ASCE OC Publications: Proactive Engineering Consultants Celebrates 20 years in Business

Tom Braun chose to stop working for companies whose “metric driving” philosophy did not align with his own. His theory was simple: treat employees well, and success will follow. “I’ve always believed in giving people the freedom to manage their work as they see fit by using their strengths and good judgment. Let people work to the best of their ability, in their style. If they need help, step in to mentor.” Creating an environment of fun and trust is also a key element. A cohesive team—from the most senior position to the “new engineering” intern—is built when everyone is held to the same expectations. It’s the small things that build a solid foundation, and that’s how to progress to things of greater value. As the old adage says, “If you build it, they will come.” On August 6, 2006, Proactive Engineering Consultants (PEC) was launched.

Key partnership history: For 25 years, Tom Braun and Mark Anderson were friendly rivals in the civil engineering world. Having never spent any time together, it was their pursuit and excellence of work which resulted in connections with the same clients, managers, and peers.

As the years progressed, Tom launched Proactive Engineering. As fate would have it, Tom and Mark shortly thereafter found themselves face to face in a client’s conference room. Tom extended a meeting invite to Mark on the ruse that he wanted sage business advice on how to build Proactive. Once again, fate would step in. Mark saw this discussion as an opportunity to express his interest in defining a path to retirement having just formed his own company, IN8. This would give PEC a presence in Orange County. Shortly after the meeting the two groups joined forces. As they say, “the rest is history.” That’s when things really took off....

With this strategic move, Proactive Engineering Consultants would eventually grow to 6 divisions, over 100 employees, and numerous projects over the last 20 years. Braun acknowledges, “Mark and I lament that we didn’t team up sooner. It’s scary to think what we would be accomplishing if we had joined 10-20 years earlier. But we are grateful for all that has transpired.”

When asked about sustaining a 20-year business path, Braun added this thought, “(like many other companies) the Great Recession of 2008 was brutal and lasted 3-4 years … tightening our belts together to hang on and we are so glad we did. We saw a miracle project appear from The Irvine Company that launched us on our current 15 year healthy and growing trajectory!” Executing key acquisitions of other companies has added to our strength and stability.

What are some of the key ingredients to PEC’s successful longevity? Tom credits a good work environment to keeping priorities straight (faith, family, and work) and surrounding yourself with talented people. He also emphasizes including leaders with no ego who care about younger team members and staff who mentor others. “When I see our younger people teaching, it gives me such a sense of satisfaction that we are building this company for long-term health and success. We have way more than our share of great talent!” Tom also values having all leaders of groups that have joined PEC (IN8, RGI, Q3, Savello, Adams-Streeter) have stayed with PEC long-term, showing that we are stronger and better together than individuals.

Tom added a final thought about Proactive’s past and future, “We want to be recognized as the ‘Go-To’ firm for complex projects in Southern California. We never want to compete on price. We want people to use us because they know we give great service and creative solutions.”

Today, Proactive is a recognized leader in the industry, completing the story of their unified journey.

---

About Proactive Engineering Consultants:

Proactive Engineering Consultants (PEC) is a Southern California civil engineering consulting firm serving public and private sector clients with extensive experience in planned communities, public works, drainage, schools, and commercial/industrial developments since 2006.

The staff’s hard work and dedication have been essential to building a successful, stellar reputation. The team has adopted a small-business, client-focused philosophy, allowing PEC to build long-term client relationships and ensure smooth, efficient communication. This approach applies to both small and mega projects. Proactive offers expertise in stormwater engineering, fire master planning, dry utilities, construction project management, and survey and mapping while focusing on capital improvements and land development. PEC operates offices in Corona, Foothill Ranch, and Cypress.