News Summary
CHA Engineering has announced key promotions within its Bridge Engineering Group. Ryan Cooley becomes Vice President and Business Practice Leader, while Michael Sullivan is appointed Bridge Project Team Leader for New England. Both bring extensive experience and commitment to improving bridge design and construction in the region, ensuring the firm remains a leader in civil engineering.
CHA Strengthens Leadership in Bridge Engineering with Key Promotions
CHA has enhanced its leadership team in the bridge engineering sector by promoting Ryan Cooley to the role of Vice President, Principal Engineer, and Business Practice Leader for Bridges while appointing Michael Sullivan as the Bridge Project Team Leader for New England. These promotions aim to enhance the company’s ability to deliver innovative solutions in bridge design and construction, which is increasingly vital for infrastructure development.
Ryan Cooley’s Extensive Experience
Ryan Cooley brings over 20 years of expertise in the fields of designing, analyzing, and managing bridges and vertical structures. Throughout his career, he has been pivotal in tasks such as design, load rating, and drafting contract documents for various transportation structures across New England. His remarkable journey includes playing a key role in the Connecticut Department of Transportation’s initial design-build project, which marked a significant milestone in modern project delivery methods.
Cooley’s innovative contributions extend beyond traditional engineering practices. He has introduced Grounded Reinforced Soil Integrated Bridge Systems (GRS-IBS) to multiple transportation departments, facilitating enhanced bridge construction methods. Moreover, his implementation of Accelerated Bridge Construction (ABC) technologies has proven essential in minimizing disruption to traffic and improving efficiency.
In his new position, Cooley will lead a team of 110 engineers and technical specialists across the nation, with responsibilities that include assessing, rating, and designing bridges for preservation and replacement. His academic credentials consist of a Master’s degree in structural engineering and a Bachelor’s degree in civil engineering from the University of Connecticut. He also maintains professional engineering licenses in six states, including Connecticut, New Hampshire, and Massachusetts.
Michael Sullivan’s Expertise in Project Management
Michael Sullivan, with over 18 years of experience, has earned a reputation in the bridge engineering domain through his profound knowledge of design and project management. He has successfully designed, assessed, and inspected bridges for various state agencies, including the Rhode Island Department of Transportation (RIDOT) and the Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT). His breadth of experience encompasses all stages of bridge planning, from initial design to project management and construction oversight.
As the new Bridge Project Team Leader for New England, Sullivan will be responsible for the delivery of all bridge-related projects within the region. His qualifications include a Master’s degree in Business Administration from the University of Massachusetts at Lowell and a Bachelor’s degree in civil and environmental engineering from the University of Massachusetts at Amherst. He is also a licensed professional engineer in Connecticut, New York, Rhode Island, and Massachusetts, showcasing his versatility and expertise.
Professional Roles and Contributions
Both Cooley and Sullivan are active members of prominent engineering societies. Cooley is involved in the American Council of Engineering Companies (ACEC), the American Society of Civil Engineers, and the American Institute of Steel Construction, while Sullivan actively participates in the American Society of Civil Engineers and the Boston Society of Engineers. Sullivan is also recognized for his engagement in the transportation sector, frequently speaking and writing about industry advancements.
Impacts on Infrastructure Development
The promotions of Ryan Cooley and Michael Sullivan signify CHA’s commitment to enhancing infrastructure development through advanced bridge engineering practices. Their leadership will undoubtedly foster a culture of innovation and excellence, ensuring that CHA remains at the forefront of the engineering sector and effectively meets the evolving needs of the communities it serves.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
Additional Resources
- Capital Region Chamber
- Wikipedia: Bridge Engineering
- Boston Real Estate Times
- Google Search: Bridge engineering
- Boston Real Estate Times
- Google Scholar: Bridge engineering
- Berkshire Eagle
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Bridge engineering
- Turn to 10
- Google News: Bridge engineering

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