2011 40 Under 40: Rick Maniktala, PE, LEED AP, 37

Rick Maniktala, PE, LEED AP, 37

Principal, M.E. Group, Kansas City, Mo.

University of Kansas, BS Mechanical Engineering; Baker University, MBA

Maniktala helped lead his firm to achieve 13% annual revenue growth during the nationwide recession, which is just one indication of his strong dedication and business skills. Maniktala specializes in large-scale design build projects for the healthcare industry, for which he has completed more than $200 million in replacement and renovation projects in the past five years. As a principal, he manages 75 employees and also serves on the board of directors of M.E. Group. He has implemented mentorship and continuing training programs at the office. Maniktala currently oversees multiple medical facility projects that are part of a $720 million National Military Healthcare Contract. He recently oversaw the renovation of Katz Hall for the University of Missouri-Kansas City. The 36,000-sq-ft building was built in 1965 and its mechanical systems had never been updated. Maniktala identified the most cost-effective modifications to maximize energy savings under a compressed design schedule. Colleagues say Maniktala has the “energy of a cheetah,” which he puts to use as an active contributor to industry organizations and other charity work. He is a member of numerous organizations for the American Council of Engineering Companies, USGBC, ASHRAE, and Society of American Military Engineers. He is often asked to present information about building efficiency, occupant engagement, and zero-energy buildings. As a respected member of the building community, Maniktala was invited to the Construction and Design Industry Outlook hosted by Ingram’s magazine. Maniktala and his family are regular participants in the Harvesters Community Food Network events and fundraising. He loves traveling and likes to joke that he spends more time on a plane than on the ground.

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