Patrick J. Machin, P.E.
P.E. | PRINCIPAL
Patrick is a graduate of Michigan Technological University with a degree in civil engineering with an emphasis in structural engineering. Since graduation, he has made it his goal to be an out-of-the-box thinker and to build upon his experience as a field inspector, design engineer, township and village engineer, and as a project manager.
Kurt A. Schultz
SENIOR PROJECT DESIGNER | FAA PART 107 UAV PILOT
Kurt is an ITT Technical Institute graduate with a degree in applied computer-aided drafting technology. Kurt has 24 years of experience in AutoCAD drafting for a wide range of projects. He assists the civil and structural disciplines in the preparation of detailed plans.
Matthew W. Hawkins, P.E.
P.E. | PROJECT MANAGER
Matthew is a graduate of Michigan Technological University with a degree in civil engineering with an emphasis in structural engineering. Along with his structural background, he has worked on many site civil and construction related projects including site operations, inspection, and project reviews. He brings a practical approach to the team and is a licensed residential builder in Michigan.
Brian W. Giddis
E.I.T. | Project Engineer
Brian is a graduate of The University of North Dakota with a Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering. He has been a part of the Grand Traverse Sheriff’s Office for 23 years, where he is currently a Lieutenant. He is a part-time project engineer for the firm, working on civil and structural projects with an emphasis on pile designs.
Sharon A. Bouwense
Administrative Assistant
Sharon plays a vital role in the operational maintenance and aids the principal with necessary organizational activities. Sharon has implemented and currently maintains the business’ accounting software, Ajera, along with holding the responsibility of payroll. She handles all business invoicing and licensing upkeep.
Brayden Hunt
E.I.T. | PROJECT ENGINEER
Brayden is a graduate of the University of St. Thomas (Saint Paul, MN) with a degree in civil engineering. After interning during the summer for MEI and working part-time, remotely, while finishing his degree, Brayden has decided to join our team full-time. Prior to college, Brayden served in the Navy and has experience working in the construction industry. At MEI, Brayden works directly with the Principal on projects and assists with Business Development in MN.
JAMES J. COUGHLIN, P.E.
P.E. | SENIOR ENGINEER
Jim is a graduate of Michigan State University with a Master’s Degree in Structures with an emphasis in structural vibrations. He taught engineering and physics at Northwestern Michigan College for 34 years prior to retiring. He provides solutions to complex structural problems, performs pier reviews, and performs FEA models. Jim is a licensed professional engineer and a licensed residential builder in the State of Michigan.
Abigail B. Machin
Business Development
Abby is a graduate of Northwood University with a Bachelor’s degree in Business Management, Entrepreneurship and Operations and Supply Chain Management. She currently works part-time for the firm and is responsible for website updates, implementing general company organization practices, internal operational documents, and marketing projects.
Brett T. JohnsoN
Project ENGINEER | FAA Part 107 UAV Pilot
Brett is a graduate of Rochester Institute of Technology with a degree in civil engineering. He has four years of experience in the design of deep foundations, specifically helical piles and micropiles. At MEI, Brett is involved with projects, working with the principal, in addition to being a drone operator.
