A new chapter for Zannino Engineering, grounded in 35 years of experience, relationships, and service.
As Zannino Engineering celebrates 35 years of serving Central Virginia and beyond, we’re also looking toward the next chapter in our company’s history.
In 2025, Robert Childree, MBA, and Mark McLain, P.E., purchased Zannino Engineering from founder Thomas Zannino, P.E. Rob serves as President and Mark as Vice President, bringing complementary experience in business leadership, engineering, and military service to the company’s future.
While ownership has changed, Zannino Engineering remains a locally owned, family business committed to the same principles that have guided it since 1991: technical expertise, dependable service, and lasting client relationships. Read more about Zannino Engineering history and founding in Our Story: Three Decades of Zannino Engineering.
Robert Childree, MBA | President
Rob is a retired U.S. Marine who holds an MBA from Duke University’s Fuqua School of Business. His background in military leadership and business management informs his approach to leading Zannino Engineering.
As President, Rob oversees the company’s business operations and long-term strategy, with a focus on strengthening internal processes, supporting employees, building client relationships, and pursuing opportunities for continued growth.
Mark McLain, P.E. | Vice President
Mark is a professional engineer and retired U.S. Army Reserve lieutenant colonel who brings extensive technical and leadership experience to his role as Vice President.
Mark, a 30-year veteran of Zannino Engineering, leads the engineering department, overseeing geotechnical investigations, engineering recommendations, and technical project delivery. His experience helps ensure that the company’s work continues to meet the standards of quality, accuracy, and professional judgment on which its reputation has been built.
As both an owner and a practicing engineer, Mark provides continuity in Zannino Engineering technical leadership while helping guide the company’s future.
Continuing the Legacy, Expanding the Team
Founder Tom Zannino, P.E., remains actively involved with Zannino Engineering as Chairman of the Board. A licensed professional engineer, Tom continues to contribute decades of technical experience, institutional knowledge, and relationships developed since the company’s founding in 1991.
Zannino Engineering has also expanded its leadership capabilities with the addition of Denise Childree, Ph.D., as Director of Communications & Strategic Engagement, a newly established position focused on strengthening company communications, building professional relationships, and supporting strategic initiatives.
Together, this leadership team combines Zannino Engineering longstanding engineering expertise with new perspectives on operations, communications, and business development.
Looking Ahead
As Zannino Engineering moves into its next chapter, its leadership remains committed to supporting employees, maintaining technical excellence, strengthening client relationships, and building on the company’s 35-year legacy.
Behind this work is Zannino Engineering experienced team of project managers, laboratory personnel, field technicians, and administrative professionals, whose expertise and dedication remain central to the company’s success.
This next chapter follows a milestone year for Zannino Engineering. Read more about our 35th anniversary celebration and the people and relationships that have shaped our company.
Thirty-five years of experience. A continued commitment to the people and projects that build our communities.