May 30, 2023 (Skokie, Ill.) – CTLGroup, an internationally recognized engineering, architecture, and materials science consulting firm, is pleased to announce the promotion of seven dedicated staff members who have consistently demonstrated exceptional performance and commitment to their roles. These promotions reflect CTLGroup’s ongoing dedication to recognizing and fostering talent within the organization.
Mirza Baig has been promoted from Technician II to Technician III. With 19 years of professional experience, Baig has been instrumental in overseeing mortar lab and physical testing operations at CTLGroup. He conducts various testing procedures according to ASTM standards and evaluates construction materials. His expertise includes certifications in cement, aggregate, lightweight aggregate, strength, and field testing of concrete. He holds an associate degree in commerce from Andhra Pradesh Open University in Hyderabad, India.
Sarah DeFrancesco has been promoted from Chemistry Technician I to Chemist I. DeFrancesco’s passion for chemistry and her dedication to providing accurate and timely test results have been invaluable to CTLGroup. She is responsible for conducting tests on cementitious materials and fly ash, ensuring prompt turnaround of tests, and keeping clients informed of progress and results. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Chemistry and a Master of Education in Secondary Education from Loyola University Chicago.
Peter Foster has been promoted from Senior Engineer to Principal Engineer, while continuing to serve in his role as Group Director for the Structural & Transportation Laboratory. Foster brings extensive technical expertise in structural behavior, instrumentation, load testing, and product qualification testing & development to his new role. He oversees the administration of the laboratory, manages projects, and develops new areas of services within the laboratory, including concrete anchorage components. He earned a Master of Science in Civil Engineering from the University of North Carolina-Charlotte.
Sima Grubjesic, Ph.D. has been promoted from Senior Scientist & Lab Manager to Senior Scientist & Group Director, Analytical Chemistry. In her new role, Dr. Grubjesic oversees CTLGroup’s chemistry laboratory and serves as a consultant within CTLGroup’s Materials Practice. Her expertise lies in forensic failure investigation of construction materials, corrosion-related material failures, and solving materials-related challenges for clients across diverse markets. Dr. Grubjesic earned her Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry from the University of Illinois at Chicago.
Timothy Hercules has been promoted from Technician I to Technician II. With 20 years of professional experience, Hercules will continue to perform testing on aggregates, concrete, asphalt, and soils while taking on additional responsibilities. With an extensive background in QA/QC and construction materials testing, Hercules prepares specialized samples, conducts tests, and assists in various departmental tasks. Hercules holds certifications in health and safety, including Adult CPR and First Aid. Hercules holds a diploma in Information Technology from C-DAC, as well as an associate degree in Database Administration from The School of Business and Computer Science in Trinidad.
John Melvan has been promoted from Financial Controller to Vice President of Accounting and Finance. With over two decades of experience in strategic financial management, Melvan has played a pivotal role in overseeing financial planning, reporting, analysis, cash management, and information systems at CTLGroup. He is a trusted leader in the industry, boasting 30 years of professional experience and 20 years of financial management expertise. Melvan holds a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.
Marcello Tronci, P.E., has been promoted from Senior Engineer to Senior Engineer & New York Office Director. Marcello specializes in structural engineering design and has a wealth of experience in the assessment, investigation, and retrofitting of existing multi-story buildings and parking structures. In his new role, Tronci will oversee CTLGroup’s New York team and manage office operations. Tronci is a licensed Professional Engineer in New York, and a Qualified Parking Structures Inspector by the New York City Department of Buildings. He holds a Bachelor of Structural Engineering from the Universita’ degli Studi di Cagliari in Italy.
“We extend our warmest congratulations to the dedicated staff members who have been promoted at CTLGroup. Their exceptional performance and unwavering commitment have been instrumental in our continued success. We are proud of their accomplishments and look forward to their continued growth and contributions in their new roles,” said Dennis McCann, Ph.D., P.E., President at CTLGroup.
###
About CTLGroup
CTLGroup is an internationally recognized expert consulting firm that provides engineering, architectural and material testing and science services to our clients across the globe. Our team of engineers, architects, scientists, and technical specialists can deliver a multi-disciplinary approach to solve even the most complex problems. The technical expertise of our staff is complemented by one of the largest and most comprehensive private testing laboratories in the world, which allows us to address problems from multiple perspectives and to deliver integrated solutions to our clients from one trusted source. Visit www.CTLGroup.com for more information.
Contact:
Stephanie Sulcer
Communications, CTLGroup
Email: ssulcer@ctlgroup.com
Phone: (773) 382-7648
