Corey Hicar

Can you tell us about your career as an engineer to date?
I started my career in MEP design primarily focused on commercial clients and projects; large retail centers, mixed-use and multi-family, office space, etc. I moved into MEP project management servicing one of the largest retail property owners in the country as well as several of the major retail brands people see every day. I’ve travelled across the country for landlord redevelopment and capital improvement projects, eventually moving into the construction side of the industry starting with a large design-build developer, then as a Project Manager for the USCG Civil Engineering Unit Cleveland, and finally as a Project Manager for a Mechanical Contractor. I’ve always excelled in unique situation problem solving, field investigations, and getting the right stakeholders involved to generate constructable and sound solutions.

You have a lot of expertise and experience as a technical liaison with stakeholders. Tell us about the importance of that.
I’ve always believed the best project managers aren’t necessarily SME’s, but know who to engage and how to build effective teams, encourage collaboration and communication, and ultimately leading a team to achieve a goal. I also believe in exploring and embracing new project delivery methods which focus heavily on collaboration, communication, and ultimately deliver projects to Owners on budget, schedule, meets their needs.

Can you name one of your biggest accomplishments in your career and why it stands out?
I was the PM for a USCG Air Station project which involved the recovery and remediation of AFFF and other PFOS/PFAS contaminants as well as leading the design of an entirely new aircraft hangar fire protection system which was water based and did not use any firefighting foam. It stands out for several reasons including improving the health and safety of USCG personnel, helping the local environment and community by removing PFOS/PFAS and ground water contamination, and it required me to quickly take on several new challenges. From learning the state environmental code requirements to very specific aircraft specifications and facilitating a design within these several different parameters. This project was the first of it’s kind for Coast Guard hangar facilities and will help chart the course for the future of Coast Guard hangar fire protection systems nationwide.

What satisfies you or motivates you the most about the work you do each day?
Solving problems, I enjoy the fast pace and challenge. I like clients being able to count on our team to help them. Also, focusing on constructability. Focusing on a buildable project ultimately protects the clients budget and schedule.

You volunteer as a mentor for College Now Greater Cleveland. Can you tell us about that?
The transition from high school to college can be intimidating and challenging. Being a college mentor is an opportunity to give back and be a support system for first generation college students or those who might be considering dropping out, changing majors, or having other issues and challenges. I also help students preparing to graduate with resume writing, interviewing tips, networking, and applications.

What hobbies or interests fill your free time when you aren’t working?
I love spending time with family; my wife and I have three kids (1, 3, and 5). We like to expose them to new experiences and travelling to new places when we can. I also enjoy DIY projects around the house and playing in an adult hockey league.