Vice President, Bruce Knapp, Retires
After more than three decades of exceptional service to our company and the engineering profession, we proudly congratulate our Vice President, Bruce Knapp, on his well-earned retirement.
W. Bruce Knapp, PE, LEED AP
W. Bruce Knapp joined M/E Engineering in 1992
BS in Mechanical Engineering | University at Buffalo, 1989
BS in Physics | SUNY Fredonia, 1988
Bruce's Career Journey
Bruce’s career with M/E Engineering began in September 1992 – a move he still describes as “the best career decision I ever made.” Recruited by company founder Ron Mead, Bruce left Robson & Woese to join M/E as its 19th employee. That bold decision marked the beginning of a distinguished 33-year journey defined by leadership, growth, and lasting impact.
In 1995, Bruce reached an important milestone by earning his Professional Engineer (PE) license, demonstrating both his technical expertise and dedication to the field. A decade later, in 1999, he became an owner of the firm – a fitting progression for someone who had already become integral to M/E’s success and culture.
Throughout his career, Bruce played a vital role in building and leading the Rochester K-12 design team, guiding hundreds of capital improvement projects, building condition surveys, energy performance contracts, and district-wide planning initiatives for school districts across New York State. His passion was always K-12 education. Whether helping districts navigate the crucial pre-referendum stage, shaping project scopes, building community support, or overseeing design and construction, Bruce took pride in delivering thoughtful solutions that benefited students, staff, and taxpayers alike. Ensuring client satisfaction was, in his words, one of the most rewarding aspects of the work.
Approach to Leadership
Bruce often credited his leadership approach to the mentorship of Al Casey and Ron Mead, former Presidents of M/E Engineering. By observing their steady guidance and collaborative problem-solving, he developed his own calm and thoughtful leadership style. Their willingness to challenge ideas and offer support shaped Bruce’s philosophy – one he generously passed on by mentoring and developing countless engineers throughout the firm.
Investing in people was always central to Bruce’s vision. Having spent nearly his entire professional life at M/E, he was deeply committed to securing the firm’s future – particularly following the merger with Salas O'Brien. In fact, Bruce delayed retirement until he felt confident the next generation of leadership was ready. With Aaron McConnell and Adam Roeder now guiding the K-12 School Design Team, he steps away knowing the group is well-positioned for continued success.
Beyond his technical accomplishments, Bruce leaves behind a legacy of steady leadership, mentorship, and a positive presence that helped shape the culture of the K-12 team and the firm as a whole. His influence will continue to resonate for years to come.
Saying Goodbye & Celebrating the Next Chapter
As retirement begins, Bruce and his wife, Theresa, are already embracing new adventures – starting the year with a memorable trip to New Zealand. With plans for golf, home projects, and future travel, this next chapter promises to be both active and fulfilling.
In true Bruce fashion, his parting message is one of encouragement: he wishes everyone continued health, happiness, and success as the firm moves forward with Salas O’Brien.
