After serving as the Staff Structural Engineer for R.S. Noonan, Inc. for 7 years, C.F. “Tad” Boland and one of his engineers Richard Kapp decided that they would take a chance at running their own company. As equal partners, Richard and Tad set out to establish Professional Engineering Associates. PEA opened for business January 1st, 1979 at 3 W. Lewis Plaza. One of the partners’ favorite stories at that office was that there was a single wall phone for the entire floor, so they had to rush down the hall to answer it when it rang.

After gaining clientele and growing their professional reputation, PEA moved to a larger space in 1983, remaining in this location on Cleveland Lane for 22 years. The projects completed during this time were so large and demanding that PEA had to enlist the help of contract employees and 125 employees of a local engineering firm at one point. The substantial growth PEA experienced during these years sparked another move to 110 Edgeworth Street (the current location). Following Tad’s retirement in 2009 (and fully in 2015), the company is now run by 4 partners, with the additions of Jim Pearman, Jeff Barrett, and Alan Lumpkin in 2004. Since its humble beginnings, PEA has developed an impressive resume of projects, but more importantly, repeat clients.

In January 2025, Mainstay Engineering Group proudly welcomed Professional Engineering Associates (PEA) of South Carolina into our organization. This strategic acquisition unites two highly respected engineering firms, combining over 40 years of expertise in civil and structural engineering. Together, we strengthen our commitment to delivering innovative, client-focused solutions for mission-critical industries while expanding our reach and capabilities to better serve our clients.

Traditionally, PEA has had more of a concentration in industrial and manufacturing market segments. However, in recent years, PEA has seen a substantial growth in the more “architectural” sectors including higher education, healthcare, residential, and commercial. Today, PEA’s project spectrum is diversified and wide ranging. The project mix provides PEA with the unique ability to provide clients with multiple options to their individual design challenges, offering the most cost-effective solutions. Professional Engineering Associates provides smart solutions through varied experience and advanced technology.