It is not surprising that the engineering community in Kansas City is making its presence felt. After all, engineering is a major contributor to the local economy. Five of the top 100 engineering design firms in the world are located in the Kansas City metro, a number of highly rated engineering schools are located within a 3 hour drive, our centralized location is a good base for regional and national projects, and the industrial base is well suited for engineering positions.
What is surprising is where the new activity is developing. A new engineering cluster is developing in the Crossroads Arts District, Kansas City’s hot bed of creativity. It’s surprising because engineering is a profession known for formulas and calculations, not creativity. Whether they are attracted by the urban atmosphere, the proximity to complementary businesses, or developing new markets, several engineering firms have recently moved into the district, mixing the formality of engineering with artistic influence. The EDC welcomes these firms to downtown and looks forward to supporting their growth and expansion!
Larson Binkley
Larson Binkley, a mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) design firm chose Kansas City MO for its new headquarters facility and their staff of 40. Larson Binkley was drawn to Kansas City’s urban core by its vibrant creative scene and culture of innovation. “At Larson Binkley, we pioneer new technologies and concepts to serve our clients better,” says CEO Chris Larson. “We wanted to join a community that values imagination and invention. Kansas City and the Crossroads Arts District is that place.” Larson Binkley is a national leader in LEED projects and the emerging discipline of Experience Engineering. This visionary process creates optimal consumer environments for restaurant and retail chains. The unique Crossroads establishments serve as a fertile research and development field.
“I really enjoy being part of the Crossroads business community, and feeling like we are part of a neighborhood. Our previous office in the suburbs really didn’t have that kind of feeling. I like that we don’t have to get in our cars to visit some clients, or go to lunch. It’s just a better place for us to Engineer a Better Experience for our clients.” Robert Harris, PE, EcoSynthesis
They have quickly assimilated in the district by participating in business association committees and exhibiting the work of local artists for public viewing during the District’s 1st Friday activities.
Apex Engineers
Apex Engineers, a structural engineering firm, moved into new offices in the Crossroads Arts District in January 2013. Apex desired to move closer to the architecture, design firms, and potential clients in the Crossroads. With many clients already in the area, Apex anticipates more projects in the urban district. The new location puts Apex close to a number of renovation and remodeling projects in the historic area that the firm wants to pursue. In the district undergoing dramatic redevelopment, there are an abundance of historic buildings providing a golden opportunity. The brick exteriors, heavy beam and wood plank floors of the District’s structures provide ample opportunity for Apex to display their craft. At the same time, the central location allows Apex to work on the smaller commercial and residential projects it has serviced since it’s founding in 2003. The urban setting has been well received by the employees according to Bryce Crady, Apex Principal. Apex Engineers relocated 13 existing jobs and anticipates the creation of seven new engineers.
Henderson Engineering
The latest addition is Henderson Engineering (HEI), a full service engineering firm. HEI is opening a new office in the Crossroads Arts District moving eight to 12 employees from its Lenexa, KS headquarters. According to Rich Smith, President, Henderson wants to be close to the thriving architectural community based in the District and better serve its clients in the urban core. “We realized there was a need to have an office closer to some clients in the urban core of Kansas City. If we’re going to call Kansas City our corporate headquarters … we need to have a presence downtown,” Smith said. “The opportunity to put more jobs downtown and be part of the creative culture was the driving force behind this addition. We have several employees living in the urban core and they are passionate about downtown.” The new space will provide room to eventually create 12-15 new positions.
This is a homecoming of sorts for HEI which was founded in 1970 by Fran Henderson and whose first office was located at 4550 Main. HEI employs over 450 engineers and staff, including over 350 in the Kansas City area. Its core services include mechanical, electrical, plumbing and refrigeration design, as well as four specialty divisions: Impact Illumination (architectural lighting), Fire Dynamics (fire protection and code consulting), Collective Tech (comprehensive technology, security, and acoustical design), and Outcome Cx (Commissioning). 66.
These new firms join a number of engineering firms which have been long time urban core occupants. They include but are not limited to: