David R. Hoffman, PE

Gipe Associates

Dave is an extraordinary mechanical engineer and leader. His passion for mechanical engineering radiates from him and those working around him benefit from his willingness to share his experience and knowledge. He is “hands on” with every single project produced. He collaborates and invites others to share their engineering or construction experience, regardless of position or credentials. Because of Dave’s willingness to collaborate and share his knowledge, he was nominated and awarded the Association of Energy Engineers, National Capitol Chapter’s Energy Engineer of the Year Award in 2017.

Dave’s focus is always on “what is right for the Owner” and their facility or system. He often spearheads the research and feasibility of new technologies and examines how to apply them to our projects. He develops checklists and master templates for his colleagues regarding what will work, what won’t, and always shares his “lessons learned”. His fundamental engineering knowledge and field expertise are un-paralleled in the industry. Our owner clients seek Dave out to address their “unsolvable” issues. This shows a high level of respect, trust, and appreciation for his abilities.

Finally, Dave loves to share his passion for mechanical engineering and design. He has presented engineering topics for ASHRAE, MD Public Schools, the ACE Program, and various other organizations. He volunteers his time to meet with students, contractors, facility planners, and other engineers to share his knowledge and experience in designing mechanical and plumbing systems for public facilities.

Elford D. Jackson, PE

RK&K

Elford Jackson is one of RK&K’s most valued engineers and is a trusted leader and mentor to many. Elford started his career over 29 years ago as a drafter for Baltimore City in their Water Engineering Section. Since joining RK&K 22 years ago as a young designer, he has steadily progressed to his current title of Utility Manager. Elford is respected by both his peers and clients for his broad technical expertise in many disciplines including utility design, site development and transportation engineering. Elford oversees a multitude of staff and is probably best known for his enthusiasm, management style of leading by example founded on strong technical skills, and his ability to communicate and relate to other staff.

One testament of Elford’s leadership has been his ability to maintain close cohesion, high morale and productivity among departmental staff working remotely during the ongoing COVID pandemic by hosting daily virtual meetings that facilitate personal interaction and communication.

Elford is Assistant Secretary Treasurer on the Board of Directors for the Chesapeake Section AWWA having served in various positions including Diversity Manager and Trustee for Membership & Demographics. Elford has served as a member of the Baltimore City Public Arts Commission and currently serves on the Industrial Advisory Board for Morgan State University’s Civil Engineering Department where holds the position of Secretary.

It is Elford’s enthusiasm about the profession and his positive relationship with the entire engineering community that establishes himself as a leader worthy of ACEC Maryland’s Engineer of the Year.