Having spent more than 23 years as the Operations Engineer at Spokane County, I have a good understanding of local government culture.  Prior to that, my experience was in highway and heavy construction, so I also have a good understanding of quality construction practices.  I started by working my way through college as a heavy equipment operator and mechanics’ helper.  Later, I was a construction engineer, project manager, superintendent and estimator.  In 1980, I moved to Spokane County as their first Maintenance Engineer.  My first challenge was to develop and implement a Maintenance Management program.  This involved an organizational culture change as well as technical implementation.

Later, I directed the development and implementation of a Fleet Management program and full service Pavement Management.  I also conducted numerous Managed Competition exercises at Spokane County.  I know from personal experience that all of these programs can be beneficial and cost effective if they are well done.  I also know that if they are done poorly, they become just another bureaucratic nightmare.

I have a strong commitment to local Government and I want to share my knowledge and expertise with other agencies.  This is evidenced by the many work shops and training sessions I have conducted over the last 20 years.

I head up a small and relatively unknown firm that is strong on practical knowledge.  Many of the traditional engineering firms offer some of my services.  How many of them have the practical experience?

I am ready, willing and able to be your off-site resource to do the projects for which you do not have time.  Call me for more information of for a free, no obligation on-site visit.

-Phil Barto, P.E.