IMEG’s Matt Chandler, PE, DBIA, LEED AP BD+C, has been promoted to the role of client executive in the firm’s St. Louis office, and was named a Consulting-Specifying Engineer 40 under 40 winner in 2021. 

Matt is a principle with the firm, and is experienced in leading complex projects for healthcare, laboratory, and industrial facilities. He most recently served as client executive. He took time out recently to answer the following questions: 

What drew you toward mechanical engineering? 

Mechanical engineering has provided a unique opportunity to incorporate many of my wide-ranging interests into a single field of study. I have always been fascinated with how things work, including nature, machines, people, and organizations. Mechanical engineering is one of the broadest fields of engineering including a diversity of applications like materials, fluids, mechanisms, controls, thermodynamics, etc. I enjoy applying these skills toward practical solutions that improve lives. Although I also considered a career in psychology, I find the consulting aspect of my career provides great opportunities to focus on people as well as systems.  

What is one of your most memorable projects? 

The gut-renovation of Umrath Hall on the campus of Washington University in St. Louis. It’s not every day that you get to renovate a building that’s over 100 years old and prepare it for the next 100 years. Umrath Hall was originally constructed in 1902 in preparation for the 1904 World’s Fair. With a few notable exceptions, the entire interior of the building (including load bearing walls, floors, and roof) was completely removed and replaced with a new building while retaining the historic exterior shell. This was a challenging project completed on a fast-track schedule on an active campus. The owner, designers, and constructors all worked as an integrated team to successfully deliver a modern, sustainable, flexible, and attractive project. The challenge and the great teamwork are what make it so memorable.  

What’s your approach to the consultant-client relationship? 

We are successful when our clients are successful. My job is to help others achieve success by partnering with them to address challenges. This can come in many forms, including investigation of unknowns, offering technical expertise and innovative ideas, considering differing stakeholder perspectives, being flexible in project delivery methods, and providing good information to make well-informed decisions. I want to be a trusted partner for my clients.  

What trend or technologies will affect engineering and design in the future? 

Augmented reality and virtual reality will continue to impact design and construction into the future. We have already seen the positive impact of 3D modeling and virtual building design in our industry. The improvements in 3D scanning technologies enhance the way we can incorporate existing conditions into our design, while virtual and augmented reality provide new methods for stakeholders, occupants, and builders to experience designs before they are constructed.  

Describe the qualities and capabilities of your team? 

My team is comprised of personable, technical, and highly motivated individuals who are committed to the success of our clients. This capable group is experienced in taking on some of the most complex projects in the healthcare, science & technology, and industrial markets. The team members are highly adaptable and collaborate with project teams to bring innovative solutions.  

What do you do in your free time? 

There’s nothing better than hanging out with my wife and three kids. We love to experience nature together through activities like traveling, hiking, and fishing.