Our Principals
Founded in 1977 by Bob and Steve Flowers, Flowers & Associates, Inc. has grown into one of Santa Barbara’s leading civil engineering firms, providing comprehensive engineering, planning, and construction services throughout the region. Following the semi-retirement of Steve Flowers and retirement of Bob Flowers in 2018, the firm implemented a planned transition of leadership to ensure continued growth, stability, and commitment to client service.
In 2019, a new generation of Principals assumed leadership roles, building upon the firm’s established reputation while expanding its capabilities and services. This transition has allowed Flowers & Associates, Inc. to maintain the personal attention and responsiveness of a locally owned firm while strengthening its technical expertise and project delivery capabilities.
Robert Schmidt joined Flowers & Associates, Inc. in 2016 as a Principal Engineer and currently serves as President. Mr. Schmidt brings extensive experience in civil engineering planning and design, with a specialty in site development for large-scale institutional, commercial, industrial, residential, and resort projects.
Vern Williams joined the firm in 1982 and became a Principal Engineer in 1985. With more than four decades of experience, Mr. Williams has managed a wide range of private and public sector projects throughout Santa Barbara County, Northern California, and the surrounding region. He currently serves as Chief Financial Officer.
Alan Chierici joined Flowers & Associates, Inc. in 1988 and leads the firm’s Construction Engineering Division as Vice President. Mr. Chierici brings extensive experience in construction management, contract administration, and public infrastructure projects.
The firm has also expanded its planning and entitlement capabilities with the addition of Gelare Macon as Principal Planner. Under Mrs. Macon’s leadership, Flowers & Associates, Inc. has strengthened its land use planning, entitlement, and permit processing services, allowing us to better support clients through the full project development process.
