Senior Mechanical Engineer, Project Manager, Matern Professional Engineering; BS, Mechanical Engineering, University of Central Florida
Known for intricate design solutions, Dorian Maness oversees complex heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) and central energy plant designs while guiding multidisciplinary teams through every stage of project delivery. He has built his career around creating efficient, sustainable building systems. Maness is experienced in designing advanced HVAC systems that incorporate both air- and water-side strategies, including cooling towers, thermal energy storage and central energy plants. His work often focuses on optimizing energy performance while meeting the operational needs of large campuses and public institutions. In his leadership role, Maness manages project teams, coordinates consultants and maintains quality control across projects including K-12 schools, higher education, municipal and commercial facilities. He is known for translating complex mechanical and energy concepts into clear direction for clients, contractors and design partners, ensuring projects remain aligned with performance goals and budgets. His project experience includes large-scale campus infrastructure such as the 600,000-square-foot expansion of The Villages Charter School in Middleton, Florida, which features one of his largest central energy plant designs to date. Beyond project work, Maness mentors younger staff and has helped transform Matern’s internship program into a strategic pipeline for new talent. He is also engaged with professional organizations including ASHRAE and the Florida Educational Facilities Planners’ Association. To unwind, Maness enjoys spending time on the water boating and fishing, traveling to explore different cultures and architecture and discovering new restaurants in the Orlando area with his wife. He is passionate about supporting local restaurants and businesses.
