sustainability,” Mastalio said. “Newer technology allows us to be less polluting. Technology can help us clean the air
and clean the water better.”

The green revolution is impacting the skills at engineering firms. Dick noted LEED certification is increasingly required on projects where sustainable design principals are not only required, but also carefully measured. A collaborative team that includes engineers, technicians and especially architects is often needed to achieve that, he said.

“The Green movement is driving a lot of diversity of talent,” Dick said. “Like it or not, it’s here. And if you’re not designing for sustainable design, you’re cutting out a big part of the market.”

Another trend involves diversification. Although engineering specialties have always existed, today’s companies take that to startling levels.

“Everyone’s always talked about diversifying, but with the economy looking the way it is, they’re really looking at that, whether it’s overseas or entering a new market,” Scarangello said. Examples include engineering groups that focus just on new structures while others target rebuilding existing ones.

Renovation work in some ways is more challenging, requiring not only basic engineering skills but the ability to match historic structures. Thornton Tomasetti is even facing that at Kaufman Stadium, although the structure is only 25 years old.

“You need the expertise not just to build new, but how to use technology to match historic renovation,” Scarangello said, noting other projects from New York to Los Angeles. “We know we’re going to be seeing more and more of that.”

 

MORE TO COME

Kansas City’s stranglehold on its claim as the world engineering capital appears likely to continue. Risking unabashed
civic boosterism, several leaders cited Kansas City’s quality of life advantages as a factor in this story. Mastalio noted
that not only do engineers tend to gravitate to Kansas City, they tend to stay here once they arrive. “A lot of people come
here from other cities and they are surprised that the quality of life can be enjoyed here for a very reasonable price. I’ve
known people who have come through here on their career track and they end up staying here rather than move on.”

Marsh concurred. “We can deal with both coasts easily. The time zone works well, but you also have a relatively low
cost of living. We’re well-connected with transportation. And then there are the people. The culture here is open, trusting,
and they work hard.”

Somewhat surprisingly, one contributor to Kansas City’s engineering domination is sheer, emotional enjoyment. Kansas City, as a region, and engineers in general have more than once earned the label “buttoned-down.” But there’s a very real excitement about working in a world-renowned market and creating world-class projects.

“If I say I’m working on the new Yankee Stadium everyone knows where it is,” Scarangello said. “And if you go into any of these offices, it’s a very fun environment. Together, those are big draws.”