Urban Engineers, Inc. Taps New Interim CEO and CFO

James Bilella, PE, (Left) and Christopher Bobrowski, CPA (Right)

Courtesy of Urban Engineers, Inc.

PHILADELPHIA - Urban Engineers, Inc., a multidisciplinary firm, announced James Bilella, PE will step into the role of Interim CEO, and Christopher Bobrowski, CPA, will be promoted to Interim CFO.

According to the release, both individuals have worked at the firm for more than 30 and six years, respectively. Previously, James Bilella served as Vice President and Market Leader for Rail and Transit at Urban Engineers, Inc. He worked to lead infrastructure and facility projects and oversee light rail, heavy rail, subway, and public transit system projects. These projects focused on maintenance, design, and construction. Over 32 years, Bilella worked to collaborate with internal and external partners to “develop innovative solutions that enhance the efficiency, reliability, and sustainability of public transportation networks.” He worked in many other positions including as an inspector in Construction Management and Inspection Department for the New Jersey Turnpike. Additionally, he worked on transportation systems and streetscape design for the City of Philadelphia. When Urban Engineers, Inc. acquired the Marvin Waxman MEP firm, Bilella took the lead on the transition and integration of the firm.

Bilella is a licensed Professional Engineer in 38 states and holds a BA in electrical engineering from Drexel University. Currently, he sits on the Board of Directors for Historical Fort Mifflin in Philadelphia and has served as the Mayor of Berlin Borough, N.J.

“Jim has all the engineering and leadership experience to meet the moment for Urban and lead us forward into the years to come,” said Dianne Semingson, Chair of the Board of Directors for Urban. “In partnership with Chris as the new CFO, the Board is confident they will continue to build on the strong foundation that has been put in place in the past year.  The Board extends its appreciation to Pat McCormick, our previous CEO, for his leadership during the past year, and we are pleased to share that he will continue to serve on Urban’s Board of Directors.”

Christopher Bobrowski brings more than 20 years of experience total and holds certifications as a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and a Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE). After joining Urban Engineers, Inc. in 2019, he was instrumental in strengthening the financial systems and controls of the firm. In the CFO role, he will “oversee the firm’s financial strategy and operations.”

“In August, Urban celebrates its 65th anniversary, and I have been extremely fortunate to have been part of this incredible company for almost half of its storied history,” said Bilella.  “Before joining Urban, I served in the military, where the mission was, ‘mission first, people always.’ That resonates deeply with me and reflects our values at Urban. Our success comes from the technical skills, relationships, and work ethic of our people. My primary focus as Interim CEO will be to support each other as employee owners and help the company grow together.”

Urban Engineers, Inc. has been awarded several recognitions, including Project of the Year from the Construction Management Association of America (CMAA) Mid-Atlantic Chapter and the National Recognition Award for the Elizabeth Station Reconstruction from the American Council of Engineering Companies (ACEC), among others.