Business Details
Trusted Structural Engineering Solutions
CVM is a multi-faceted professional engineering firm dedicated to delivering innovative structural solutions for institutional and commercial clients. Our team of engineers, architects, and materials scientists specializes in designing new building structures, renovating existing facilities, and preserving historic landmarks. We prioritize collaborative design processes that begin at conception, ensuring responsive solutions tailored to each project's unique requirements. Our expertise spans building envelope systems, parking facility restoration, and structural engineering for both modern and heritage structures.We support clients with budget development for multi-year capital programs and emphasize sustainability through energy-efficient designs and historic preservation practices. Our professionals actively contribute to industry advancements through leadership roles in technical committees and publications. Recognized for excellence in design and craftsmanship, we combine advanced materials science with practical constructability to provide durable, cost-effective solutions for complex projects.
Services
Structural Engineering
Building Rehabilitation
Historic Preservation
Parking Facility Restoration
Envelope Design
Highlights and features
- We offer 50+ years combined experience in structural engineering and historic preservation
- Our multidisciplinary team includes licensed engineers and restoration architects
- We implement cutting-edge building science for energy-efficient envelope systems
- Our solutions prioritize long-term durability and cost-effective maintenance
- We maintain active leadership roles in structural engineering professional organizations
What people say
Award-winning designs
Collaborative approach
Historic preservation expertise
Sustainable solutions
Expert team
Services
Structural Engineering
Our structural engineering services encompass new construction projects requiring sophisticated system design and code compliance. We collaborate with architects to develop robust structural frameworks that meet aesthetic goals while ensuring safety and durability. Our team specializes in creating solutions that balance functional requirements with innovative engineering approaches for both commercial and institutional buildings.
Historic Preservation
Specializing in historic building conservation, we combine materials science expertise with archival research to preserve architectural heritage. Our approach maintains structural integrity while implementing modern performance standards. We develop comprehensive preservation plans that include diagnostic testing, material analysis, and phased restoration strategies to extend the lifespan of culturally significant structures while maintaining their historical authenticity.
Building Rehabilitation
We provide comprehensive assessment and repair programs for aging structures, focusing on extending service life while minimizing disruption. Our services include condition assessments, deterioration analysis, and customized rehabilitation plans. We specialize in complex projects requiring structural strengthening, envelope upgrades, and systems modernization while maintaining operational continuity during construction phases.
Envelope Design
Our building envelope expertise covers complete exterior closure systems from foundation waterproofing to roof assemblies. We design high-performance enclosures that optimize energy efficiency while withstanding environmental stresses. Our team addresses thermal performance, moisture management, and air barrier integration through holistic design approaches that enhance building longevity and occupant comfort while meeting sustainability targets.
Parking Restoration
We specialize in parking structure rehabilitation with customized solutions for extending facility lifespan. Our services include condition assessments, deterioration analysis, and repair methodology selection based on environmental factors. We develop cost-effective restoration programs that balance operational impact with longevity requirements, implementing tailored approaches that address unique deterioration patterns in different parking facility types.
People
David A. VanOcker
Principal Engineer
Licensed professional engineer with extensive experience in structural design and historic preservation. Active in technical committees advancing engineering practices. Leads complex projects requiring innovative structural solutions while maintaining architectural integrity.
Tracy D. Marcotte
Principal Engineer
Doctoral-level structural engineer specializing in materials science and building envelope systems. Contributes to industry standards development through professional organization leadership. Focuses on integrating advanced technologies with practical construction solutions for durable, high-performance structures.
L. Robert Schaeffer
Principal Engineer
Experienced structural engineer with expertise in both modern construction and heritage restoration. Leads multidisciplinary teams in complex adaptive reuse projects. Combines technical proficiency with practical construction knowledge to deliver innovative engineering solutions for challenging projects.
Kevin S. Coll
Project Engineer
Licensed professional engineer managing structural assessment and rehabilitation projects. Specializes in condition evaluations and repair program development. Applies technical expertise to develop practical solutions that balance performance requirements with budget constraints for facility renewal projects.
Clive Copping
Architectural Consultant
Registered architect providing enclosure system design expertise. Focuses on integrating architectural requirements with structural performance. Leads exterior envelope projects requiring specialized detailing and materials selection to achieve high-performance building enclosures that meet aesthetic and functional objectives.
Questions
What types of engineering services does CVM specialize in?
We specialize in structural engineering for new construction, building rehabilitation, historic preservation, parking facility restoration, and high-performance building envelope systems.
Do you handle both modern and historic building projects?
Yes, our expertise spans contemporary construction and heritage restoration projects, with specialized approaches for preserving historic structures while meeting modern performance standards.
How does CVM approach sustainable engineering solutions?
We integrate energy-efficient design principles with materials science expertise, focusing on durable systems that reduce environmental impact while extending building service life.
What makes CVM different from other engineering firms?
Our multidisciplinary team combines structural engineering, architectural, and materials science expertise with deep historic preservation experience for comprehensive project solutions.
Can you handle complex, multi-phase renovation projects?
Yes, we specialize in phased rehabilitation programs that maintain operational continuity while implementing comprehensive structural upgrades and system modernizations.
What geographic areas do you serve?
While based in Philadelphia, we work on projects throughout the Mid-Atlantic region including Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Delaware.
