David Gibbens, P.E., S.E.

Associate, Tucson Office

Backstory

Dave Gibbens grew up in the small town of Avenal in Kings County, California. He served in the U.S. Navy as a Seabee before moving to Tucson to study engineering at the University of Arizona. He has worked for Schneider Structural Engineers for his entire structural career, getting his start as an intern in March of 2001.

How He Got His Start

When I was a transfer junior to the University of Arizona, I called Schneider and Associates in October of 2000 to see if they had any internships.  Mr. Ron Schneider directed me to call back in March.  I called in March of 2001 and Ron referred me to Janelle Perry. Janelle graciously gave me a chance and for the next three months I worked in the conference room of Schneider and Associates, learning and growing.  Mr. Schneider does not believe an intern should do menial tasks, but his interns are challenged with actual projects. With this level of trust, I thrived. Upon graduation in May of 2002, Schneider Structural Engineers hired me on full time as a junior engineer and I’ve been here ever since.

Lasting Lesson Learned

It doesn’t matter what you’ve calculated, nor if you had the greatest calculation package this side of the Mississippi, if your drawings aren’t coordinated and constructible by a contractor, you have failed on a project.

Where You’ve Seen His Work

  • Miramar Community College Field House, San Diego, California
  • Gallup Indian Medical Center, New Mexico
  • Beach Fleischman offices, Tucson, Arizona;
  • Magnolia Hall Theatre, Charleston, State?
  • Quechan Indian Education Complex, Winterhaven, California
  • Sahuarita Unified School District, Early Childhood Center, Sahuarita, Arizona
  • University of Arizona Tech Park Solar Support Foundations, Tucson, Arizona
  • City of Tucson Crime Lab, Tucson, Arizona
    (recognized as ENR Southwest Best Project 2012)

Specialties

Dave specializes in wood-framed and steel-framed structures including retail and commercial buildings, offices, education facilities and medical clinics. He also has experience in the latest economical seismic technologies, as well as cast-in-place concrete and masonry.

State Licenses

Dave is licensed to practice in Arizona and California.