About Us
Diversity and difference are our guiding principles.
In 2009, Zachary Engineering discovered a new way to more accurately define the structural portion of a project. We transitioned from two-dimensional AutoCAD to full-fledged three-dimensional SketchUp, and fully embraced it as a modeling and design tool.
ZE began to build full structural models within SketchUp and use those models to create full-color construction documents. Now Zachary Engineering is at the forefront of the SketchUp community, having become a staple presenter at SketchUp Basecamp every two years. The move to SketchUp has greatly increased overall project efficiency and has allowed us to help identify and solve potential issues with structures long before they arise on a job site.
Having completed hundreds of projects with SketchUp, Zachary Engineering now has projects all over the west coast, including Hawai‘i. Our structural detail library is now well into the thousands, which only increases our ability to complete projects in a more efficient manner.
Approach
We consider ourselves part of a design team, that includes a project’s architect and contractor. It is our goal to provide input at all stages of design, to help maintain the client’s budget and provide value engineering solutions wherever possible. By working closely with both the client’s architect and contractor, we can help a project move smoothly from start to finish.
Method
Our structural models are developed directly from architectural models created in SketchUp or imported from platforms such as Revit and Archicad. We can also transform traditional two-dimensional plans into complete three-dimensional SketchUp models.
This model-driven approach creates seamless coordination between the architect, contractor, and structural team, allowing framing strategies to be reviewed and refined before detailed structural design begins.
From there, we design the structure from the top down while identifying value-engineering opportunities that can improve constructability and reduce construction costs. Construction documents are then generated directly from the coordinated model, with three-dimensional details incorporated to provide greater clarity in the field.
Following final coordination with the architect, the drawings are prepared for submission. A QR code included on the cover sheet provides mobile access to the structural model, giving contractors an intuitive three-dimensional reference on site—helping reduce interpretation time, improve coordination, and ultimately deliver greater value to the client.
Meet the Team
David Zachary
David earned his Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering from CSU Chico and completed postgraduate studies in structural design at UC Davis. Educated in LEED Green Building, he is a member of the American Society of Civil Engineers, Tahoe Truckee Engineers Association, and Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association. As a multi-engine IFR pilot, David is also able to efficiently support projects throughout the West Coast.
After beginning his career in Sacramento designing and installing architectural precast systems for high-rise buildings throughout California, David founded Zachary Engineering in 1996 in Nevada City. Following the firm’s move to North Lake Tahoe in 1999, ZE developed a strong focus on residential and commercial structural design throughout the Tahoe-Truckee region.
In 2009, David transitioned the firm to a predominantly three-dimensional design environment using SketchUp and AutoCAD Civil 3D. His leadership and expertise in digital design led to invitations to present at SketchUp Basecamp in 2016, 2018, 2022, 2024, 2026.
Principal Engineer
Jesse Brown
Jesse joined Zachary Engineering in 2013 as a SketchUp Drafter, quickly distinguishing himself through his technical expertise and innovative approach to digital design. He went on to develop proprietary systems and extensions that remain integral to the firm’s workflow today. In 2016, Jesse earned his Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from the University of Nevada, Reno. His extensive knowledge of SketchUp has also earned him recognition within the industry, with invitations to present at SketchUp Basecamp in 2016, 2018, 2022, 2024 and 2026.
A Lake Tahoe local and former professional baseball player, Jesse remains actively involved in his community. He dedicates much of his time to local Little League programs and has served as both a head coach and assistant coach at area high schools, bringing the same commitment to mentorship, teamwork and leadership that he contributes to Zachary Engineering.
Project Engineer
Brady Regan
Drafter
With a Bachelor of Science in Plastics Engineering Technology from Western Washington University, Brady joined Zachary Engineering in 2018, making the move to a new engineering field. He is working towards a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from the University of Nevada Reno, with expected graduation in 2021. When not working hard in SketchUp models, Brady can be found out on the golf course, snowboarding, or enjoying everything the mountains have to offer.
Exceptional engineering begins with exceptional people.
We're always interested in meeting individuals who share our vision and commitment to excellence.
“We would recommend the ZE Team because they are a joy to work with, professional and efficient. Icing on the cake if you work in SketchUp!”
— Ryan Marsden, Principal Marsden Architects