Every project presents a unique puzzle, and for Philip Gorospe, that’s exactly the appeal.
At MDSM, our team embodies a wide range of experience, skills and interests. This month, we are spotlighting Philip, a member of our project engineering team who brings both a mechanical engineering background and a passion for technology to his role.
Philip earned his B.S. in Mechanical Engineering from the New Jersey Institute of Technology in 2015 before going on to earn a Master’s in Computer Science from Georgia Tech in 2024. His interest in engineering stems from the opportunity to see complex ideas evolve into usable spaces.
“I’ve always loved the tangible nature of engineering,” he says. “It’s wonderful seeing complex systems on paper come to life and actually function in the built environment. Every project presents a unique puzzle, which keeps things interesting.”
Today, his role at MDSM involves guiding designs across multiple projects, reviewing system layouts and working closely with the engineering team to tackle coordination challenges. For him, one of the most rewarding parts of construction is seeing all of that work come together.
“There is a great sense of shared accomplishment when a project comes together successfully,” he says.
For Philip, one project that stands out is Waterline in Austin, which recently became the tallest building in Texas. Beyond the scale and complexity of the project, there’s a sense of accomplishment in working on a feat of engineering that will be visible to so many.
One lesson that has stuck with him throughout his career is the importance of doing the work upfront. “Thorough upfront coordination saves an immense amount of pain down the road,” he says. “Taking the time to do your due diligence during the design and coordination phases can make a major difference as a project moves forward.”
Learning these new lessons is one of the things he enjoys the most about working at MDSM. “The people are great, and the projects are interesting. Also, I’m continuously learning things as we tackle new projects.”
Outside of work, he keeps busy with CrossFit, pickleball, rock climbing, hiking and snowboarding. He also enjoys 3D printing and DIY projects. If Philip hadn’t started a career in construction, his other career paths would have been much more tech-focused.
“It would be awesome to be one of those tech reviewers who gets to see and test the newest technology before the public. I would love that.”
For now, though, he’s happy solving the puzzles that come with bringing complex projects from the drawing board into the built environment, and we are lucky to call him a part of MDSM!
