ZFA Structural Engineers

ZFA is excited to share that the Construction Management Association of America (CMAA) Northern California Chapter has recognized the design-build Los Banos Police Headquarters project with an award in the category of Buildings up to $49 Million. We are proud to have contributed to the long-awaited 31,000-square-foot facility for the City of Los Banos, which was completed in 2023 and consolidates the department from three buildings and several storage units into one site. As the structural engineer, ZFA worked closely with Shah Kawasaki Architects and expedited the design of some time-critical elements, including foundations and structural steel, to assist with the procurement of materials and accelerate the construction schedule. An interesting architectural and structural feature is the cross-laminated timber (CLT) roof system that serves as a focal point at the entry of the structure.   Congratulations to the City of Los Banos, the Police Department, and the project team who made it happen—Shah Kawasaki Architects, Swinerton, and Vanir!

We have found that understanding each other’s roles and challenges is essential for fostering a collaborative environment and navigating the complexities of a project—reinforcing our belief that when we work together, we can achieve extraordinary results. In this spirit, ZFA’s Matt Frantz, SE, and Neha Madhulika, enjoyed hosting a lunch and learn for Iron Construction, Inc. in San Jose earlier this year. Our goal with this presentation was to provide a unique perspective on structural engineering tailored to the general contractor, including best practices for successful collaboration during construction administration. The session was divided into three parts, each focusing on critical elements to consider during the design, pre-construction, and construction phases of a project to ultimately support the general contractor in the construction of a successful project. Thanks Iron Construction for this opportunity; we look forward to continuing to work together!

The Expanding Your Horizons (EYH) Network, which is a part of Techbridge Girls’ STEM events, has brought together thousands of volunteers and reached over 1M girls nationally for the past 45 years, exposing them to fun, hands-on STEM experiences. ZFA’s Jessica Ellis attended an EYH event in San Jose as a child and now volunteers to teach the event to other girls who have similar interests in science. On Saturday, April 20, Jessica and three ZFA colleagues, Lauren Williams, Cameron Grant, and Brett Shields, volunteered at the EYH event hosted in Sonoma County at Santa Rosa Junior College, where 7th and 8th grade girls participated in STEM workshops. ZFA introduced students to structural engineering as they guided groups in building towers out of wood sticks and gumdrops…ultimately competing to see which tower could support the most weight. We know firsthand that engaging, hands-on events can spark an early interest in STEM careers. We hope our involvement has done just that.

Construction is underway for a new three-story plus basement home in San Francisco, and ZFA is working closely with John Maniscalco Architecture and Cook Construction to bridge the gap between engineering design and construction. Our integrated shoring system is thoughtfully designed to be a key part of the final structure. The structural work for this beautiful ~4,500-square-foot home in Dolores Heights is anticipated to be completed later this year. ZFA’s integrated shoring design focuses on incorporating shoring elements, which are typically only intended to be used temporarily, into the permanent structure to the greatest extent possible. For this project, the existing grade was lowered by more than 20 feet beneath the structure. Perimeter hand-dug pits and wood lagging with concrete infill walls and cross-lot steel bracing provide lateral stability and soil support. These elements are also designed to be incorporated into the final structure without infringing on livable square footage. The location of the cross-lot bracing elements was closely coordinated with the architectural design to align with the final structural systems. ZFA has extensive experience in integrated shoring design systems on residential projects in San Francisco. Because traditional shoring design involves expensive structural systems that are typically removed for installation of the final structure, an integrated shoring design results in timeline efficiencies and reduced construction costs. Our comprehensive approach to shoring also provides for the consideration and coordination of mechanical, electrical, and plumbing trades during the shoring phase to streamline construction. This results in a seamless integration between systems and a more efficient structure—ultimately providing value to our clients.

The SEAONC SE3 Committee is hosting a speed mentoring event geared toward project managers next Tuesday, April 23. ZFA’s Lindsey Broderick, P.E. is one of the mentors at this event, offering advice from her 10 years of experience in the profession. Budding project managers are sure to learn a lot from Lindsey and the other great mentors at this event; thank you to SE3, Lindsey, and the other mentors for hosting this event on this important topic. For more information about how to attend, visit https://bit.ly/3xTgfs8

ZFA is celebrating our 10th year with Engineers Alliance for the Arts (EAA)! Over the last decade, engineers from our Silicon Valley office have volunteered with EAA’s Student Impact Project, teaching students interested in STEAM fields about structural engineering over the course of a 10-week bridge design competition. The experience of working alongside the bright minds of Carlmont High School students and connecting with our local community has been truly amazing. Here's to another 10 years of inspiring future engineers!

Earlier this week, Kevin Zucco had the pleasure of speaking to prospective engineering students at Santa Rosa Junior College (SRJC) as part of their Intro to the Engineering Profession class. He shared his experiences and insights about the various stages of his academic and professional path. From the beginning phase of planning his career, to unexpected detours, to moments of self-discovery, each step has shaped Kevin’s perspective and approach toward engineering. He hopes this presentation has reassured and encouraged those who may be hesitant to pursue engineering by providing details of historic, civic, and adventurous projects. He confirmed that engineering isn't just about numbers and formulas—it's about creativity, problem solving, and making an impact.   Kevin also highlighted the qualities ZFA looks for in engineers we hire. Beyond technical abilities, we focus on problem-solving skills, creativity, teamwork, and a passion for learning. These qualities not only contribute to individual success but also foster a successful and innovative work culture.   Thank you to the SRJC, Associate Instructor Anthony Martin, and the Engineering 10 class for this opportunity. ZFA is honored to play a small part in inspiring the next generation of engineers!   For more information or to explore internship opportunities at ZFA visit: https://lnkd.in/g5BDp6pd

“𝐴 𝑡𝑟𝑢𝑙𝑦 𝑔𝑟𝑒𝑎𝑡 𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡𝑜𝑟 𝑖𝑠 ℎ𝑎𝑟𝑑 𝑡𝑜 𝑓𝑖𝑛𝑑, 𝑑𝑖𝑓𝑓𝑖𝑐𝑢𝑙𝑡 𝑡𝑜 𝑝𝑎𝑟𝑡 𝑤𝑖𝑡ℎ, 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑖𝑚𝑝𝑜𝑠𝑠𝑖𝑏𝑙𝑒 𝑡𝑜 𝑓𝑜𝑟𝑔𝑒𝑡.” -Unknown Mentorship is such a powerful influence on employees in various professions, and ZFA is proud to celebrate the first anniversary of our mentorship program! In just one year, we've witnessed incredible engagement with 32 mentors and 50 mentees actively participating in the program. With 91 exceptional employees in our firm, we are proud to see such a significant percentage involved in this new program. How does the program work? During open enrollment each year, all employees are encouraged to join as a mentor, mentee, or both. It's about empowering everyone to learn and grow together. Mentees are assigned mentors who are not their direct manager, and all discussions are confidential. Meetings are encouraged to occur at least quarterly, but some choose to meet more frequently. Discussions cover a diverse array of topics that include anything from navigating career expectations to communication challenges to achieving work-life balance. At ZFA, mentorship isn't just a program—it’s ingrained in our culture. It’s a cornerstone of our values, complementing other important initiatives like DEI, retention efforts, training, and fostering a healthy work-life balance. As we reflect on this first year, we look ahead to continuing ZFA’s mentorship program and providing continued development to our talented staff.

Please join in welcoming Sonny, Alli, and Kristian to the ZFA team! Each of them brings a blend of unique skills and enthusiasm to our firm, and we are thrilled to have them. 

ZFA is honored to have been nominated for the 2024 Heart of Sonoma County Award from the Center for Volunteer and Nonprofit Leadership (CVNL)!   We’d like to thank 10,000 Degrees for this nomination for the Corporate Community Service category, which was based on our community involvement in Sonoma County. ZFA has partnered with this nonprofit organization since 2020, to help low-income students get to and through college. We are currently supporting three engineering students via scholarships through 10,000 Degrees.   The ZFA team enjoyed celebrating with the community at CVNL’s 4th annual event last Thursday, March 14 at The Backdrop. Congratulations to the winner, Redwood Credit Union!