Over four weeks, employees were drafted onto eight country teams and competed in the inaugural Arora Cup through FIFA match predictions, team spirit challenges, soccer trivia, and cultural activities celebrating their assigned countries. Along the way, teammates connected across offices while enjoying plenty of friendly competition.

When the final standings were in, Team Japan claimed the championship followed by Team Argentina and Team Germany.

Individual honors went to Sam Pena, who earned the Golden Boot Award with an impressive 79 points, while Kate Nichols finished a close second with 75 points.

The winning team also earned the opportunity to direct a $1,500 Arora Cares STEM donation. Team Japan selected DonorsChoose, a nonprofit that helps public school teachers fund classroom projects, including robotics kits, coding resources, engineering activities, science labs, and other hands-on STEM learning experiences.

Thank you to everyone who participated and helped make the inaugural Arora Cup such a success. From friendly competition to supporting the next generation of engineers and innovators, this tournament proved that teamwork can make an impact both on and off the field.

Interested in joining our team? Explore career opportunities at Arora Engineers and become part of a team that’s rethinking infrastructure globally.

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As Director of Aviation Technology Planning, Enrique will lead the expansion of Arora’s Airport Technology Planning and Advisory services, supporting clients with airport technology master planning, digital airport initiatives, operational technology (OT) consulting, systems integration, technology roadmaps, and owner advisory services. He will also help strengthen Arora’s aviation consulting practice by building relationships with airport leaders and advancing innovative technology solutions that complement the firm’s engineering and design expertise.

Enrique joins Arora following leadership roles with The JW Group, Leidos, Jacobs, Faith Group, and ARINC, where he led major airport technology programs across North America and internationally. His experience spans more than 80 airports and includes pioneering work in airport operations centers, common-use systems, enterprise data strategies, biometrics, artificial intelligence, and intelligent airport technologies.

Beyond his consulting experience, Enrique is an active leader in the aviation industry. He is a Certified Member of the American Association of Airport Executives (AAAE) and serves on the Airports Council International (ACI) Board of Directors, where he is a member of the IT and Security Committee, the BIT Steering Group, and Co-Lead of the Data Analytics Working Group. He has also served on the Airport Consultants Council (ACC) Board of Directors and as former Chair/Vice-Chair of the Information Technology & Systems Committee. Additionally, Enrique is a former BWI Airport Commissioner, a TSA Airport Security Design Guideline Chapter Leader, a Transportation Research Board/Airport Cooperative Research Program (TRB/ACRP) IT Panel Member, and a member of the Project Management Institute (PMI).

Please join us in welcoming Enrique to Arora Engineers. We look forward to the expertise and leadership he will bring as we continue delivering innovative infrastructure solutions for our aviation clients.

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As part of our 40th Anniversary celebration series, we sat down with Manik Arora, President & CEO of Arora Engineers (Arora), to reflect on the firm’s evolution and future.

As Arora transitions from a small founder-led engineering firm to a modern, technology-focused global infrastructure solutions leader, Manik shares his vision for strategic growth, innovation, and long-term client partnership in the decades ahead.

The Power to Step Forward

When Manik joined Arora in 1993 after graduating from Drexel University with a BS in electrical engineering, he began in the field at Philadelphia International Airport. Nearly a decade on the owner’s side shaped how he views infrastructure and the responsibility that comes with leading it.

“Joining Arora represented an opportunity to make change,” he says.

Stepping into a company with his family’s name on the door brought both pride and responsibility.

“I wanted to prove to myself that I could be a leader and a change agent. It quickly became less about proving myself and more about bringing out the best in the people around me to achieve the best outcomes for our clients.”

For Manik, leadership is about development.

“Leadership is teaching and mentorship” he says. “And it takes the right temperament.”

Today, that philosophy continues to shape how Arora develops talent, builds leadership capacity, and strengthens the organization from within. For Manik, the Power of 40 ultimately comes down to people — investing in them, developing them, and empowering them to lead.

The Power of Vision

Manik’s experience working on the owner’s side revealed gaps in the industry, mainly that design and construction services were often project-based: valuable, but transactional.

He saw an opportunity to build continuity.

In 2004, Manik took a pivotal step in reshaping the firm’s trajectory by founding Arora Systems Group (ASG), Arora’s specialized facility maintenance, testing, inspection, repair, and installation team. The objective was clear: extend Arora’s role beyond design and into the long-term performance of infrastructure assets.

As infrastructure systems grew more complex, so did Arora’s capabilities.

In 2017, the firm expanded its geospatial practice through a strategic acquisition that strengthened enterprise GIS, asset data integration, and aviation-focused technology services, enhancing Arora’s ability to help airports and infrastructure owners manage both physical and digital assets.

In 2019, Arora completed the acquisition of Electronic Data, LLC (EDI), a business process consulting and technology firm specializing in asset management, mobile asset management solutions and facility life cycle management. With EDI, Arora expanded its ability to support clients not just in building infrastructure, but in optimizing and sustaining it over time.

In 2023, Arora announced the inauguration of Monyx Engineers Private Limited (Monyx), Arora’s international organization and team based in Bengaluru, India. This subsidiary operates as our Global Design Center to support our international expansion in India, Asia, the Middle East, and beyond as well as supporting our clients in the US. Monyx leverages the expertise of local professionals and Arora’s team of subject matter experts to provide critical services to our global clients.

In 2026, Arora further strengthened its lifecycle capabilities through the acquisition of J.A. Watts, LLC (JWI), a Chicago-based program and construction management firm with offices across North America. Known for its expertise in owner’s representation, program management, and complex aviation and infrastructure projects, JWI expands Arora’s ability to support clients during the critical construction and delivery phases of major capital programs.

Together, these strategic moves formalized a lifecycle-driven model: planning and design, construction services, facilities management, and enterprise solutions operating as an integrated ecosystem across the globe.

“Operations and maintenance are just as important as building the infrastructure,” he says.

For infrastructure owners managing complex, multi-asset portfolios, this approach enables Arora to engage at any stage — design, build, maintain, or operate — and remain a trusted partner throughout the full lifecycle of the built environment.

The Power of Strategic Risk

Growth requires bold decisions.

“The biggest risk we took was bringing in outside capital and selling half of the firm,” Manik says. Transitioning from a family-owned company to a private-equity-backed infrastructure solutions firm introduced new discipline.

“It forced us to think differently — financially, strategically, and operationally.”

Strategic acquisitions will play an increasingly important role in Arora’s growth. When entering new markets or expanding service lines, the right acquisition accelerates capability and scale.

Yet the foundation remains unchanged.

“We’ve evolved from a family-owned business into a global firm,” Manik says, “but we’ve kept the core values that built the company.”

The Power of Culture

Innovation and automation are reshaping infrastructure. But differentiation, Manik believes, lies in people.

“Innovation is important. Automation is great. But client management is an art that has to constantly be trained and retrained.”

Long-term trust is earned through consistency, mentorship, and strong communication.

Manik ensures the firm invests in leadership development, supports young professionals, and fosters an environment where technical excellence and collaboration coexist.

Community impact also remains central to the firm’s culture from supporting the USO through annual fundraising initiatives totaling over $1M raised to advancing sustainability practices across projects and operations. “We spend a lot of time making sure we’re making an impact in our communities.”

Looking ahead, Manik describes Arora’s future simply: “A place of trust. A place that is safe. People who do great work — and have fun doing it.”

The Power of 40, and What Comes Next

Forty years marks a milestone. But for Manik, it signals momentum. “Our journey is just beginning.”

He envisions Arora continuing to expand across services, markets, and technologies, strengthening our ability to deliver infrastructure as a service across the full lifecycle of the built environment.

From planning and design to operations and asset optimization, Arora is positioned to support clients at every stage in the project lifecycle.

Automation will accelerate. Digital systems will evolve. Infrastructure will modernize.

But the need for trusted partners capable of managing complexity and staying engaged for the long term will remain constant.

The next 40 years are not about growth alone. They are about disciplined expansion, lifecycle thinking, and building enduring partnerships, while staying grounded in the values that built the firm in the first place.

Join our growing team, explore careers here!

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Driving Strategic Growth

As Chief Development Officer, Nick leads Arora’s corporate growth strategy, key client relationships, and business development initiatives. Throughout his career, he has played a pivotal role in expanding the firm’s presence in the aviation industry while strengthening partnerships that support long-term success.

Before assuming his current role, Nick led Arora’s Aviation Practice, overseeing major airfield, terminal, and infrastructure modernization programs exceeding $1 billion in construction value. His leadership has helped position Arora as a trusted partner for complex aviation projects, alternative delivery methods, and large-scale capital improvement programs.

Today, Nick continues to help shape Arora’s future by spearheading the launch of the company’s first Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) while investing in future leaders through a Young Professionals initiative designed to foster professional growth and collaboration.

Building Relationships That Last

Nick shared several insights into his leadership philosophy during his Philadelphia Business Journal interview.

Go-to negotiation tactic:
“I lead negotiations by listening carefully, staying authentic and finding common ground that builds trust, focused outcomes and lasting partnerships.”

An unexpected skill he frequently uses:
“Emotional intelligence—understanding people and perspectives helps me navigate challenges, create opportunities and build strong partnerships.”

Investing in the Future

When asked about his approach to collaborating with executive leadership, Nick emphasized the importance of listening first, aligning on priorities, and building strong partnerships that support innovation, growth, and long-term success. His leadership philosophy reflects Arora’s commitment to collaboration, strategic thinking, and delivering lasting value for clients and employees alike.

Fast Facts About Nick:

• Years in current role: 3
• Originally from: Trinidad & Tobago
• Education: Drexel University (B.A.)
• Business icon he admires: Elon Musk
• Go-to lunch spot: Del Frisco’s or Firebirds Wood Fired Grill
• Favorite stress reliever: Playing basketball with his son

This recognition is a well-deserved reflection of Nick’s leadership, strategic vision, and commitment to building strong relationships that help Arora continue to grow and serve our clients. Congratulations, Nick!

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As the Zoo’s largest capital project in more than a decade, the $25 million exhibit expanded bear habitats by 60%, introduced the first-ever Zoo360 trail for bears, and created immersive guest experiences while advancing conservation for vulnerable species.

Visitors can explore interactive educational signage throughout Bear Country, learning about the endangered Andean and Sloth Bears that call the exhibit home, as well as the Zoo’s ongoing conservation efforts to protect these remarkable species.

Arora’s team delivered sustainable, energy-efficient building systems that help advance the Zoo’s mission of exceptional animal care, conservation, and education.

“We’re proud to have contributed to a project that blends innovative engineering with wildlife conservation. Seeing Bear Country open its doors and inspire thousands of visitors is incredibly rewarding for our team.” — Kevin Sultanik, AIA, LEED AP, PMP, Director, Project Management

Explore the full project details here.

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With more than 25 years of experience in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and technology consulting, Scott has built a career helping government agencies and private sector clients leverage geospatial technology to make smarter, data-driven decisions. In his new role, he will lead Arora’s GIS practice, working closely with executive leadership to expand our geospatial capabilities, support business growth, and deliver innovative solutions that enhance the services we provide to our clients.

Scott’s collaborative leadership style, deep technical expertise, and passion for mentoring teams make him a tremendous addition to Arora. We look forward to the experience, insight, and innovation he will bring as we continue delivering solutions that help our clients plan, design, and manage critical infrastructure.

Please join us in welcoming Scott to the Arora team!

The post Arora Welcomes Scott Howell, Geospatial Practice Lead appeared first on Arora Engineers.

By fostering collaboration among airport operators and industry partners, AMUG helps organizations stay ahead of evolving technologies, regulatory requirements, and operational best practices that are transforming the aviation industry. Several key themes emerged throughout the conference that are shaping the future of airport asset management.

Artificial Intelligence Is Moving from Concept to Operational Tool

Artificial intelligence (AI) was one of the most discussed topics throughout the event, reflecting growing interest in how airports can leverage AI to improve efficiency, decision-making, and operational resilience.

Rather than replacing existing processes, attendees focused on how AI can enhance Maximo by automating routine tasks and surfacing actionable insights, such as:

• Predicting work order classifications to improve data consistency
• Identifying similar work orders to accelerate troubleshooting
• Supporting Failure Modes and Effects Analysis (FMEA)
• Enabling AI-assisted visual inspections

As airports continue to generate vast amounts of operational data, attendees agreed that AI’s success will depend on strong data quality, governance, and integration with enterprise platforms like Maximo MAS, GIS, and mobile solutions.

Expanding Opportunities for Real Estate and Property Management

Many airport operators are exploring ways to leverage Maximo beyond traditional asset management. A growing area of interest is Maximo Real Estate and Facilities (MREF), which extends the platform to support real estate, workplace, and lease management.

Sessions highlighted how airports can centralize property information, optimize space utilization, streamline lease administration, and monitor facility performance through workplace analytics and IoT-enabled insights. As airports continue to expand non-aeronautical revenue streams, integrated property management is becoming an increasingly valuable business tool.

Business Analytics Is Transforming Reporting and Decision-Making

The evolution of reporting and analytics capabilities within Maximo MAS continues to be a major focus for airport organizations.

Rather than relying on static reports, airports are increasingly using business intelligence dashboards to monitor asset health, maintenance performance, capital planning, and operational KPIs in real time. By connecting asset, maintenance, financial, and operational data, organizations can make faster, more informed decisions and better communicate performance across the enterprise.

Arora/EDI, for example, include business analytics dashboards as part of every solution implementation, providing airport teams with actionable insights that support continuous improvement and operational excellence.

FAA Expectations for Airfield Inspections Continue to Increase

Regulatory compliance remains a critical priority for airport operators, and discussions highlighted increasing FAA expectations surrounding airfield inspections and documentation.

Airports are under growing pressure to demonstrate consistent inspection processes, accurate recordkeeping, and timely corrective actions. Many attendees shared strategies for using Maximo to digitize inspection workflows, improve documentation accuracy, and create auditable records that support compliance efforts.

The trend reinforces a broader industry shift toward mobile inspections and integrated compliance management systems. By combining Maximo with purpose-built mobile solutions like Arora ATLAS, airports can improve inspection efficiency, standardize data collection, and gain greater visibility into findings, corrective actions, and compliance performance.

Looking Ahead

This year’s AMUG reinforced a common theme across the industry: airports are looking beyond traditional asset management to maximize the value of their technology investments through connected data, streamlined processes, and more informed decision-making.

Whether through AI-enabled workflows, advanced analytics, integrated property management, or mobile inspection solutions, airport operators are transforming Maximo into a strategic platform that supports safer operations, stronger compliance, and smarter business decisions.

At Arora, we’re proud to help airports turn these opportunities into reality through integrated asset management, GIS, mobile inspection and work order solutions, business analytics, and enterprise technology consulting.

If you’re looking to unlock more value from your Maximo investment, contact our team to learn how solutions like Arora ATLAS, GIS integration, and advanced analytics can help your airport operate smarter, stay compliant, and prepare for what’s next.

The post The Future of Airport Asset Management Trends from AMUG 2026 appeared first on Arora Engineers.

We’re excited to introduce Ryan Rogala, PE, Electrical Practice Lead at Arora Engineers (Arora).

Ryan brings extensive experience delivering electrical engineering solutions across the federal, science & technology, education, commercial, and transportation markets. Known for his technical expertise, collaborative approach, and deep understanding of building codes, he is committed to developing practical, efficient, and cost-effective solutions for clients.

As Electrical Practice Lead, Ryan will oversee the technical excellence, quality standards, and project execution of Arora’s electrical discipline. He will lead practice strategy, mentor the next generation of engineers, and foster collaboration across disciplines to deliver coordinated, high-quality designs that support our clients’ evolving needs.

Please join us in congratulating Ryan on his leadership role!

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Read the full edition!

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College Park Airport in Maryland has been flying since 1909, earning its place as the world’s oldest continuously operating airport. More than a century later, this historic landmark continues to connect visitors with the rich legacy of aviation while supporting modern-day flight operations.

To help support the airport’s continued operation, Arora Engineers (Arora) partnered with Urban Engineers to deliver airfield lighting and electrical infrastructure improvements designed to enhance safety, visibility, and reliability. The project included upgrades to runway and taxiway lighting, navigational aids, and supporting electrical systems that help pilots navigate the airfield safely, day and night.

While the improvements may not be as visible as a new terminal or runway, they play a critical role in daily airport operations. Modern lighting systems improve operational efficiency, support FAA requirements, and help ensure the airport remains ready to serve future generations of pilots.

Projects like this are a reminder that infrastructure isn’t just about building what’s next, it’s also about preserving what matters. By combining modern engineering solutions with a historic aviation landmark, this project helps ensure that College Park Airport can continue its remarkable story for years to come.

We’re proud to have supported improvements at an airport that has been flying high for more than 115 years.

Explore the full project details here.

Photos Courtesy of Urban Engineers

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