Relationships and technical excellence
Calder Richards was founded in 2005 through the merger of two of Utah’s leading structural engineering firms—Calder Kankainen Consulting Engineers and Richards Consulting Group, each established in 1986. From engineering for the 2002 Winter Olympics to seismically upgrading Utah’s iconic historic buildings, we carry forward our founders’ commitment to lasting relationships and technical excellence.
We do big projects, and we do small projects in a big way. Whatever the scope, we deliver cost efficiencies through smart engineering design—without compromising the vision, goals, or sustainability of any project.
Our Team
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Shaun Packer
Managing Partner
Joined Richards Consulting Group over 30 years ago and continued with Calder Richards after the merger. Spearheads the firm’s resort, hospitality, and public-safety work and manages operations and administration. Licensed S.E.; B.S. Civil Engineering, University of Utah (1993).
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Nolan Balls
Managing Partner
20+ years engineering cost-effective designs for schools, manufacturing plants, and commercial structures; leads client development and the firm’s LEED work, including a rare double-platinum project. B.S. Civil Engineering and M.E. Structural Engineering, Utah State University.
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Scott Wilson
Managing Partner
More than thirty years with the firm; manages the peer/plan review department, working closely with municipalities, state agencies, and school districts, and supports the K-12 studio and HR. B.S. Civil Engineering, University of Utah (1992).
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Alex Karras, SE
Partner
Oversees structural design for new projects and renovations; known for responsive client service and forward-thinking solutions. Passionate about seismic risk in the Intermountain West; member of EERI and ATC-20 certified. M.Eng. Structural Engineering & Mechanics, Utah State University.
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Henning Ungerman
Director of Technical Design & Training
20+ years across public schools, municipal buildings, military facilities, and commercial structures; oversees the firm’s technical design and training programs. M.E. Civil Engineering (Structural Emphasis), University of Utah. Active member, SEAU.
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David Marshall
Structural Engineer
Over a decade of experience spanning K-12, industrial, commercial, transit, and municipal work, plus historic renovation and adaptive re-use. Licensed P.S.E. in Utah; former Chair/Vice Chair of the SEAU Young Members Group. M.Eng. Civil Engineering, Utah State University.
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Mark Shields
Structural Engineer
Skilled licensed structural engineer who integrates structural integrity with aesthetic vision; expertise in K-12, commercial, and large-scale industrial projects. USU Dean’s Scholar; M.S. Civil Engineering (structural emphasis), Utah State University.
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Nick Markosian
Project Engineer
Licensed P.E. in Utah with a diverse portfolio across K-12, industrial, government, historic renovation, multi-family, and hospitality. Known for clear communication and client satisfaction. M.S. and B.S. Civil Engineering (Structural Emphasis), Utah State University.
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Jacob Luebke
Structural Project Manager
Ensures the safety and functionality of the built environment through rigorous analysis, design, and load calculations. Experience in multi-family, K-12, hospitality, and industrial structures. M.S. Architectural Engineering, University of Nebraska-Lincoln; licensed P.E. in Utah.
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Tara Hennessy
Office Administrator
Calder Richards’ first female associate, managing office administration for over thirty years. Oversees financial and administrative tasks, client records, billing, payroll, and HR support.
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Kim Johnson
Marketing Director
Over two decades marketing professional services in the AEC industry; leads the firm’s marketing and business development. B.A. Communications (PR); CPSM (2011); past President, SMPS Utah Chapter.
Founding Team
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![Kelly Calder, Founder, Calder Richards Consulting Engineers]()
Kelly Calder
Founder
Firm co-founder who continues to contribute to client continuity, quality assurance, and the training of professional staff, bringing over 30 years of structural engineering experience. Master’s and B.S. degrees in engineering, University of Utah.
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![JR Richards, Founder & Partner, Calder Richards Consulting Engineers]()
JR Richards
Founder & Partner
Company founder and current partner with over 35 years of experience; a key figure in Utah’s adaptive re-use and historic preservation community. B.S. Civil Engineering (cum laude), University of Utah; M.S. Structural Engineering, Stanford University. Past President, SEAU.
