Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Expert Engineering & Architectural Solutions for the Built World
Founded in 1956, Wiss Janney Elstner Associates (WJE) is a global firm of engineers, architects, and materials scientists dedicated to solving complex challenges in the built environment. Our interdisciplinary team leverages over six decades of experience to provide hands-on technical solutions for structural, architectural, and materials-related problems. With state-of-the-art laboratories in Northbrook (HQ), Austin, and Cleveland, we combine empirical investigation with advanced testing to deliver practical, innovative solutions tailored to client needs.Our commitment to technical excellence is reflected in our involvement in over 175,000 projects spanning diverse construction materials and systems. We prioritize sustainability through lifecycle analysis of materials and systems integration while maintaining rigorous safety standards across all operations. Our employee-owned structure fosters a culture of shared responsibility and continuous learning, ensuring our team remains at the forefront of industry advancements.
Services
Structural Engineering
Bridge Engineering
Fire Protection
Geotechnical Analysis
Construction Consulting
Materials Testing
Forensic Investigation
Seismic Evaluation
Building Enclosure
Failure Analysis
Details
- Year established: 1956
Highlights and features
- We offer 70+ years of technical expertise across 175,000+ projects
- Our team includes industry-leading engineers and architects with specialized certifications
- We operate state-of-the-art testing facilities in three major US locations
- Our hands-on investigative approach combines field testing with laboratory analysis
- We maintain active roles in developing industry codes and standards
Services
Structural Engineering
Our structural engineers solve complex challenges through comprehensive condition assessments, load testing, and repair design. We specialize in evaluating existing structures, developing retrofit solutions, and ensuring code compliance. Clients benefit from our forensic approach combining field investigations with laboratory testing to deliver durable, cost-effective solutions for buildings, bridges, and infrastructure.
Bridge Engineering
We provide full lifecycle bridge services including condition assessment, fatigue analysis, and movable bridge design. Our experts investigate failures, perform load ratings, and develop rehabilitation strategies. With specialized knowledge in bascule, swing, and lift bridge systems, we deliver solutions that enhance safety and extend service life while minimizing disruption to traffic operations.
Materials Testing
Our three advanced laboratories conduct comprehensive materials evaluations for concrete, steel, and construction composites. Services include failure analysis, corrosion assessment, and performance testing under simulated environmental conditions. Clients receive actionable recommendations based on rigorous scientific methodology and decades of comparative data from 175,000+ projects.
Forensic Investigation
We specialize in determining root causes of structural failures through systematic investigation and scientific analysis. Our multidisciplinary teams conduct site inspections, material testing, and computer modeling to identify contributing factors. Clients receive detailed reports with repair recommendations and strategies to prevent recurrence, supported by expert testimony when required.
Fire Protection
Our fire protection engineers provide code compliance consulting, life safety assessments, and fire suppression system design. Services include fire modeling, egress analysis, and performance-based design solutions. We help clients balance safety requirements with architectural objectives through innovative engineering approaches that meet evolving building codes and standards.
Questions
What engineering services does WJE specialize in?
We provide structural, bridge, fire protection, geotechnical, and construction engineering services with specialized expertise in forensic analysis and materials testing.
How does WJE approach complex structural problems?
Our hands-on investigative methodology combines field testing, laboratory analysis, and advanced modeling to develop practical, code-compliant solutions.
What industries benefit from WJE's expertise?
We serve building, infrastructure, industrial, energy, and insurance sectors with tailored solutions for new construction and existing structures.
How does WJE ensure quality in materials testing?
Our three state-of-the-art laboratories conduct comprehensive evaluations following ASTM standards and proprietary testing protocols developed over 70 years.
What makes WJE different from other engineering firms?
Our unique combination of in-house laboratory capabilities, field testing expertise, and multidisciplinary team approach enables comprehensive problem-solving unmatched in the industry.
How can clients access WJE's services?
Contact our Northbrook headquarters or any of our 25+ global offices for direct access to our engineering and architectural specialists.
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