Independent Engineering has evolved over the years. Now Independent Engineers are actively involved in the evaluation of the technical aspects of the business. For example, the Independent Engineer will regularly opine on the cost to build and/or operate a project. The Independent Engineer has to be able to look at the contractual requirements of a project as much as detailed technical design. Then, the Independent Engineer must clearly and concisely communicate all findings to the developer, sponsor, and/or lender.
The combined skills of an Independent Engineer is generally outside of the skill set of a stereotypical engineer. The ability to review contracts and the business deal on top of the understanding the detailed design elements of the project is concept foreign to most design engineers. Then add in the ability to communicate their findings, both written and verbally, in a manner that is understandable the non-technical lay person and you have a very unique skill set.
At PF Engineers, we want to make sure that we are not just a box to be checked. We want to be a resource to add value to a project by providing sound technical advice to maximize the return on investment for all parties.