Leadership

Elliot Blank, PE, LEED AP, is Senior Division Manager of Mechanical Engineering for TAI’s Buildings & Facilities Division. Since joining TAI in 2010, Elliot has drawn on more than two decades of engineering and project management experience to lead the design and delivery of high-performance mechanical systems across commercial, government, laboratory, healthcare, and industrial facilities.

Elliot oversees mechanical, plumbing, and fire protection design efforts, providing leadership in construction administration, project scoping, proposal development, budgeting, and technical standards. He also serves as Project Manager for select design-build and engineering projects, ensuring alignment with client needs, building codes, and sustainability goals.

Known for his hands-on approach and technical precision, Elliot plays a key role in client relationships, staff mentoring, and operational strategy within the division. His portfolio includes mission-critical facilities, research laboratories, and multi-use developments with a focus on energy efficiency and reliability.

He holds a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from Bucknell University, is a licensed Professional Engineer in MD, PA, VA, and DE, and is a LEED Accredited Professional. Elliot is an active member of the Baltimore Chapter of ASHRAE.

Joshua DeVine, PE, is Division Manager of Structural Services at TAI, where he leads pre-construction planning, contracting, and execution of structural construction projects, including in-house steel fabrication and installation services. With over 25 years of experience in the engineering and construction industry, Josh brings a unique dual perspective as both a licensed engineer and experienced builder—ensuring efficient coordination between design and field operations.

At TAI, Josh is responsible for business development, personnel oversight, and full project lifecycle management within the Structural Services Division. He has played a pivotal role in establishing and expanding the group, delivering value to clients through seamless integration of design, construction, and execution services.

His technical expertise spans the engineering and construction of structural systems for industrial, commercial, and infrastructure applications. Josh is recognized for his ability to bridge communication between engineers and contractors, reducing friction and improving project outcomes. His work includes design and construction of steel structures, equipment supports, modular skids, deep pile foundations, seismic upgrades, and more.

Josh holds a Bachelor of Science in Architectural Engineering from California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo. He is a licensed Professional Engineer in California and Maryland, and an active member of the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) and the American Institute of Steel Construction (AISC).

Jason Dickey, PE, is Senior Division Manager of Automation & Systems Integration at TAI. With more than 24 years of experience in process automation, industrial controls, and systems integration, he leads a multidisciplinary team responsible for delivering high-performance automation solutions across a broad range of industries, including pharmaceutical, chemical, utilities, food and beverage, and government infrastructure.

At TAI, Jason oversees the design, implementation, and commissioning of complex automation systems, including PLC and HMI programming, distributed control systems (DCS), instrumentation and electrical design, and industrial networking. He manages project execution from planning through validation and brings a strong focus on safety, reliability, and regulatory compliance. His leadership supports the division’s mission to deliver scalable, innovative automation platforms that align with clients’ operational goals and industry standards.

Jason’s technical expertise includes Siemens PCS 7, Rockwell PlantPAx, Emerson DeltaV, historian and data integration, batch automation, and design for hazardous classified environments. He is known for successfully managing technically challenging projects for critical facilities, including mission-critical cooling systems, chemical process upgrades, environmental monitoring platforms, and terminal automation systems.

He holds a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Delaware and completed graduate coursework in process control and modeling at Oklahoma State University. Jason is a licensed Professional Engineer in Maryland and a member of the International Society of Automation (ISA).

Mitch Fishbein serves as Chief Process Engineer and Division Manager of Process Engineering at TAI. With over 45+ years of experience in chemical manufacturing, process development, and capital project execution, Mitch leads a team of senior and junior process engineers and designers in delivering highly specialized solutions for a wide range of industrial clients.

At TAI, Mitch provides technical oversight, staff mentorship, and quality control for process engineering deliverables. He plays a key role in technology management, project planning, process design, safety reviews, and client coordination. His career has included leadership roles in project management, EH&S oversight, engineering supervision, and quality control, enabling him to guide complex projects from concept through construction.

Mitch has led major efforts across the chemical, pharmaceutical, energy, and environmental sectors, including on-site project leadership at Croda Inc., basic engineering for Sasol’s LAB expansion, utility design for Fujifilm Imaging Colorants, and VOC emissions reduction for Micropore Inc. He is also experienced in developing Expenditure Proposals, performing PSM compliance audits, and leading process hazard analyses for both greenfield and retrofit projects.

He holds a Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering, Magna Cum Laude, from the University of Maryland, and an MBA with a concentration in Finance from Loyola University Maryland. Mitch brings unmatched experience, attention to detail, and process safety knowledge to every project he leads.

Thomas Kozlowski, PE, serves as Associate and Division Manager of Structural Engineering at TAI. With over 35 years of experience in structural engineering and construction support, Tom leads the structural division in delivering safe, code-compliant, and constructible designs across sectors including energy, commercial, industrial, government, and aerospace.

At TAI, Tom is responsible for structural analysis, design development, and coordination with architectural, mechanical, and electrical teams. He conducts field surveys, develops construction documents, oversees multi-discipline integration, and manages design through construction for both new builds and complex retrofits. Known for his deep knowledge of field applications and code compliance, Tom ensures that every project meets the highest technical standards while aligning with client goals.
His career has spanned major capital programs for clients such as Constellation Energy, Dominion Power, Eastman Chemical, WMATA and COPT, as well as confidential projects for pharmaceutical, data center, and aerospace facilities. His expertise includes seismic evaluations, structural retrofits, industrial platforms, pipe racks, and large-scale structural rehabilitation projects. He also has extensive experience in concrete and steel construction along with various welding techniques including, MIG, TIG and Thermite Rail welding. Tom brings both an analytical and practical perspective to structural engineering that helps bridge the gap between design and construction.

He holds a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from Lehigh University, is a licensed Professional Engineer in Maryland, and is a contributing member of the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE), American Concrete Institute (ACI) and the American Institute of Steel Construction (AISC). He has also served as an exam contributor to the NCEES and as a development consultant to design software companies including Autodesk and Bently. He also holds safety qualifications from OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) and MSHA (Mine Safety and Health Administration) advanced safety training programs.

Jeff Marks serves as Director of Process Engineering at TAI, where he leads a team of engineers and project managers in delivering complex process and capital projects for clients in the chemical, food and beverage, and consumer products industries. With over 25 years of experience—including nearly a decade at TAI—Jeff brings a deep background in process design, project management, construction oversight, and safety administration.

At TAI, Jeff oversees the execution of industrial projects from concept through commissioning. He manages project scopes, schedules, cost estimates, and compliance deliverables, while also serving as Lead Process Engineer on many of the firm’s most technically demanding projects. He is known for his ability to translate client goals into efficient and scalable process solutions.

Jeff’s experience includes water reclamation systems, powder handling and pneumatic conveying, reactor and autoclave design, GMP facility upgrades, and combustible dust hazard analyses. His leadership has shaped major capital efforts for clients such as PepsiCo, McCormick & Company, Croda, and Hershey. His process design expertise spans vessels, piping, pumps, instrumentation, HVAC/process ventilation, and dust collection systems, with a focus on code compliance and operational safety.

He holds a Bachelor of Chemical Engineering from the University of Delaware, with a concentration in biochemistry and minors in economics and history. Jeff is a member of the American Institute of Chemical Engineers (AIChE).

Stephen McCool serves as Division Manager of Construction Management Services at TAI, where he leads the firm’s construction-phase execution and field support efforts. With over 30 years of experience in industrial, manufacturing, and process facility construction, Steve brings deep knowledge of construction management, project engineering, and site supervision to each engagement. Since joining TAI more than 20+ years ago, he has been instrumental in developing a highly responsive team of site-based construction managers and project managers.

At TAI, Steve oversees the execution of capital projects from field mobilization through turnover, ensuring alignment with client expectations, design intent, and regulatory standards. His responsibilities include construction scheduling, contractor coordination, cost tracking, permitting, and documentation control. Steve plays a key role in providing construction oversight across structural steel, process and utility piping, equipment installations, HVAC systems, and electrical and controls infrastructure.

Steve’s leadership supports project success by integrating constructability reviews during design, developing scopes of work and procurement strategies, and guiding field change management and commissioning coordination. His portfolio includes major projects such as the $90 million Brine-to-Bleach Plant for Kuehne Company, the Fuchs NA greenfield facility, Solvay’s site-wide dust collection upgrade, and multi-phase expansions for FujiFilm, McCormick & Company, Lonza, and Baxter Bioscience.

He holds a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from the University of Pittsburgh and a Bachelor of Arts in English from Boston University, and is a member of the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE).

Troy Miller serves as Director of Regional Operations at TAI and is an Associate and Senior Project Manager with more than 27 years of experience in engineering, operations, and project execution. Since joining TAI in 2007, Troy has played a key leadership role in expanding the firm’s national footprint—most notably establishing TAI’s Dallas office in 2017 as the foundation of its regional growth strategy.

In his current role, Troy oversees TAI’s Regional Operations Offices, supporting regional managers with resource development, business strategy, and client engagement. He also leads project execution and proposal development for major capital programs, drawing from a deep background in engineering, project management, and operational leadership.

Troy has successfully managed multidisciplinary projects across the food and beverage, chemical, advanced manufacturing, and automotive industries, overseeing capital improvements, facility upgrades, and production system optimization. His technical background includes process design, materials engineering, utilities infrastructure, and manufacturing automation. He is known for his client-first mindset, focus on deliverable quality, and ability to align engineering outcomes with business goals.

He earned a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from Drexel University in 1995 and a Master of Science in Technology Management from the University of Maryland. Troy is a member of the International Society for Pharmaceutical Engineering (ISPE) and the Project Management Institute (PMI).

Mark Novak, PE, serves as Division Manager of Electrical Engineering at TAI, where he leads the design and development of electrical systems across commercial, industrial, and healthcare markets. With over 24 years of industry experience, Mark provides comprehensive leadership throughout the full project lifecycle—from conceptual design through construction administration.

In his role, Mark oversees all phases of electrical engineering services, including construction documentation, cost estimation, power studies, and code-compliant design. He supports budgeting, staff development, and project execution, ensuring quality and efficiency in all deliverables. His approach balances technical precision with practical constructability and schedule adherence.

Mark brings a strong foundation in electrical system and lighting integration to multidisciplinary projects, with a reputation for effective coordination and team leadership. He is committed to maintaining high standards of engineering excellence while advancing TAI’s capabilities in a wide range of market sectors.

He holds a Bachelor of Science in Engineering Science from Loyola University in Baltimore, Maryland, is a licensed Professional Engineer in the state of Maryland, and holds the Illuminating Engineering Society’s Fundamentals of Lighting Certification.

Charles (Charlie) Pennington serves as Division Manager of Mechanical Services for TAI-SCI Specialty Construction, Inc., where he oversees the company’s industrial piping and mechanical installation operations. With over 25 years of experience—and more than 15 Years at TAI—Charlie has built a reputation for delivering high-quality mechanical services in complex industrial environments.

Charlie’s leadership has been pivotal in expanding the Mechanical Services Division to meet growing demand. Under his direction, the division has significantly grown in size and capabilities, supporting clients with skilled pipefitters, welders, and mechanics trained to perform in mission-critical industrial settings. Charlie was instrumental in the design and execution of TAI-SCI’s ASME R-stamp certification program, ensuring compliance with code requirements and integration into operational procedures.

His background includes experience as an Industrial Steam Fitter, Maintenance Mechanic, and Construction Foreman, with hands-on expertise in steam and process piping, equipment installation, and field leadership. He has served as superintendent on large-scale projects, overseeing multiple crews and subcontractors across a variety of disciplines. Charlie’s work has spanned pharmaceutical, food and beverage, and specialty manufacturing environments.

He has led major installations for clients such as LONZA in Durham, NC, Diageo in Baltimore, MD, and previously managed site-wide support for Sanofi Pasteur Biopharmaceuticals in Gaithersburg, MD, Sherwin Williams in Commerce CA and Kuehne Chemical in Kearney NJ.
Charlie is a certified AWS Weld Inspector and trained Industrial Steam Fitter, bringing practical field knowledge, safety leadership, and decades of technical experience to every project he leads.

Samantha Resch is the Manager of Talent Acquisition and Human Resources at TAI, where she leads comprehensive HR and recruitment operations across the company’s multidisciplinary divisions. With more than 14 years of experience in talent acquisition and a decade in human resources, Samantha plays a strategic role in shaping company culture, driving workforce planning, and enhancing the overall employee experience.

Since beginning her career at TAI as a Recruiter, Samantha has emerged as a company-wide leader. Not only through supporting HR and TA, but as a key contributor to the growth and success of TAI’s On-Site Division. She has successfully recruited hundreds of professionals—many of whom have risen to key leadership roles within the organization. Under her leadership, the HR department has grown into a robust team of specialists, bolstering the company’s scalability and organizational support.

Samantha’s responsibilities include strategic planning, compensation analysis, training and development support, policy design, and labor compliance. As a trusted liaison between employees and leadership, she fosters a culture of transparency, equity, and engagement.
She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Stevenson University and is a certified Professional in Human Resources (PHR). Samantha is also an active member of the Chesapeake Human Resources Association (CHRA) and the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM).

Adam Soutar serves as Director of Business Development, Marketing, and On-Site Services at TAI, overseeing the growth and strategic direction of these functions nationwide. With over 20 years of experience leading high-performing teams within the heavy industrial and manufacturing sectors, Adam brings a results-driven mindset to client engagement, market expansion, and workforce development.

In his role, Adam is responsible for building and nurturing long-term partnerships with clients while aligning TAI’s capabilities to meet evolving industry needs. He leads business development efforts, oversees corporate marketing strategy, and manages the firm’s On-Site Services team, which provides embedded engineering and technical talent for client facilities across the U.S.

Known for his client-centric approach and collaborative leadership style, Adam plays a critical role in shaping how TAI delivers value through responsive service, technical expertise, and relationship-based engagement. He has helped grow and professionalize the On-Site Services division into a scalable, nationally recognized offering.

Adam holds a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Maryland, College Park, and remains actively involved with numerous local and national industry organizations, fostering professional networks that support TAI’s continued growth.

Von Tourgee serves as General Counsel and Associate at TAI Engineering, where he leads the firm’s legal function and supports executive decision-making across a wide range of strategic initiatives. Since joining TAI in 2011, Von has been instrumental in managing legal risk, driving operational compliance, and strengthening the contractual foundations that support the company’s growth.

In his role, Von oversees all internal legal matters, including contract review, risk mitigation, corporate governance, and regulatory compliance. He collaborates closely with project managers, executives, and outside counsel to ensure the firm’s legal and operational practices align with industry standards and business objectives.

With a multidisciplinary background in mechanical engineering, business, and law, Von brings a unique and practical perspective to corporate legal management. His ability to bridge the gap between technical design, business priorities, and legal requirements adds critical value across the firm’s engineering and consulting engagements.

Von holds a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from Worcester Polytechnic Institute, a Juris Doctor from Liberty University School of Law, and an MBA from Loyola University, which he completed through the Executive Business Program while advancing at TAI. He is a licensed attorney and a member of the Maryland Bar Association.

Greg Wilder serves as Division Manager of Electrical Services at TAI, bringing over 30 years of experience in industrial electrical maintenance and construction. He leads TAI’s electrical field operations, managing teams of electricians and technical specialists in delivering high-quality electrical installations, troubleshooting, upgrades, and support across a range of complex industrial environments.

Greg is recognized for his deep understanding of electrical systems and the principles of electrical devices, as well as his ability to guide safe, efficient, and code-compliant execution in the field. His responsibilities include field team leadership, project oversight, schedule coordination, and client interface to ensure seamless execution of electrical scopes across sectors including energy, utilities, and manufacturing.

Over the course of his career, Greg has contributed to significant infrastructure and power projects, including the Amtrak 25-cycle refurbishment at the Brookfield Hydro Plant and the HA Wagner Unit 3 coal-to-oil conversion, demonstrating his expertise in both legacy systems and modern energy transitions.

Greg holds a certificate in Industrial Electronics from RETS Technical Training and is a licensed Master Electrician in Maryland, Delaware, Virginia, West Virginia, and Washington, DC.

Jeff Wiser, PE, PMP, serves as Division Manager of Process Engineering at TAI, where he also functions as a Senior Project Manager and Senior Process Engineer. With over 15 years of engineering consulting experience—including more than a decade at TAI—Jeff brings deep technical and project leadership to multidisciplinary capital projects across the chemical, food and beverage, consumer products, and energy industries.

At TAI, Jeff leads complex design-build efforts, managing process engineering, scope development, risk evaluation, and project execution for new and existing facilities. His responsibilities span front-end design through construction support and commissioning, with extensive experience in system optimization, code compliance, and facility upgrades. He also serves as TAI’s Project Management Office (PMO) Manager, where he develops internal project standards and reinforces best practices across teams.

Jeff has led major site and utility buildouts, including supporting a client in designing and constructing five manufacturing lines, four packaging lines, and all associated utilities in a 250,000 sq. ft. facility over a six-year period. In 2017, he relocated to Texas to establish TAI’s first satellite office, which he successfully expanded to over 20 employees and counting.

His technical expertise includes hazardous area classification, process safety, piping and instrumentation diagrams (P&IDs), dust hazard analysis, system modeling, startup and commissioning, and multidisciplinary team coordination. He is known for blending technical rigor with strategic planning and a hands-on leadership style.

Jeff holds a Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering from the University of Maryland, College Park. He is a licensed Professional Engineer in Maryland, a certified Project Management Professional (PMP), and a member of both the American Institute of Chemical Engineers (AIChE) and the Project Management Institute (PMI).

James Zemzicki, PE, LEED AP, serves as Director of Electrical Engineering at TAI, where he leads a rapidly growing division specializing in electrical, instrumentation, and controls design for mission-critical, life sciences, industrial, healthcare, commercial, and government facilities. With 19 years of experience—14 of those at TAI—Jim has overseen the development of the electrical group into a recognized powerhouse, delivering solutions that are innovative, scalable, and aligned with evolving industry standards.

Jim’s role includes managing team operations, advancing technical capabilities, supporting project execution, and expanding TAI’s presence in new and existing markets. His expertise spans the design and analysis of electrical systems ranging from 24V control wiring to 69kV distribution, including medium voltage relays, lighting, grounding, life safety systems, IT/security/AV infrastructure, and integrated fire alarm systems. Under his leadership, the division has grown significantly in both size and impact, known for delivering high-performance systems across sectors such as pharmaceutical R&D, food manufacturing, and data center infrastructure.

His project portfolio includes the AstraZeneca CAR-T facility, Amazon Web Services data center upgrades, high-resilience mission-critical office buildings, and utility-scale load studies for Lonza, Ingredion, Froneri Dreyer’s, and Perdue Agribusiness. Jim has also served as Principal-in-Charge and Engineering Manager on numerous complex capital projects that required detailed electrical studies, compliance with GMP and SHE regulations, and coordination with multidisciplinary teams.

Jim holds a Master of Science in Electrical and Computer Engineering from Kansas State University and a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering Technology from Bloomsburg University. He is a licensed Professional Engineer in over 15 states, including Maryland, Texas, Florida, New York, and California, and is a LEED Accredited Professional.