Erik Kneer, LEED AP

CULTURE:

Degenkolb fosters openness, mutual respect, and continued learning. The organization is incredibly transparent, and encourages participation from all of its employees in guiding the future direction of the firm. From senior management all the way down, there is an open door policy that encourages interaction, mentorship, and friendship across all levels. This kind of openness would not be possible if it weren’t for a culture of mutual respect and continued education. The leadership at the firm is committed to fostering the future leaders of Degenkolb, and encourages decision-making and a sharing of ideas from all employees. They go to great lengths to ensure that we have all the necessary tools and resources to develop our skills and career path in whichever direction interests us.

CAREER:

I am currently the chair for SEAONC’s Sustainable Design Committee, and have been involved for over 2 years. I have received tremendous support from the Degenkolb leadership to develop this important area of our industry. In our first year, the committee published a paper titled, “Structural Engineering Strategies for Sustainble Design” to give engineers a road map of the current state-of-practice for green building. Our committee is currently working on a sample credit incorporating performance-based design into the overall life-cycle cost determination for sustainable design measures. I think it is important that we raise awareness of the long-term structural and non-structural performance of green buildings in areas with risks from natural hazards. Without these considerations, we will fail to protect the economic and resource investment that is made in these high performance buildings.

PASSION:

Outside of Degenkolb, you can find me playing piano in my jazz combo, hiking/climbing in the East Bay, and driving or wrenching on my old British roadster.

ON THE JOB:

Whether it’s the cabins in Tahoe or Monterey, our softball team, the annual flag-football tournament, or a trampoline dodge-ball excursion, Degenkolb provides a number of opportunities to relax and have fun with friends from work.