Business Details
31 Years
experience
Expert Engineering Services in Exton, PA
Founded in 1995, Pagnotta Engineering, Inc. (PEI) has established itself as a leader in mechanical design and structural analysis services. Our team combines decades of industry experience with cutting-edge technology to deliver innovative solutions for complex engineering challenges. Specializing in aerospace, civil structures, and vehicle simulation, we provide FAA Designated Engineering Representative (DER) authorization, professional engineering services, and turnkey program management. With licensed engineers across eight states, we ensure compliance with rigorous industry standards while maintaining a commitment to client satisfaction. Our expertise spans finite element analysis, composite design, and dynamic testing, supporting clients from conceptual design through manufacturing and acceptance testing.PEI's reputation for quality has fostered long-term relationships with government agencies, aerospace firms, and industrial clients nationwide. We prioritize technical excellence, on-time delivery, and cost-effective solutions tailored to each project's unique requirements. Backed by ISO-compliant processes and a track record of successful high-profile projects, we remain dedicated to advancing engineering excellence while maintaining the personal service of a family-owned business.
Services
Structural Analysis
Mechanical Design
DER Authorization
Professional Engineering Services
Program Management & Testing
Details
- Year established: 1995
Highlights and features
- We offer 30+ years of specialized aerospace and structural engineering experience
- Our FAA DER authorization covers Parts 23, 25, 27, and 29 aircraft certifications
- Licensed professional engineers in eight US states ensure code compliance
- In-house capabilities from conceptual design to final testing and certification
- Proven track record with NASA, NOAA, and major aerospace manufacturers
Services
Structural Analysis
Our structural analysis services evaluate mechanical components' strength and durability using finite element analysis and classical hand calculations. We assess stress levels, deflection patterns, and fatigue life to ensure components meet safety standards. Our engineers specialize in dynamic analysis for aerospace applications, including modal, random response, and shock testing for spacecraft and aircraft systems.
Mechanical Design
We provide end-to-end mechanical design solutions from conceptual 3D modeling to detailed manufacturing drawings. Using CAD software like SolidWorks and Creo, we create optimized designs for aerospace components, composite structures, and industrial equipment. Our process integrates analysis-driven modifications to ensure functionality while maintaining project timelines and budget constraints.
DER Authorization
As FAA-certified Designated Engineering Representatives, we approve aircraft structural modifications without direct FAA involvement. Our DER services include compliance verification, test witnessing, and 8110-3 form issuance for aircraft alterations. With DER authority since 1996, we handle complex modifications for research aircraft, commercial planes, and specialized aviation equipment.
Professional Engineering Services
Our licensed professional engineers provide code-compliant structural analysis and documentation across eight states. We offer stamping services for manufacturing drawings and analysis reports, ensuring adherence to industry standards. Our PE services support critical infrastructure projects, nuclear facilities, and large-scale civil engineering applications.
Program Management & Testing
We manage engineering projects from concept through manufacturing and acceptance testing. Our program management includes scheduling, fabrication coordination, and structural testing. We specialize in vibration testing for flight simulators, spacecraft components, and industrial equipment, ensuring final products meet all performance requirements and pass certification tests.
People
Michael J. Pagnotta
President & Founder
With 30+ years in aerospace engineering, Michael founded PEI in 1995. He holds FAA DER authority since 1996 and oversees technical operations. His expertise spans structural analysis and aircraft certification.
John Callahan
Vice President
Joining PEI in 1997, John leads mechanical design projects. He specializes in composite structures and CAD modeling with expertise in Creo and SolidWorks for aerospace applications.
Questions
What engineering services does Pagnotta Engineering offer?
We provide structural analysis, mechanical design, FAA DER certification, professional engineering services, and program management for aerospace, civil, and industrial projects.
Which industries do you serve?
We specialize in aerospace (including FAA-certified aircraft modifications), civil structures, vehicle simulation, and power generation industries with nationwide clients.
Are your engineers licensed professionals?
Yes, we have licensed professional engineers in eight states who provide code-compliant analysis and documentation for critical infrastructure projects.
Can you handle complex aerospace projects?
Yes, with FAA DER authority since 1996 and experience on NASA missions, NOAA aircraft modifications, and spacecraft components, we excel in complex aerospace engineering challenges.
What testing capabilities do you have?
We conduct vibration testing, modal analysis, and structural acceptance testing for flight simulators, spacecraft components, and industrial equipment per industry standards.
How do you ensure project quality and compliance?
Through ISO-compliant processes, licensed engineers, FAA-certified DER services, and rigorous testing protocols that ensure all projects meet applicable codes and client specifications.
