Harold Hollis, Coffman engineers: moving on up!(VIEW FROM THE TOP) (Interview) (Company overview)

• Author: Stomierowski, Peg

Coffman Engineers, founded in 1979, offers civil, structural, mechanical, electrical and corrosion-control engineering, commissioning, pipeline integrity and project management services. Harold Hollis is vice president and managing principal for the firm's Alaska division.

Coffman's Anchorage office has a staff of more than 60; the organization has additional offices in Seattle, Spokane and Los Angeles. Hollis is a licensed civil engineer.

ABM: So how's the view from the top?

Hollis: As Coffman celebrates its 30th year, things look good. Our services and reputation have grown, and it's gratifying to see our contributions to Alaska's development. Despite the economic downturn, opportunities here are nearly unlimited.

ABM: What's been surprising?

Hollis: The lack of boredom. After 27 years with Coffman, I still find projects in Alaska exciting. Our environment encompasses severe climates, seismic risks, extreme tides and currents, and remote locations with limited access. While testing our ability to find creative, practical and cost-effective solutions, these conditions make our work exciting.

When I first came here, much technical expertise and manpower were imported. Today, all levels of expertise have been developed and reside here, with many experienced firms. The quality of engineers entering the marketplace is amazing. They are bright, enthusiastic and hungry to learn.

ABM: What strengths, weaknesses, obstacles and threats have emerged and evolved?

Hollis: We're enduring challenge, with a recession that may rival conditions of the late '80s here. That was tough, but we knew Alaska had a bright future. When many businesses closed or retreated, we persevered, streamlined and maintained a presence. The rewards included not only a stronger business, but client recognition that Coffman was committed. That's helped us build.

ABM: What are key drivers and how do you try to maintain your competitive edge?

Hollis: Embracing new technologies is key. In the 1980s, the architecture/ engineering industry was revolutionized by computer-aided design. CAD allowed drafting to be done on a computer, and Coffman was one of the first here to use it.

Now, the industry is moving toward another revolutionary design process called Building Information Modeling. BIM is the process of generating and managing building data during a...