Foundation for Innovation
Harry and Jim Schnabel start a test drilling company called Foundation Test Service Inc. in Washington, D.C.
Schnabel was founded on April 6, 1959, by Harry V. Schnabel Jr., who was driven by a passion for creating the best foundation company in the industry. From the beginning, Harry stressed the importance of integrity, performance, competitiveness and innovation – all combined with excellent engineering and superior craftsmanship. With a keen understanding of what his clients valued most—getting out of the ground safely and efficiently—he made an impact in the industry by battling for the acceptance of more efficient design and construction methods, combined with important patents to produce further savings and quality.
As Schnabel grew, Harry surrounded himself with talented professionals who shared his commitment to excellence. From a single office in Washington D.C., the company expanded to regional offices nationwide, employing professional engineers and skilled craftsmen who design and manage construction projects across the country. Over the years, Schnabel has built a reputation for unmatched technical expertise, serving as a trusted partner on the most challenging projects and consistently delivering on its promises.
Harry and Jim Schnabel start a test drilling company called Foundation Test Service Inc. in Washington, D.C.
Schnabel Foundation Company is founded by Harry and Jim Schnabel in Washington, D.C.
Harry and Jim Schnabel decided to split their companies, with Harry taking ownership of Schnabel Foundation Company and Jim Taking ownership of Foundation Test Services Inc., which would later become Schnabel Engineering Inc.
Schnabel Foundation Company opens its first branch office in Philadelphia. Over the next ten years Schnabel opens offices in Atlanta (1974), Chicago (1978), Denver (1980), Boston (1981), Houston (1982), and San Francisco (1983).
The Geo-Institute of ASCE establishes the Harry Schnabel Jr. Award in recognition of Harry Schnabel Jr.’s accomplishments in the field of earth retaining structures.
Schnabel’s Reno ReTRAC project is awarded the Outstanding Project Award by the Deep Foundations Institute (DFI)
Schnabel Foundation Company becomes Schnabel to reflect the company’s modern-day capabilities and evolution into a proven design/build contractor.
Schnabel’s Red Rock Hydroelectric Facility Project is again awarded the Outstanding Project Award by the Deep Foundations Institute (DFI)
Today, Schnabel has successfully completed over 5,000 projects and is a major nationwide specialty Geotechnical Contractor in the construction industry.
Schnabel’s strength lies in its people. Our team of experts brings decades of experience in geostructural design and construction. As we continue to grow, we remain committed to delivering operational efficiency, ensuring that every project we undertake exceeds expectations. We have successfully tackled projects of all sizes, ranging from large infrastructure to specialized foundation systems.
Our employees are our most valuable asset, and we invest in their continued development through training, mentorship, and a culture that fosters safety and innovation. At Schnabel, you’re part of a team that delivers success and values collaboration and excellence.
We manage every aspect of the project, from design through construction, ensuring a smooth process and optimal outcomes.
Through our R&D department, we continuously refine and innovate our construction methods, offering state-of-the-art solutions to complex challenges.
With offices across the U.S., Schnabel delivers comprehensive geotechnical services nationwide.
We lead the industry with an excellent safety record, minimizing risk at every stage of the project.
Our large fleet of specialized equipment and tooling allows Schnabel to meet the unique demands of our clients’ complex projects.
We are well known in the construction industry for our strong technical expertise and deep industry knowledge.
If you have any questions or would like to discuss how Schnabel can help with your next project, our team is ready to assist.
David Vega Sanchez | PM, Pre-Con
German Varon | Sr. PM, Pre-Con
Ernie Brandl | Sr. PM, Pre-Con
Ryan Whaley | Sr. PM, Pre-Con
Kristopher Knier | Sr. PM, Pre-Con
Brendan Sheppard | Sr. PM, Pre-Con
Claus Ludwig | Sr. PM, Pre-Con
Mark Goudschaal | Sr. PM, Pre-Con
Fernando Ospina | PM, Pre-Con
Sue Wright | Sr. PM, Pre-Con
Harold Gathers | Sr. PM, Pre-Con
Tanner Mearns | PM, Pre-Con
Sixto Fernandez | Mid-Atlantic Area Manager
Rich Pratt | Sr. PM, Pre-Con
Taylor Youngwood | PM, Pre-Con
Josh Fallon | Sr. PM, Pre-Con
Michael Patzek | Business Development Manager
