• Home
  • About Us
  • Forensic Services
  • Our Experts
  • Locations
  • Contact Us
  • Awards
  • Careers
  • Featured Projects
  • Continuing Education
  • News & Events

U.S. Forensic

  • Home
  • Client Resources
  • Submit an Assignment
News & Events
  • About Us
    • Leadership
    • Qualifications
    • Professional Organizations
  • Forensic Services
  • Our Experts
  • Locations
  • Contact Us
    • Submit an Assignment
    • Client Resources
    • Sign Up for Emails
    • Customer Satisfaction Survey
  • Awards
  • Careers
  • Education
  • Featured Projects
  • News & Events

Celebrating 15 Years of Forensic Engineering

November 19, 2021 in News & Events

Bill Janowsky, P.E. & Principal Engineer; Mike DeHarde, P.E. & Principal Engineer; and Gary Bell, MBA, Managing Partner

Fifteen years.  Hard to believe, but U.S. Forensic is now 15-years-old.

In 2006 in New Orleans, Louisiana, three engineers and a businessman shared a vision. Equipped with knowledge, determination and courage, they set out to build a forensic engineering company. Their goal was to hire good people who were the best in their respective fields. Today, U.S. Forensic serves our clients from 60 locations across the country.

Mike DeHarde, P.E., and principal engineer reflects on the early days.

Fifteen years ago, I was a 51-year-old engineer that lost all of my belongings a year earlier in Katrina. I decided to risk unemployment to chase a dream. After pitching the idea of forming a new company to a colleague and inviting another engineer to join us, we set out on an unknown path. That path led to success that this mature engineer had only dreamed about.”

Mr. DeHarde explained that along the way great people joined the team and continued to raise the bar, enhancing U.S. Forensic’s reputation and growth. The result is a successful company of great people, all working together.

Although U.S. Forensic now serves clients nationwide, the early weeks proved challenging.

“We had an office, a $5000 phone system and no furniture. So we would sit on the floor next to the phone,” Bill Janowsky, P.E and principal engineer explained. He recalled those first assignments – and because there were only a handful – much of the conversations surrounded those jobs.

“Mike’s first case was a heavy equipment case involving a vibratory hammer. It seemed as though every conversation ended with, ‘I’ve got to work on the vibratory hammer,’” Mr. Jankowsky said, laughing. “We were happy when that report went out.”

U.S. Forensic Partners and engineering staff in 2007

Over the years, U.S. Forensic has worked on notable cases. For the engineers who were also football fans, they had the opportunity to evaluate LSU’s indoor training facility and the University of Texas’ football stadium locker room equipment. Other local projects included the Saenger Theatre, the Sunshine Bridge, and the home of a celebrated football coach. The music studio of a well-known rapper was a memorable project. The team has also worked on more sobering assignments including tragic building collapses at home and in other states.

While the professionalism has always remained the same, U.S. Forensic has adapted its know-how and equipment to provide the most up-to-date accurate reports to clients. When the company started, accident reconstructionists would use total stations to measure and document accident scenes. Now, experts use a 3-D laser scanner and drones to capture 3-D images allowing them to assess the scene from any angle and produce a high-quality video animation that can be used in the courtroom.

The structural division has experienced the evolution of technology as well. The cost of an infrared camera used to determine hidden moisture concerns was almost $15,000 when U.S. Forensic got its start. Now, you can obtain the same or better technology for $200.

All along the way, the company has managed to support its employees and the community and have some fun as well.

In 2013 & 2017, U.S. Forensic proudly sponsored Toyota Camry #44 in the NASCAR Nationwide Series after  former USF engineer Hal Martin decided to take a risk and pursue his dream of racing. His old colleagues were happy to cheer him on, and the company sponsored Mr. Martin when he was driving in the NASCAR circuit and then again when he owned his own racing company.


In the Last 15 years, U.S. Forensic has been the recipient of several awards and honors including Top 100 Private Companies & Top Engineering Firm in 2013, Best Places to Work in 2014, Face of Forensic Engineering by Louisiana Life Magazine featuring Mr. Janowsky, P.E. in 2015 and Mr. DeHarde, P.E. in 2017, nominated for Best Engineering Firm in 2017,  a Top 10 Engineering Firm in 2018, Fastest Growing Companies in 2019 & 2021, Up & Comer in a 2020, finalist for the Louisiana Economic Development’s Growth Network Leader Award in 2020, Top Workplaces 2021 award, and A.M. Best’s Recommended Expert Service Provider from 2014-2021.

Gary Bell, managing partner shared, “

Ours has been a story of people and progress, of laughter and tears (literally), and of success and (some minor) failures. When looking back on it all, I am extremely proud of who we have become as a company.   Because of our clients’ willingness to give us a shot, stick with us when faced with many options, reach out to us when they had a question or concern and stand by us through the years, we are here.”

U.S. Forensic continues to listen to clients and develop in ways to meet their needs. Here are some highlights of our 15 years together:

  • November 16, 2006 – U.S. Forensic LLC opens for business in Metairie, La., with a personally- guaranteed eight-month lease and a prayer.
  • 2007 – First “remote” office opens in Lafayette, La., starring Joe Hughes.
  • 2008 – Donna Runnebaum starts full time. Calls from interested engineers from Hattiesburg, Miss., Orlando, Fla., Austin and San Antonio, Texas provide service from those locations.
  • 2009 – Tampa, and West Palm Beach, Fla., Charlotte, N.C., and Atlanta, Ga.,
  • 2010 – Miami, Fla., and Columbia, S.C. offices open.
  • 2012 – Reggie Fequiere moves from Miami to open Jacksonville, Fla. Service offerings from Destin and Tallahassee, Fla.,
  • 2013 – Cleveland, Ohio
  • 2014 – Milford, Conn., Philadelphia, Pa., Detroit, Mich., Greensboro, N.C., locations are added.
  • 2017 – Houston, Texas
  • 2019 – New York, N.Y., Richmond, Va., Toledo, Ohio, Chicago, Ill., locations open.
  • 2021 – We add our 59th & 60th Location – Louis, Mo., and Anchorage, Alaska

Mr. Bell explained, “While this list is not all inclusive, it does demonstrate how things progressed and how we expect they might continue to progress with the same values. Thank you to all of the employees, clients, and colleagues that have made U.S. Forensic possible.”

 

Welcoming NC, SC, & VA Client Services Manager

January 26, 2023 in News & Events

Solidifying a Case: Forensic Engineering’s Role in Subrogation

January 5, 2023 in News & Events

Honoring Our Veterans

November 11, 2022 in News & Events

New Locations – Milwaukee & Tuscaloosa

October 6, 2022 in News & Events

Mr. Fontenot, P.E. Joins Our Team of Mechanical Experts – Louisiana

September 14, 2022 in News & Events

What Our Clients Are Saying

"Great communications, and the work performed was done in a timely manner. It covered all the areas we were looking for and the finished report was very detailed and easy to understand. Great that the investigator follows up with a phone call to cover any questions that one may have about the information in the report."

"I would say that my experience has always been exceptional. I love working with Michelle Hughes as she is very prompt and attentive to your needs. She gets the assignments to where it needs to be very timely and the engineer's report is always on point and easy to comprehend. If I run into any issues with ascertaining any clarity, the engineers have always in the past been easy to reach and willing to provide any necessary additional information needed."

"Assignment accepted and acknowledged very promptly. Engineer made prompt contact and communicated throughout the process. Report completed and returned very promptly. The whole process was done in a very professional manner. All individuals involved from Michelle Hughes to Brian Darr are to be commended."

"I have used U.S. Forensic for several years in my capacity as a General Adjuster and always receive excellent and on-time service. I would highly recommend them to anyone needing assistance with an insurance claim."

"Great engineer assigned. We had some difficulty contacting policyholder on several occasions and Dennis hung in there with us. Providing timely and excellent service."

"I love working with U.S. Forensic as I have had a great working relationship with Michelle Hughes for multiple years at several other insurance companies. She makes it very easy and stress free for assignments and just a great overall individual that represents the company to the fullest. The work product is great as well."

"US Forensic is always willing to go the extra mile when asked and even when not asked. I appreciate their timely responses, reports and contact with our insureds. In addition their invoices are fair! We love US Forensic! Thanks for all that you do for us!"

"Very easy to submit claim to US Forensics for them to start a case. Very quick response time with acceptance of case and updates on the case. Very detailed report that is easy to read and understand. Very pleased with experience."

"Always a pleasure to work with your knowledgeable staff and engineers."

"Very thorough, efficient and timely. Great communication throughout process."

"From submitting the claim through receiving results, I'm 100% satisfied, and will definitely be keeping US Forensic on speed-dial for any new claims in LA. Thank you so much!"

"I recently called Michelle Hughes for some help...Because of system issues US Forensic is unable to provide the engineers contact info with their [automated] email however, Michelle, quickly figured out a solution. I love working with Michelle, she really is the best rep I've personally ever dealt with! Thank you Michelle and to US Forensic staff! You guys really do make our jobs easier!"

"Mike Deharde was extremely knowledgeable and very thorough, his report was very detailed and helpful to overall resolution of the claim. I would love to work with him again."

"Friendly, knowledgeable and thorough staff. I always appreciate your assistance no matter the type of claim."

"Very satisfied with the services provided by US Forensic. Quick turnaround time, knowledgeable engineers, professional reports and easy to understand conclusions. Highly recommend them for any insurance related investigations!"

“I used them many times around the country for mechanical failure and fire O&C claims. They are very detailed and professional with their inspections and write a very solid easy to follow report.”

“Professional engineers that provide great, quality services. Michelle Hughes has done continuing education for our company... I’d definitely recommend US Forensic.”

“Great company to work with, the engineers are very well trained and knowledgeable in their prospective fields…I am always pleased with the service I receive on the assignments given to your organization.”

“USF is an absolute fantastic place to work with a great environment and culture!”

“The response is always very prompt with initial results reported promptly so we can take appropriate action.”

“This company is great. I would highly recommend them. I dealt with Rob and his customer service and attention to detail is superb.”

Employment Opportunities

U.S. Forensic: Family-Like Culture & High Quality Results

On October 23rd, The Times-Picayune and The New Orleans Advocate published an article highlighting the U.S. Forensic organization and why it was … Read More

Engineering Opportunities in Chicago

Hiring Civil & Structural Engineers U.S. Forensic is hiring civil and structural engineers in the Chicago area to perform forensic evaluations.  … Read More

Civil Engineering Opportunities in Louisiana

Engineering Career Opportunities in Louisiana U.S. Forensic, a forensic engineering firm providing services throughout the U.S., has full-time and … Read More

See All Employment Opportunities

Contact Us

U.S. Forensic Main Office
3201 Ridgelake Drive
Metairie, LA 70002
Map

(504) 831-7001 Office
(888) 873-0012 Toll Free
(888) 436-3092 Fax

Email Us

Follow Us

  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn
  • YouTube

General Conditions
of Service Contract

SiteLock
Anchorage, AK · Atlanta, GA · Austin, TX · Birmingham, AL · Buffalo, NY · Charlotte, NC · Cheyenne, WY · Chicago, IL · Cleveland, OH · Columbia, SC · Dallas, TX · Denver, CO · Des Moines, IA · Destin, FL · Detroit, MI · Flint, MI · Ft. Myers, FL · Grand Junction, CO · Greensboro, NC · Greenville, SC · Hattiesburg, MS · Houston, TX · Indianapolis, IN · Jackson, MS · Jacksonville, FL · Kansas City, MO · Lafayette, LA · Lansing, MI · Las Vegas, NV · Lexington, KY · Los Angeles, CA · Macon, GA · Memphis, TN · Miami, FL · Milwaukee, WI · Minneapolis, MN · Mobile, AL · Nashville, TN · New Orleans, LA · New York City, NY · Newark, NJ · Norfolk, VA · Oklahoma City, OK · Omaha, NE · Orlando, FL · Philadelphia, PA · Phoenix, AZ · Picayune, MS · Pittsburgh, PA · Portland, ME · Pueblo, CO · Salt Lake City, UT · San Antonio, TX · San Francisco, CA · Santa Fe, NM · Seattle, WA · St. Louis, MO · Stratford, CT · Syracuse, NY · Tallahassee, FL · Tampa, FL · Toledo, OH · Tuscaloosa, AL · Washington D.C. · West Palm Beach, FL

© 2023 U.S. Forensic · Privacy Policy · web design

We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. By clicking “Accept”, you consent to the use of ALL cookies.
Cookie Settings   Accept
Manage consent

Privacy Overview

This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Out of these, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. But opting out of some of these cookies may affect your browsing experience.
Necessary
Always Enabled
Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. These cookies ensure basic functionalities and security features of the website, anonymously.
CookieDurationDescription
cookielawinfo-checkbox-analytics11 monthsThis cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Analytics".
cookielawinfo-checkbox-functional11 monthsThe cookie is set by GDPR cookie consent to record the user consent for the cookies in the category "Functional".
cookielawinfo-checkbox-necessary11 monthsThis cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookies is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Necessary".
cookielawinfo-checkbox-others11 monthsThis cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Other.
cookielawinfo-checkbox-performance11 monthsThis cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Performance".
viewed_cookie_policy11 monthsThe cookie is set by the GDPR Cookie Consent plugin and is used to store whether or not user has consented to the use of cookies. It does not store any personal data.
Functional
Functional cookies help to perform certain functionalities like sharing the content of the website on social media platforms, collect feedbacks, and other third-party features.
Performance
Performance cookies are used to understand and analyze the key performance indexes of the website which helps in delivering a better user experience for the visitors.
Analytics
Analytical cookies are used to understand how visitors interact with the website. These cookies help provide information on metrics the number of visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, etc.
Advertisement
Advertisement cookies are used to provide visitors with relevant ads and marketing campaigns. These cookies track visitors across websites and collect information to provide customized ads.
Others
Other uncategorized cookies are those that are being analyzed and have not been classified into a category as yet.
SAVE & ACCEPT