With profound sadness, we announce the passing of our beloved founder, James K. “Jim” Michels, who left us on September 9, 2024.

Jim Michels founded Engineering Enterprises, Inc. (EEI) 50 years ago with the goal of transforming concepts into reality by providing exceptional engineering and land surveying services. His unwavering commitment to quality, innovation, and integrity set a standard that has guided our firm through decades of growth and enduring success. Jim’s legacy lives on in every project we complete, every client we serve, and every community we help improve.



Over the past five decades, we have grown from a small local consulting engineering firm to a well respected engineering firm within our region. This growth and longevity are a testament to Jim’s sound vision and the strong foundation he established. His emphasis on hiring top talent, embracing new technologies, and fostering long-term client relationships positioned EEI for long-term success.

Jim was the 2003 Illinois Section of the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) Civil Engineer of the Year. In 2004 he was also recognized with the Edmund Friedman Professional Recognition Award by the ASCE. In 2007, Jim was inducted into the Chicago Area Entrepreneurship Hall of Fame for lifetime achievement. His groundwater knowledge, and more specifically his knowledge of well construction, was top in the water industry. 

In addition to his accomplishments as an engineer, he was very active in his community. He was a Waubonsee Community College Trustee for 36 years and was bestowed the honorary title of Trustee Emeritus in May 2023. He also volunteered on many local, countywide, and state boards. He was also very active with the Luxembourg American Cultural Society and Center as their Chair Emeritus and sat on their Finance Committee.

Today, we honor Jim’s foresight, leadership, and enduring impact. We are grateful for his lasting contributions and are inspired to carry his legacy forward into the future.

View Jim's obituary here: https://www.conleycare.com/obituaries/James-Jim-Michels?obId=33044426

His vision built more than infrastructure - it built a lasting legacy

Engineering Enterprises, Inc. (EEI), founded in 1974, is an award-winning consulting engineering firm providing services to public agencies and private entities throughout northern Illinois. 70 experienced firm members including licensed professional civil engineers, land surveyors, and support team members provide a full range of services for planning, design, and construction of infrastructure projects, funding assistance and municipal consulting. Our core values guide our staff on every project from initiation through completion keeping us committed to quality, service, and value for our clients. By offering outstanding service to every client, every day, we are able to assist with bettering the communities in which we serve.