IMEG Expands National Footprint with Strategic Acquisition of Dallas-Based Subsurface Engineering Firm KMCE
In a strategic move to deepen its expertise in critical underground infrastructure, Rock Island-based engineering leader IMEG announced today the acquisition of KMCE, a Dallas firm specializing in subsurface utility engineering (SUE). The deal significantly expands IMEG's capabilities in utility locating, damage prevention, and risk mitigation services for both public and private sector projects across the United States.
Founded in 2018, KMCE has rapidly established itself as a key player in the Texas and Southern U.S. market, completing hundreds of projects focused on accurately mapping underground utilities. The firm's use of advanced technology and industry best practices provides essential data that safeguards construction and engineering projects from costly delays and dangerous utility strikes.
"The integration of KMCE into the IMEG family marks a pivotal step in our strategic growth," stated Paul VanDuyne, President and CEO of IMEG. "Their proven track record in delivering precise, reliable subsurface intelligence directly complements our national platform. This acquisition allows us to offer clients a more seamless, end-to-end solution—from initial planning and risk assessment through final construction—with enhanced proactive insight into underground infrastructure."
Joey Whiteside, KMCE's Director of Operations, echoed the sentiment, highlighting the broader opportunities the merger unlocks. "Aligning with IMEG's extensive resources and multidisciplinary network empowers our team to scale our impact dramatically," Whiteside said. "For our clients, this means access to deeper technical reserves and a wider geographic reach, all while maintaining the responsive, high-touch service and technical precision we're known for." Whiteside will continue in a leadership role overseeing operations and integration.
KMCE will initially operate from its Dallas office under the moniker "KMCE, now IMEG" as the teams merge operations. The acquisition comes at a time when aging U.S. infrastructure and booming construction demand have heightened the need for accurate utility mapping to prevent service disruptions and ensure public safety.
Industry Perspectives
Michael Torres, Infrastructure Analyst at Heartland Capital: "This is a logical consolidation. IMEG gains immediate, reputable expertise in the high-growth Sun Belt region. For the market, it signals a trend towards integrated service models where clients seek single-source accountability for complex projects involving both above and below-ground engineering."
Sarah Chen, Project Manager at a Dallas-based development firm: "As a past client of KMCE, their local knowledge was invaluable. My hope is that this acquisition doesn't dilute that specialized, on-the-ground responsiveness. Larger corporate structures can sometimes slow down the decision-making we rely on during fast-paced construction timelines."
David R. Miller, Civil Engineer (retired): "Another small, nimble firm gets swallowed by a giant. Consolidation like this rarely benefits the end client in the long run—it usually leads to less competition and higher fees. The 'personal connections of a local firm' IMEG touts often get lost in the corporate shuffle, no matter what the press release promises."
About IMEG: IMEG is a nationally ranked engineering design firm with over 100 offices and 3,000+ employees. It is consistently recognized among the top U.S. engineering firms, including #4 on BD+C's list of Top Engineering Firms and #48 on ENR's Top 500 Design Firms list.
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