Bridging Disciplines: Eugene Gurevich, PE and RA, on Building Expertise and Careers at RAND

Eugene Gurevich, PE, AIA, LEED AP, serves as the Senior Structural Engineer and Construction Phase Director at RAND. Since joining the company in 2008, he has played a key role in numerous significant projects, bringing extensive expertise and leadership to the firm. As a licensed Professional Engineer (PE) for nearly 15 years, Eugene recently expanded his qualifications by earning both his Registered Architect (RA) licensure and Qualified Parking Structure Inspector (QPSI) certification within a short span of time. His journey reflects a commitment to continued growth and interdisciplinary collaboration, which he discusses in this interview, along with the motivation behind pursuing these additional credentials.

Congratulations on earning your architectural license! What motivated you to pursue this additional qualification, especially considering your background as a structural engineer?

Buildings and the built environment have a profound impact on people. I witness this effect daily—how thoughtfully designed spaces shape our relationships and make us feel comfortable. There is a tremendous opportunity to adapt our world to meet the evolving needs of both the present and future. As a licensed structural engineer, I’ve been able to bring structures to life through the design process, and while that’s incredibly rewarding, the built environment is more than just the framework.

Using a medical analogy, I don’t want to focus solely on the skeleton; I want to consider the entire body and the relationships between spaces. Architecture provides a broad outlet for continued learning, imagining, and creating. My knowledge of structures serves as a valuable foundation, supporting my growth in both disciplines. While they require different approaches and mindsets, together, they allow me to approach projects more holistically.

You also recently earned your Qualified Parking Structure Inspector (QPSI) certification as well. Can you explain what a QPSI is, and why you became certified?

A QPSI, or Qualified Parking Structure Inspector, is a licensed professional responsible for assessing the safety and structural integrity of parking structures in New York City, in compliance with Local Law 126 and the Periodic Inspection of Parking Structures (PIPS) Program. This law mandates regular inspections to ensure that parking structures remain safe and free from any potential hazards. To be certified as a QPSI, you must be a New York State licensed professional engineer with at least three years of relevant experience working with parking structures.

Obtaining the QPSI certification involves a formal process with the New York City Department of Buildings to confirm an engineer's professional credentials and relevant experience.  As the newest QPSI at RAND, I sought out this certification in order to bolster our ability to perform these inspections and better maintain NYC’s stock of garage buildings.  Our team conducts these inspections to help building owners remain compliant with the PIPS program and uphold the safety and structural integrity of parking structures throughout the city, providing peace of mind to our clients.

Juggling the demands of studying for the architectural exams while managing your family responsibilities and career commitments must have been challenging. How do you feel our company’s culture and support systems have helped facilitate your success in this endeavor?

First and foremost, I have to thank my wonderful wife and three little girls, whose support and pride in me make me feel limitless. It’s also a pleasure to say that RAND feels like a natural extension of that support. We’ve cultivated a relationship over the past 16 years where I feel encouraged and empowered as an individual.

RAND’s difference in culture was apparent to me from the moment I stepped into the office for my interview. I immediately noticed the diversity in staff—architects, mechanical engineers, code experts, writers, and more. This environment felt different from the more traditional, structural-focused firms I’d worked at before. Over time, being close to professionals from all walks of life has broadened my interest in architecture and buildings in ways I hadn’t anticipated.

As someone who now holds both engineering and architectural licenses, what advice would you give to other professionals considering expanding their skill sets or pursuing additional qualifications? And how do you think our company can help facilitate this journey for our employees?

The key is to keep learning. The world is evolving rapidly, and we can’t afford to be complacent. A passion for the future helps push through daily challenges. Licensure is only the beginning—after that, the world opens up. It’s a big world with so many possibilities, which can sometimes feel overwhelming. But that’s where vision comes in.

The company actively takes an interest in our young employees, helping them explore their passions while fostering both personal and professional growth. By leveraging modern tools for learning, communication, and flexibility, we create a dynamic and supportive environment. At RAND, we recognize that architects are uniquely positioned to shape our built environment, and we continue to foster this mindset across our team.

Can you share some of the most rewarding projects you’ve worked on during your time at RAND, and what made them stand out to you?

One that stands out is the restoration of the flagship Lord & Taylor Building in the Flatiron District, built in the 1860s, which won the New York Landmarks Conservancy’s Lucy B. Moses Preservation Award. Contributing to the revival of that beautiful cast iron façade in pearl white was incredible. I know where to look for my small contributions—a little secret that will always bring me back when I’m walking down Broadway. The steel work inside to re-secure the massive steeple, the 2-inch layer of dust on the 150-year-old wood framing—it all left a lasting impression on me. That project ignited my passion for historic restoration. I’d like to extend my gratitude to the project team, particularly Partner and PE Michael Larkin, whose expertise and leadership were instrumental in the success of the project. It was a rewarding experience working alongside such a skilled and dedicated team.

Another is the rooftop at Rutgers Presbyterian Church on the Upper West Side. Army crawling through dropped ceilings to take measurements and run the numbers for the park-like recreational deck and green roof was a unique challenge. Seeing teachers and children playing among the flowers and sprinklers one summer day was foundational in shaping my interest in creating better spaces. All those NYC rooftops have so much potential.

What opportunities do you see for innovation and interdisciplinary collaboration within our firm, and how do you plan to leverage your unique skill set to drive positive outcomes for our projects and clients?

I’ve always enjoyed working on a wide range of projects and learning new things. RAND has given me the opportunity to dive into many areas, and I’m still excited by how much more there is to explore. Now, with my experience, I’m eager to share knowledge and train others.

Moving forward, I plan to continue following my passions, but also focus on sharing, discussing, and planning for the future with the team. We have great tools at our disposal, and collaborating with one another will help us take our work to the next level.

Looking ahead, how do you envision your role evolving within our firm now that you’ve obtained your architectural license?

I’d love to help us continue improving and pushing boundaries. Specifically, I'm excited for us to become more involved in development and adaptive reuse, with our professionals leading the way in meeting the evolving needs of the built environment in the 21st century.

Is there anything else you’d like to share with aspiring engineers and architects?

At RAND, we value and encourage the pursuit of passions and dreams, and I find it both fun and rewarding to discuss these aspirations with others. My advice to aspiring engineers and architects is to hold onto your vision and use your skills and resources to bring it to life. It’s about taking small, consistent steps every day, focusing on the details so that when the bigger opportunities arise, you’ll be prepared.

Knowing you’re doing everything you can to answer your calling not only attracts others to you but, more importantly, brings real happiness, fulfillment, and a sense of control amidst the complexities of the world around us.