Formation of the Mobile Infrastructure Engineering Consortium (MIEC)
On January 22, 2025, a coalition of top telecom structural engineering firms, including Colliers Engineering & Design, Congruex, Kimley-Horn, and Paul J. Ford & Company, officially established the
Mobile Infrastructure Engineering Consortium (MIEC). This innovative initiative aims to elevate global wireless engineering standards, enabling mobile operators and other stakeholders in the digital infrastructure arena to enhance deployment efficiency and ensure compliance with safety regulations.
Since the beginning of 2020, the consortium members have collaborated on over 70,000 telecom infrastructure projects throughout the United States. Utilizing their cumulative expertise, they apply advanced software tools alongside peer reviews, quality audits, and effective workflows, resulting in consistently high-quality project outcomes. Notably, one major U.S. mobile network operator reported significant cost savings exceeding $600 million within this time frame, along with substantial improvements in site construction and maintenance operational efficiency.
By leveraging advanced software solutions, MIEC members can effectively collect and analyze structural data, automate workflows, and create live models. This approach empowers telecom professionals to develop digital twins of physical networks, enhancing long-term investment strategies and optimizing asset management at scale.
Driving Engineering Standards and Enhancing Safety
The consortium's activities also include active collaboration with industry leaders and regulatory agencies, such as the NATE (Communications Infrastructure Contractors Association), OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration), TIA (Telecommunications Industry Association), TIF (Telecommunications Industry Foundation), and WIA (Wireless Infrastructure Association). This engagement is vital in fostering the evolution of engineering standards within the telecom sector, ultimately promoting enhanced safety and consistency across the board.
Bryan Lanier, Vice President of Operations at Congruex, articulated the consortium's goals: "MIEC brings a unified front to the telecom structural engineering space, and our consortium members have a proven track record of working together to drive innovation across the industry. Together, we will enhance the operational efficiency of telecom providers both in domestic and international markets."
Michelle Kang, Telecommunications Discipline Leader at Colliers Engineering & Design, expressed optimism about their participation: "Being part of the MIEC allows us to align industry best practices with our clients' needs. With our experience from over 70,000 sites, we can help clients achieve remarkable cost savings while ensuring compliance through small and manageable changes over time."
Kevin Clements, Vice President of Kimley-Horn, emphasized the benefits of the consortium: "The MIEC enables us to provide our clients with effective solutions without compromising on quality. Our collaboration fosters a seamless exchange of expertise and advanced solutions that we believe will yield exceptional client service and results."
Dave Hawkins, President of Paul J. Ford & Company, highlighted the collaborative mission within the MIEC, aimed at delivering effective solutions and maintaining high-quality services to all clients involved.
Upcoming Participation in Events
The MIEC consortium plans to showcase its initiatives and innovative software tools at the
Mobile World Congress in Barcelona from March 3-6, 2025. This event represents a critical opportunity for members to share their capabilities and insights further.
To learn more about the MIEC and the advanced software tools they are implementing within the telecom sector, interested parties can reach out to contact representatives of the respective companies involved.
About the Firms
- - Colliers Engineering & Design has established a solid reputation for comprehensive engineering and architecture services, focusing on innovation and efficiency through an extensive range of in-house capabilities. Their approach reduces reliance on external services, thereby maximizing project timelines and budget adherence.
- - Congruex, noted for its responsive integration of engineering, construction, and specialty services, offers turn-key solutions tailored to meet the rising demand for digital connectivity.
- - Kimley-Horn, a national consulting firm, combines a wide array of telecommunications services under one umbrella, and has consistently provided cutting-edge solutions to clients navigating complex network deployment landscapes.
- - Paul J. Ford & Company has been a stalwart in the communications sector since 1965, specializing in innovative telecommunications tower solutions and advanced engineering analytics.
For more information about any of these firms, please visit their respective websites.