Engineering Inc. - Winter 2020 - 14

"They are very different worlds that require very different
expertise. Each has its pros and cons," says Ray Kogan, president
of the consulting firm Kogan & Company. Yet, many engineering firms have a strong desire to solely focus work on the private
sector. For some, it is the sense that projects move faster and it
is possible to boost revenue. For others, there is a desire to avoid
the rigid and cumbersome government processes and procedures. Also, private projects frequently promote innovation and,
because of their complexity, can deliver a more stimulating and
satisfying framework for designers.
"The private sector is often more willing to be a first adapter
of technology and engineering improvements," says John Lucey,
CEO of McKim & Creed.
Regardless of how a firm approaches work, one thing stands
out: A cohesive strategy is essential. Understanding how public
sector or private sector work impacts everything from hiring
and skills to cultural issues and project management is vital.
Although many engineering firms straddle the line between
public and private work, even those operating exclusively in the
private arena must come to a reckoning. Diversifying their work
among various sectors and industries is critical.
"A diversified firm is better positioned to absorb downturns
but also take advantage of hot markets," Kogan says.
PRIVATE MATTERS

The difference between public sector and private sector projects
is more than cosmetic. It is not that an engineering firm requires
specialized expertise to work in one field or the other-although
this could be the case with certain projects-the two worlds
require fundamentally different business acumen and project
management skills. Furthermore, the culture of public and private entities can be very different.
"There is a different rhythm and flow to projects and an
entirely different level of ownership in terms of how clients are
invested," says David T. Gockel, president and CEO of Langan.
Approximately 85 percent of Langan's projects are focused on
the private sector, and the remaining 15 percent are either public or quasi-public engineering projects, such as hospitals and
universities.
"Private sector clients tend to have more latitude to appreciate the measurable value an engineering firm brings to projects,"
Gockel says. "Public sector clients have their hands somewhat
tied in regard to decision-making. You are often dealing with a

McKim & Creed furnished design-build services for a water intake facility,
pump station, and pipeline (above) to transport water from the Ohio River via a
freshwater pipeline. In terms of total megawatts installed (right), McKim & Creed
has developed approximately 7 percent of the solar energy generation in North
Carolina and Florida combined.

"If you are an exceptional company and you provide
exceptional results for your clients, you will land repeat
business more readily in the private sector. In the public
sector, low price rather than performance and overall value
dictates consultant selection."
DAVID T. GOCKEL
PRESIDENT AND CEO
LANGAN
14

ENGINEERING INC.

WINTER 2020
Engineering Inc. - Winter 2020

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