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Electrical Engineer | Project Manager

Dan Oliva

With GDS since 2014 | BS/AE University of Kansas 2003

Linkedin: Profile

Email: Dan Oliva

Phone: 816-759-5230

Explain what you do here at GDS.
I design electrical systems, manage teams of MEP designers, develop company electrical design standards, and develop electrical design tools for our team.

Why do you enjoy working the engineering/design/construction field?
I enjoy collaborating with others and seeing projects come to life from discussion and sketches to actually being built and operating.

What is your favorite work-related memory?
My favorite work-related memory was seeing the Shamrock Trading Corporation Campus completed. It’s been the largest project that I was lead electrical designer on and features a lot of exciting electrical features. The interior and exterior lighting is both functional and enhances the impressive architectural aesthetics of the building. The electrical power systems feature a unique approach to emergency power systems that I had never implemented before which saved the Owner a lot of money and eased their maintenance requirements.

As a child, what did you want to be when you grew up?
A professional baseball player

What inspires you?
People. Architects, engineers, contractors and other industry professionals who work hard every day to help build better, smarter buildings and make the design and construction challenges fun and engaging.

What accomplishment or award you are most proud of?
I’m most proud of being a part of so many different projects in the Kansas City metro area that are landmark projects in our area. From the Kauffman Performing Arts Center to the Nelson Atkins Bloch building to the Shamrock Trading Corporation Campus, I’ve gotten to be a part of a lot of projects that now define the landscape of the KC metro area. Projects that will be part of our history for a long time to come.

Tell us about your background and why you chose to work at GDS?
I grew up in the Kansas City area (Blue Springs) and graduated from the University of Kansas with an Architectural Engineering degree. I’ve worked at two other engineering consulting firms in the Kansas City before making the move.

Tell us about a special talent or a strength you have.
I don’t have many special talents but I’m a pretty good juggler; I can juggle behind the back and do other special juggling tricks.

What do you enjoy outside of work?
I enjoy playing all kinds sports, coaching my daughter’s soccer team, and spending time with my family.

What are three words you would use to describe yourself?
Calm, analytical & a perfectionist.