For two decades, Brendon Mattis has helped shape EEI’s evolution from a regional commissioning firm into a national leader in mission‑critical facilities. His career spans higher education, data centers, laboratories, pharmaceuticals and some of the most complex building systems in the country. As the mission‑critical division enters its next phase of growth, Brendon reflects on the path that brought him to EEI, the values that guide the team and how a people‑first culture has fueled one of the fastest‑growing groups in the company.
Q: Share how your career launched with a focus on mission‑critical facilities. How long have you been with EEI, and why EEI?
I studied mechanical engineering at the University of Missouri where I became fascinated by how buildings work especially the systems that drive energy efficiency and performance. Early on, I worked on controls upgrades and energy‑efficiency projects for the university, which sparked my interest in improving building operations. I interviewed with EEI and joined the company in early 2000. My first projects were data centers, where we pioneered integrated systems testing long before load banks were common. Over the years, I expanded into laboratory and pharmaceutical facilities and later into the office portfolio of a major global technology company, supporting more than 25 million square feet of new construction nationwide. EEI has always been the right fit for me because of its values…people first, strong relationships and a commitment to doing things the right way.
Q: EEI has a 40‑year history of steady growth. What sparked the creation of a dedicated Mission Critical division?
The demand for highly reliable, highly technical facilities has grown exponentially particularly in cloud computing, high-tech manufacturing, and energy. We saw an opportunity to build a team that could specialize in these complex environments while staying true to EEI’s culture. The division emerged organically as our work with large-scale technology and infrastructure clients expanded, and we needed a structure that could grow alongside them.
Q: What makes mission‑critical commissioning at EEI unique?
Relationships are everything both internally and externally. We invest heavily in soft‑skills training, psychology and high‑performance team development because technical expertise alone isn’t enough in mission‑critical environments. Our teams rely on consistent processes, clear procedures and agility across the board. People need to feel supported and included, especially when the work is fast‑paced and high‑stakes. That foundation allows us to deliver reliable systems and strong partnerships with our clients.
Q: This team has grown to nearly 100 people in less than two years. How did your team do it while maintaining EEI’s standards for quality and culture? What’s been the most rewarding part?
It comes down to people. We’ve built a team with a mix of new graduates, military veterans, and experienced industry professionals each bringing different perspectives and strengths. We’ve invested heavily in training and onboarding to make sure everyone feels supported from day one. Psychological safety is a core value for us; people need to feel comfortable speaking up, sharing ideas and having hard conversations. Watching this diverse group grow, challenge each other and strengthen our culture has been the most rewarding part.
Q: Can you share an example of how EEI has recently supported a client with mission‑critical facilities?
A major technology client has been a significant growth engine for us. After initial conversations in 2023, we began supporting retro‑commissioning projects and quickly expanded into full‑build data center work. Their team was looking for a long‑term partner whose values aligned with theirs, and that alignment made the relationship a natural fit. We’ve collaborated closely with their commissioning partners to share resources, train our teams, and build a scalable model for future campuses. It has been a tremendous learning opportunity and a strong cultural match.
Q: As you look toward the next phase of growth, what excites you most, and how will the mission‑critical division continue to expand its impact?
I’m excited about the talent we’ve brought in and the new sectors we’re entering from power distribution to pharmaceuticals to chip manufacturing. The demand for data centers isn’t slowing down, and we’re building a strong bench of commissioning engineers to support that growth. What motivates me most is continuing to invest in our people, helping them grow personally and professionally while building a division that reflects EEI’s values at every level.