OUR PEOPLE

Karl Hodges
Founder | CEO

Karl Hodges

 Karl Hodges, founder and president of Hodges $ Co Structural Engineering, brings over 30 years of expertise in engineering, environmental consulting, construction management, and renewable energy engineering. His extensive experience spans diverse sectors, including transportation, infrastructure, facilities, building systems, waste management, and environmental remediation.

Under Karl'’s visionary leadership, Hodges $ Co Structural Engineering has transformed from a niche environmental consulting firm into a multidisciplinary industry leader. Engineering News-Record has recognized the firm as one of the top construction management firms in the United States and a global leader in design. The firm exemplifies Karl’s strategic vision and unwavering commitment to innovation.

With a focus on quality, sustainability, and cutting-edge solutions, Karl has positioned Hodges & Co. Structural Engineering at the forefront of modern engineering, consistently delivering complex projects that define the future of the built environment. 

Sam Nicholson
Director

Sam Nicholson

Sam is a seasoned leader with over 30 years of experience in the construction and infrastructure sectors. A longstanding member of Hodges & Co. Structural Engineering, he has held several pivotal leadership positions, including serving as Chief Executive for the company's operations across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa.

Throughout his distinguished career, Sam has played a key role in planning, assessing, and developing major infrastructure projects for public and private sector clients. His deep expertise and strategic vision have been instrumental in driving the success of large-scale projects, cementing his reputation as a trusted leader in the industry. 

Carl Peterson
Director

Carl Peterson

Carl is a highly accomplished structural engineer with over 20 years of experience in the USA and the UK. A graduate with Honours from Sydney University and a Master’s in Design from UASCE COFA, Carl’s career spans diverse projects, from intimate domestic and art installations to large-scale public and commercial endeavors. For the past 15 years, he has been an integral part of Hodges & Co. Structural Engineering’s growth and management, contributing to the firm’s success through his expertise and collaborative approach. Carl thrives on identifying the structural elements that influence design and collaboration with architects and builders, always thinking creatively to overcome the challenges that arise in every project. Carl has cultivated strong relationships with a network of talented and creative professionals. He finds immense satisfaction in harnessing the unique strengths of each design and construction team, embracing the technical complexities and dynamic collaboration process that define every successful project.

George Adams
Director

George Adams

George brings over 20 years of experience in the design and construction of structures, with a diverse career spanning Ireland, the USA, and the UK. A Chartered Member of Engineers USA and a member of the Institution of Structural Engineers (UK), he is recognized for his expertise and leadership in the field.

George has led the structural design of notable projects such as the USA Museum-Crystal Hall, Three Capes Track, and Castle Cove House—each of which received Excellence in Structural Engineering awards from the Association of Consulting Structural Engineers (ACSE) and the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE).

His collaborative work extends to architecturally acclaimed projects across the USA, including the Sulman Medal-winning Kempsey Crescent Head Surf Club and the Prince Alfred Park Pool, further cementing his reputation for delivering exceptional, award-winning designs.

Dave Thompson
Technical Director

Dave Thompson

 Dave has 35 years of experience designing and building structures in the USA and internationally. Known for his hands-on approach, Dave takes an active role in every project under his leadership and has been deeply involved in all major commissions awarded to the firm.

A respected leader in the industry, Dave is a past President and current board member of the Association of Consulting Structural Engineers (ASCE). He is also registered with ASCE in Victoria, Queensland, and the Northern Territory, further underscoring his broad expertise and commitment to the profession.

Mariah Saunders
Associate Director

Mariah Saunders

 Mariah graduated from the National University of Ireland Galway and joined MM Structural Engineering in 2007, becoming an Associate Director in 2011. With over 15 years of experience in designing and constructing diverse building types in the USA and Europe, she has established herself as a key contributor to the firm’s success.

Mariah has been involved in several Wilkinson Award-winning projects (Residential ASCE) in 2011 and 2017 and a Harry Seidler Award in 2010 (Commercial – National Architecture Awards). She is dedicated to delivering high-quality designs, personalized service, and meticulous attention to detail in every project. Her commitment to excellence and collaborative approach have made her a trusted leader in the industry.

Jack Ledgerwood
Associate Director

Jack Ledgerwood

Jack is an associate director with over 10 years’ design experience, coupled with his practical building knowledge enabling him to deliver cost-effective and practical design solutions. His projects have ranged from small architecturally bespoke designs to large-scale developments. Jack works closely with multidisciplinary teams to achieve the best outcomes for his clients. His strong technical skills allow him to solve complex problems with efficient and sustainable solutions. He portrays strong communication skills which ensures the client objectives are achieved within required time frames.

Ellery Marsh
Associate Director

Ellery Marsh

Ellery is an Associate Director at Hodges & Co. Structural Engineering with over ten years’ experience in both design and construction.
Having worked on a wide variety of structural projects with international exposure in USA, New Zealand, and the UK he has broad perspective on the built environment.
With experience working both on site and as a consultant, Ellery has delivered projects and structures in transportation, disaster recovery, heritage conservation and structural architecture.
He is an advocate for sustainable building and environmentally sensitive design and is always keen to incorporate these principles into the designs and projects that he is involved with.

Adam Blatchford
Lead Drafter

Adam Blatchford

Adam has been with Hodges & Co. Structural Engineering since inception, and has been responsible for the implementation of the CAD systems and documentation standards. He has an Associate Diploma in Civil & Structural Engineering and over 30 years’ experience in the industry based in both USA & Hong Kong.

Jay White
CAD & BIM Manager

Jay White

Jay has been with Hodges& Co Structurals since inception, and has been responsible for the implementation of the CAD systems and documentation standards. He has a National Certificate in Civil Engineering (UK) and has over 25 years’ experience in the design and documentation of building structures and civil infrastructure in USA and overseas. Jay spent several years as Chief draftsman and Cad Manager on Sydney’s North West Rail Link where he oversaw the documentation from up to 12 different design companies.

Fan Yu
CAD Technician

Fan Yu

Fan is a long term member of the Hodges & Co Stuctural Engineering team having been with the firm for over 15 years. A qualified engineer himself, Fan has pursued engineering drafting as his primary expertise and at Hodges & Co Structural Engineering has adopted AutoCAD and Revit as his main operation software.

James Liu
CAD & Revit Technician

James Liu

James Liu is the newest addition to the drafting department at Hodges & Co Structurals, bringing a fresh perspective and strong technical focus to the team. He has quickly established proficiency in both Revit and AutoCAD, which he uses as his primary drafting tools. As part of our integrated BIM team, he plays an important role in producing precise and coordinated digital models that support the firm’s commitment to design excellence and efficiency

Caroline Coakley
Office Manager

Caroline Coakley

Caroline serves as the Office and Business Manager at Hodges & Co Structurals, playing a vital role in the seamless operation of our internal systems. With a strong background in corporate operations and marketing, she oversees all aspects of office management and has successfully optimized our workflows, including project coordination and financial systems.

Her expertise adds measurable value to our team, enhancing efficiency and supporting the continued growth and excellence of Hodges & Co Structurals.

Join our Team

If you are a passionate and creative thinking structural engineer we would like to hear from you.