Optima Engineering PA

Our "Why I Became an Engineer" series continues with Evan Connell, PE, whose passion for engineering began with curiosity and grew into a desire to make a lasting impact.

For Evan, that curiosity started young, building things alongside his father, a mechanical engineer. But the defining moment came in a high school physics class.

"I remember learning that traditional engines could only ever reach about 25-30% efficiency. It blew my mind that so much energy was being wasted, and I wanted to change that."

That moment led Evan to building systems engineering, where he now helps improve energy efficiency in the places where we live, learn, work, and heal.

Inspired by a teacher who sparked his passion, Evan now hopes to do the same through ACE Mentorship and by encouraging the next generation, including his own children, to keep pushing the boundaries of sustainable design.

We're proud to have engineers like Evan whose work is driven by both curiosity and purpose.

What inspired your career? We'd love to hear your story.

Did you know that Optima's Greenville office sits right next door to one of the first multifamily projects Optima Engineering completed in downtown Greenville?

Link West End Apartments is one of many projects our team has helped bring to life. Every day, we're reminded that our work extends far beyond the office walls.

Even after more than 30 years in business, there's still something special about looking around and seeing a place where people live, gather, and build their lives. It's a reminder of why we do what we do and the lasting impact thoughtful building design can have on a community.

Have you spotted an Optima project around town?

Our favorite projects may be buildings, but our favorite view this weekend? A skyline lit up with fireworks and the people we get to celebrate with. 🎆

From all of us at Optima Engineering, we wish you a safe and happy Fourth of July!

Please note that our offices will be closed on Friday, July 3, in observance of the Independence Day holiday.

Leadership isn't about having all the answers. It's about creating an environment where others can thrive.

Our President, Steve Daley, recently rejoined the Impactful Leader Podcast for another honest conversation discussing leadership, burnout, and the lessons learned from losing talented people along the way. Together, they discuss why developing future leaders matters just as much - if not more - than personal achievement, how to build teams that last, and what it means to leave a legacy that extends beyond your own career.

Whether you lead a business, a project, or a team, this episode offers thoughtful insights on leading with humility, investing in people, and building something that outlasts you.

🎧 Listen here: https://youtu.be/gCLMu3yaR2A?si=55FMfYm4ey1AXC3S

This summer, we’re celebrating team members who have reached meaningful work anniversaries and the impact they’ve made along the way.

Congratulations to Brandon Lee, P.E., Electrical Engineer and leader of our Greenville Office electrical team, on 10 years with Optima, and congratulations to Suzanne Epps, Director of Marketing and Growth, on 5 years with us this June.

We’re also thrilled to celebrate Chuck White, Plumbing and Fire Protection Designer, as he approaches 5 years with our firm in July.

Thank you for your dedication, leadership, and the role you play in shaping our teams and supporting our clients every day.

Here’s to everything you’ve contributed and what’s still ahead together.