Business Details
21 Years
experience
Trusted Structural Engineering Solutions in Utah
Calder Richards is a full-service consulting structural engineering firm established in 2005 through the merger of two Utah-based engineering companies. Our firm specializes in structural design, seismic evaluations, and feasibility studies for diverse building types and project sectors. With a team of licensed professionals across 41 states, we deliver cost-efficient solutions without compromising project vision or sustainability. Our engineers hold advanced degrees, SE licensure, and LEED certifications, ensuring technical excellence in every project. We prioritize meaningful client relationships and have completed landmark work including Olympic facilities and historic building renovations.Headquartered in Salt Lake City, we combine decades of experience with cutting-edge BIM modeling technology. Our leadership team actively contributes to industry standards through memberships in organizations like SEAU and NCSEA. We foster a collaborative work environment that attracts top talent, ensuring high-quality service from project inception to completion. Our commitment to technical innovation and client satisfaction has earned recognition including LEED double-platinum certifications. With over 20 years of collective experience, we continue to build upon our founders' legacy of engineering excellence.
Services
Structural Design
Seismic Evaluations
Feasibility Studies
BIM Modeling
Building Renovations
Plan Reviews
Cost Efficiency Analysis
Details
- Year established: 2005
Highlights and features
- We have 20+ years of experience in structural engineering across 41 states
- Our team includes LEED-certified professionals with advanced engineering degrees
- We utilize BIM 3-D modeling for precise structural design and analysis
- Our engineers hold SE licensure in 41 states with technical expertise in seismic zones
- We maintain active industry leadership roles in SEAU and NCSEA organizations
Associations and certifications
- LEED AP
- NCEES
- Structural Engineers Association of Utah (SEAU)
What people say
Exceptional design expertise
Technical excellence
Responsive service
Successful project delivery
Industry leadership
Services
Structural Design
Our structural design services create safe, efficient frameworks for new construction projects. We specialize in commercial, educational, and government buildings using advanced BIM technology. Our engineers optimize material usage while meeting all safety codes and sustainability goals.
Seismic Evaluations
We assess structural integrity in seismic zones and recommend retrofit solutions. Our team includes ATC-20 certified evaluators with expertise in Utah's active earthquake regions. Services include risk analysis and code-compliant strengthening recommendations for existing buildings.
BIM Modeling
Our BIM modeling services create precise digital representations of structural systems. This technology improves coordination between architects and contractors while identifying potential conflicts before construction begins. We use Revit and other industry-standard software platforms.
Feasibility Studies
We conduct comprehensive feasibility studies to evaluate project viability. Our analysis includes structural challenges, cost estimates, and code compliance requirements. These studies help clients make informed decisions before committing to major construction projects.
Building Renovations
Our renovation services preserve historic structures while meeting modern safety standards. We specialize in adaptive reuse projects that maintain architectural integrity while upgrading structural components to current building codes and seismic requirements.
People
Shaun Packer
Principal + Managing Partner
With 30+ years of experience, Shaun leads resort, hospitality, and public safety projects. He holds a BS in Civil Engineering from the University of Utah and manages firm operations while maintaining SE licensure.
Scott Wilson
Principal + Managing Partner
Scott oversees peer review departments and K-12 school projects with 30 years of structural engineering experience. He earned his BS in Civil Engineering from the University of Utah in 1992.
Nolan Balls
Principal + Managing Partner
Nolan specializes in cost-effective school and commercial designs. With 20 years of experience, he leads LEED certification efforts and holds both BS and ME degrees in Civil Engineering from Utah State University.
Henning Ungerman
Principal + Partner
Henning provides structural solutions for schools and commercial buildings with 19 years of experience. He earned ME and BS degrees in Civil Engineering from the University of Utah and trains engineering staff.
Alex Karras
Principal + Partner
Alex specializes in seismic risk reduction and structural design. He holds an MS in Structural Engineering from Utah State University and participates in earthquake engineering research initiatives.
Questions
What types of projects does Calder Richards handle?
We work on commercial, educational, government, and historic buildings including new construction, renovations, and seismic upgrades across 41 states.
Are your engineers licensed in all 50 states?
We're currently licensed in 41 states with active NCEES credentials that allow rapid expansion into new jurisdictions as needed for client projects.
What makes your firm different from other engineering companies?
Our combination of seismic expertise, BIM technology proficiency, and 20+ years of experience delivering complex projects sets us apart in the industry.
Do you offer LEED certification support?
Yes, our team includes LEED AP-certified professionals who have achieved rare LEED double-platinum certifications for select projects.
How do you handle historic building renovations?
We specialize in preserving structural integrity while modernizing systems to meet current codes, having completed numerous adaptive reuse projects.
Can you assist with emergency structural evaluations?
While we don't offer 24/7 emergency services, we provide post-earthquake safety evaluations through ATC-20 certified engineers when required.
