About
Alderson Engineering is a full-service MEP consulting engineering firm serving core clients on the East Coast of the United States since 1990. Led by principals Neal Babcock and Drew McFadden, our firm's strength is our combination of youth and technology integrated with experience and wisdom. We believe that, by fostering a firm-wide culture of service and commitment to perfection, we deliver and meet our clients expectations at each step during a project. We are collaborative, innovative, and client-focused, creating clients for life along the way.
/Principal
Neal Babcock, P.E., LEED™AP
Bachelor of Science in Architectural Engineering, Drexel University
Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering, Drexel University
Master of Science in Civil Engineering, Drexel University
After starting his career at a large A/E firm, Neal came to Alderson Engineering in 2005, where he utilized his education to master the firm's geothermal design techniques. Neal applies his experiences of managing long-term master-planned projects, by managing the firm's staff and deadlines. As head of Quality Control, Neal is responsible to ensure all aspects of Alderson's design process meets our clients' standards, and that every project undergoes the firm's strict Quality Control procedure.
In 2023, Neal and Drew McFadden acquired full ownership of the firm.
Neal is a registered Professional Engineer, LEED Accredited Professional and Certified GeoExchange Designer.
/Principal
Drew R. McFadden, CPD
Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering, Drexel University
Drew began his career at Alderson Engineering in 2003 as a Co-Op while attending Drexel University and quickly became an integral part of the team. Throughout his career, Drew has designed and managed many of Alderson's complex HVAC, Plumbing, and Fire Protection systems for various project types. With a sharp eye for design, Drew oversees the firm's design production efforts and technology and standards initiatives. Drew is also the firm's resident building code guru. With field experience, he has a keen ability to make sure everything that is designed can be built.
In 2023, Drew and Neal Babcock acquired full ownership of the firm.
Drew is a Certified Plumbing Design professional and industry expert on high-rise MEP/FP and life safety systems.
/Associate Principal
Mike Simmonds, P.E.
Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering, Drexel University
Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering, Drexel University
Mike joined Alderson in 2011 after attending Drexel University and serves as Mechanical Department Head. He is responsible for the design and development of projects, ensuring all aspects meet the high level of quality our clients have come to expect. Mike also serves as our lead BIM coordinator, using next-level BIM technology on projects to coordinate between trades. His career experience with the firm spans many commission types.
Mike is a registered Professional Engineer and maintains membership in the professional industry organization ASME and ASHRAE.
/Associate Principal
John Murphy, P.E.
Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering, Drexel University
After starting his career at a large MEP firm, John joined Alderson in 2011 as a project engineer. Now, he is our electrical department head overseeing electrical and low voltage design and development, ensuring each project exceeds the highest level of quality our clients have come to expect.
John is a registered Professional Engineer.
As an invaluable team leader, his even keeled style assures emerging professional's contribution and fosters team collaboration, ever improving quality for our clients.
/Lighting Studio Director
Jimmy Bates, P.E., LC, LEED™AP
Bachelor of Science in Architectural Engineering, University of Colorado
Master of Business Administration, The George Washington University
Jimmy has provided lighting design services since 2000, working at both small consulting and large integrated A/E firms before joining Alderson in 2019 as the studio director at A Lighting Studio. Jimmy has extensive experience in lighting, daylighting, and sustainable system design, including involvement in technically complex projects aligned with Alderson's expertise and Civic, Museum, University, and Science and Technology.
Jimmy is a registered Professional Engineer and Lighting Certified.
Outside of work, keep an eye out for Jimmy biking down the Pennypack trail or otherwise enjoying the Philadelphia running scene.
/Principal
Travis A. Alderson, P.E., LEED™AP, CBCP®
Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering, University of Pittsburgh
Travis has been with Alderson Engineering since his father, Howard started the firm in their home in 1990. His experience and responsibilities have developed over the years, and he was named a Partner in 2009. In 2023, Travis divested his interests in Alderson Engineering and continues to support the firm in a supporting role, backed by 10+ years of design, project management, and firm management experience.
Travis is a registered Professional Engineer, LEED Accredited, and a Certified Building Commissioning Professional.
Travis likes to get off the beaten path occasionally, exploring bike paths and surf breaks where he can find them.
/Founding Principal
Howard Alderson, P.E.
Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering, Drexel University
As the founding Partner of Alderson Engineering, Howard created the foundation and framework which continues to be the source of strength for the firm. With 40+ years of consulting engineering experience, Howard is an invaluable source of knowledge and actively assists in training the growing staff. Howard has successfully completed projects throughout the East Coast of the United States and is a registered Professional Engineer in over twenty states. His expertise as an expert witness and expert on ground source heat pump systems contributes to the firm's national reach and growth.
Howard wishes to work for Google in his next life.