Lisa
Osborne

PE, LEED AP

President | Principal In Charge


"There are far, far better things ahead than any we leave behind." - C.S. Lewis

Lisa Osborne | Collaborative Engineering Group

Biography

In keeping with her family’s tradition, Lisa attended The University of Texas at Austin earning a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering.  Inspired by Dr. Jerold Jones to apply her education to HVAC design, she has always enjoyed the challenge of integrating MEP systems into architecture.  Her commitment to a collaborative design team approach results in functional and beautiful projects.  As a LEED Accredited Professional, she has a passion for energy efficiency and sustainable design.

As a founding partner of CEG, Lisa relies on her strong faith to direct the way in which she conducts business.  She is committed to customer service, attention to detail and thrives on complex projects.  After over 39 years in practice, Lisa is enthusiastic about training the next generation of engineers and is an Associate Professor of Practice for the Texas A&M Architectural Engineering Program.

Away from the office, she’s enjoys outdoor sports such as snow skiing, hiking, and scuba diving.  Of course, if its football season she will be watching the Longhorns!  Lisa has two grown children, a son Sean and a daughter Shannon.

Kristin
Rickett

Executive Vice President


"All our dreams can come true, if we have the courage to pursue them." - Walt Disney

Kristin Rickett | Collaborative Engineering Group

Biography

After working together for almost 20 years, a colleague and close friend, Lisa Osborne, invited Kristin to take a leap of faith and start a MEP firm and in June of 2010 Collaborative Engineering Group was born.

Building upon her more than 30 years of administrative experience in the MEP Consulting Engineering industry, Kristin serves as the Chief Operations Officer focusing on Business Development and Client Relations. She oversees the day-to-day operations of CEG and builds, develops, and maintains relationships with clients. Utilizing her ability to recognize and understand business opportunities, she develops the firm’s business development strategies.

Kristin is actively involved in the Women Business Enterprise Alliance, CoreNet and POWER (Professional Organization of Women Entrepreneurs Rising).

Married to Ken with daughter Kendall, she resides in the Tomball area with their dogs Scout and Sutton.  Outside of work, you will find Kristin with family and friends, traveling, loving life, and enjoying a nice bottle of wine.

Andy
Solberg

PE, LEED AP

Vice President of Engineering


"I believe every human has a finite number of heartbeats. I don't intend to waste any of mine." - Neil Armstrong

Andy Solberg | Collaborative Engineering Group

Biography

A Rice University graduate with two degrees, Mechanical Engineering and Physics, As the Vice President of Engineering, Andy coordinates all engineering disciplines for CEG. He brings over 30 years of experience in the MEP industry on a variety of projects with particular expertise in healthcare and laboratory systems. Andy’s mission is to provide the highest quality documentation through purposeful coordination among all disciplines and implementation of a rigorous quality control process.  He is a member of ASHRAE, ASPE, and is a LEED Accredited Professional.

Andy is an avid player of games.  He plays a lot of cards and enjoys losing money at poker; winning is also acceptable.  He organizes an annual board game convention at Rice that benefits Houston area charities.  He also enjoys driving around Texas, and he takes a picture of every historical marker he passes.  Andy's two children are now old enough that he can devote more of his time to spoiling two tiny and loud-mouthed dogs.

Kevin
Schmidt

PE, LEED AP

Vice President/Electrical Department Director


Kevin Schmidt | Collaborative Engineering Group

Biography

With over 25 years of experience under his belt, Kevin joined CEG as the Electrical Department Director.  Kevin graduated from Kansas State University with a Bachelor of Science in Architectural Engineering. He was drawn to his electrical engineering classes, so he started his engineering career in electrical design and never looked back.  Kevin has worked on a variety of projects including healthcare, laboratory, government facilities, commercial, data centers, light industrial, and office projects. Kevin is a meticulous engineer whose attention to detail is unrivaled. He strives to provide our clients with the highest quality work and takes pride in everything he puts his hand to. 

Kevin is an avid cyclist and runner. He has completed 14 MS 150 bike rides and hopes to complete his 15th ride soon. He also enjoys woodworking and DIY home projects. His largest project to date is renovating his master bathroom in which he took down to the studs and remodeled the entire space. Kevin lives in Katy with his wife, 3 kids, and his dog.

Glen
Mallory

Director of Plumbing and Fire Protection Engineering


"The fewer the lines, the more important each line." - Pablo Picasso

Glen Mallory | Collaborative Engineering Group

Biography

Glen is a lively and hard-working senior plumbing designer. He understands the importance of communicating with the client and other disciplines on a project, and he prides himself on his attention to detail. In his 23 years of experience, Glen has designed health care, laboratories, higher education, and multi-use buildings.  His advanced skill set helped him become an ASPE Certified Plumbing Designer (CPD).

Glen grew up in the Brazosport area, but has lived in Houston for over 25 years. Glen is married to his wife Chasity and has three amazing children. Glen and his wife enjoy weekly date nights, but also enjoy lots of family time including a weekly family cooking night, throwing the ball around, games, hiking and biking. He’s an outdoor enthusiast who also enjoys vacationing in Big Bend and Rocky Mountain National Parks, Lake Tahoe, New York and California.

Lesley
Gehrt

PE, LEED AP, BD+C

Senior Project Manager


"Life moves pretty fast. If you don't stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it." - Ferris Bueller

Lesley Gehrt | Collaborative Engineering Group

Biography

As a life-long lover of math and science, engineering was a natural career choice for Lesley. She attended Kansas State University where she received her Bachelors and Masters in Architectural Engineering.  Fresh out of school, Lesley moved to Houston for her first job with a small MEP firm.  She started as an electrical designer working on a variety of projects including retail, restaurants, data centers, and medical facilities.  With extensive experience and a P.E. in electrical engineering under her belt, Lesley was up for a new challenge as a project manager.  Her technical expertise with her drive to deliver quality designs and outstanding customer service makes Lesley a valued CEG project manager.  She takes pride in all projects she is involved with, large or small, and is tenacious in her pursuit of perfection.  In her 25 years of experience, Lesley has continually shown that she will go above and beyond to meet clients' needs.

In her downtime, Lesley enjoys spending time with her husband and young son.  As a movie buff, she loves sharing the cinema experience with her son.  They are fans of all the Disney movies, especially Finding Nemo!  Sports are also a treasured family tradition in the Gehrt household.  They enjoy watching her son's little league baseball games, cheering on the Astros, and attending every Texans home game.

Tim
Rocha

Senior Project Manager


“Choose a job you love, and you will never have to work a day in your life.” - Confucius

Tim Rocha | Collaborative Engineering Group

Biography

Tim has achieved high accolades over his 43 year career. His determination and rock solid work ethic helped Tim get his start and still drive him today. Straight out of high school, he secured a job as a mechanical draftsman, and running and delivering prints (blue prints – remember those?). He transitioned to electrical design after five months and despite doubts and being told he couldn’t succeed on a Texas Children’s Hospital lab project, he completed the project with flying colors and never looked back. Fifteen years later, Tim did another 8 years designing mechanical systems before transitioning to project management.  He specializes in the planning, design and implementation of projects, is a proficient communicator and problem solver, and a valued senior member and leader of the CEG team. A natural leader and our office cheerleader, he freely shares his knowledge with colleagues and is passionate about keeping our clients happy and coming back.

A native Houstonian, Tim enjoys traveling and camping with his family, riding his bike around Houston trails, and cooking (hamburgers and crawfish boils are his specialties). Tim’s love language is coming up with various nicknames for his friends and colleagues. A little known fact about him is that he is color blind (so you know Mrs. Rocha dresses him). He has two mini chihuahuas (he claims belong to only his wife, but we know he secretly loves them too!).

John
Woodfin

Senior Project Manager


"Life is like riding a bicycle. To keep your balance, you must keep moving." - Albert Einstein

John Woodfin | Collaborative Engineering Group

Biography

John brings over 34 years of electrical engineering experience to the project team. After receiving his Associates in Electrical Technology, John realized his passion for electrical engineering and went on to receive his Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering from University of Houston. He enjoys the challenges of working in the consulting industry and prides himself in creating well-designed, functional projects.

John is an avid hunter and fisherman.  He enjoys taking his boat out on the lake, spending time at his ranch in Spicewood, Texas, and entertaining friends and family.  He has been married for 29 years to his beautiful wife Sandra and they have a daughter that teaches high school culinary arts.

Cayetano
Garza Jr.

BIM/IT Manager


"When in doubt, reboot."

Cayetano Garza Jr. | Collaborative Engineering Group

Biography

Cayetano comes to CEG as the BIM and IT Manager.  With over 27 years of experience, he has seen many changes in the technologies used in the MEP industry.  He started his career as an AutoCAD draftsman, and when Revit came along he was excited to learn the program as it was being introduced to the industry.  Now Autodesk Certified in Revit 2016 and an expert in all things BIM, Cayetano makes sure all AutoCAD and Revit models run smoothly in our office.  He uses his technical skills and boundless patience to assist on our team members on IT issues and BIM questions. 

Cayetano is a family man through and through.  He's been married to his wife Julie for 22 years and has three beautiful children - Mikayla, Cayetano, and Miranda.  You can find him and his family grilling and watching football on Sundays.  A fun fact about Cayetano is that he has a fraternal twin that looks nothing like him!

Senin
Chandrabos

EIT


"The magic you're looking for is in the work you're avoiding." - Dipen Parmar

Senin Chandrabos | Collaborative Engineering Group

Biography

Senin Chandrabos has a diverse background in the MEP industry. With 3 years of experience in HVAC installation and service during high school, followed by 1 year in drafting/surveying after college, and an additional year in design prior to joining CEG, Senin brings a wealth of practical knowledge to the table.

Senin's interest in the MEP industry was sparked by his early exposure to HVAC work in high school, which he further developed through hands-on experience and his passion for repairing cars during his free time. This led him to pursue a career in Mechanical Engineering at Manhattan College, aiming to combine theoretical knowledge with practical expertise to become a valuable asset in the field. Senin's experience is particularly notable in the hospital sector, where he has been involved in numerous surveying and shop drawing projects for renovations. His attention to detail in drawings, schedules, and write-ups ensures clear communication and minimizes the need for additional clarification. He values collaboration with his team, architects, and customers, recognizing the importance of bridging communication gaps between different trades. Having a fundamental understanding of various MEP trades, including plumbing and electrical work from his earlier experiences, Senin is able to effectively communicate and facilitate seamless project execution. He is also actively involved in professional development, with plans to join ASHRAE and currently holding certifications such as EIT, OSHA 30, and Universal EPA 608 License.

Outside of work, Senin enjoys engaging in physical activities such as going to the gym, running, hiking, and playing basketball. He has recently developed a passion for traveling and exploring different cultures, with his most recent trip to Iceland allowing him to appreciate nature's beauty and embark on an exciting glacier hiking adventure.

David
Cho


“Don’t ever underestimate the Heart of a Champion!” - Rudy Tomjanovich

David Cho | Collaborative Engineering Group

Biography

When David Cho completed his Associates Degree, he came to CEG seeking to gain experience - he even offered to work for free!  Starting as a blank slate he has flourished into an essential component of the CEG Team!

Eager to become a proficient Electrical Designer, David is currently under the tutelage of the expert engineers in the Electrical Department.  When he’s feeling ambitious and adventurous, he will even take on mechanical and plumbing design. He’s often referred to as CEG’s Swiss Army knife.

David loves to play and watch basketball and football, but his friends and family are second to none.  Although he’s quiet most of the time, David keeps the office on their toes with his subtle sense of humor.

Marcos
Fernandez


"The world treats winners a lot different than it treats losers." - Augie Garrido

Marcos Fernandez | Collaborative Engineering Group

Biography

From a very early age, Marcos found himself intrigued by how things worked. He loved to take his electric toys apart and reassemble them to see if they would still work. (Most of the time they did!) He has an aptitude for understanding how electrical and mechanical components operate, which led him to a career in the MEP field. He has been designing electrical for the last five years. In that time, he has worked on numerous healthcare and university projects. He is known for being great at coordinating with other disciplines and his Revit knowledge is endless.

When he’s not working, he enjoys tinkering on cars, hanging out with friends, and playing video games with his kids Christian and Emma.

Juana
Garcia

PE


“Hook’em Horns!”

Juana Garcia | Collaborative Engineering Group

Biography

Juana graduated from the University of Texas at Austin with a Bachelor of Science in Architectural Engineering (chosen because of her love of architecture and her amazing math and science skills). After completing an internship with CEG in 2012, she decided to change her technical electives from structural to HVAC design.  Since joining CEG in 2015, she has demonstrated her technical expertise on a broad spectrum of projects including performing arts venues, educational, worship, multifamily, and entertainment facilities.  While she especially enjoys the challenges of acoustically sensitive spaces like performing arts venues, she has experience in complex renovation projects with difficult existing conditions.

Juana enjoys traveling and has achieved her goal of visiting all seven wonders of the world before she turned 30!  She also loves watching reruns of The Office with her dog Shaki and cheering on the Texas Longhorns!

George
Henningsen


“The price of anything is the amount of life you exchange for it.” Mark Twain

George Henningsen | Collaborative Engineering Group

Biography

Born and raised in Arkansas, George moved to Houston in 1975. He started as a cabinet maker when his hand lettering got noticed by a local MEP firm. George was hired on as a draftsman, but through tenacity and grit he quickly became an electrical designer.  George has over 43 years of experience in the MEP industry. To this day, he still gets a great sense of satisfaction from a job well done. His easy-going nature and level headedness makes George an exceptional collaborator with the other disciplines in the office, clients, and owners. While lighting and fire alarm are George’s specialty, his extensive industry experience means he’s a great resource for all things electrical.

In true engineering fashion, George loves tinkering around his house. He recently used his woodworking skills to make all of the cabinets for his bathroom remodel. His skills extend beyond woodworking, to bicycle construction. George designs and constructs his own bicycles. He enjoys cycling and has completed the MS150 seven times. George has been married to his loving wife, Donna, for 45 years. They love to travel together. Their favorite destination has been South Africa!

Daniel
Hines

EIT


“Life is about learning, when you stop learning, you die.” – Tom Clancy

Daniel  Hines | Collaborative Engineering Group

Biography

A graduate from McNeese State University with a Bachelors in Mechanical Engineering, Daniel is a highly detail-focused and adaptable individual. After graduation, he was uncertain about his future path. However, his interview with Andy Solberg convinced him to pursue a career in the MEP industry.

As a true history buff, he eagerly delves into the works of celebrated authors like James Hornfischer, Tom Clancy, and Walter B. Gibson. Moreover, Daniel proudly identifies as a cinephile, reveling in both modern and classic films. He also holds a special appreciation for movies showcasing the creative brilliance of Ray Harryhausen or featuring the incomparable Clint Eastwood. While Daniel is a modest sports fan, his enthusiasm for football and baseball knows no bounds. Rather than aligning himself with a specific team, he finds joy in witnessing games played to perfection or experiencing the unexpected twists and turns that can turn a game on its head. Daniel once interned with NASA and contributed to the design of groundbreaking hardware that eventually made its way to the International Space Station. He was granted the privilege of adding his signature to some of the equipment and as a result, his name now resides in the vast expanse of space, forever etched in the history of human exploration.

Fili
Hinojosa


"Whatever you are, be a good one." - Abraham Lincoln

Fili  Hinojosa | Collaborative Engineering Group

Biography

With 6 years of experience in plumbing design, Fili brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to his role. His journey to becoming a skilled professional in the field is rooted in the determination and sacrifices made by his father. Fili's father worked tirelessly in the petrochemical industry, undertaking construction work in the field for 30 years before returning to school to become a Piping Designer. Inspired by his father's perseverance, Fili embarked on a path of education and opportunity. Fili's specialization lies in Multi-Family Residential Buildings, where he has worked on projects ranging from small garden-style apartments to towering high-rise structures. As a team player, both on and off the job, Fili values collaboration and understands the importance of listening and being compassionate to the needs of others. He strives to cultivate a positive environment that can influence and inspire those around him.

Fili is an active member of the American Society of Plumbing Engineers (ASPE), staying connected with industry trends and advancements. Previously, he worked as a Certified Bilingual School Teacher for grades K-8 for 7 years. Currently, his biggest hobby revolves around collecting, restoring, and repairing vintage arcade machines from the 80s and 90s. His garage has been transformed into a captivating arcade/gameroom, housing a collection of 10 full-size arcade machines with more to come. This hobby has allowed him to acquire new skills such as soldering, bodywork, and reading electrical schematics. Alongside his arcade passion, Fili enjoys playing the trumpet and is actively engaged in learning the Italian language. However, his most cherished role is that of a family man. Married for 12 years, Fili delights in spending quality time with his twin 9-year-old boys, creating lasting memories together. Additionally, he is a proud pet owner, having rescued a Miniature Schnauzer and a cat. Fili's commitment to personal growth and community involvement is evident through his Bachelor's Degree in Theology from East Texas Baptist University. He actively participates in his local church as a Sunday School teacher, Camp Counselor, and volunteers at various charity events. Fili embodies dedication, compassion, and a multifaceted passion for both his professional and personal pursuits.

James
Lee


"The best preparation for tomorrow is doing your best today" - H. Jackson Brown Jr.

James Lee | Collaborative Engineering Group

Biography

James is an energetic and driven mechanical engineer.  In his over 40 year career, he has designed many complicated and challenging projects including healthcare facilities, laboratories, data centers and central plants.  He received a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Technology from the University of Houston.  Proficient in both energy modeling and Revit, James uses these skills to design state of the art mechanical systems.  His attention to detail and creative problem solving helps him to deliver quality projects that exceed client expectations.  

To relax and maintain a healthy life balance, James practices Tai Chi.  Another hobby is building vintage model airplanes and armory.  James was born in Hong Kong and relocated to Houston in the mid 1970’s.  He and his wife have two grown children – a future pharmacist and future physician. 

Daniel
Mendoza


If you want something bad enough you can’t let anybody tell you that you can’t do something.” - Tom Platz

Daniel  Mendoza | Collaborative Engineering Group

Biography

As CEG’s youngest employee, Daniel Mendoza is new to the plumbing industry. Since a young age, he has been fascinated by the intricacies of plumbing and has developed a genuine love for the art of design. What truly captivates him is the immense thought and attention to detail that goes into design. With his keen eye for detail and quick learning abilities, Daniel is ready to take on the challenges of the plumbing industry head-on.

During his leisure time, Daniel enjoys weightlifting and playing the electric guitar. These activities not only keep him physically strong but also serve as creative outlets, allowing him to express himself in unique ways beyond his professional endeavors. Daniel is a proud owner of two dogs named Oliver and Sophia who bring joy, love, and companionship to his everyday life.

Al
Ovalle


"Education is not the learning of facts, but the training of the mind to think" - Albert Einstein

Al Ovalle | Collaborative Engineering Group

Biography

Al comes to CEG with 26 years of mechanical design experience. He got his start in the MEP world as a building engineer. Now, he uses his hands-on knowledge of building systems to design sensible and smart mechanical systems. Always eager to collaborate with others and tackle design challenges, Al has worked on a large variety of projects including commercial offices, healthcare and educational facilities. While mechanical design is his specialty, Al’s extensive field experience means he can be depended upon to help with mechanical, electrical, or plumbing especially during construction. 

 Like a true Texan, Al can be found hanging out with his BBQ team on the weekends cooking up some brisket. He also enjoys relaxing by the lake with his wife of 19 years, his daughter, 2 dogs, 5 turtles, and parrot Charlie - although lately Charlie has to stay home because he talks too much!

Kaycee
Sandoval


“Time you enjoyed wasting was not wasted.” – John Lennon

Kaycee Sandoval | Collaborative Engineering Group

Biography

Kaycee prides herself on being the entertainment for the office and never passes up a chance to make others laugh.  When she is being serious, she is responsible for planning, directing, and coordinating all marketing efforts for the company.  She is also responsible for coordinating the clerical and administrative aspects of each engineering project in order to ensure smooth execution.  Her exceptional organizational skills (and occasional nagging) keep the team focused and on track to meet our deadlines. 

Kaycee graduated Summa Cum Laude from the University of Houston and earned a Bachelor of Science in Retailing and Consumer Science.  Kaycee has been married to her husband Josh for ten years and they have one daughter, Maryn.  She enjoys watching anything Bravo related, doing home improvement projects with her husband, and having a cocktail or two (poolside of course).

Jim
Sulzer


....."I'm not from anywhere... I never left!"

Jim Sulzer | Collaborative Engineering Group

Biography

Jim, a native Houstonian, began his career in network cabling infrastructure and basic computer and phone setup.  A previous employer noticed his hard work and eagerness to learn and offered him a position designing low voltage systems.  With 23 years of experience under his belt, Jim is now our go to guy because of his exceptional efficiency and attention to detail.  He has extensive experience in a wide variety of commercial and residential projects including casinos, high-rise condominiums, event and convention centers, and high-rise public office buildings.

In his free time, Jim enjoys playing golf and has recently renewed his love of motorcycling.  

Wendy
Vinca


"Happiness isn’t something you get from life, it’s something you bring to it." - My Dad

Wendy Vinca | Collaborative Engineering Group

Biography

Wendy Vinca received an Associates of Applied Science degree in Electrical Engineering from Stark State College of Technology and  continued her studies at University of Akron in electrical engineering.  Early in her career, she focused on industrial automation applying her expertise to improve efficiency and processes at Delphi Automotive in Michigan.  An Ohio native, she got to Texas just as fast as she could!  Landing in Dallas, she continued to apply her automation skills until the arrival of her son.   Through a chance social meeting, Wendy moved into the MEP industry. Always eager to expand her knowledge and expertise, Wendy took as many classes as she could in design software such as Solid Works, AutoCAD and Revit.  While she primarily functions as our Construction Administration Manager, she will kindly step in as a designer when needed.

 In her free time you might find her painting, playing tennis, or spending time with her children and grandson.

Magnus
Vo


"Happiness is a state of mind. It's just according to the way you look at things." - Walt Disney

Magnus Vo | Collaborative Engineering Group

Biography

Magnus has always had a passion for math and science.  As a child, he enjoyed taking things apart to see how they worked and functioned.  A graduate from the University of New Orleans with a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering, throughout his career, Magnus has had the opportunity to work on various project types including Municipal, Higher Education, Worship, Performing Arts, and Hospitality. He works well in a team environment and has a mutual respect for his colleagues and clients. He is detail oriented and enjoys collaborating with the other disciplines.  When not in the office, Magnus enjoys going to parks and spending time with the family.