A Job Well Done: Building Engineers Ron Thompson and Michael Scholze's Quick Response to Water Damage at Hot Metal Labs

Hot Metal Labs recently faced an unexpected water emergency. Still, thanks to the swift and effective response of Building Engineers Ron Thompson and Michael Scholze, the situation was handled with professionalism and dedication.

When the fire alarm went off, Ron immediately sprang into action. He quickly shut off the water despite the risk of preventing further damage. To fully address the issue, Ron climbed into the ceiling to assess the source of the leaks, ensuring that no additional water damage occurred. His commitment didn’t end there—Ron didn’t just supervise the restoration crew; he actively helped clean up the affected areas. His quick work allowed the first-floor spaces to be operational sooner than expected, minimizing the impact on tenants and the ongoing work in the building. Throughout the more than seven-hour ordeal, Ron maintained constant communication, keeping everyone informed and ensuring the safety and well-being of all who work in Hot Metal Labs.

Jen Luke, Hot Metal Campus’s Innovation Ecosystem Relationship Manager, praised Ron and Mike for their dedication and teamwork during this challenging situation. “I couldn’t be more proud of Mike and Ron. They are two of the most dedicated men I’ve ever had the pleasure to work with, and they constantly go above and beyond for the people in our buildings. If I had been trying to fix water shooting everywhere, I would have panicked, but not these guys,” Jen shared.

For three days, Hot Metal Labs faced various water issues, from burst pipes to frozen sprinkler heads. Despite the challenges, Ron and Mike worked efficiently to address the problems, keeping the building safe and operational. Their quick thinking and proactive response ensured tenants and faculty could continue their work uninterrupted, even in adversity.

Both Ron and Mike’s commitment to their work and willingness to go above and beyond have earned them the gratitude and admiration of their colleagues. The Hot Metal Labs staff, faculty, and students are thankful for their dedication and know they can count on these exceptional engineers to keep our buildings safe and functional.