Quad Cities-based IMEG, a leading engineering design firm, announced the completion of two more business acquisitions today.
The company, headquartered in west Rock Island, has acquired Phillips Gradick Engineering, P.C., a multidisciplinary engineering firm in Georgia and North Carolina specializing in mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and telecommunications services; and ACRO Development Services, a North Carolina-based civil engineering, surveying, and land development services firm, according to a news release Monday, July 6.
The acquisitions were made official on Wednesday, July 1. Phillips Gradick brings 43 new team members to IMEG, and ACRO adds 19 team members.
Founded in Atlanta, Phillips Gradick Engineering brings more than 25 years of trusted, client-focused engineering project experience across the country. The firm serves key markets including housing, education, healthcare, commercial/retail, hospitality, industrial, and correctional facilities. The firm combines technical expertise with cost-effective, schedule-driven design and is known for its collaborative approach, energy-efficient strategies, advanced analytical tools, and high-performing, reliable, and efficient solutions.
Phillips Gradick Engineering’s long-standing focus on energy-efficient design and community impact aligns with IMEG’s values and people-centered culture, the release said.
“We are excited to welcome Phillips Gradick Engineering to IMEG and grow strategically in the Southeast,” said Paul VanDuyne, IMEG president andCEO. “Expanding our presence in Georgia and North Carolina allows us to better serve clients, while their expertise in MEP (mechanical, electric and plumbing), telecom, and lighting design enhances our local technical capabilities. We are thrilled to welcome their talented team and look forward to the value we will create together.”
“This partnership represents an exciting next step for our firm,” W. Lawrence Phillips, Jr., president of Phillips Gradick Engineering, added. “Becoming part of IMEG creates meaningful opportunities to serve our clients with the same care and attention but with expanded capabilities. It also enables our team to grow, collaborate, and expand their careers.”
As part of the transition, Craig Gradick will continue in a leadership role with IMEG. Mr. Phillips will serve as client executive, ensuring continuity for clients and staff. The team will continue operating from its Atlanta and Charlotte locations under the transitional name “Phillips Gradick Engineering, now IMEG.”
Founded in 2021, ACRO was established to deliver comprehensive services in the development industry and provide innovative problem-solving, personalized solutions, meaningful partnerships, and proactive communication to drive success.
IMEG and ACRO share an approach that blends technical expertise, strategic insight, and a commitment to clients’ long- term success, IMEG’s release said. The acquisition expands IMEG’s civil engineering, surveying, and entitlement services to North Carolina, adding depth to the firm’s existing mechanical, electrical, plumbing, fire protection, and structural design services—and bringing those services to ACRO clients.
“Joining IMEG creates exciting opportunities for continued growth while allowing us to maintain the culture of innovation and client service that have defined ACRO since its founding,” said Jeff Mangas, ACRO partner. “This partnership strengthens our ability to serve clients through expanded resources and additional service offerings, and benefiting from the national expertise and support IMEG provides.”
Mr. Mangas, Greg Hartley, and Ed Miller will remain in leadership roles at IMEG, ensuring continuity for both clients and staff. The team will continue to operate from its existing location in market as “ACRO Development Services, now IMEG.”
IMEG is a leading engineering design firm with more than 110 offices and 3,400 team members. Ranked among the top engineering firms in the U.S. (No. 4 on BD+C’s top Engineering Firms and No. 51 on ENR’s Top 500 Design Firms), IMEG transforms environments and communities through innovative, high-performance design and infrastructure solutions.
