About
Shuck-Britson (SBI) specializes as a full-service structural engineering and consulting firm serving clients throughout Iowa and the Midwest
The origin of our firm traces back to 1966 when Terry Shuck founded Terry A. Shuck Structural Engineers. Utilizing years of experience Terry gained working for the Iowa Department of Transportation and structural engineering firms, he aimed to provide government, industry, and design firms with quality engineering services.
Early on, the firm began serving the City of Des Moines, which opened many opportunities to diversify its project experience. To this day, we continue serving the City of Des Moines along with the University of Iowa, Drake University, Grinnell, Simpson, and Graceland Colleges, which are long-standing clients as well. Working in and around the Des Moines area has also allowed us to develop strong experience with k-12 educational buildings, athletic centers, medical facilities, parking structures, and more.
Strategic Growth to Provide Comprehensive Services
From modest beginnings, the firm grew steadily in size and expertise leading up to a merger with Britson Consultants in 1990. Headed by Robert (Bob) Britson, a former employee of Terry A. Shuck Engineers, the main focus of Britson Consultants was bridge engineering. The additional expertise gained through the merger further strengthened our ability provide long-lasting structural solutions.
In October 2008, our capabilities expanded through a merger with Snyder & Associates, a civil engineering and planning firm based in Ankeny, Iowa. As a wholly owned subsidiary of Snyder & Associates, we’re able to better serve our clients with a vast offering of comprehensive engineering, planning, and design services.
Key Components of SBI Success
Today, Shuck-Britson is Iowa’s largest structural engineering firm.
At the heart of our ability to provide creative, practical solutions for complex structural challenges lies a unique combination of factors:
Staff
Quality engineering starts with experienced, well educated, and highly motivated staff. Many of our engineers possess graduate degrees in structural and civil engineering. All continue to hone their skills through educational seminars and training.
Capabilities
Extensive structural engineering experience coupled with a background in construction field review give us unique insights for the development of smart solutions. From the design of large, complex structures to projects involving special functions and unusual site constraints, our capabilities are vast and evolving. In addition to new construction, we frequently help restore existing structures to extend service life or prepare them for new uses.
Specialization
Focusing on structural engineering enabled us to become very proficient in this demanding field. As a result, leading architects, developers, and other specialists actively seek our services.
Technology
Using the latest in computer and other technologies allows us to increase productivity and improve service to our clients.
Location
With locations in Des Moines and Iowa City, we can easily access sites and resources throughout Iowa, the Midwest, and across the nation. We’re also close to government agencies for efficient coordination of reviews and permits.
Size
We’re large enough to provide the diverse experience and scope of services our clients need for major projects, but small enough to deliver responsive, personal service.
Value
We focus on quality, integrity, and service while striving to minimize client administration and coordination requirements. These factors provide peace-of-mind and great value for our clients.
Growth
The SBI client-centric project approach has helped us achieve a level of stability and longevity uncommon in our industry. We continuously seek new talent, technology, and opportunities to strengthen our ability to create structural solutions.