Mike Brady
Eddie Jett
Joe Ledford
When he formed Mike Brady Inc. (MBI) 25 years ago, Mike Brady had no idea that his company would be involved in more than $6 billion in construction projects ranging from the headquarters building for HGTV to Harry Potter’s Diagon Alley, Universal Studio’s newest attraction. Brady’s architectural and engineering legacy was celebrated last week as MBI observed its 25th anniversary and announced Mr. Brady’s retirement.
“It’s been quite a ride,” Mr. Brady said, “and I am not leaving, just stepping aside to assist the excellent management team here at MBI.”
MBI is a full service architectural and engineering firm, with offices in Knoxville, Chattanooga and Orlando, Fla. With a current staff size of more than 80 and personnel registered in all 50 states, MBI was one of the first firms in the nation to employ Building Information Modeling. MBI offers clients the opportunity to experience Live Design – a design concept that moves projects from inception to construction in less time by offering 3D models and renderings as design development moves along.
"We are delighted that Mike will be available to assist clients and encourage our great staff,” said CEO Eddie Jett. “Mike and I are very proud of the team that has been built at MBI as we continue to focus on our most important asset: satisfied clients.”
The list of clients and projects covers the gamut of architectural and engineering design services: public facilities (jails, courthouses, schools, churches, hospitals, and higher education facilities) to industrial (automotive, distribution, manufacturing, laboratory and research centers) to commercial (office buildings, retail, restaurants, and attractions).
Notable Chattanooga area projects by MBI, include the Sale Creek Fire Station Headquarters, currently under construction, multiple residential and commercial projects including multiple Walgreens and Bojangle’s restaurants. Also public projects such as Rhea County High School.
Rated as one of the top 25 firms in the southeast, Mr. Jett said an important reason was the MBI team’s relationships with their clients. “This relationship building throughout our management team and staff is vital to our success and a great legacy created by Mike,” Mr. Jett said.
Mr. Jett also used the occasion to announce a new member of the team, Joe Ledford, who takes over as principal of Industrial Services. Mr. Ledford joins MBI after a 29-year engineering career with Barge, Waggoner, Summer & Cannon, Inc.
”Joe will bring added expertise and energy for our existing and future industrial clients throughout the country,” Mr. Jett said.
Mr. Brady added, “This past quarter century has been amazing. As much fun as the ride has been, I am at ease stepping aside because we truly have an outstanding management and support team. Each of our executive team members has been with us for at least 17 years, and, to me, that says a lot about the value of continuity and experience.
“I am proud to be a part of this team and I will be around, though not quite as often, to help out when needed.”
The MBI Executive Team:
CEO--Eddie Jett, PE, SE. With MBI for 17 years, in his second year as CEO
President--Louis Cortina, PE. With MBI for 19 years
Senior Vice President--Chuck Grant, AIA, With MBI for 24 years
Board Chairman & Principal--Bill Steverson, AIA, With MBI for 22 years
Board Secretary & Principal--Brian Pierce, AIA. With MBI for 20 years