Draper Aden Associates merges with Christiansburg-based firm

Published October 5, 2016 by Robert Powell, III

Richmond-based Draper Aden Associates one of the largest engineering firms in the mid-Atlantic, has merged with Christiansburg-based Advanced Technical Services International.

Financials details of the merger were not announced. The combined company will operate under the name Draper Aden Associates (DAA),.

DAA said the deal, which was effective on Oct.1, enhances its technological capabilities, such as 3-D laser scanning and interactive building information modeling with new services such as bedrock mapping and seismic surveying.  

“This is an exciting move for DAA, as it embraces our goal to continually enhance the services we provide with yet another valuable technology,” Jeffrey N. Lighthiser, the CEO and president of the firm, said in a statement. “The ability to create 2D bedrock surface maps, detect subsurface voids/structures, and solve hydrologic problems are just some of the areas where we have seen growing demand, and our Geophysical Team’s expertise will open new windows to the world below for our clients.”   

Founded in 1998 by Warren Dean, Advanced Technical Services provided a broad spectrum of geologic services to industry, government, and legal professionals throughout the mid-Atlantic.

“Draper Aden Associates is a great fit for us because their corporate culture matches with our values and they share the same vision for the importance of geophysical services,” Dean said in a statement.

Advanced Technical Services employees will join DAA’s Geotechnical/Construction Quality Assurance Division. Dean will serve as Geophysical Services team leader.

Advanced Technical Services team will be located in DAA’s Blacksburg office.

DAA has offices in Blacksburg, Charlottesville, Manassas, Newport News and Richmond plus locations in North Carolina.