Our Team

Our team of licensed engineers and environmental scientists brings together diverse expertise to deliver innovative, cost-effective, and dependable solutions. By combining technical knowledge with hands-on field experience, we ensure accuracy and quality at every stage of a project.

Jeff Montgomery

PRESIDENT/CEO

Mr. Montgomery serves as the President and CEO, providing leadership and strategic direction. He oversees company operations, ensures quality and efficiency across projects, and fosters collaboration among technical teams. He guides business development, strengthens client relationships, and focuses on long-term growth to ensure the firm’s continued success.

Aric Geda

PRINCIPAL ENGINEER

Mr. Geda oversees multidisciplinary engineering projects in civil engineering, construction management, and geotechnical investigations. He directs property condition assessments, environmental studies, materials testing, and inspections to ensure quality and compliance. He manages projects from planning through completion, leading teams, overseeing operations, and coordinating with clients to deliver cost-effective, technically sound solutions.

SCOTT DOWELL

SENIOR ENGINEER

Mr. Dowell leads complex projects involving soil, rock, and groundwater analysis to ensure stable foundations for structures like buildings, bridges, or dams. He conducts site investigations, analyzes soil mechanics, assesses risks (e.g., landslides, earthquakes), and designs solutions such as retaining walls or foundations. Mr. Dowell also manages project timelines and budgets, liaising with clients.

Jim Brewer

CMT / Senior Project Manager

Mr. Brewer oversees construction materials testing and special inspections for commercial, industrial, governmental, and transportation projects. He conducts threshold inspections and pavement evaluations for asphalt and concrete, ensuring compliance with specifications and codes. Mr. Brewer’s work includes infrastructure and site development, roadways, bridges, high-rise buildings, big box retail, government facilities, and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) projects.

STEVEN CATES

Business DevELOPment/SENIOR PROJECT MANAGER

Mr. Cates builds client relationships and connects Solid Ground Engineering’s expertise with contractors, developers, municipalities, and design professionals. He drives growth through networking, outreach, and partnerships, showcasing the firm’s capabilities in geotechnical engineering, materials testing, inspections, environmental services, and property assessments. Mr. Cates also guides strategic initiatives, ensuring projects begin on a solid foundation and achieve lasting results.

Zack smith

National Account Manager

Mr. Smith manages client relationships across North and South Carolina, focusing on both new opportunities and existing accounts. His role includes expanding accounts, aligning clients with the right engineering solutions, and fostering strong partnerships with existing and potential clients. By facilitating communication and building strategic networks, he helps ensure projects move forward efficiently and successfully.

Emma fadde

environmental scientist

Ms. Fadde conducts Phase I Environmental Site Assessments (ESAs), asbestos inspections, water quality sampling, and geophysical surveying to support environmental compliance and property due diligence. She performs site investigations, reviews historical and regulatory records, and identifies Recognized Environmental Conditions (RECs) in accordance with ASTM E1527-21 standards. Her work spans properties in North Carolina, South Carolina, Virginia, Florida, Georgia, Arkansas, Mississippi, Missouri, Minnesota, and Oklahoma, contributing technical expertise in field sampling, environmental review, and regulatory documentation.