American Science and Engineering, Inc., (AS&E) received a $2.3 million order from a new Middle Eastern customer for multiple Z Backscatter Vans (ZBVs). A leading global supplier of innovative X-ray inspection systems, AS&E has spent more than four decades developing advanced X-ray security systems. AS&E's ZBVs will be employed to secure and protect a high-threat facility. A breakthrough in X-ray detection technology, the ZBV is an economical, highly mobile screening system that is fitted into commercially available delivery vans. The ZBV can be deployed immediately, and its high throughput capability makes it easy to use in speedy inspections. Its unique "drive-by" capability allows operators to perform X-ray imaging while driving past suspect vehicles and objects. Anthony Fabiano, president and CEO of AS&E, stated that ZBV activity continues to increase globally, particularly in the Middle East.
Dutch engineering giant acquires RTKL
Baltimore-based design and planning firm RTKL Associates, Inc., has been acquired by Netherlands-based consulting and engineering giant Arcadis. The Dutch global consulting and engineering company has purchased 100% of RTKL's stock. Arcadis disclosed that it hopes the deal will add to earnings per share instantaneously. Established in 1946 and with more than 1,000 employees in offices in its offices across the U.S., RTKL has nearly 180 local employees. RTKL provides architectural design, master planning, and specialized engineering services. Its expertise includes design and engineering for high-security buildings and healthcare facilities. Arcadis, which provides consulting, engineering, and management services, has more than 11,000 employees and earns more than $1.6 billion per year in gross revenue.
Three master's degree programs in engineering to be added at UNF
The University of North Florida (UNF) is adding master's degree programs in civil, electrical, and mechanical engineering in spring 2008. The school expects to enroll 10 students in its civil engineering program and five students each in its electrical and mechanical engineering programs. UNF, however, expects the numbers of students in the programs to rise over the next five years to about 65 in civil engineering and 40 in electrical and mechanical engineering. UNF President John Delaney said he hoped the new programs would fulfill the area's growing demand for qualified engineers.
Jaster-Quintanilla opens office in Fort Worth
Structural and civil engineering firm Jaster-Quintanilla has expanded its foothold in the Fort Worth region. Established in 1984 by David Quintanilla and Gary W. Jaster in Austin, the company also has offices in Austin, Dallas, Houston, and San Antonio. The Fort Worth structural department team will be led by R. Rene Avila. "As structural engineer of record for the Tarrant County College District (TCCD) downtown campus, we believe the time is right to establish a Fort Worth presence and build on the momentum created by such an outstanding community project," said Stephen H. Lucy, principal in the Dallas office. The company is also currently working for JPS Healthcare System Northwest, Polytechnic Community Health Clinics, and the City of Fort Worth's water department.
SAIC to buy Benham Investments
Benham Investment Holdings, LLC, an engineering and life-cycle technology firm, has been acquired by San Diego, CA-based Science Applications International Corp. (SAIC). Benham will retain its Oklahoma City headquarters. Other details of the deal are not known, although the acquisition will be completed in August. Benham Investment provides federal agencies and Fortune 500 customers with consulting, engineering, architecture, and design/building services. Per the deal, the two subsidiaries of Benham, Benham Companies and Benham Constructors, will become subsidiaries of SAIC. SAIC hopes to accelerate its growth in the energy management-services markets for both federal and commercial customers. SAIC reported revenues of $8.3 billion for its fiscal year that ended January 31, 2007, and has more than 44,000 employees in its offices in more than 150 cities worldwide.
