2017 40 Under 40: Brian Thompson, PE; 40

Senior Fire Protection Engineer, Principal, AEGIS Engineering

By Jack Smith, Content Manager, and Amara Rozgus, Editor-in-Chief May 15, 2017

Brian Thompson, PE; 40

Senior Fire Protection Engineer, Principal, AEGIS Engineering, Mukilteo, Wash.

BS Civil Engineering, Marquette University, Milwaukee

MS Fire Protection Engineering, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, Worcester, Mass.

Thompson is a senior fire protection engineer, principal, and founder of AEGIS Engineering in Mukilteo, Wash. After earning his bachelor’s degree in civil engineering from Marquette University and his master’s degree from Worcester Polytechnic Institute, he was recruited to work in California. His proven skills in fire protection engineering equipped him to manage multiple projects and clients. Bolstered by successes, and a desire to return to the Pacific Northwest, he sought to fill the void of fire protection engineering consulting firms. In 2006, Thompson returned home with his wife and newborn daughter to Washington’s Puget Sound area, where he founded AEGIS Engineering. This endeavor was born out of his entrepreneurial spirit, recognition of the talents he possessed, and belief that the greater Seattle metropolitan area could benefit from his expertise. He serves his clients with a breadth of knowledge informed by his experiences in fire protection across the country. His familiarity with the Uniform Building Code from his time in California enables him to assist clients and local authorities with code interpretations through Washington State’s transition to International Building Code and International Fire Code provisions. His enthusiasm for fire protection engineering has motivated him to introduce local elementary through college students to this field. Many students have no idea the opportunities that this specialized engineering field provides. Thompson introduces them to the concept of smoke control modeling and building/fire codes. His greatest joy comes from spending time with his wife, three daughters, and son. The family tries to take advantage of the outdoor activities available in the great Pacific Northwest playground. He also enjoys hiking, biking, and snow skiing with his family.