About Us
Our Beliefs
At CEP, we hold a firm belief that our clients are the foundation of our success. Whether you represent a public agency or a private development firm, we are committed to principles that ensure public safety, incorporate sound design with a keen eye on long-term maintenance costs, prioritize clear communication through active listening, maintain strict budget awareness, and adhere to disciplined scheduling to meet project timelines.
We also deeply value our staff, recognizing them as our most essential asset. We invest in their long-term growth and development, enabling them to continually enhance their skills and knowledge. This investment not only fosters their professional advancement but also ensures that our clients benefit from the depth of expertise and dedicated service that our team brings to every project.
Our Clients
At CEP, we believe that our clients are the cornerstone of our success. We are honored by their recognition of CEP Engineering’s potential for growth. Our primary goal is to deliver supreme service, aiming to earn the loyalty of repeat clients. We view our role as an extension of your services, understanding that our actions and outcomes directly reflect on you.
Our experienced construction engineers are adept at comprehending your needs and are committed to supporting your agency’s mission. With every project we undertake, we strive to provide not just solutions, but partnerships that help advance your goals with excellence and efficiency.
Our Clients
Company Certifications
CEP is proud to hold certifications as a Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) and Small Business Enterprise (SBE), recognizing our commitment to diversity and excellence in the civil engineering sector. Our certifications enhance our ability to participate in a wide range of projects and foster inclusive economic growth. We are certified with several respected entities, reflecting our broad reach and trusted status in the industry:
- Wisconsin Department of Transportation
- Dane County, WI
- City of Madison, WI (Also as MBE)
- City of Milwaukee, WI
- Milwaukee Metropolitan Sewerage District (Also as MBE)
- Illinois Department of Transportation
- The City of Chicago
- The Chicago Transit Authority
- Metra
- Pace
These certifications not only underscore our expertise and reliability but also our dedication to upholding the standards expected by these prestigious organizations, enabling us to contribute significantly to public and private sector projects across the region.
Company Experience
The CEP team boasts a rich history of serving a diverse array of clients across federal, state, county, municipal, and private sectors, providing multi-disciplined engineering services. Our broad experience enables us to understand and meet the unique needs of each client segment with precision and professionalism. Some of our notable clients include:
- USDA – Forest Service, Region 9
- Wisconsin Department of Transportation
- Various Wisconsin County Highway Departments
- Municipal Departments of Public Works
- Numerous villages and towns
- Private developers
- This extensive client base reflects our capability and versatility in handling complex challenges across different scales and scopes of projects, reaffirming our commitment to excellence in the civil engineering and construction management industry.
Our Team
Zahra Suleymanpour
Chief Executive Officer
Zahra brings a wealth of city planning and engineering expertise to CEP Engineering, accumulated over a decade. Her strong foundation in project coordination, GIS platforms, and AutoCAD has honed her skills in data gathering, analysis, and the creation of detailed reports on population distribution and urban development.
Educational Background:
She holds a Master’s in City Planning from the University of Yasooj, Iran, and a Bachelor’s in Geography from Payam Noor University, Iran.
Professional Experience:
Throughout her career, Zahra has demonstrated exceptional project leadership and coordination skills. She has worked extensively on creating comprehensive plans for village community development, collaborating with municipalities, government officials, and other stakeholders. Her proficiency in Microsoft Office and her ability to work independently and as part of a team make her a valuable asset to any project.
Zahra’s personal interests, such as interior decoration and good housekeeping, are not just hobbies but also a reflection of her dedication to creating functional and aesthetically pleasing urban spaces. Her love for outdoor activities like bicycle riding and hiking mirrors her proactive approach to problem-solving and her ability to adapt to different environments.
Najim Heidari, PE
President
Najim Heidari leads CEP with a distinguished background in civil engineering and executive leadership. With a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from the University of Wisconsin – Madison (1983), his career spans more than three decades, marked by significant achievements and leadership roles.
Career Highlights:
- Former Owner and CEO of CORRE, Inc.: Led the firm for 11 years, steering it through numerous successful projects and substantial growth phases.
- 2015 Secretary of Transportation Golden Shovel Award: Recognized for exemplary performance as a DBE consultant, highlighting his effectiveness and commitment to quality in consultancy roles.
- 2017 Marketplace Awards: Honored by the Governor with an award for a Rising Star Minority-owned Business Development, underscoring his impact in fostering diversity and excellence in the business community.
- Extensive Project Experience: Boasts 20 years of hands-on experience as a project engineer and project manager. His portfolio includes working on various high-profile WisDOT design and construction projects, along with numerous rural and urban projects for local agencies, showcasing a wide range of sizes and complexities.
Najim’s leadership at CEP is guided by a vision to integrate robust engineering solutions with sustainable business practices, ensuring the firm not only meets but exceeds the expectations of clients while contributing positively to community infrastructure.
Ameer Khan
Asst. Construction Manager
Ameer Khan serves as an Assistant Construction Manager at CEP, bringing a wealth of knowledge and experience from the civil engineering field.
His academic credentials include:
- Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering, from University of Osmania, Hyderabad, India (1986).
- Diploma in Construction Management (1987), enhancing his expertise in the practical aspects of construction management.
- Specialized Study in Structural Design of Bridges, Highways & Railroads** at the University of Wisconsin – Madison (2007).
Professional Experience:
- 26 Years of Civil Engineering Expertise: Ameer has an extensive background spanning over two and a half decades, with specialized capabilities in construction inspections of bridges, roadways, highways, railway tracks, and local roads and street construction.
- Versatile Role Experience: He has effectively served in roles such as Assistant Resident Engineer, Assistant Construction Manager, and Senior Construction Inspector, primarily on projects for the Illinois Tollway and Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT).
- Responsibilities: His duties encompass construction supervision, documenting contract quantities, coordinating with clients and contractors, observing work, attending progress meetings, and preparing pay estimates.
- Diverse Clientele: Ameer has worked with a variety of clients including IDOT, Illinois State Toll Highway Authority (ISTHA), Chicago Department of Transportation (CDOT), various villages, and numerous counties.
Ameer Khan’s extensive experience and in-depth knowledge make him a pivotal member of the CEP team, adept at managing complex construction projects and ensuring their successful completion in accordance with high standards of quality and safety.
Terrence Shanklin, PE
Civil Eng Project Manager
Terrence Shanklin brings a multifaceted engineering background and substantial project management experience to his role as a Civil Engineering Project Manager at CEP.
His educational journey includes:
- Bachelor of Science in Applied Physics from Illinois Institute of Technology, Chicago, IL (2014).
- Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ (2006).
- Associate of Science from Moraine Valley Community College, Palos Heights, IL (2001).
Professional Experience:
- 16 Years of Project Management: Terrence has a robust 16-year track record in managing transportation and infrastructure projects for both public and private sectors, demonstrating his comprehensive understanding and capability in this field.
- Diverse Role Expertise: He has served in various capacities including Project Manager, Resident Engineer, Office Engineer, and Inspector. This diverse role experience has provided him with a deep insight into all aspects of project execution.
- Notable Clients: His project portfolio includes significant projects for the Illinois Tollway (ISTHA), Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT), Illinois Capitol Development Board (CDB), Chicago Department of Transportation (CDOT), Chicago Housing Authority (CHA), and City Colleges of Chicago (CCC).
- Leadership Roles: As Vice President, he was responsible for the construction and project management of various multi-disciplined projects, showcasing his leadership skills and ability to manage complex initiatives.
- Inspection Expertise: Terrence has also conducted bridge inspections for the Illinois Tollway and IDOT, as well as structural building inspections for the CHA.
- Technical Proficiency: Beyond civil engineering, he possesses advanced knowledge in structural, mechanical, and electrical systems and designs, enhancing his versatility and effectiveness as a project manager.
Terrence Shanklin’s extensive background and technical expertise position him as a key asset in CEP’s pursuit of engineering excellence and innovative infrastructure solutions.
Bob Lex, PE
Project Manager
Bob Lex brings extensive expertise and leadership as a Project Manager at CEP, underpinned by a solid educational foundation and years of professional experience.
Educational Background:
- Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering, from the University of Wisconsin – Madison (1992).
Professional Experience:
- 27 Years of Project Management: Bob has dedicated over two decades to managing a wide array of construction projects with the Wisconsin Department of Transportation. His comprehensive experience covers a broad spectrum of infrastructure projects, including interstate, freeway, expressways, rural STHs (State Trunk Highways), and urban reconstructs and rehabilitations.
- Construction Project Management: He has provided construction oversight for numerous projects, working effectively with both in-house and consultant staff. His role involves the detailed management of all project facets, from initiation to completion.
- Contract Negotiation and Management: Bob is skilled in negotiating and managing consultant contracts, maintaining stringent control over budget and schedule, and effectively managing staff.
- Conflict Resolution and Coordination: He excels in resolving contractor disputes and coordinates extensively with property and business owners, local municipalities, counties, and other external agencies.
- Change Order Determination: Bob’s responsibilities also include determining contract change orders, evaluating them, and coordinating with the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) on Contract Revision Items (CRI) and significant change orders.
- Design Project Management: He also serves as a Design Project Manager for various projects, ranging from complex freeway expansions and interstate reconstructions to single-span bridge replacements and Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP) safety improvements.
Bob Lex’s leadership and deep understanding of civil engineering project dynamics make him a key asset to CEP, ensuring projects are delivered on time, within budget, and to the highest standards of quality and safety.
Art Johnston, PE
Senior Structural Engineer
Art Johnston, a distinguished Senior Structural Engineer at CEP, brings a profound depth of knowledge and experience to the team, bolstered by a stellar academic record.
Educational Background:
- Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering, from Michigan Technological University (1989), graduating summa cum laude.
Professional Experience:
- 27+ Years of Structural Design Experience: Art possesses over 27 years of experience in structural design, with a focus on roadway and federal lands structures, including specialized expertise in timber bridges.
- Long Tenure with the USDA Forest Service: He served 22 years as an employee in Region 9 (Eastern U.S.) of the USDA Forest Service, gaining extensive experience in public service and infrastructure development.
- Broad Engineering Expertise: His engineering capabilities extend beyond bridges to include buildings and dams. He is skilled in all aspects of design, inspection, and evaluation, ensuring structures are safe, functional, and environmentally compliant.
Art Johnston’s blend of technical expertise and practical experience, particularly in areas requiring delicate environmental considerations, makes him a valuable asset to CEP. His work ensures that the structural integrity and functionality of projects meet the highest standards of engineering excellence.
Matt Murphy
Senior Structural Manager
Matt Murphy serves as the Senior Structural Manager at CEP, bringing with him a robust background in civil engineering and a wealth of management experience in structural projects.
Educational Background:
- Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering, from Chicago Technical College (1977).
Professional Experience:
- Wisconsin Department of Transportation: Matt dedicated 20 years as a Structural Engineer for the SW Region, where he was responsible for the oversight of 855 bridges and managed a $2 million annual bridge rehabilitation program. His tenure here endowed him with deep insights into the complexities of large-scale structural management and maintenance.
- USDA Forest Service: Following his time with WisDOT, Matt spent 5 years as a Transportation Program Manager and Bridge/Structures Program Manager for Region 9 of the USDA Forest Service. This role further expanded his expertise in managing transportation infrastructure on a federal scale.
- Extensive Training and Certifications: Over the years, Matt has acquired more than 25 certifications and has completed numerous training courses related to structure design and inspection. This extensive education has equipped him with the knowledge and skills necessary to lead complex structural projects and initiatives.
Matt Murphy’s extensive professional journey and specialized training make him a cornerstone of CEP’s structural management team, ensuring that each project not only meets but exceeds the required standards of safety, functionality, and sustainability.
Bobbie Ramos
Construction Manager
Bobbie Ramos is a seasoned Construction Manager at CEP with over three decades of extensive experience in the construction industry. His deep familiarity with urban infrastructure projects, particularly within the City of Chicago, equips him with unique insights and expertise.
Professional Background:
- Diverse Municipal Experience: Bobbie has held significant roles within multiple departments of the City of Chicago, including the Department of Transportation, Department of Fleet and Facility Management, and Department of Streets and Sanitation. His comprehensive understanding of Chicago’s policies and procedures enhances his effectiveness in navigating complex urban construction projects.
- Construction Management Tool: He is proficient in using advanced project management software such as Primavera P6, Navisworks Manage, and Microsoft Project. His skills extend to comprehensive office suites like MS Office and project review software like Bluebeam, which facilitate efficient project planning, execution, and communication.
- 3D Modeling and GIS: Bobbie is also skilled in 3D modeling and design software including Autodesk Revit, Dynamo, Autodesk Assemble, AutoCAD, and Sketchup. Additionally, he has experience with geographic information systems (GIS) using ArcGIS, further augmenting his capability to manage and visualize construction projects from inception to completion.
Bobbie Ramos’s blend of managerial experience, technical proficiency, and detailed knowledge of local government operations makes him a pivotal asset to CEP, ensuring that construction projects are executed flawlessly, adhering to the highest standards of quality and efficiency.
Felix R Rubin
Construction Project Manager
Felix R. Rubin is a highly experienced Construction Project Manager at CEP, possessing a multifaceted educational background and extensive professional expertise in civil engineering and construction management.
Educational Background:
- Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering, Mapua Institute of Technology, Philippines (1983).
- Bachelor of Arts in International Studies, Webster University, St. Louis, MO (1987).
- Advanced Study in Construction Management, Illinois Institute of Technology (1993).
Professional Experience:
- 20 Years of Construction Management: Felix has two decades of experience in construction management within the civil engineering field. His responsibilities have included recording daily construction progress reports, requiring a deep understanding of blueprints, analyzing budgets, performing Acceptance Test Procedures (ATP), and executing change orders.
- Project Management Tools: He is proficient with various web-based project management tools tailored for complex construction projects including CDOT, ICORS, E-Builder, Procore, and IMIRS, which are essential for managing construction materials effectively.
- Regulatory Knowledge: Felix is well-versed with specifications and codes related to multiple regulatory bodies such as the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT), Chicago Department of Transportation (CDOT), Illinois State Toll Highway Authority (ISTHA), Cook County Department of Transportation and Highways (CCDOTH), METRA Transit Authority, Federal Highway Administration (FHA), the American Concrete Institute (ACI), the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM), and the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO), as well as the Chicago Department of Aviation (CDA).
- Leadership and Supervision: He has extensive experience managing staff engineers, inspectors, and technicians, providing comprehensive construction engineering and inspection services across various projects.
Felix R. Rubin’s robust background and leadership abilities make him a key component of CEP’s project management team, ensuring meticulous oversight and execution of construction projects to meet the highest standards of quality, safety, and regulatory compliance.