THOMAD Engineering is a client focused structural engineering design and consulting firm established in 2003 and is based in Las Vegas, Nevada. We are committed to providing practical solutions and excellent services to our clients on a wide range of projects.
'Structural Moments' is a monthly e-newsletter published by the staff of THOMAD Engineering. It is intended to inform our valued clients, associates, and colleagues in the A/E/C industry and stimulate a thoughtful dialogue with them.
THOMAD Engineering has been a proud member and supporter of the Las Vegas chapter of the American Institute of Architects since the firm's inception in 2003.
The Laughlin Library is one of the most memorable projects that I have worked on in my career as a structural engineer. The beautiful library was opened in 1994 in Laughlin Nevada. Over the past 20-plus years, the residents of Laughlin have come to love their library, which has also become a lively community center.
What makes this project special is the people I had worked with. At the time, I was a young engineer working for another local firm. My supervisor was the chief engineer and was a brilliant structural engineer who had vast knowledge in construction. He was also my best mentor and was fun to work with.
LGA, known back then as Lucchesi Galati Architects, was the project architect. The project team regularly met face-to-face and in one room to discuss and coordinate the design work. Although everyone in the team had more seniority than me, at that time, they were respectful and supportive. And I loved the collaboration process and was excited to be working on the project.
I designed the steel frame, masonry and all other structural elements by hand. Powerful computers and sophisticated engineering software that we routinely rely on nowadays did not exist back then. All calculations and drawings were also produced manually. I gained intimacy with the design and drafting that way. The "old" methods reinforced many of the fundamental aspects of structural design that I learned in school.
Although the area and budget of the one-story library building were not huge, it is a project that has a special place in my heart. Every time I am in Laughlin, I find myself drawn to visit, even when pressed with time. After more than two decades since its opening, the building still looks good and functional. I will always be grateful to have been a part of that project and the people who created such a great place.
Best regards,
Mohammed Thomad, PE, SE
Principal
Projects in Construction or Recently Completed
PROJECTS UNDER CONSTRUCTION:
EOD Building Structural Repairs at Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada.
Reddy Ice Plant Remodel & Equipment Upgrade in Las Vegas, Nevada.
PROJECTS COMPLETED RECENTLY:
Delay Towers at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada.
Southern Nevada Health District New Headquarters, Las Vegas.
Those projects will be featured in future editions, so stay connected!
