Episode: Smart, Sustainable Engineering Solutions
Host: John Adams | Guest: Ryan Labus, Business Development Manager, Pro Engineering Consulting
Summary
In this episode of The Process Lab Podcast, John Adams talks with Ryan Labus, Business Development Manager at Pro Engineering Consulting, about how engineering decisions impact major projects. They explore the importance of early involvement of MEP engineers, pitfalls when coordination is delayed, software tools for design/project management, and what sets a strong engineering firm apart. Ryan highlights real-world examples where proactive planning saves costs, ensures compliance, and leads to more sustainable, efficient buildings.
Chapters
00:00:20 – Introduction and welcome
00:01:10 – Ryan’s background and Pro Engineering’s services
00:02:50 – Who usually brings engineers into projects
00:04:10 – Ideal sequence vs. problems when engineers are involved late
00:07:20 – Common design challenges: solar, rooftop decks, electrical loads
00:09:50 – Software and project management tools (Procore, AutoCAD, 3D modeling)
00:13:40 – What distinguishes a good engineering firm (communication, proactive approach)
00:15:40 – Avoiding over-engineering and aligning with project goals
00:18:10 – Call to action: how to reach Pro Engineering
Action Items
- Engage MEP engineers early in the design phase to prevent costly redesigns.
- Plan for future energy codes: allocate rooftop space for solar, account for all-electric systems.
- Adopt 3D modeling to identify design clashes before construction.
- Prioritize communication when selecting an engineering partner.
- Question and align engineering plans with project ROI and objectives.
JOHN ADAMS
Hey everyone, it’s John Adams. Welcome back to The Process Lab Podcast, the show where we tackle common business challenges and provide insights for operational excellence. Today on the show we will be discussing engineering and major projects—and how things can go wrong. We’re very fortunate to be joined by Ryan Labus. Ryan, welcome to the show.
RYAN LABUS
Thank you, thank you for having me. So I’m Ryan Labus. I’m a Business Development Manager for a company called Pro Engineering Consulting. We are an engineering firm in Carlsbad, California, San Diego County, that provides a number of engineering services mainly focused on MEP—which stands for mechanical, electrical, and plumbing. And we also offer structural engineering and fire protection as well.
JOHN ADAMS
Is that mostly commercial or residential?
RYAN LABUS
Mainly commercial, yeah. Multifamily apartments, senior living, retail, warehousing. Residential single-family homes are a smaller part of our portfolio.
JOHN ADAMS
And who usually brings you into the project?
RYAN LABUS
Usually the architect. The architect kind of quarterbacks each project, hiring specialized engineers—landscape, interiors, MEP, fire protection—and coordinates design before construction.
JOHN ADAMS
What happens if engineers aren’t involved early?
RYAN LABUS
Every little change has a domino effect. If you don’t account for power loads, solar mandates, rooftop equipment placement, or intended use (like a future restaurant space), you end up with costly redesigns, code violations, or lost amenity space.
JOHN ADAMS
How do you keep all of this coordinated?
RYAN LABUS
Software like Procore helps with project management. AutoCAD is still common, but we’re moving toward 3D modeling to visualize design clashes. Ultimately though, experience and proactive communication are key.
JOHN ADAMS
So what sets Pro Engineering apart?
RYAN LABUS
Communication. Many engineers are great technically but avoid phone calls or proactive dialogue. We’re a smaller, family-owned business, but we combine strong systems with a personal, consultative approach. Our CEO is hands-on, visiting job sites, staying involved in meetings. That makes a difference.
JOHN ADAMS
Excellent. How can listeners reach you?
RYAN LABUS
You can visit us at proengc.com or email me directly at ryan@proengc.com. We’re licensed in all 50 states, and happy to consult—even if we didn’t design your project, we can review and provide value engineering input.
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