10/13/2026
RCEE is growing—and moving!
In October 2018, I was “RIF’d”—let go as part of a Reduction in Force. It was one of the most stressful times of my career and personal life.
Back then, I couldn’t have imagined where I would be eight years later.
Today, I feel blessed to be surrounded by a great team, growing our own company, and preparing to move into a larger office!
Rubber City Engineering and Environmental, LLC started with just five clients—three of which involved only small monitoring and reporting assignments. Today, we serve well over 40 clients across Ohio and the region, with six full-time and nine part-time team members.
Along the way, I’ve had the opportunity to get back to what I enjoy most: taking care of clients, solving problems, and building a team where people have time to learn, ask questions, experiment, and grow.
A big part of that is helping clients navigate the maze of regulatory approvals and move their projects toward completion. By understanding their operations, business goals, and challenges, we aim to become a trusted asset to their growth—providing value that extends well beyond a line item in their project budget.
Having spent many years in the corporate consulting world, I wanted to build a company where financial targets don’t overshadow good engineering, client relationships, or professional development. We prioritize quality work, responsiveness, and cost-effective solutions—and generate the revenue needed to support our people, invest in their development, and sustain our growth. Those goals can work together, and our experience continues to reinforce that.
That approach has helped us build a strong, positive reputation and lasting relationships. Referrals are becoming as common as repeat work—something I’m particularly proud of, because it means people trust us enough to recommend us to others.
Our team includes colleagues I’ve worked with—or interacted with during their years as regulators—for nearly 30 years, alongside newer professionals beginning their careers. We bring different experiences and perspectives, but we’re all in the same boat, pulling on the oars together and heading in a direction we can be proud of.
Our new office is another milestone in that journey, giving us more room to collaborate, learn, and grow. We also have several ongoing strategic discussions focused on further growth, strengthening our market position, and expanding our services and geographic reach. As we explore those opportunities, our commitment to our clients and people remains central to how we move forward.
To our clients, team members, colleagues, and partners: thank you for helping make this possible. I’m proud of what we’re building together and excited for what comes next!
- Mike Stepic, Owner/Senior Engineer
www.rubbercityengineering.com
