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Dan Getz
Principal and Structural Engineering Director
Professional Background
Dan Getz serves as a Principal and Structural Engineering Director at HKS, a leading architecture and engineering firm. With a solid foundation as a licensed Professional Engineer (PE) and Structural Engineer (SE), he boasts a substantial wealth of experience in the design, detailing, and coordination of notable building projects across the United States. His leadership approach emphasizes collaborative project development — a philosophy that underscores the importance of teamwork between architects and structural engineers. By fostering a culture of collaboration, Dan aims to deliver innovative solutions that effectively address the unique needs of each client, ensuring that every project realizes its full potential.
Throughout his career, Dan has been instrumental in the successful completion of numerous landmark projects, including healthcare facilities, stadiums, educational institutions, and commercial developments. His commitment to excellence and a client-centric approach has established him as a trusted partner in the industry, making him a go-to expert for intricate projects that require a high level of sophistication and creativity.
Education and Achievements
Dan's educational journey equipped him with a robust knowledge base and technical skills vital for a successful career in structural engineering. He studied Civil Engineering and Architecture at Washington University in St. Louis, allowing him to gain a well-rounded perspective on both the engineering and architectural aspects of building design. Additionally, he pursued Architectural Engineering at Penn State University, where he further honed his skills in structural engineering.
His formative years included a role as a Research and Teaching Assistant at The Pennsylvania State University, where he contributed to knowledge-sharing and mentorship, ensuring that the next generation of engineers are well-prepared to tackle the challenges facing the industry. Dan's early experiences as a Summer Intern at both Architecture Plus in Roswell, NM, and HBE Corporation provided him with invaluable real-world insights, laying the groundwork for his successful career.
Current Interests and Future Directions
In addition to his extensive expertise, Dan is deeply committed to the continuous improvement of design solutions through technological advancements. His interests encompass the integration of the latest technologies, including Building Information Modeling (BIM) and parametric modeling, as well as analytical solutions that facilitate the design of complex structures. Dan believes that leveraging these cutting-edge tools can lead to more coherent and compelling architectural solutions that align with client visions and aspirations.
A particular area of research for Dan includes the implementation of mass timber in construction, utilizing innovative material manufacturing technologies such as Cross Laminated Timber (CLT), Nail Laminated Timber (NLT), and Dowel Laminated Timber (DLT) panels. He is enthusiastic about the possibilities these materials bring to construction, including their sustainability benefits and aesthetic appeal, and how they can revolutionize modern building practices.
Additionally, Dan is passionate about exploring the use of drone aerial photography, 360 imagery, and mapping, combined with Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) tools. These technologies not only enhance project communication between stakeholders but also serve as powerful visual aids throughout all stages of design and construction. His fascination with technological innovation drives him to explore new and interesting avenues for presenting architectural designs, making complex ideas more accessible and engaging for clients and collaborators alike.