Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Emergency
services
Your Trusted Partner for Civil Engineering Solutions
Since 1918, Pickering Corts & Summerson has been dedicated to delivering multi-discipline civil engineering services across Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Delaware, and New York. Our expertise spans bridge inspection, structural engineering, highway engineering, and site development, supported by a team of licensed professionals with decades of collective experience. We prioritize client-specific solutions, combining technical precision with a commitment to safety and innovation. Our in-house diving operations for underwater inspections set us apart, enabling streamlined coordination and rapid response to complex challenges. With a legacy of over 100 years, we maintain rigorous adherence to National Bridge Inspection Standards while fostering a culture of employee growth and technical excellence. Our mission is to exceed client expectations through comprehensive engineering services, ensuring projects meet the highest standards of quality and reliability.This dedication is reflected in our long-standing partnerships with public agencies and private developers, as well as our recognition through industry awards. We invest in continuous professional development, maintaining registrations in multiple states and active roles in organizations like ASCE and ASHE. Our operational philosophy balances technical rigor with flexibility, addressing the distinct needs of governmental agencies, land developers, and private property owners. From historic preservation projects to modern infrastructure development, we combine tradition with cutting-edge methodologies to deliver sustainable, cost-effective solutions.
Services
Bridge Inspection
Underwater Inspection
Structural Engineering
Highway Engineering
Site Development
Land Surveying
Details
- Year established: 1918
Highlights and features
- We offer 100+ years of continuous civil engineering expertise since 1918
- Our in-house diving operations enable efficient underwater bridge inspections
- Team includes licensed engineers with multi-state certifications
- Specialized in complex bridge rehabilitation and emergency inspection projects
- Maintain rigorous quality control under National Bridge Inspection Standards
Associations and certifications
- PennDOT National Bridge Inspection Standards (NBIS) Inspection and Underwater Inspection Agreements
Services
Bridge Inspection
Our bridge inspection services cover routine and in-depth evaluations for state departments of transportation. We perform load ratings, emergency inspections, and comprehensive assessments using certified inspectors with NBIS standards. Our team handles complex structures including long viaducts and historic bridges, providing detailed reports for maintenance planning.
Underwater Inspection
Specialized underwater bridge inspections utilize certified divers and advanced sonar technology. Our in-house diving operation enables real-time data transmission and evaluation of submerged structural elements. We assess foundation stability, scour damage, and repair effectiveness in challenging water conditions across Pennsylvania and New Jersey.
Structural Engineering
We provide structural engineering solutions for bridge rehabilitation and replacement projects. Services include material testing, load analysis, and design of reinforcement systems. Our engineers develop cost-effective rehabilitation plans while maintaining compliance with current safety standards and clearance requirements.
Highway Engineering
Our highway engineering services encompass pavement reconstruction and safety improvements. We handle design-build projects involving drainage systems, traffic control, and erosion management. The team coordinates with contractors for permit acquisition and construction oversight to ensure project compliance and timely delivery.
Site Development
Comprehensive site development services include zoning variances, stormwater management, and utility design. We create integrated plans for residential and commercial projects, focusing on accessibility improvements and environmental compliance. Our solutions balance urban redevelopment with sustainable land use practices.
People
James S. White, Jr.
President
With over 34 years at PCS, he oversees operations and serves as a PennDOT Certified Bridge Safety Inspector. He manages NBIS inspection agreements and holds a leadership role on the Board of Directors.
John C. Wilhelm
Executive Vice President
Brings 38 years of structural engineering experience, managing quality control for bridge projects. A registered engineer in six states and active ASCE/ASHE member, he graduated from Drexel University with a civil engineering degree.
Aaron S. Detwiler
Executive Vice President
Manages bridge inspections across multiple states with experience in load ratings and emergency repairs. He has overseen projects for PennDOT and USDA Forest Service since joining PCS in 2007.
Paul Klemunes
Vice President
Licensed in six states, he specializes in bridge preservation and rehabilitation. With structural engineering expertise from Penn State, he manages both design and inspection projects while leading the Harrisburg office.
John P. Ziemblicki
Vice President
Structural design expert with experience in bridge replacements and NBIS inspections. A Drexel University graduate, he manages design projects in Pennsylvania and New Jersey while maintaining multiple state engineering licenses.
Questions
What engineering services does Pickering, Corts & Summerson offer?
We provide bridge inspection, structural engineering, highway engineering, site development, and land surveying services for public and private sector clients.
How long has PCS been in business?
Our firm has delivered engineering services since 1918, maintaining continuous operations for over a century.
Which states does PCS serve?
We primarily operate in Pennsylvania and New Jersey, with project experience extending to Delaware, New York, and other regional jurisdictions.
Do you handle emergency bridge inspections?
Yes, our team performs emergency inspections and post-disaster assessments, including recent projects following Hurricane Ida.
