About Us
Engineering Experts
The people that comprise VP aren’t merely employees. They’re the heart and backbone of our firm; the reason we’ve accomplished all we have since first opening our doors for business.
After serving in the Unites States Navy, Brian started his career in technology in 1998. Once he established a firm footing in telephony, he broadened his experience as the world of technology changed. For the next 22 years, his specialties would grow to include Data Networking, Wireless LAN, Nurse Call, Access Control, IP Surveillance and Paging Systems. Brian has experience designing technology solutions across the following industries: Healthcare, Higher Education, State and Local Government, Public Transportation, Logistics, and Manufacturing.
Brian utilizes his vast, real world, experience in implementing technology solutions to assist our clients in designing a technology package that will meet the ever-changing demands of our world.
Having been with VP Engineering from 2015-2018, Maddie rejoined the team as the Marketing Manager after a company-wide restructuring in 2020. In this role, she oversees all marketing initiatives, website and social media management, and firm communications, adding her creativity to a very technical industry. She also puts her creative touch on all event planning for the firm, including teambuilding, holiday, and client events.
With a BA in Corporate Communications from Elon University, Maddie has been in the Marketing industry for 15 years and the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (A/E/C) industry specifically for close to 7 years. In addition to engineering, she also has industry experience in general contracting. As an adjunct to her role, Maddie also plays an instrumental role in the numerous community service projects VP Engineering participates in throughout the year.
Zach, a veteran of the United States Air Force, spearheads our Business Development efforts out of the VP office in Dallas, Texas. He joined VP in 2009 as an Electrical Designer and was later promoted to Project Manager. His dedication and work ethic have propelled him to his current leadership role of Business Development Lead.
Zach’s commitment to building strong client relationships is a cornerstone of his success. He embodies VP’s core values – honesty, integrity, responsiveness, respect, and professionalism – in every interaction. For Zach, success isn’t just about results; it’s about fostering meaningful connections with both colleagues and clients
Belete Zerihun began working in the A/E/C industry as an electrical designer in 2003. Now a seasoned Design Manager, he prioritizes the successful operation of his design team. Once a goal is set, he achieves it: accurately and on time. Belete leads by example and is grounded in loyalty and the confidence in himself and the designers around him.
Belete is an outstanding Design Manager, with a love for mentoring new employees and watching a project go from design to reality. His interest and background in business processes makes him a successful leader and team member. He is excited about the positive developments in VP’s recent growth: from operations to production. With over 20 years of experience working as an MEP consultant, Belete is an invaluable part of the VP Engineering team.
Engineering runs in Adam’s blood. Following in his father’s footsteps, Adam joined VP Engineering in 2007 as a Plumbing Designer and was later promoted to Plumbing Design Manager. He’s always been drawn to the problem-solving nature of engineering, and after graduating, he dove headfirst into the A/E/C industry, putting his passion to work.
With over a decade of experience designing plumbing systems, Adam brings a wealth of expertise to the table. His keen eye for detail ensures the accuracy of drawings and design documents, guaranteeing VP’s clients receive top-quality, dependable solutions. His consistent track record, dependability, and trustworthiness make him a pillar of the design team.
Inspired by his father’s engineering career, Alex propelled his childhood interest in mathematics and computers into his own successful career in the MEP industry. Well-versed in heat loss/gain calculations, equipment selection, duct design, and piping design, Alex’s collaborative approach to projects helps ensure that they are completed on-time and on-budget.
Armed with critical communication and leadership skills, Alex isn’t afraid to get his hands dirty. He enjoys the new challenges projects present each day and relishes the opportunity to tackle them with integrity and innovation.
A passion for math and engineering ignited Daniel Payne’s career in the A/E/C industry in 2005. Since joining VP Engineering in 2013, Daniel’s infectious enthusiasm and unwavering work ethic have made him a standout Senior Project Manager. Daniel is also a National Green Building Standard (NGBS) Verifier, ensuring clients’ projects meet the stringent requirements of the NGBS.
He thrives on exceeding expectations, ensuring exceptional customer service and top-notch designs for every project. Daniel’s love for exploration translates into a passion for tackling diverse projects across various locations.
A natural fit for the engineering world, Nicholas Pappas joined VP Engineering in 2007, even before graduating from UNC-Charlotte in 2008. Surrounded by engineers throughout his life, and excelling in math and physics, his career path was almost preordained.
Now a Mechanical Design Manager and Associate Principal at VP Engineering, Nicholas brings a unique blend of talent and dedication. His commitment to excellence extends beyond his technical expertise. Nicholas exemplifies the qualities of a true leader, embodying the motto: “a leader should never ask someone to do something that they themselves are not willing to do.” He leads by example, consistently demonstrating a strong work ethic and a relentless pursuit of knowledge through ongoing education on new products and designs.
A seasoned mechanical design leader, Sanjay brings over 20 years of experience to VP Engineering, where he excels as an Associate Principal and Senior Project Manager. Since joining the A/E/C industry in 2004, he’s become an integral part of the VP team, leading projects with a focus on client success and fostering a positive work environment.
For Sanjay, true leadership is a two-way street. He empowers his colleagues by providing clear direction that benefits both the project and the company, while fostering a collaborative and enjoyable work atmosphere. He thrives on theintellectual challenge of complex engineering problems, finding it “refreshing” to tackle diverse project types and apply his expertise in new ways.
Katie Cothern has been an instrumental part of VP Engineering since 2008, where she currently holds the position of VP of Operations. In this role, Katie oversees a broad spectrum of functions, including the accounting department—managing collections, invoicing, and payables/receivables—as well as the Human Resources department, where she is responsible for hiring, employee evaluations, and benefits administration. Additionally, she manages various other essential office operations.
Katie earned her degree in Human Services from Wingate University. With over 20 years of experience in office management and accounting, she brings more than 16 years of specialized expertise in the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (A/E/C) industry to her role.
A lifelong learner with a passion for science and math, Kosta Pappas co-founded VP Engineering and now serves as its Vice President of Business Development and Marketing. His natural curiosity fueled his journey into engineering, where his meticulous attention to detail and exceptional time management skills propelled him through various roles. Kosta’s expertise spans across electrical systems, fire alarms, security systems, and generators, catering to a diverse range of building projects. His comprehensive understanding of the design process extends beyond the drawing board, encompassing insightful field inspections and effective construction administration meetings.
As both a Principal and Founder, Kosta embodies true leadership. In his own words, “true leadership is being able to relay your vision to others and inspire them to achieve it.” This collaborative approach fosters a motivated and empowered team, driving VP Engineering’s continued success.
A visionary leader and co-founder of VP Engineering, Dino brings over 20 years of expertise in A/E/C to his role as Vice President of Production. His vast experience designing mechanical and plumbing systems for diverse buildings is matched by his passion for mentoring young engineers. Dino fosters a culture of excellence by providing clear direction, leading by example, and setting high expectations that propel his team forward. Dino’s comprehensive understanding of the entire project lifecycle is invaluable. From guiding initial design concepts to finalizing construction documents, his keen eye ensures seamless project execution.
Dino further extends his expertise through insightful field inspections and meticulous punch list development, guaranteeing projects meet the highest standards.