HOUSTON, TX  KCI Technologies Inc. welcomes Mechanical Practice Leader Christopher W. Qualls, PE, CEM, to their Houston office. His responsibilities include facilitating client relationships, quality control and geographic expansion as well as mentoring young engineers, and managing design standards and tools.

Qualls' career in mechanical engineering spans more than 20 years with a focus on design, construction administration, commissioning, energy modeling and life cycle costing. He has successfully led multi-disciplinary teams on projects of varying levels of complexity such as Houston Hobby's West Concourse and FIS Expansion and the New Terminal C North at George Bush Intercontinental Airport. His experience covers a host of markets including federal, aviation, oil and gas, municipal, educational, healthcare, hospitality, and commercial projects.

"Chris has excellent knowledge of codes and standards, and is committed to sustainable design practices," said Vice President Stephen Redding, P.E., LEED AP. "He can leverage his strong technical expertise, established client relationships and proven history of exceeding expectations to help KCI grow into new markets within the Houston area and beyond."

Qualls holds a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering from Arkansas State University. He is a registered professional engineer as well as a Green Building Engineer, Business Energy Professional, Certified Energy Manager, and Certified Geothermal Designer. Qualls is an active member of ASHRAE and the Association of Energy Engineers.