Meet Curtis Henderson, a key team member at Ackerman Engineering, providing expert electrical engineering and lighting design services. Call us at (303) 278-7297 to learn more.

Curtis P. Henderson

Director of Electronic Systems

Curtis brings over 30 years of electrical and technological systems design and construction expertise. His vast experience spans technology design and project implementation, focusing on inside and outside cable plant and pathway design to support adaptable technology system installations and operations.

As a lead engineer in consulting roles, Curtis has directed data center design and construction teams, overseen daily operations and maintenance of data centers, and led telephony network engineering and system design projects. His expertise includes sound and presentation system design, installation and operation, commercial and public safety two-way communications, and Public Safety Answering Point (PSAP) system design. Additionally, Curtis is skilled in designing and integrating IP backbone networks for internet peering connectivity and OSI Layer 0/1/2/3 networking for computer and telephony systems.

Curtis is proficient in various tools and platforms, including Microsoft Office, Revit, AutoCAD, Bluebeam Revu, Visio, Cisco IOS, Juniper JUNOS, and EASE 4.0. He also has extensive knowledge of National Electrical Code (NEC) requirements.

Curtis joined Ackerman Engineering in March 2019, following a prosperous career that includes roles such as Telecommunications Engineer at BCER Engineering (2013-2018), Senior Telecommunications Consulting Engineer at Cyberlink Corp (2007-2012), and Data Communications Technician at McBride Electric (2006-2007). He also held various engineering positions at NTT/Verio (1998-2006) and served as both Field System and Network Engineer at Nextel Communications (1994-1997), as well as Specifying and Project Engineer at Motorola C&E (1989-1993).

Meet Dean Knight, a dedicated professional at Ackerman Engineering, delivering expert electrical engineering solutions. Contact us at (303) 278-7297 for your next project.

Dean Knight

Project Manager, Designer

Dean brings over 35 years of expertise in commercial and industrial power distribution, lighting, and electrical design, from initial concepts to construction documentation. His skills encompass lighting control design, implementation, and submittal review. Dean has applied his extensive knowledge across a diverse range of educational facilities, including CU Boulder, CU Denver, Colorado State University (CSU), and multiple school districts such as Jefferson County, Denver County, Boulder Valley, Aurora Public Schools, Adams-Arapahoe, Douglas, Cherry Creek, and others. His portfolio also extends to parks, recreational facilities, retail shops, offices, restaurants, municipal maintenance facilities, and high-end residential projects.

Dean is known for his collaborative approach. He works closely with clients, architects, and owners to deliver complete, accurate, and sometimes creatively designed solutions that not only meet but exceed expectations.

Proficient in AutoCAD, Microsoft Office, Bluebeam Revu, and Adobe, Dean leverages these tools to ensure efficiency and precision in his work. He joined Ackerman Engineering in October 2022.

Dean’s career includes notable roles such as:

  • Owner/Operator, Electrical Designer, and CAD Operator at Knight Design Group (1996-2022) in Lakewood, Colorado.
  • Co-owner and Electrical Designer at Engineering Industries, Ltd. (1991-1996) in Wheat Ridge, Colorado.
  • Electrical Designer and CAD Operator at M-E Engineers (1988-1991) and Engineering Industries, Ltd. (1985-1988).
Meet Don Ackerman, founder of Ackerman Engineering, your trusted partner in electrical engineering and lighting design. Call (303) 278-7297 to connect with us.

Don J. Ackerman, P.E., LEED AP

President & CEO

Don founded Ackerman Engineering, Inc. in 2000, bringing over 40 years of extensive experience in electrical system design. His specialization spans a wide range of areas, including power distribution, emergency and standby power systems, lighting design (interior, exterior, ballfields, arenas, and events), life safety systems (fire alarms, detection, and remarkable suppression), lightning protection, grounding, voice/data communications, master clock systems, and security infrastructure.

Throughout his career, Don has successfully led multi-discipline design teams, overseeing electrical and mechanical disciplines as a prime consultant and sub-consultant. His responsibilities have included comprehensive project management, design, cost estimation, bid assistance, construction administration, and seamless coordination with owners, clients, utility companies, vendors, contractors, and regulatory authorities.

Before founding Ackerman Engineering, Don held critical positions at The RMH Group, Inc. in Lakewood from 1990 to 2000. He began as Lead Engineer and rose to become the Multi-Discipline Team Manager in 1994 before being named Vice President in 1998. During his tenure, RMH expanded to 125 employees across two offices, managing projects across the Midwest and internationally.

Before his time at RMH, Don was a Design Engineer at Garland D. Cox Associates, Inc., from 1981 to 1990. He was one of the three core engineers who remained with the firm until Garland’s retirement.

Meet Donnie Ackerman, a skilled professional at Ackerman Engineering, dedicated to delivering expert electrical engineering solutions. Contact us at (303) 278-7297 to learn more.

Donnie Ackerman

Designer

With more than 20 years of diverse experience—from hands-on site investigation to managing complex maintenance and construction projects—Donnie offers a practical, solutions-driven approach to design that balances code compliance, system performance, and client priorities.

Known for his ability to quickly learn and apply complex engineering concepts, Donnie translates real-world challenges into thoughtful, efficient design solutions. His early work with Ackerman Engineering involved creating and updating technical drawings, collaborating with engineers, and transforming field data into precise project documentation—skills he continues to refine and expand in his current role.

Combining field experience with a strong entrepreneurial mindset, Donnie brings initiative, technical versatility, and a deep understanding of how design choices impact construction and long-term system performance. His dedication to accuracy, efficiency, and customer satisfaction makes him a valuable contributor to the Ackerman team.

Meet Helen Reschl, an essential member of the Ackerman Engineering team, providing expert engineering solutions. Contact us at (303) 278-7297 for more details.

Helen Reschl, LEED AP

Vice President of Lighting, Project Manager

Helen brings over 25 years of expertise in designing lighting systems for various facilities, including schools, courthouses, offices, multi-use live/work lofts, parking lots, and exterior parks and recreation areas. Her design philosophy focuses on seamlessly integrating lighting with architectural elements, and she works closely with architects and owners to create visually striking, functional, and maintainable lighting systems.

Helen’s in-depth knowledge of various light sources and her commitment to sustainability enables her to incorporate emerging technologies and energy-efficient solutions into her designs. This approach enhances the aesthetic appeal of the space and delivers long-term cost savings for her clients. She is highly skilled in AGI32 lighting design/calculation software, AutoCAD, and Revit and thoroughly understands the IECC energy code requirements.

Beyond her professional achievements, Helen has contributed to developing community lighting standards. She volunteered as an assistant to Jefferson County in creating the exterior lighting ordinance and guidelines for the mountains and western plains.

Helen’s career spans various roles across many projects, including Project Manager, Project Engineer, and Lighting Designer at Ackerman Engineering, Inc. since 2002. Previously, she served as a Lighting Designer at The RMH Group, Inc. from 1998 to 2001 and at ME Engineers, Inc. from 1995 to 1997.

John J. Reschl

Engineering Intern

John is a fourth-year architecture student at the University of Colorado Denver, currently pursuing a degree through the College of Architecture and Planning. He brings a strong foundation in AutoCAD, 3D modeling, and collaborative design, supported by an Associate of Arts degree and a drafting certificate from Red Rocks Community College.

As an Engineering Intern at AEI, John supports project design and drawing production across multiple phases, contributing to drafting, documentation, and coordination efforts. He is passionate about blending architectural and engineering perspectives and is eager to grow his technical knowledge while supporting high-quality, team-driven design work.

Learn more about Ackerman Engineering, your trusted partner in electrical engineering and lighting design. Call us at (303) 278-7297 to discuss your project needs today!

Michelle Schiffbauer

Accounting Manager

Michelle brings over 30 years of experience in Accounting and Business Administration. Throughout her career, she has held numerous paid and volunteer positions that highlight her expertise in accounting, project management, and customer service. Since 2008, Michelle has contributed her skills in administrative support, office management, and bookkeeping at the Wheat Ridge office of Ackerman Engineering, Inc. Her dedication to maintaining efficient operations has been instrumental in the firm’s success.

From 2001 to 2009, she served as a bookkeeper at Golden Business & Financial Services, where she honed her financial management skills and provided excellent service to clients. Before that, from 1987 to 2000, Michelle held various roles at the Centennial offices of OppenheimerFunds, Inc. These included a Shareholder Accountant from 1987 to 1990, a Reconciliation Supervisor from 1990 to 1999, an Accounting Manager from 1992 to 1995, and a Special Project Analyst/Conversion Team from 1995 to 2000.

Michelle’s extensive experience and commitment to excellence make her a valuable asset to the Ackerman Engineering team.

Meet Pamela O’Connor, a dedicated member of the Ackerman Engineering team, delivering expert engineering solutions. Call (303) 278-7297 to learn more.

Pamela O’Connor

Chief Operating Officer

Pamela brings over 20 years of industry experience leading business operations and enterprise-level transformation. Pamela’s leadership is grounded in a strong technical foundation, holding a degree in Electrical Engineering from Colorado State University, and a career built at Accenture, where she directed global operations and digital transformation initiatives for Fortune 500 clients and internal enterprise platforms.

Her expertise spans strategic planning, business process optimization, IT delivery management, product development, and cross-stakeholder team leadership. She has spearheaded complex projects such as enterprise-wide payroll platform transformations, intelligent pricing systems, and e-commerce warehouse management solutions. She has a proven track record of engineering solutions that enhance productivity, reduce operational costs and improve the customer experience.

At Ackerman Engineering, Pamela applies her experience to scale operations, increase organizational agility, and implement data-driven processes that enhance efficiency and client outcomes. She’s committed to cultivating high-impact teams and building repeatable, scalable workflows that position the firm for long-term success.

Outside of work, Pamela brings the same passion and creativity to her community roles, serving on school and HOA boards. She’s also a proud mom of three, an avid golfer, and a die-hard Disney and coffee enthusiast.

Meet Ryan Farrell, a valued team member at Ackerman Engineering, providing expert electrical engineering solutions. Contact us at (303) 278-7297 for more details.

Ryan Farrell

Engineer

Ryan is an innovative electrical engineer at Ackerman Engineering, Inc., where he contributes to the development of efficient, forward-thinking power and lighting systems for commercial and mixed-use spaces. With a background in electrical and mechatronic systems engineering, Ryan combines technical precision with creative problem-solving to deliver high-performance designs tailored to client needs.

Prior to joining Ackerman, Ryan honed his skills at MDP Engineering Group, where he led electrical design for tenant improvement projects, developed detailed construction documents, and engineered power delivery systems for complex equipment. His hands-on experience with AutoCAD, power system analysis, and on-site project coordination makes him a valuable asset to both project teams and clients.

Ryan is passionate about bringing together emerging technologies and engineering fundamentals to create safe, efficient, and sustainable building systems.

Meet Taki Thai, a skilled professional at Ackerman Engineering, providing expert engineering solutions. Call (303) 278-7297 to connect with us.

Takako Thai

Project Manager, Lighting Designer

Taki brings over seven years of experience creating innovative, energy-conscious lighting solutions for high-profile architectural projects. Taki has led projects through every phase—from concept to construction—collaborating with architects, clients, and consultants to deliver impactful, award-winning designs. Her portfolio includes contributions to projects honored by the IESNYC Lumen Awards, including the Deutsche Bank Lobby and 320 South Canal St.

Taki Thai is a multidisciplinary lighting designer with a background in architecture, interior design, and fine arts. With dual master’s degrees in Architecture and Lighting Design from Parsons and a BFA in Interior Design from Pratt, Taki combines creative vision with technical expertise. She is known for her holistic approach, integrating lighting seamlessly into built environments while meeting LEED and WELL certification standards.

Whether it’s a school building, park, or even a boutique interior, Taki brings a collaborative spirit, sharp attention to detail, and a deep understanding of how lighting can transform a space.

Meet Tanner Ackerman, a dedicated member of Ackerman Engineering, specializing in electrical engineering and lighting design. Call (303) 278-7297 for your project needs.

Tanner L. Ackerman, P.E.

Chief Technical Officer, Vice President of Power

Tanner brings over a decade of electrical engineering experience and has been a dedicated full-time member of the Ackerman Engineering, Inc. team since 2018, following five years of part-time engineering support. Now a licensed Professional Engineer, Tanner continues to deliver reliable, innovative solutions across a wide range of electrical design and consulting services.

As Chief Technical Officer, Tanner leads the firm’s technical direction and is responsible for maintaining and advancing design quality and standards across all projects. In addition to overseeing design integrity, he plays a key role as a Project Manager, both as a prime consultant and sub-consultant, where he guides projects through every phase. His responsibilities include electrical system design, cost estimation, bid assistance, and construction administration, all while ensuring seamless coordination with owners, clients, utility companies, vendors, contractors, and regulatory authorities. Tanner’s leadership and commitment to excellence help ensure each project is executed with precision, efficiency, and long-term value in mind.

His expertise spans general and equipment power systems, including electrical distribution, emergency and standby power, and in-depth system evaluations such as fault current analysis, arc flash studies, and overcurrent protection coordination. In addition to power, Tanner’s project portfolio also includes comprehensive lighting design (interior, exterior, sports field, and event), lightning protection, grounding, electronic communications systems (paging-intercom and master clock), and electronic safety and security systems (fire detection and alarm, secured entry access, intrusion detection, and video surveillance).

With a strong foundation in the utility power industry and high-voltage power distribution, Tanner draws on academic and project-based experience from Colorado School of Mines, where he gained further specialization in controls, feedback systems, arc-flash analysis, and high-voltage power electronics.