Markets
Higher Education
We are your partner in figuring out complicated challenges
Salas O’Brien delivers innovative and sustainable solutions for campus energy transitions, new construction, and retrofitting in higher education. We help institutions achieve carbon elimination goals and balance sheet targets through renewable energy solutions. Our team understands the importance of versatile spaces, efficient systems, and advanced technologies to support fluid pedagogies and transformed undergraduate cultures.
Our multidisciplinary team works with design teams, advancement and development offices, and trustees to provide comprehensive engineering solutions that deliver measurable results.
Photo: Robert Benson
Higher Education Projects
Decarbonization in Higher Education
What we can offer
Salas O’Brien provides a wide variety of engineering and technical services in higher education to meet the demands of this high-performance sector.
Decarbonization & sustainability
Salas O’Brien works with clients to develop and implement strategies that result in higher performance, greater resilience, and produce tangible savings for campuses.
Mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and fire protection
Salas O’Brien’s mechanical, electrical, plumbing and fire protection design team delivers common-sense, integrated design solutions that are cost-effective, reliable, and energy efficient.
Structural
Salas O’Brien’s structural expertise extends from conceptual development and 3D modeling to surveys, investigative studies, and due diligence assessments.
Technology
Salas O’Brien’s technology design team provides design for data infrastructure, security systems, and audio-video technology.
Acoustics
Salas O’Brien’s acoustics design team provides design for room acoustics, sound isolation, noise/vibration control, and environmental noise mitigation.
Commissioning
Salas O’Brien’s commissioning / retro-commissioning team specializes in verifying that building systems and equipment perform at their optimum function, ensuring your facility operates efficiently and reliably.
Building envelope consulting and testing
Salas O’Brien covers all aspects of building envelope consulting, from design collaboration for new construction to installation oversight during construction. On existing buildings, our expertise also includes in-depth forensic analysis to pinpoint envelope failures, then offering detailed repair and remediation guidance.
Our field-testing services use cutting-edge tools to assess air and water tightness, thermal efficiency, and structural soundness. We have an ISO 17025 accredited lab and are capable of conducting a variety of both lab and field testing procedures following FGIA/AAMA, ASTM and other industry standards. Our team also specializes in energy modeling to boost efficiency and hazardous material sampling for safety. Our comprehensive building envelope commissioning ensures optimal performance of your building’s envelope, enhancing the functionality of both new and existing structures.
Forensic consulting services
Salas O’Brien performs investigation and analysis of failures, damages, or defects in structures and materials. Our experts determine causation, whether due to natural events like storms, fires, and earthquakes, or human factors such as construction errors or design flaws. We assess the integrity of buildings and other structures, machinery, building systems, and infrastructure, providing detailed reports that are often used in insurance claims, legal disputes, and risk management. Our work helps clients understand the root causes and guides them in making informed decisions about repairs, replacements, and preventive measures.
