Water, like engineering, is a paradox all in its own. From the wise words of the famous (and timeless) Chinese philosopher Lao Tzu, “”Nothing is softer or more flexible than water, yet nothing can resist it.”

Engineering is also this mix of contradictory elements. It needs to be precise yet flexible. Forceful, yet submit to its ultimate objective. Water is a powerful force to harness, and a necessary one to understand in our world of engineering. That is precisely why we brought in Darran Rankin, who we’ve been playfully calling the “water boy.” Don’t let the title fool you; he’s not on the sidelines.

In the dynamic world of full-service engineering, having someone like Darran Rankin onboard is a game-changer. His official title? Resident Inspector. But he’s not just any inspector – he’s the kind who brings decades of hands-on experience and a passion for innovation to the table.

Darran’s extensive background began with a Civil Highway Technology course at West Kentucky Community and Technical College. From there, he dove headfirst into the water utilities industry, spending over 30 years honing his craft.

Sometimes, Expertise is About Going with the Flow

“I’ve got this knack for understanding water distribution principles and operations,” Darran explains. It’s more than just a knack – it’s a deep-seated understanding that comes from years of dedication and hard work.

But Darran’s expertise isn’t confined to textbooks and classrooms. He’s the guy you want on your team when you’re knee-deep in a project, whether it’s GPS mapping or tackling technical challenges. “I’m all about collaboration and learning new skills,” he says with a grin. His enthusiasm is infectious, making him an asset to any project.

Innovative, Client-Forward; Darran’s Found Himself a Home

When it comes to keeping up with the latest in the industry, Darran doesn’t miss a beat. “I recently completed training on KYPipe Hydraulic System Modeling,” he shares. It’s a testament to his commitment to staying ahead of the curve and delivering top-notch results. Pipe2000 is the graphical user interface for the development and simulation of piping system models Darran utilizes. Pipe2000 supports calculations for incompressible flow, transient flow, fire sprinkler analysis, and stormwater modeling.

​But perhaps what sets Darran apart is his approach to client relationships. “I believe in building strong partnerships with our clients,” he explains. “Understanding their needs is key to delivering the best possible solutions.” It’s this client-centric mindset that sets him apart in the industry but makes him perfectly at home at BFW/Marcum.

He’s Multi-Disciplinary & Ambitious

It’s not just water projects that we benefit from Darran’s expertise. Whether it’s civil, mechanical, or geotechnical, he brings something valuable to the table. His wealth of experience spans across disciplines, making him a versatile asset to any team.

Looking ahead, Darran is excited about the possibilities for growth in the firm’s water and wastewater capabilities. “Expanding our knowledge in water and wastewater is a priority for me,” he says. It’s a vision fueled by his passion for innovation and his unwavering commitment to excellence.

Darran Rankin isn’t just a Resident Inspector – he’s a force to be reckoned with in the world of full-service engineering. With his expertise, enthusiasm, and dedication, he’s paving the way for a brighter, more innovative future in our community, and he’s a great asset to have on board here at BFW/Marcum.