Dinner Program

February 10, 2010

This presentation highlights the beneficial interaction that can occur between a mechanical contractor and the mechanical engineer during the preconstruction stage for a project. This interaction occurs on projects using the design-build or design-assist procurement method where the mechanical contractor is engaged early in the project and works closely with the engineer throughout the design phase. With the continued growth in design-build and design-assist projects, understanding the needs and goals of the engineer and contractor will enable the team to work together effectively and achieve both their individual goals and the overall goals of the project. The information presented provides examples of this interaction and is based on 15 years of experience as a both a mechanical engineer and a construction project manager on large design-build and design-assist projects.

Speaker: Michael McLaughlin

Michael McLaughlin is the Preconstruction Leader for Southland Industries. Southland Industries is a national mechanical engineering, construction and maintenance company, specializing in design-build for a wide range of projects types, both large and small. Over his 15 year career with the company, Mr McLaughlin has served in a number of key roles in both engineering and construction, including Division Principal Engineer, Estimating Manager and Project Manager. Mr McLaughlin’s focus is on the preconstruction efforts of major design build and design assist projects and works to improve the interaction and knowledge sharing between engineering, estimating, detailing and construction resources of the company.

Mr. McLaughlin is the Vice Chair for TG3 – the ASHRAE Task Group titled “HVAC Contractors and Design Build Firms”. This task group routinely provides seminars, forums and workshops at the national ASHRAE meetings that focus on improving the knowledge sharing and interaction of both the engineering and contracting members of ASHRAE.

Mr. McLaughlin lives in Northern Virginia and is a graduate of the Architectural Engineering Program of Penn State University. He holds a Masters in Business Administration from the University of California – Irvine and is a registered professional engineer.