News & Insights
VIDEO: Mitigating risk in federal projects
Why this matters now
Federal projects carry layered expectations from agencies, oversight bodies, and the public. Schedules are long, contracting frameworks are complex, and conditions on the ground can change quickly. Risk shows up in many forms: scope creep, unforeseen site conditions, funding adjustments, and changing mission needs. Project teams that anticipate and manage those risks deliver value to clients. Teams that do not struggle with disputes and delays.
What leaders are weighing
Agency leaders and project teams are weighing the cost of more rigorous risk management against the cost of avoidable problems later. They are deciding how to structure delivery methods, allocate risk across contracts, and coordinate with stakeholders inside and outside the agency. There are tradeoffs around documentation, contingency planning, and how aggressively to push for early identification of issues. Contracting officers want defensible processes. Mission owners want results. Both depend on disciplined risk management throughout the project.
How Salas O’Brien is helping clients respond
Our federal team helps agencies identify, evaluate, and manage risk across complex federal projects. We bring engineering depth, project delivery experience, and a working knowledge of federal contracting frameworks. We help clients structure projects, anticipate issues, and respond when conditions change. Our goal is to help agencies deliver on mission without the surprises that derail less-prepared programs. Hear Jeff Longshore, Chad Brooks, Mike McGuire, and Brian Miller talk through how to mitigate risk in federal projects.
Jeff Longshore, PE
Jeff Longshore, PE, is a civil and environmental engineer who leads multidisciplinary teams delivering complex, high-profile infrastructure projects. He has provided civil and environmental design for Space Launch Complex 41 and brings deep experience navigating projects with challenging technical, operational, and site constraints. Based in Merritt Island, Jeff has been with the team since 2011 and is known for combining technical rigor with practical leadership to deliver reliable, high-performing solutions. Jeff serves as a Principal at Salas O’Brien. Contact him at [email protected].
Chad Brooks, PE, PMP
Chad Brooks is a senior leader in federal infrastructure planning, engineering, and construction, with more than 30 years of experience across the public and private sectors. He has directed complex engineering organizations and advised senior executive leaders on enterprise-level investment decisions spanning planning, design, construction, and facility operations for Department of Energy, NNSA, and other federal clients. Chad serves as Senior Vice President at Salas O’Brien. Contact him at [email protected]
Mike McGuire, PE, LEED AP
Michael “Mike” McGuire, PE, LEED AP is a senior mechanical engineering leader with extensive experience guiding complex public and private sector projects, including public safety facilities. He is recognized for his technical judgment, practical understanding of building systems, and ability to help clients make informed decisions on performance, efficiency, and long-term operational value. Mike brings deep expertise in sustainable mechanical design, energy efficiency, and ENERGY STAR strategies. He serves as a principal at Salas O’Brien. Contact him at [email protected].
Brian Miller, PE, CxA, LEED-AP, MBA
Brian Miller, PE, CxA, LEED-AP, MBA is a seasoned strategic leader within the division, bringing proven processes and disciplined execution to drive business development and growth initiatives. As an engaged and driven leader, Brian ensures that client service and business development remain daily priorities for the leadership team. Throughout his career, Brian has contributed across business development, project management, and design engineering, while building strong relationships with clients and industry professionals. Known for his collaborative approach and consistent ability to deliver results, Brian plays a key role in expanding client partnerships and advancing long‑term business success. Brian serves as a Principal at Salas O’Brien. [email protected].