By Ava Marie LaMonica, Senior Editor
In the ever-evolving landscape of Maricopa County, few companies have played as significant a role in shaping its growth as Lars Andersen & Associates, Inc. Recognized at this year’s Arizona Ascent Small Business Impact Awards, the firm has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to innovation, community impact and industry leadership.
Expanding into Maricopa Country
Since its founding in 1941, Lars Andersen & Associates has built a reputation for excellence in engineering and land development across the United States. Recognizing the tremendous growth potential in Maricopa County, the firm strategically expanded into the region to contribute its expertise to large-scale projects that continue to shape the county’s infrastructure and economy.
“Our firm has always been adaptable, and Maricopa County presented an incredible opportunity,” says Cassandra Permenter, Project Coordinator. By establishing a strong presence here, they have been able to collaborate with local jurisdictions and help drive sustainable development.
Innovation and Adaptability
Staying ahead in the engineering field requires constant evolution. Lars Andersen & Associates has embraced change, exploring new techniques, procedures and disciplines while remaining true to its core values of integrity, accountability and excellence.
A recent example of this adaptability was their work with the City of Buckeye on the Buckeye Commons Development. Facing numerous challenges, the firm worked closely with city officials and stakeholders to ensure that the project met all municipal standards while delivering high-quality results.
Lars Andersen has long been committed to shaping the future of engineering by investing in emerging talent. Their Internship Program provides students with invaluable hands-on experience, pairing technical training with expert mentorship. Through interactive lunch-and-learn sessions at colleges and industry organizations, the firm fosters a strong pipeline of skilled professionals, ensuring the next generation is well-equipped for success.
As part of the Arizona office expansion, Lars Andersen is excited to support interns from the Fresno office who are interested in transferring to Arizona and continuing their education at Arizona State University. This initiative not only strengthens ties with local universities but also cultivates a dynamic talent pool, reinforcing the firm’s dedication to innovation and industry growth.
Hands-On Leadership and Project Success
The firm’s hands-on approach has been a driving force behind its success. A standout project is the Stonegate Shopping Center in Maricopa, AZ. By securing a key anchor tenant and facilitating the entitlement and building permit process, the firm played a critical role in the center’s development. Their deep familiarity with city requirements and design guidelines ensured a seamless process, benefiting both businesses and the community.
Another major contribution is their involvement in the Prasada Development in Surprise, AZ, which has brought significant economic benefits to the region. Their meticulous planning and execution have been instrumental in the project’s long-term success.
Commitment to Community and Philanthropy
Beyond business achievements, Lars Andersen & Associates prioritizes giving back. Their partnership with Habitat for Humanity and Home Depot has provided much-needed support to communities affected by natural disasters, including wildfire relief efforts in Los Angeles.
Additionally, when a 6.0-magnitude earthquake struck Napa Valley, Lars Andersen’s Scott A. Mommer, PE, joined California Emergency Response volunteers to assess damage and ensure the safety of affected homes and businesses.
Excellence Recognized: 2023 Best Engineering Firm
Winning the 2023 Best Engineering Firm Award is a testament to Lars Andersen’s unwavering commitment to quality and strong client relationships. “We deeply value the partnerships we’ve built over the decades,” says Permenter. “Our success is tied to our ability to collaborate effectively with clients, partners and jurisdictions.”
Looking Ahead: The Future of Lars Andersen & Associates in Arizona
With Arizona ranking as the seventh-fastest growing state in the U.S., Lars Andersen & Associates is preparing for even greater expansion. Their focus remains on staffing, training and maintaining high standards to continue delivering excellence in land development.
“As Maricopa County grows, we aim to be at the forefront of sustainable and responsible development,” Permenter explains. “From entitlement to construction, we offer full-service support to ensure the success of every project.”
Advice for Small Businesses: A Legacy of Consistency and Growth
For other small businesses looking to make a lasting impact, Lars Andersen’s advice is simple yet powerful: Embrace discomfort as a catalyst for growth. “Don’t hesitate to step outside your comfort zone, collaborate with others and learn from those with more experience in the field.” Consistency is essential—staying dedicated and persistent will lead to long-term success.
As the recipient of the Arizona Ascent Small Business Impact Award, Lars Andersen & Associates, Inc. continues to set the standard for engineering excellence, community involvement and sustainable growth.
