ADTEK Engineers celebrates 25 years

FAIRFAX, VA. — Mahendra Shah, P.E., and John I. Frankhouser, III, P.E., probably could not have imagined in 1987 that the firm they were just starting in a basement would eventually be licensed in 40 states, have completed hundreds of civil and structural engineering design projects, have three offices, and have succeeded in spite of a damaged and declining economy, many well-worn office spaces, several “Snowmagedons,” and an earthquake.

ADTEK Engineers Inc. is celebrating its 25th anniversary in October. The firm, which provides civil and structural engineering, specialty light gage engineering, and landscape architecture services, has survived and thrived through it all. According to Shah, the firm’s president and principal-in-charge, “While the firm started out small, we believed that we could provide clients with something different — a team of accomplished professionals who were thoughtful, engaged, and committed to bringing their best effort to every task on behalf of every client.” That mission has not wavered, and remains in place today.

The young firm’s first project was a shopping center’s asphalt parking lot resurfacing. However, over the years, ADTEK’s work has expanded to include the education, commercial and retail, recreation, residential, municipal, state, and federal market sectors. From the historic renovation of Ford’s Theater and the specialty light gage steel elements of the U.S. Institute of Peace in Washington, D.C., to George Mason University’s Patriot Center in Virginia and M & T Bank Stadium in Maryland, ADTEK continues to take on the challenges, not the least of which has been the sagging economy.

“It appears to be coming back, if slowly. We are hiring,” said Shah. “As a small, minority-owned business enterprise, ADTEK helps fuel the local economy with 51 family wage earner positions. Whether your business is large or small, there has been unprecedented economic pressure since the recession began in late 2007. The rewards of being on design teams and contributing to so many schools and civic buildings over the years brings us great pride in what we do.”