CHICAGO, IL – Seasoned engineering executive John R. Patelski, PE, LEED AP, has joined Ghafari Associates as Executive Vice President. With a career spanning over 30 years, Patelski brings to Ghafari a wealth of experience in strategic consulting, engineering and construction services for a variety of industrial, commercial and institutional projects. As Executive Vice President, he will be responsible for expanding the firm’s services in new strategic markets.

“We are thrilled to welcome John to the Ghafari team,” says President and CEO Kouhaila Hammer. “With his unique background and depth of experience managing and executing complex technical projects, he is a great fit for our organization. We look forward to exploring new market sectors and broadening our capabilities under his leadership.”

Patelski joins Ghafari from global A/E/C firm Epstein, where he served most recently as the Executive Managing Director / President of the Engineering & Construction Groups. During his nearly 20-year tenure with Epstein, he gained valuable experience in project management, principal oversight, department management, business development and executive leadership. He was also instrumental in the development and integration of an entirely new business unit, the Epstein Energy Group. Under Patelski’s leadership, this group later teamed with Nicor Gas to form a highly successful joint venture, EN Engineering, for which he served as Chairman of the Board of Managers.

A graduate of the Milwaukee School of Engineering, Patelski holds a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering and is a Professional Engineer, having held licenses in 40 states. He has served as a guest speaker at a number of national industry forums, presenting on a wide variety of topics that include real estate development, new economy building trends, supply chain management, sustainable design and alternative energy strategies. He is also affiliated with multiple organizations, including the Urban Land Institute, Society of Industrial and Office Realtors, Industrial Asset Management Council and Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers.

“The Ghafari vision, breadth of services and commitment to continued growth creates a well-managed platform with diverse resources to serve today’s challenging and dynamic marketplace,” says Patelski. “I am very pleased to join the organization during these exciting times and be a member of this very successful and well-respected team that is recognized for its professionalism, quality and client-focused approach. I look forward to helping enhance and broaden the firm’s service offering into new markets.”