1948 was a pivotal year for 31-year old Al Samborn, a structural engineer who returned home to Toledo Ohio after completing his military service to launch his own engineering firm. He soon added a partner, Jack Steketee and expanded their services and their client roster to include Ford Motor Company. Years and many projects later, they took on two architects as partners to become Samborn, Steketee, Otis and Evans, Architects and Engineers, later to be shortened to SSOE.

In the decades that followed, the partners made strategic decisions that shaped the character of the firm. SSOE would provide both architecture and engineering and boldly diversify their services and the markets for them. This growth strategy is evident today as SSOE is experiencing three consecutive years of growth in excess of 25% and has added eight locations in the last two years.

As early as the ‘60s SSOE gained notoriety as the first A/E firm in the Midwest to use in-house computers in the design process which set the stage for its role as technology leaders. By 2009, SSOE will be designing 100% of its projects with 3D CAD.

In addition to its strong commitment to growing a firm with diverse expertise and areas of specialization, SSOE demonstrated the value of its people and their communities. The firm instituted innovative programs that would create an exceptional work environment for its employees. Through scholarships, mentoring programs and numerous charitable gifts and projects, SSOE continues to be a responsible and generous advocate for all types of people at the grass roots level. 

(To read more about the founder of SSOE and his contributions to his profession and community go to http://www.ssoe.com/pdf_files/SambornNomination.PDF)

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