Executive Team

QDG is a fully staffed mechanical and electrical engineering firm specializing in the design of electrical power distribution, lighting, air conditioning, heating, ventilation, plumbing and fire protection systems for the construction industry. Having performed as the design professionals on thousands of projects, QDG is known for working closely with clients to determine requirements and find solutions to complex project problems. Our team has considerable design experience and is the key to QDG’s continued growth and development.

QDG’s team-based project management approach is essential for maintaining design and technical quality control. Team meetings maintain schedules and contain costs, and every project has a team leader who is responsible for client communication and reporting project status to the professional engineer.

Michael A. Janis, BSAE, LEED AP (President/CEO)

As Quest Design Group’s President and Chief Executive Officer, Michael Janis is responsible for creating the company’s vision and strategic direction to provide excellence in Architectural Engineering design for Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing and Fire Protection systems. With 25+ years of experience in designing and leading complex construction projects and interdisciplinary teams, Michael excels at all stages of project lifecycle and steers concept, budget, and resources to meet specifications and execute deliverables in a timely manner. His strengths are in general management, business / project development, economical & sustainable design, design-build process management, P&L management, consultative client relations and team leadership.

Michael’s professional passion is to collaborate alongside Quest Design Group’s professional staff of experts to cover a wide spectrum of specialized knowledge and project experiences. This collaborative environment makes Quest Design Group an innovative company on the cutting edge.

Robert L. Cave, BSME, P.E. (Vice President of Operations/Sarasota Division)

With over 40 years of engineering experience Bob Cave joined the company in 1994 as a senior mechanical engineer. Bob is a long time resident of southwest Florida, bringing a wide range of experience with the local climate, codes and contractors.

In his position as Quest Design Group’s Vice President of Operations, Bob manages the Sarasota office including administration, staffing, engineering sales, workload, invoicing and collections. Bob’s responsibilities also include coordinating project schedules and requirements with owners, architects and developers by way of implementation with in-house project managers and staff.

When he is not developing schedules, Bob enjoys a cabin in northwest Florida, playing golf, fishing and traveling with his wife of 27 years.

Ruben C. De La Fuente Jr., BASc (Vice President of Operations/Chicago Division)

As Vice President of Operations, Ruben De La Fuente Jr. is responsible for the design and production of mechanical/electrical/plumbing/fire-protection construction drawings and specifications. Ruben’s duties also include project management and coordination, marketing, generating fee proposals, employee benefits, daily office operations and staffing assignments.

Ruben has more than 30 years of experience in the architectural and engineering industry. His project resume includes the very school districts he grew up in (School District 54 and School District 211), as well as Hyatt Hotels, Mariano’s, Chase Bank and Medspring Urgent Care facilities to name but a few. Ruben is proficient in AutoCAD and Revit, and he spent six years on a drafting table during his early years. Ruben credits his father for his dedication and hard work ethic.

Ruben’s experience, dedication, attention to detail and high regard for business ethics makes him a perfect fit for Quest Design Group.

Nicholas A. Perry., BSME, PE (Principal/Partner)

After graduating from the Tennessee Technological University with a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering, Nicholas Perry launched his career in the consulting industry as an intern and evolved into a Sr. Mechanical Engineer/Project Manager. Now he is Quest Design Group’s Principal and Partner in the Nashville office.

Nicholas Perry has more than 10 years experience in mechanical, plumbing, and fire protection design and excels at all stages of the project design. Nicholas works closely with the client/owner throughout the design process to deliver drawings on time and provide cost effective designs. His strengths are project management, quality control, engineering design, leadership, and client communication.

Also considered an expert in green energy design, Nicholas has provided engineering design services for multiple LEED and geothermal projects in the Southeast. He has experience with many building types including mixed-use mid-rise buildings, restaurants, hotels, K-12 schools for multiple school districts, government buildings, office buildings, tenant improvements, warehouses, dialysis clinics, and industrial facilities.

Chris R. Baker, BSME, P.E., LEED AP (Vice President of Engineering/Sarasota Division)

After graduating from University of Florida with a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering, Christopher Baker started his career in machine design work for a Southeast Florida battery equipment manufacturer. His responsibilities included overseeing the design of products that were eventually distributed worldwide.

In 1997, Christopher entered the consulting industry as an engineering intern and has evolved into a project manager responsible for all phases of the construction process from design through construction administration. During his tenure, he has become an advocate for sustainable design and has focused on high-performance buildings. He has contributed to over 30 LEED projects including Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing and Fire Protection systems.

With 19+ years of experience, Christopher is recognized as an expert in designing mechanical systems and managing projects including museums, educational facilities, retail, mixed-use developments, hotels, and office buildings. His strengths are in general management, economical & sustainable design, client relations and team leadership.

Outside of the office, Christopher spends much of his time entertaining his son’s athletic endeavors including coaching soccer, tae kwon do seminars, and baseball. Christopher and his wife Isabella have been happily married for 13 years and spend much of their free time entertaining family and friends.

 Jon Shepard, BSME, P.E. (Project Manager/Mechanical Engineering)

Jon Shepard joined Quest Design Group’s Florida division in 2005. Beginning his career as a mechanical designer, Jon has since developed professional experience in the plumbing, fire protection, and electrical fields, with over 10 years of design work.

Jon is a licensed Professional Engineer in Florida and earned his Bachelors of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering from Florida State University. When he is not in the office, Jon enjoys spending time with his wife and vacationing in the mid-west.

Timothy Jarvis, (Electrical Department Manager, Sarasota Division)

Timothy Jarvis joined Quest Design Group in 2015. He began working in the electrical industry in 1980 and progressed into the electrical design field in 1990. With more than 25 years of design experience, Timothy is responsible for the coordination, design and code review of electrical and low voltage documents prepared to meet clients’ specifications, and the execution of deliverables in a timely manner.

During his personal time Timothy spends his time with his wife and child and enjoys scuba diving and camping.

Michael Stanich, (Electrical Department Manager, Chicago Division)

As a Quest Design Group Electrical Designer, Michael Stanich has more than 30 years experience in Electrical System Design. He manages a variety of projects, ensuring the successful completion of each project’s goals and objectives. Michael has experience in a variety of industries including healthcare, education, commercial, municipal and food service. Michael ensures each design meets the firm’s quality standards and is implemented in a timely and cost effective manner.

Michael’s professional passion is to produce the highest quality of service for our clients and continue to mentor young engineers.

Abram Richardson, C.I. (Plumbing/Fire Protection Engineering)

Abram Richardson began his career with Quest Design Group in 1992 as a Draftsman. Abram has since developed professional experience in the plumbing and fire protection fields. With over 24 years of design experience, Abram is responsible for the coordination, design and code review of plumbing and fire protection documents prepared to meet our clients' specification and execute deliverables in a timely manner.

Abram completed his Drafting and Design Certifications at the Manatee Technical Institute.  Abram spends his personal time with his wife and children, and as a serious automobile enthusiast, Abram enjoys watching and attending various racing events.

Michael Emke, (Mechanical Engineering)

Michael Emke started his career as an installation and service technician in the mechanical contracting field. He spent 6 years gaining hands-on knowledge of mechanical systems including equipment, ductwork and controls. Michael joined Quest Design Group in 2004 and grew into a highly skilled and respected Mechanical Designer, specializing in HVAC system design by joining operation with sustainability and energy conservation. Michael has worked on more than 20 LEED projects ranging from certified to platinum levels. His focus is on mechanical design, indoor air quality, controllability and overall building energy consumption.

Michael’s professional goal is to be a key team member assisting in high quality cost effective designs while continuing to grow and learn all aspects of engineering.

Outside of the office, Michael spends most of his time with his family enjoying outdoor activities, trips and various church functions.

Thomas Bailey, (Senior Plumbing Designer)

As Quest Design Group's Senior Plumbing Designer, Thomas Bailey has 30+ years of experience in designing and leading complex projects. As Senior Plumbing Designer, his responsibility is the complete design and coordination of the plumbing, fire protection, and specialty piping systems, along with the coordination with the architectural, structural, mechanical and electrical disciplines. Thomas also manages QDG projects and oversees plumbing technical standards and quality assurance.

Thomas received his Certification in Plumbing Engineering (CIPE) from the American Society of Plumbing Engineers (ASPE). He’s also a die-hard Chicago Cubs fan.