As part of our Meet the Expert series, we're proud to highlight Sean Skorohod, President of Briggs Engineering and Testing. From his early days as a laboratory technician to leading a company known for its high standards in construction testing, inspection, and consulting, Sean's career is a testament to dedication and growth. With a strong foundation in family and a passion for building communities, he has helped steer Briggs through transformative projects and industry changes, always with a focus on quality, collaboration, and innovation.
Introduction
Can you tell us about your background and journey in your industry?
I started at Briggs Engineering and Testing in an entry-level position as a laboratory technician. Since then, I have worked in each of our various departments.
What is your current role within Briggs Engineering, and what does it involve day-to-day?
I currently serve as the company President. I am very involved in all aspects of what we do. On any given day, I may be providing support to our technical personnel, addressing clients' needs, reviewing upcoming project details, and working on both short-term and long-term planning.
What inspired you to pursue a career in this field?
My family has always been involved in various aspects of construction. Seeing the pride they all took in being part of building and creating things in our communities was why I decided to join them.
Technical and Industry Expertise
What is your specific area of expertise, and why is it important to the industries you serve?
Construction testing, inspection and consulting, primarily soils, reinforcing steel, concrete and structural steel. We provide advice and guidance to owners, design professionals, and contractors, helping them ensure that code requirements, project specifications, and industry standards are met.
Are there any current challenges or innovations in your field that you're particularly excited about?
Integrating sustainability through new products and processes is crucial for reducing the environmental impact of construction. This is bringing both innovation and challenges into construction as our industry navigates implementing positive change while still ensuring quality and life expectancy of everything being built.
Can you share a recent project or achievement that showcases your work or your team's capabilities?
We recently provided Quality Assurance services for the Lindemann Performing Arts Center at Brown University. Brown describes the center as a one of a kind, state of the art research laboratory that will qualitatively transform the Brown Arts ecosystem, stimulating new modes of art making, encouraging innovative collaborations across knowledge domains and activating the creative imaginations of artistic communities at Brown and beyond. Our scope included not only all the required structural inspections but also Building Envelope services such as Waterproofing Inspections and Window and Curtain Wall Testing.
Company Profile
Tell us a bit about Briggs Engineering and Testing and the services you provide.
Briggs Engineering and Testing provides construction inspections and consulting, as well as material testing services. This includes geotechnical services, new and existing building construction inspections, building envelope services and roadway and infrastructure services.
What industries or sectors do you typically serve?
We provide services to a diversified group of clients, including developers, structural engineers, architects, general contractors, as well as federal, state and local agencies.
What makes your company stand out in the TICC landscape?
Briggs has been part of the construction industry since 1959. Since then, we have been involved in some of the largest and most transformative projects in our area. This is due to our focus on providing the highest quality of service possible and bringing on people who share that goal and vision.
Collaboration and Integration
How does being part of Phenna Group benefit your clients and your team?
It enables us to collaborate with companies and individuals with a wide range of expertise, allowing us to grow and enhance the services we provide.
Have you had any notable collaborations with other Phenna Group companies?
We are currently collaborating with Atlantic Testing Laboratories on expanding both of our Building Envelope Services, initially by the addition of Blower Door Testing.
How does the Group's approach enhance the services you offer?
We have only been with the group for a short time, but the atmosphere of collaboration and learning is already fostering new ideas and fresh approaches to many of the things we do.
Looking Ahead
What trends do you see shaping the future of your / TICC sector?
The continued integration of technology to increase productivity and quality.
What excites you most about what's ahead for you, your company, and Phenna Group?
Expanding our capabilities. The construction industry is in the midst of significant change as it continues to incorporate new technologies and embrace sustainability. Adapting and being forward thinking has never been more important in our industry, and I look forward to the opportunities that presents.
Personal Insight
What do you enjoy most about your work?
Each project has its own unique aspects and challenges. Helping our clients and employees navigate these challenges and issues is always interesting and rewarding.
What's one hobby or passion you pursue outside of your professional life?
I coach high school lacrosse and AAU basketball. I really enjoy the relationships coaching has allowed me to develop over the years. Being a small part of many people's journeys and seeing their growth and development, not just as athletes but as people, has been very fulfilling.
Tell us an interesting fact about yourself that not many people know?
A number of years ago, I was a chaperone on a high school trip to Mustard Seed Communities' orphanage in Nicaragua. While there, we completed work projects to improve the quality of life for the residents and tried to bring some of our world to them. It was an amazing experience being able to assist the residents and to help the students travelling with us realize the difference they can make in the world.
Sean's forward-looking approach and commitment to continuous improvement position Briggs Engineering for long-term success. As the construction industry embraces sustainability and rapid technological change, Sean remains excited about expanding capabilities and finding smarter, more impactful ways to serve clients. Through his leadership and deep industry insight, he continues to embody the spirit of this Meet the Expert series, expertise grounded in experience, and a clear vision for the future.