marketing skills over a 10-year career working for all variety of firms in the AEC industry, and he uses them to create digital and print media and marketing collateral that effectively communicates, engages and inspires.

Kyle joined RMF in the Spring of 2020 as a Marketing Coordinator and has gradually grown into his role as Southeast Marketing Team Lead / Creative Manager. He leads a team of marketing coordinators in the coordination, design and layout of RMF’s marketing materials for the Southeast.

Kyle earned a Bachelor of Science in Communications and Journalism from Appalachian State University.

Kyra joined RMF’s Baltimore office in the fall of 2020 as Marketing Team Lead for the Northeast region. She has spent the last 10 years working in various sectors of the AEC / Federal industry. She quickly established a reputation for leadership and is now the Northeast Marketing Manager.

Kyra plays a pivotal role in developing and overseeing strategic marketing initiatives, focuses on mentoring the Northeast marketing staff, and works with RMF leaders to reach corporate goals, manage the process of creating customized proposals and interviews for competitive pursuits and prioritizing the needs of our clients.

Kyra earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration from Towson University.

John Hovermale joined RMF in 1993 and leads and supports the Baltimore Structural Department. He has been the contract manager for work at the Architect of the Capitol since 2007 where he has provided designs, studies and general consultation to maintain their vast infrastructure. With 43 years of design experience, John’s expertise is in utility tunnel design and rehabilitation as well as façade restoration. He also specializes in structural design for industrial plants and healthcare facilities. John has familiarity with engineering and architectural systems outside of his own structural discipline and adds value to the entire design team in every stage of a project.

John is a licensed professional engineer in several states and holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Civil Engineering from University of Maryland College Park.

Andy Hay joined RMF in 2008 and now manages the Infrastructure Electrical team in the Northeast. His team focuses on planning, design, construction, start-up, and commissioning of medium and low voltage power systems to support central utility plants, combined heat and power facilities and electrical distribution systems for large campuses, including higher education, laboratory / research facilities, private corporations, and government installations. Andy has been responsible for high reliability electrical distribution, substations and generation systems in both new and renovated facilities for RMF’s clients throughout the US. He and his team also have experience performing power system studies including, protective device coordination, arc flash assessments, harmonic studies, and load flow analyses.

In addition to managing the team, Andy develops strategic plans for the team’s overall growth and development, oversees and ensures client satisfaction for all projects from conception to completion, and supports the design staff by providing guidance, quality assurance and hands-on project management.

Andy is a licensed professional engineer and holds Bachelor of Science and Master of Science degrees in Electrical Engineering from Alfred University. He is a Certified Commissioning Agent (CxA) and is a member of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE). Andy is also a member of the UL 1558 standards committee.

Andy Jones leads the Master Planning group at RMF, a position he has held since 2017. Since joining the firm in 1997, Andy has become an expert in energy master plans and studies. He has developed over 100 infrastructure utility master plans and energy audits for institutions across the country and parts of Canada. Andy has developed strategies for projects that maximize investment, efficiencies, and sustainability.

Master plans are typically the first project RMF has with new clients. Through the master planning process, RMF has cultivated and maintained long-term relationships. Some of these clients include Yale University, Harvard University, University of Georgia, Dartmouth College, and Ohio University.

Andy earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Maryland, Baltimore County. He is a licensed professional engineer and a Certified Energy Auditor by the Association of Energy Engineers.

Working alongside leadership at each of RMF’s eleven offices, Larson focuses on climate-driven and carbon reduction efforts across the firm’s utility and energy planning portfolio. Larson works with cross-disciplinary teams of energy master planners, building systems engineers, underground utility distribution engineers, and utility generation engineers to strengthen decarbonization strategies and implementation plans for clients across the country. She is also responsible for deepening RMF’s commitment to sustainability and identifying opportunities to further ingrain carbon reduction practices into the organization’s culture.

Larson is professionally and personally dedicated to fighting the climate crisis on all fronts and working to reduce carbon emissions as much as possible. She loves the problem-solving aspects of engineering combined with its ability to create a more resilient, clean energy future.

Larson comes to RMF following more than a decade as the Manager of Campus Energy and Sustainability at Carleton College, where she championed campus-wide climate action initiatives. At Carleton, she oversaw the installation of the institution’s second commercial-size wind turbine, development of the campus climate action plan and a campuswide transition from district steam heating to low temperature hot water tied to a geothermal heat pump system. Larson’s role was directly responsible for reducing the college’s carbon footprint by nearly 70% since 2008. Prior to Carleton, she worked in Chicago as an acoustical consultant with Kirkegaard Associates and an owner’s representative with the Rise Group where her project portfolio featured many prominent cultural and performing arts projects.

Bill joined RMF’s Baltimore Office in 2002. Prior to this, he worked for two design firms over the course of 17 years, focusing on healthcare, transportation and airports, central plants and utility infrastructure.

Bill leads a group in the Infrastructure Division that focuses on central utility plant design and campus utility distribution systems. They provide services from condition assessments and utility master planning, through design, construction, and start up assistance. The group has designed heating, cooling and combined heat/power systems for educational, government and institutional clients across the country.

On all engagements, Bill strives to ensure that the clients and all stakeholders in the design and construction process, walk away with the belief that RMF understands their issues, works proactively, delivers optimum solutions and makes the process beneficial to the entire team. The best way to accomplish this goal is with frequent, clear, and concise communication.

Bill has provided presentations to numerous professional industry organizations, including the International District Energy Association (IDEA). He is a registered professional engineer in several states and holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Maryland at College Park.

Jared Markle is a Principal with experience leading large electrical infrastructure upgrades to university, state, and research campuses and facilities. He joined the firm in 2011 and has been a leading member of the Baltimore Infrastructure team since this time. Jared has guided prime electrical projects for regional clients, as well as several nationally recognized higher education clients. His expertise has distinguished RMF as a trusted advisor for new campus medium voltage (MV) planning and design opportunities in the Mid-Atlantic and northeastern regions of the U.S.

Jared’s specialties include developing unique and creative project approaches and phasing plans to maintain reliable power for a variety of switchgear, generator, and campus distribution projects. He has designed electrical upgrades to campus-wide facilities including new automated switchgear and generator control systems, central energy plants, voltage upgrades, low voltage replacements, and controls retrofits.

Jared is a graduate of RMF’s Leadership Development Program and holds a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering from Penn State University. He has published many works for such publications as College Planning + Management and PurePower Magazine and has presented at notable forums such as the International District Energy Association’s Campus Energy Conference.

Mike joined RMF in 2001 as a Marketing Assistant. He came to the firm directly out of college, like several other longtime employees who found a home early at RMF. His attention to detail and drive to learn quickly allowed him to move up the ranks to Marketing Coordinator and eventually Marketing Manager. As Mike’s knowledge of the industry continued to grow, he began to focus solely on developing new business for RMF and its many partner organizations.

Today, Mike leads the Client Relations Team in the Southeast. He has a knack for developing relationships and provides invaluable knowledge and leadership to his team with regards to firm history, experience, and effectively communicating RMF’s differentiators. While his team covers business development efforts throughout several offices in the Carolinas, Georgia and Florida, his vast network of connections across the industry helps identify opportunities to grow the company’s business, identify leads for the architects and contractors RMF teams with, and put together winning growth strategies for each market the company serves.

Mike has been involved in several industry organizations during his tenure including the American Institute of Architects (AIA), APPA, the American Society for Health Care Engineering (ASHE) and the Society of American Military Engineers (SAME). He has also been sitting on the Society of Marketing Professional Services (SMPS) Palmetto, SC Chapter’s board, and leading the Programs Committee, for the last two years.

Mike holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration with a focus on Marketing and Management from Albany State University (SUNY Albany). He is a Certified Professional Services Marketer (CPSM) through SMPS.

Dave Mercer has been critical to the success of RMF’s Columbus, Ohio office where he has been working since November of 2011. Dave joined the firm as the first mechanical engineer in the newly established Ohio office and has subsequently been an incredible asset to the company, evolving in his leadership capabilities and responsibilities. He now leads the Division’s mechanical group and manages utility infrastructure projects in Ohio and the surrounding region, for such clients as The Ohio State University and Ohio University. His expertise and continued efforts continue to enhance the firm’s impact in the Midwest and beyond.

As a group leader, Dave is responsible for overseeing the mechanical design efforts in all projects related to the Division’s central utility plant and thermal utility distribution projects. His team also performs surveys and condition assessments of existing systems to determine remaining useful life of equipment, identify operational and safety issues, and recommend future upgrades and improvements. Additionally, he assists in directing daily operations of the Division by mentoring other team members and managing client relationships.

Dave holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering from the Ohio State University and is a licensed professional engineer in several states. He also graduated from RMF’s Management and Leadership Development Programs where he further enhanced his leadership acumen.

Prior to joining RMF, Mr. Mercer provided the evaluation, design, construction and commissioning of automated bulk material handling systems and pneumatic conveying equipment. In addition, he was responsible for field troubleshooting and designing improvements to existing systems, and training of operating personnel.

Avery Monroe, a partner with the firm, has been working as an engineer in the A/E industry for over 30 years. After joining RMF in 2001, he became a key leader in building a successful engineering team, which has worked with architects to design and renovate several million square feet of space throughout the Southeast, including all seventeen of the University of North Carolina system’s schools. In 2013, Avery moved to Charlotte to lead RMF’s newly opened branch office.

Avery’s career has focused on the design, analysis, and construction administration of HVAC, plumbing, and fire protection systems serving educational, healthcare, laboratory, military, and commercial facilities. His specialization in the design of higher education and healthcare facilities throughout his career has allowed him to offer clients innovative and highly informed expertise. In his role at RMF, Avery routinely utilizes sustainable design principles on facilities as well as documenting these principles in accordance with LEED and the state of North Carolina.

Avery earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering from Howard University in Washington, DC and a Master of Science in Management from North Carolina State University. He is a certified US Green Building Council LEED Accredited Professional (LEED AP) and an active member of the Charlotte Chamber of Commerce, the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE), American Society of Plumbing Engineers (ASPE), and the Construction Professionals Network of North Carolina.

Vance Nall joined the North Carolina office of RMF in 1998, where he honed his skills in designing and managing multi-disciplinary infrastructure projects with civil and mechanical systems including steam, hot water, chilled water, electric, telecommunications, storm drain, sanitary sewer, domestic water and gas distribution. His construction administration experience includes boiler and chiller installations, as well as utility distribution system installations, including walkable tunnels, trenches and direct buried systems.

After thirteen years in North Carolina, Vance relocated to Georgia in 2011 where he founded and now directs RMF’s Atlanta office operations. He leads a team of engineers specializing in the planning, design and commissioning of new and renovated buildings, as well utility infrastructure systems. Vance has spent his entire career with RMF, and his commitment to the firm and strategic guidance of the Atlanta office earned him a partner position in 2015.

Vance is a licensed professional engineer and holds a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from North Carolina State University. He is an active member of the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE), as well as the International District Energy Association (IDEA) where he currently serves on the editorial board for the organization’s quarterly publication. He has authored numerous technical papers and is a frequent public speaker whose engagements have included the Georgia Association of Physical Plant Administrators (GAPPA) and the IDEA Campus Energy Conference and Distribution Workshops.

Elizabeth Nolder is a Principal at the firm given her significant contributions to the company as a Project Manager and lead Civil Engineer for RMF’s higher education clients. In her role, Elizabeth designs and manages multi-discipline, campus-wide distribution projects throughout the east coast. She is a natural leader with an innate ability to effectively collaborate across engineering disciplines.

In addition to developing design drawings, Elizabeth leads interdisciplinary coordination efforts among civil, mechanical, and electrical engineers. She has spent her career focused on the design of underground utility distribution systems. This primarily includes steam, chilled water, and electrical power utilizing a variety of methods such as direct buried piping and conduits as well as concrete tunnels, trenches, and vaults. Daily, she works with her team to solve complex problems – especially where multiple conduits, pipes, and ducts compete for a very limited amount of physical space beneath city streets and sidewalks.

Elizabeth’s path at RMF began in 2008 as an intern student following her sophomore year at college. She started her full-time career as a member of RMF’s Baltimore Civil/Structural team in 2010 and quickly gained expertise and furthered her responsibilities from there on. Elizabeth is a graduate of RMF’s Leadership Development Program and holds a Bachelor of Science in Civil and Environmental Engineering from the University of Maryland. Elizabeth has shared her knowledge as a thought leader at such highly visible conferences as the International District Energy Association’s Campus Energy.

Duane Pinnix served as President and CEO of RMF from 1998 to 2018. Under Duane’s leadership, RMF evolved significantly. Initially focused solely on mechanical and electrical engineering, Duane helped steer RMF toward becoming nationally recognized for the analysis, planning, and design of multifaceted engineering projects serving higher education, healthcare, research and development, and government clients.

Duane joined the firm in 1984 as a project engineer. Now, as a principal of the firm with expertise in the design and commissioning of mechanical systems for infrastructure and building projects, Duane has a hands-on role with projects involving complex HVAC systems, including both new installations and phased renovations.

Duane holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering from The Johns Hopkins University Whiting School of Engineering. He is an active member of the Building Commissioning Association (BCxA); the AABC Commissioning Group (ACG); the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE); the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME); the Construction Specifications Institute (CSI); and the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES).

With 10 years of marketing experience within the AEC sector, Laura brings a wealth of knowledge to the firm. As the Marketing Manager for RMF’s Creative Production Team, Laura’s leadership skills, quick and innovative thinking, and ability to understand and solve challenges help RMF, and the firms we partner with, effectively communicate the value RMF brings to their projects. Laura’s team is responsible for all proactive and reactive marketing material for existing and potential clients including strategic proposal pursuits and project interview preparation. She also manages all the marketing communications efforts including public relations; social media content; graphic communications initiatives such as, in-house video content and photography; and various internal communications campaigns throughout each year.

Laura joined RMF in 2013 as a Marketing Coordinator in the Baltimore office. She then transferred to the growing Charleston, SC office a few years later where she quickly became comfortable in her new environment and found that mentorship, and soon after, leadership was where she could make the biggest impact.

Laura is passionate about setting her team up for success and finding emotional and intellectual ways to support each team member. She believes this starts with proper onboarding and training along with a positive work environment and effective communication. Laura aims to build and maintain a high-performing team where each uniquely valued individual can thrive and feel fulfilled in the quality work that the company produces.

Laura holds a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration with a concentration in International Business and a minor in Spanish from Towson University. Throughout her professional career, Laura has served as a committee member of the Society of Marketing Professional Services (SMPS) Maryland and a board member for SMPS Palmetto. She also serves as a board member for the Women in Healthcare – Charleston, SC chapter, and will serve as Communications Co-Chair.

Matthew joined RMF in 2008 coming from the Executive Office of the President. He brought with him a solid background in mission critical systems and processes, and a strong knowledge of cyber security. He began his career at RMF in a dual role as a help desk technician and a system administrator then, moved up the ranks to include the additional role of network engineer. Now, he serves as one of the company’s two IT Directors.

As IT Director, Matthew is responsible for managing the IT Team, which oversees all the computer, software, and network infrastructure resources at RMF. He is dedicated to maintaining a robust IT environment that keeps the firm’s systems and staff secure, productive, and agile while always engaged in investigating and implementing the best of the latest technology to maintain RMF’s advantage in the market. Matthew is proud of the high level of service his team provides to the firm and RMF’s clients.

Matthew earned his bachelor’s degree at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County and is a Microsoft Certified Professional and a Microsoft Certified System Administrator.

Jim Riches joined RMF in 1994 and is a manager in RMF’s Structural Department. He has over 26 years of experience specializing in central cooling and heating plant and design as well as structural assessments of parking garages and utility tunnels on various campuses. This unique niche has established him as one of the most experienced structural designers of campus utility plants, tunnels, vaults, and utility manholes in the country. Jim has enjoyed the collaboration and excitement of working with teams to create world-class utility generation and distribution systems that are easy to access, maintain, and expand in the future.

Jim is a licensed professional engineer and holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Civil and Architectural Engineering from Drexel University. He is a member of the American Concrete Institute and has authored technical articles as a subject matter expert on structural systems.

Matt joined RMF in 1995 and was involved in the installation and setup of RMF’s first computer network, while serving as both an electrical designer and the firm’s CAD Manager. His focus soon shifted full time to RMF’s computer systems, and he worked his way through the ranks as a help desk technician and network engineer. Now, he serves as one of the company’s two IT Directors.

As IT Director, Matt is ultimately responsible for all computer resources at RMF. He is constantly striving to strike a balance between continuity and ingenuity, driving the firm forward while expertly maintaining, and securing the firm’s existing computer infrastructure. He and his team provide a high-level of service to support a broad range of technologies in place at RMF.

Matt earned his bachelor’s degree in Business Technology Administration from University of Maryland, Baltimore County and is a Microsoft Certified Professional.

Brian is currently the Division Manager of RMF’s York, Pennsylvania Office. He has spent his entire career involved in steam systems and power plant engineering, inspection, operation, commissioning, reliability, and forensic analysis. He frequently presents at IDEA and ASME conferences and has published multiple technical articles and papers as a subject matter expert on power plant performance and reliability.

Brian earned a Bachelor of Science in Marine (Mechanical) Engineering from SUNY Maritime College and a Master of Science in Thermo-Fluid Mechanics from The Johns Hopkins University. He is a licensed professional engineer, a Certified Commissioning Authority (CxA), a Certified Energy Manager (CEM), and a LEED Accredited Professional (LEED AP). He is a Commissioned Boiler Inspector through the NBBI and holds a Maryland first grade stationary engineer (plant operator’s) license. He established and maintains RMF’s accreditation as an Authorized Inspection Agency for boilers and pressure vessels.

He has been appointed to and currently sits on both the Maryland Board of Boiler Rules and the Maryland Board of Stationary Engineers. He is very active in ASME and was elected onto the Executive Committee of the ASME Power Division. He vice-chairs the ASME RAP Committee on power plant performance and chairs the RAM Sub-Committee on power plant reliability, which has published three new standards under his leadership.

Barney York began his career by joining the small North Carolina office in 1999 where he began developing his skills in designing and managing complex building, and infrastructure projects. In 2006, he started to focus on the newly emerging commissioning industry and has not looked back. Under his leadership, what began with one commissioning employee in Raleigh, has grown to a dedicated team of 14 full time commissioning professionals located throughout the southeast with various expertise in engineering design, controls, testing and balancing, construction, and commissioning.

Barney maintains an active, hands-on approach in mentoring and developing the team. He remains actively engaged in commissioning and retro-commissioning complex new and existing buildings, boiler, and chiller plants. Barney is regularly on project sites meeting with the owner, end users, and installing contractors to ensure the functional operations of the building are met in an energy efficient and sustainable manner.

He believes RMF’s commissioning success can be attributed to the value the firm’s clients receive by being able to integrate RMF’s years of engineering expertise and principles into a team of field experienced professionals. This partnership allows RMF to develop and bring reliable, custom, and innovative solutions to the company’s clients, which help improve their bottom lines.

Barney earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Construction Engineering and Management from North Carolina State University and a Master of Business Administration from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. He is a licensed engineer and certified by the AABC Commissioning Group (ACG) as a Certified Commissioning Authority (CxA). He is an active ACG member and has published technical papers and is a frequent speaker whose engagements include the Building Commissioning Association (BCA), Association of Physical Plant Administrators (APPA), and the International District Energy Association (IDEA) Campus Energy Conference.

Don started his engineering career with RMF and the Baltimore Infrastructure Engineering Division in 1992. During his time in Baltimore his infrastructure experience included designing large utility infrastructure projects, including new and retrofitted central power plant projects and utility distribution systems for large government, institutional, and health care facilities. Don has provided piping and engineering design on many of RMF’s large central heating and cooling plant projects to date. These central plant projects include steam generation and distribution systems, hot water heating generation and distribution, chilled water generation and distribution, ice generation and storage systems, and power generation. He has performed design engineering as well as construction support on many complex projects.

In 2002 Don was offered an opportunity to move to Charleston, SC to provide engineering and production support at RMF’s second satellite office. While in Charleston, Don has provided design, engineering, and construction management for a wide variety of mechanical engineering projects for government, commercial, educational, and industrial clients. These projects include large central energy plants, aviation facilities, manufacturing process plants, kennels, various sports facilities, and steam and chilled water utility distribution.

In order to keep up with the constant evolution of CADD and BIM software development, Don has used the experience gained throughout his career to found the RMF BIM Committee in 2012. He is responsible for RMF’s BIM standards development and implementation. He continues to lead the BIM Committee to ensure that RMF is leveraging the most state of the art software to provide accurate and reliable construction documents for the company’s clients.

RMF’s resume is filled with a broad spectrum of HVAC engineering projects which is a direct result of its engineers’ hard work and dedication to client satisfaction and quality engineering. Given this array of experience and successful track record, Don, and the firm, can’t help but be excited about what opportunities the future projects will provide.

Don is a licensed professional engineer and certified by the Association of Energy Engineers as a Certified Energy Manager (CEM) He is also an active member of The American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE).

Jonathan joined RMF full-time in 2014 in the Raleigh, North Carolina office as a project engineer after spending 7 years working in design-build contracting in Atlanta, Georgia. Jonathan quickly became one of the primary resources for complex utility plant projects given his deep foundation in the construction industry and passion for engineering. He now leads the mechanical side of the utility infrastructure group supporting projects throughout the southeast.

As team leader, Jonathan directs daily operations, trains and mentors the mechanical team members in the company’s Raleigh, North Carolina and Atlanta, Georgia offices. Working with people and cultivating young, talented engineers from the ground up, are incredibly important to Jonathan. His mentorship and leadership practices have positively impacted the company by elevating retention rates and resulting in the onboarding of new hires who come directly from the firm’s robust corps of co-operative students. RMF’s three-semester long intensive co-op program model allows immediate integration into full-time employment.

In addition to team leadership, Jonathan is an accomplished project manager. His construction background makes him uniquely suited to understand the complexities of construction and he has a track record of effective design and construction projects in operating utility systems. Jonathan has successfully managed and designed boiler, chiller, thermal storage and central power generation systems in the higher education, manufacturing, healthcare, and R&D markets.

Jonathan received his Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering from the Georgia Institute of Technology. He also graduated from RMF’s internal Project Management training program as well as the Leadership Development Program, a rigorous two-year program designed to equip emerging industry leaders with the skills needed to lead at any level of RMF. Jonathan is a licensed professional engineer in North Carolina and Georgia, a Certified Energy Manager (CEM), and a U.S. Green Building Council LEED Accredited Professional (LEED AP).

Caroline joined RMF’s Boston office in the fall of 2019 as the Director of Client Relations for the Northeast region, after working at other construction, cost estimating, architectural and engineering firms in Boston.

As a structural engineer, Caroline brings a unique perspective to developing client relationships. Her technical background in delivering complex projects and passion for the importance of good design, are at the forefront of her efforts. Caroline focuses on connecting the full range of RMF’s services and expertise to clients at a national level. She always seeks to bring value and innovative thinking.

Caroline earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Civil Engineering, magna cum laude, from Tufts University and is a Registered Professional Engineer in New York and Massachusetts. She is active in several professional organizations including VP of the Boston Chapter of Professional Women in Construction, and Co-Chair of the Women Principals Group at the Boston Society for Architecture. Caroline also serves on the Design Advisory Committee in historic Lexington, MA.

Caroline has a deep knowledge of what adds value to projects, the unique skills RMF’s many resources bring to those challenges, and a clear understanding of the value that different architects and other firms RMF partners with bring as well. Since her network and knowledge of the industry is so vast, she is very skilled at identifying opportunities where the company can add great value to clients, connecting RMF with team members whose values and goals also align with the customer’s needs, and communicating to everyone why we RMF is the best match.

Richard Girard brings more than two decades of experience in consulting engineering to RMF. He was hired in January 2022 to further grow RMF’s healthcare sector work, given his high caliber of healthcare design expertise, client-focused approach, and superb ability to manage and mentor multidisciplinary teams. Rich currently serves as a Division Manager for RMF’s Baltimore Buildings team and is the Healthcare Practice Leader.

His intimate understanding of healthcare facilities has already proven beneficial in furthering RMF’s ability to master all aspects of healthcare engineering and design. Richard is skilled at identifying challenges and applying unique solutions to provide the best, most reliable outcomes for his clients.

He leads and supports a highly skilled engineering team focusing on providing comprehensive mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and energy systems engineering design services for technical projects. Rich’s experience includes all aspects of healthcare environments with work ranging from small scale projects to major renovations, ground-up construction, and planning for emergency preparedness. He is also seasoned in working for institutional, commercial and government clients.

Rich earned a Bachelor’s of Architectural Engineering degree with a mechanical emphasis from The Pennsylvania State University. He is a Professional Engineer, LEED Accredited Professional, Healthcare Facility Design Professional (HFDP), and an active member of the American Society for Healthcare Engineering (ASHE), Association of Medical Facility Professionals and the Baltimore Chapter of ASHRAE.

James Givens joined the firm in 1997 and now leads RMF’s Field Services division. As a Certified Commissioning Authority (CxA) and Energy Management Professional (EMP), James oversees a Field Services group whose responsibilities start at the conceptual design stage and end when the team has validated that a building’s complex mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems can provide a safe environment with the comfort, control, and efficiency that facility owners and operators expect. The Field Services division also provides Title II construction administration services, facility condition assessments, energy audits and retro-commissioning services.

James has over 20 years of practical experience providing building construction and commissioning services. He is routinely on project sites acting as a liaison for the owner, checking the functional operations of the building from a user’s point of view and keeping the owner’s vision alive from inception through completion.

James has served as the former treasurer of the Building Commissioning Association (BCA) and is currently on its Board of Directors. He has also organized and presented commissioning-focused seminars with the BCA. James is a member of the AABC Commissioning Group (ACG) as well.

Jacek Grabowski was strategically hired by RMF in January of 2022 to further establish the firm as a forerunner in the healthcare sector, particularly in the East Coast region. As a senior project manager and lead electrical engineer in Baltimore’s Buildings division, Jacek brings over two decades of healthcare expertise, working directly with clients and contractors to solve complex electrical problems.

Given Jacek’s breath of technical expertise, demonstrated client service, and overall knowledge of the healthcare market, he has proven to be an invaluable addition to the company. Jacek is adept at effectively training and leading multidisciplinary teams that deliver the very best hospitals and health sciences facilities. He excels in master planning, assessing aging facilities to replace their infrastructure, and coordinating site utilities.

Jacek is a Professional Engineer and LEED Accredited Professional. He is also active with IEEE for which he has taught classes since 2008. Jacek graduated from the University of Maryland, College Park in 1998 with a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering with a power engineering focus.

Conrad Hertz joined RMF as a Senior Project Manager and New England Operations Lead in 2020 and quickly elevated into the role of Division Manager for the firm’s Boston, Massachusetts office. Conrad has repeatedly proven to be a dynamic asset from his technical abilities and delivery of quality design solutions on complex projects, to his client focused approach and leadership skills. He has developed a reputation for navigating challenging and complex projects across a range of typologies – including science & technology, education, and corporate-commercial. Trained as a mechanical engineer, Conrad has experience in the design and analysis of HVAC and plumbing systems for buildings ranging in size up to 500,000 square feet and has a unique ability to integrate the holistic project goals with the mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems to deliver a quality design solution.

In his role as Division Manager, Conrad drives the strategic development and expansion of the growing New England team, and spearheads the prioritization of sustainability, decarbonization, and energy efficiency. He maintains the high level of design that RMF is known for and provides opportunities for growth by delivering superior services to address client needs and engineering challenges. In addition to steering his own multidisciplinary team, Conrad also works in partnership with engineering teams from RMF’s other office locations to strengthen the firm’s collaborative spirit and best-in-class talent offering in building and utility engineering services.

Conrad holds a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Vermont and a Master of Business Administration in International Business from Tufts University’s Fletcher School.

As President of RMF, Ken Pitz is responsible for the general oversight of the firm and executive management of its branch offices. Ken has served as COO and CFO and has been integral in helping formalize an understanding of how revenue flows into RMF, what business practices were most profitable, and how to optimize the firm’s future based on this data. Ken’s foresight to structure RMF’s specialty groups as separate business units positioned the firm to be successful in profitability, staff education and development, and financial efficiency.

Ken is a seasoned engineer who continues to take a hands-on role with major RMF projects. With expertise in comparative analysis and evaluation of large-scale system concepts, he continues to provide direction to the company’s infrastructure group.

Ken also enjoys the challenge of developing new business opportunities for the firm. Through new business, Ken applies his high level of market understanding, knowledge of client needs, the continuing development of new services, and great enthusiasm for opportunities. He is committed to RMF’s continued success by building on what the firm can become, rather than what the firm is today.

Ken joined RMF as a project engineer in 1989 and brought with him a business savvy and a set of ideas earned from spending seven years in a well-run heating and air conditioning distributorship. RMF was able to successfully apply some of this experience to improve its business practices. Ken’s early success on some of RMF’s large projects, earned him a promotion to the upper management team in 1998.

Ken holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering from Drexel University.

Tim Griffin joined RMF in 1998 as a project engineer. He was also charged with helping to grow the firm’s office in Durham, North Carolina, in addition to his project duties. Later, Tim was chosen to lead the office and assist with expanding its presence in the state of North Carolina. Today, Tim serves as the firm’s Executive Vice President.

Prior to joining RMF, Tim worked with a few mechanical, electrical, and plumbing contracting and consulting firms. He is the author of the book Winning with Millennials: Attracting, Retaining and Empowering the Next Generation of Design Firm Professionals.

In addition to managing the Raleigh office, Tim has developed significant expertise in applying district energy to the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) guidelines. He acts as a liaison between the International District Energy Association (IDEA) and the USGBC and has served on the USGBC’s Energy and Atmosphere Technical Advisory Committee’s District Energy Workgroup.

Tim holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering from North Carolina State University and a Master of Business Administration from Colorado State University. He sits on the board of directors of IDEA and writes a monthly column for District Energy magazine. He holds many certifications, including Certified Energy Manager (CEM), LEED Accredited Professional (LEED AP), and Certified Building Commissioning Professional (CBCP).

Dave Crutchfield serves as RMF’s Vice President and Corporate Secretary and oversees RMF’s offices in Charleston, South Carolina; Atlanta, Georgia; and Boston, Massachusetts. A seasoned engineer with expertise in the design of research laboratories, he joined the firm in 1993 as a Project Engineer in RMF’s Buildings Division. He was promoted over time through various positions and was offered the opportunity to relocate to Charleston in 2002 to lead the production and growth of the new satellite office.

The challenge of helping RMF expand its southeastern footprint was one Dave eagerly accepted, growing the office from two to 30 employees. The office regularly produces award-winning work that is recognized for the firm’s use of innovative technologies, sustainable and energy-efficient design, and innovative building design. The work produced from the office varies from high-tech laboratory research facilities, new and renovated hospital facilities, and state / local government facilities.

As Vice President of the firm, Dave takes a hands-on approach with key projects to ensure exceptional work is produced from the Charleston, Atlanta, and Boston offices. Dave continues to practice engineering with his talented Project Managers and design staff.

Dave earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering from the Catholic University of America in Washington, DC. He is a frequent public speaker whose engagements have included the American Institute of Architects (AIA), the International District Energy Association (IDEA) and Labs21. Furthermore, he is an active member of the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE), the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME), the American Society of Plumbing Engineers (ASPE), the International Society for Professional Engineers (ISPE), and the Society for American Military Engineers (SAME). He is also a LEED Accredited Professional (LEED AP).

Rick Borkowicz is the manager of RMF’s Infrastructure Engineering Division and serves as the firm’s Treasurer. His team is responsible for planning, design, construction, start-up, and commissioning of central utility plants, combined heat and power facilities, and electrical substations for large campuses, including higher education, laboratory / research facilities, private corporations, and government installations. In addition to managing the division, Rick takes a hands-on approach to day to day activities including design, field investigation, start-up support, and customer relations.

His team performs utility plant condition assessments that consist of evaluating the remaining useful life of plant equipment, and operational reviews for process system and control system evaluations, as well as traditional design activities. The results of the condition assessments are summarized into a comprehensive report that is utilized by our clients to plan future plant upgrades and improvements. Rick continues to lead numerous condition assessment projects for the firm.

Rick joined RMF in 1994 with previous work experience in power generation and environmental engineering fields. During his tenure in the power generation industry, he had the opportunity to work on power plants ranging in size from 20 MW to over 1,000 MW. He holds two U.S. patents for low emission gas turbine combustion technology.

Rick holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Maryland College Park and a Master of Engineering degree from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. He is a member of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) and has given public presentations at the International District Energy Association (IDEA) and the New York State Office of General Services.

John Williamson joined RMF in 1995 as a project engineer and now serves on the firm’s board of directors. He quickly demonstrated a passion for and ability to take on the most complex and challenging campus underground utility distribution projects in the country and has dedicated his career to that focus. Today, he is one of the country’s leading experts in this niche sector having been responsible, over the last 25 years, for the installation of hundreds of miles of underground thermal piping (steam and condensate, hot water, and chilled water) and electrical power transmission using direct bury, walk through tunnel, and shallow trench techniques. He is a subject matter expert in the application of, “Trenchless Technologies,” for the discreet installation of underground utilities using micro-tunneling, augering, jack and bore, and directional drilling techniques. He has successfully utilized the newest materials available - HDPE and HDPE RT piping as well as thin wall EN253 piping - for the distribution of thousands of linear feet of hot and chilled water piping at multiple campuses.

John serves as RMF’s practice area leader for Civil Engineering, leads the Civil / Structural Engineering Department in RMF’s Baltimore office, and has trained a countless number of highly capable engineers. His career development has continued to prosper, and in 2018 he became a member of the board of directors at RMF where his valuable input on technology is essential to the firm’s production efficiency.

John is a licensed professional engineer and holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Civil and Environmental Engineering from Clarkson University. He has received national recognition as a leader in, “Trenchless Tunneling for Campus Utilities,” and has written and presented this methodology for organizations such as APPA and the International District Energy Association (IDEA).

Greg Carnathan knew that RMF was an engineering firm ripe with growth opportunity when he joined the North Carolina office’s nine-person team in 1999. Today, Greg leads the North Carolina Infrastructure Design team which includes more than 20 engineering staff with industry-leading expertise in central heating and cooling design, underground thermal utility distribution, and medium voltage power systems. He also serves on the firm’s board of directors and facilitates the internal project management training program.

Greg has a hands-on approach with his team and is actively engaged in chiller plant, boiler plant, combined heat and power, and thermal utility distribution projects. His responsibilities include planning, developing strategic engineering solutions, quality control, and managing projects. In addition, he is a regular speaker and author for organizations including the International District Energy Association (IDEA), APPA and HPAC Engineering. Greg’s passion for excellence in engineering and project management leadership has led to the addition of many loyal clients across the nation.

Greg believes growth and continued success for RMF in the Southeast is a result of strong leadership, emphasis on quality technical solutions and a laser-like focus on client service.

He is a licensed professional engineer with a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering from Messiah College. Greg is certified by the Association of Energy Engineers as a Certified Energy Manager (CEM) and the U.S. Green Building Council as a Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design Accredited Professional (LEED AP).

Vince Jarrett joined RMF in 2014 as the division manager for the Columbus, Ohio office where he is responsible for managing a multi-disciplinary team that provides civil, mechanical and electrical engineering; commissioning; and utility distribution capabilities to the firm’s Ohio-based clients. Vince is responsible for directing all civil/site engineering design and construction administration projects, along with overseeing the team’s ongoing projects and regional growth.

As division manager, Vince provides team leadership and directs the daily operations for RMF’s Ohio office, develops strategic plans for the office’s overall growth, oversees and ensures client satisfaction is being met for all projects from conception to completion, implements project contractual requirements, plays the lead role in the Ohio division’s marketing and business development and supports the design staff by proving guidance, quality assurance and hands-on project management. With over 20 years of experience in engineering design, Vince brings a wealth of experience in every aspect of a project from inception to closeout and warranty.

Vince is a licensed professional engineer with a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from The Ohio State University.

Bob Smith leads RMF’s new business development efforts; a role he took on in 1991 after training side-by-side with one of RMF’s original co-founders. Bob enjoys the competition that comes with new business development and works tirelessly to ensure his team’s efforts are at least six months ahead of RMF’s in-house project production schedule.

New markets and opportunities can suddenly appear, almost overnight, driven by legislation, new areas of specialization, and a greater emphasis on technology, BIM, and sustainability. Bob’s team specializes in quickly identifying these opportunities and capitalizing on them to solve the clients’ emerging needs.

Bob joined RMF in 1983 while in college and worked his way from the ground up. He began as an intern on semester breaks doing everything from running errands to making blueprints. He quickly progressed into project engineering and project management.

Bob considers RMF’s growth from a three-person mechanical and electrical engineering company to a 280-employee firm that designs highly specialized utility systems and buildings for some of the country’s most prestigious colleges and universities to be an amazing progression. He knows that the firm has the right combination of experience, commitment to market understanding, and solution orientation, to help it thrive in decades to come.

Bob recently served as Chairman of the International District Energy Association (IDEA) and is an active member of the Society of American Military Engineers (SAME). He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Delaware.

Sandra started her career with RMF in 1999 as an accounting data entry clerk, manually entering handwritten timesheet information into a database. Her passion for providing creative and unique accounting and human resource solutions has allowed her to move up the ranks of RMF. She continually masters new skills in leading corporate functions for a rapidly growing organization. Today, Sandra manages both the Accounting and Human Resources departments and is the organization’s Controller.

Sandra is a reliable and key part of RMF’s growth from a small to mid-size organization, and she has led the development of critical corporate resources. Sandra has grown with the firm and has been a consistent contributor to the firm’s success for over twenty years.

Sandra holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting from the University of Maryland, a dual Master’s degree in Accounting and Financial Management from University of Maryland University College Park, and a Master’s certificate in Human Resources also from University of Maryland University College Park. Sandra is a member of the Society of Human Resources (SHRM) and the Chesapeake Human Resources Association (CHRA).

Vince Basilio is a Mechanical Engineer with over 27 years of experience managing large steam and heating projects for the RMF Baltimore Infrastructure Department. Early on in his career, he determined to learn everything there was about steam and condensate systems and today is considered one of the country’s leading experts in those systems. Vince specializes in planning, design, and construction administration for central thermal generation and distribution systems primarily for steam and hot water. Vince’s technical expertise focuses on custom engineering. His team creates as-builts prior to starting anything else and takes the time on-site to see what will work for these clients. He stands behind, “one design does not fit all,” and making sure that each system is designed safely. Vince believes in constant communication and documentation throughout the process. He has authored several technical articles as a subject matter expert on steam generation and distribution systems.

Some of Vince’s successes have included providing a one-of-a-kind thermal waste processing plant for the USDA, providing a cogeneration system for a world-renowned university, and making distribution systems more efficient and safer.

Vince is a licensed professional engineer and holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Delaware. He is certified by the Association of Energy Engineers as a Certified Energy Manager (CEM), a Certified Green Building Engineer (CGBE), Maryland State Commissioned Special Inspectors (MD-CSI) and a National Board of Boiler and Pressure Vessels Inspector.

Matthew Boatwright is a Principal and civil engineer with experience in the design of civil utilities and a solid knowledge of electrical, steam and chilled water distribution systems. He began his career at RMF in 2009 as a co-operative student and has been a crucial member of RMF’s Raleigh, North Carolina office and Infrastructure team since officially joining the firm in 2011. As a Project Manager, he leads Raleigh’s Civil Engineering team with the responsibility of managing much of the firm’s work with higher education and federal institutions in the region. Under Matthew’s guidance and strong leadership, his team has steadily increased its client base, while effectively collaborating with RMF’s Civil Engineering teams in Baltimore, Atlanta, and Columbus.

His design experience is primarily focused on complex utility installations in congested sites and large-scale campus utility replacements. Matthew particularly shines at working with Owners and Contractors to solve problems with creative solutions. He embodies a “boots on the ground” mentality and is just as comfortable in the bottom of a utility trench as he is leading large design meetings. He also has experience with general site planning, design, and permitting involving storm drainage analysis, stream buffer intrusions, site grading and hardscape restorations.

As a subject expert, Matthew has engaged in several speaking engagements and has contributed articles to such publications as FacilitiesNet. He is a graduate of RMF’s Leadership Development Program and holds a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from North Carolina State University.

Craig Buck is the Chief Buildings Mechanical Engineer for RMF, a resource to elevate the high engineering standards that have been set at the firm and ensure that RMF remains at the forefront of building engineering. He is a leader in innovation, with proven technical expertise in building systems design and sustainability. Craig has a hands-on approach with his multidisciplinary team and ensures the coordination and commitment of all staff resources to see that the priorities of every client are satisfied.

Since joining the firm in 1998, Craig has been promoted over the years and his commitment to RMF earned him a partner position in 2013. Craig’s extensive experience includes the planning, design, and construction of new and renovated buildings in the healthcare, research/laboratory, higher education, K-12, and sports and recreation markets. He is well-versed in the associated design standards, best practices, and code requirements, having successfully designed highly technical and comprehensive engineering solutions serving a wide variety of specialized facilities. Craig continues to practice engineering with his talented Project Managers and design staff.

Craig earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering from Pennsylvania State University in 1997. He is an active member of the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE), is a certified U.S. Green Building Council LEED Accredited Professional (LEED AP), and an accredited Healthcare Facility Design Professional (HFDP). Craig has presented at numerous conferences and has authored technical articles as a subject matter expert on healthcare and laboratory systems design

Steven Buckler is a Principal within the Civil/Structural Division in the firm’s Baltimore Office. He specializes in the design, specification, and construction administration of underground utility systems including utility tunnels, high pressure steam, hot water, chilled water, fuel oil, potable water, power, communications, gas, storm, and sanitary piping systems. Steven routinely develops phasing strategies to minimize utility, vehicle, and pedestrian disruptions. He is also experienced in trenchless technologies, regulatory permit approvals, cost estimating, and site development projects including earthwork operations, grading, erosion and sediment control, and stormwater management.

Since joining the firm in 2011, Steven has exhibited exceptional leadership, performance, and growth and has been a significant contributor to the success of the Civil/Structural Division. He now leads design teams and manages the firm’s strategic relationships with several key clients in district energy, dedicating much of his work to federal, private, and higher education projects in the Mid-Atlantic and Northeast.

As a subject matter expert and thought leader, Steven has presented at several industry conferences and events such as the International District Energy Association and American Society of Civil Engineers and has been published in District Energy Magazine.

Steven is a registered Professional Engineer and holds a Bachelor of Science in Civil, Environmental, and Infrastructure Engineering from George Mason University and a Master’s degree in Engineering Management from Johns Hopkins University.

Rob joined RMF’s Raleigh, North Carolina office as a fulltime employee in 2005 after spending 5 co-operative rotations with the firm as a student. He grew up in the firm with early exposure to several different project types and engineering challenges. Early on, Rob began to develop a passion for commissioning services. He quickly saw that expert commissioning could add tremendous value to the overall construction and operation of complex buildings, critical to our client’s core operations. During the AEC industry’s early development of commissioning, Rob began to formulate a vision of building on RMF’s long history of operations focused engineering design services and transitioning into a team focused on commissioning critical projects. What began as a team of three in 2004, has grown to a team of 15 professionals throughout the Southeast who have commissioned laboratory, healthcare and critical services facilities throughout the US and internationally. Rob and his team have been specifically sought after for various projects ranging from regional academic facilities to U.S. State Department Embassies in Africa and the Middle East. He is currently leading a growing commissioning team in Raleigh and Charlotte, North Carolina and Atlanta, Georgia.

Rob’s personal tenacity and dedication are key components to driving double digit growth for the firm year after year in commissioning.

Rob is a professional engineer, U.S. Green Building Council LEED Accredited Professional (LEED AP) and Accredited Qualified Commissioning Process Provider (QCxP). He is an active member of the North Carolina Healthcare Engineers Association (NCHEA) and American Society of Heating, Refrigeration, Air Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE). Through these organizations he works to help influence the commissioning industry as a whole.

Rob grew up in Montana and attended North Carolina State University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering. He also completed the company’s Leadership Development University, a rigorous two-year program designed to equip emerging leaders with the skills needed to lead any level of RMF. Rob enjoys presenting at industry conferences, tradeshows and exhibitions and mentoring those who are following in his footsteps. He has recently presented at industry events including the Cx Energy Conference and the National Conference on Building Commissioning.

Beth began her career with RMF in 1992, joining the firm’s electrical engineering team in Baltimore, Maryland. Her experience encompasses both institutional building and infrastructure projects. Beth’s expertise spans all phases of development including schematics, design development, A/E coordination, construction documents, construction administration, and commissioning. Beth has been responsible for medium and low voltage electrical distribution, standby power systems, interior and exterior lighting design with computerized calculations, fire alarm and special systems design in new and renovated facilities. Her projects are always designed and coordinated to every architectural detail and owner request from floor plans to specifications.

Beth worked exclusively on healthcare projects until she transferred to the South Carolina office in 2003. Here, she led the electrical team in projects while growing the office. Beth diversified her skills in South Carolina to cover electrical design for higher education and technical colleges, research laboratories, athletics and K -12, while continuing to master healthcare design. Beth is passionate about, and driven by, providing exemplary customer service to her repeat and new clients. She also fulfills her role as a manager by training her employees to be the best engineers while leading a work/life balance.

Beth is a licensed professional engineer and holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical Engineering from West Virginia Wesleyan College. She completed graduate work at Clemson University. Beth is a certified U.S. Green Building Council LEED Accredited Professional (LEED AP), and an active member of The Society of Women Engineers.