David Headley

In the early 1960s, pioneering researchers at Case Institute of Technology in Cleveland, OH were developing new methods of non-destructive pile testing to support the industry trend toward more efficient high capacity deep foundations. Being most knowledgeable about the capabilities of those new dynamic foundation testing approaches, the research team was frequently asked to provide consulting services based on what became known as the “Case Method” to the deep foundations industry. In 1972, the Journal of Soil Mechanics and Foundations Division of the American Society of Civil Engineers published a seminal paper by Frank Rausche: "Soil Predictions from Pile Dynamics"​. Shortly after, in 1976, the team formed a consulting firm known today as GRL Engineers, Inc., or simply GRL. Today, GRL Engineers services range from small or specialized testing jobs (such as investigating unknown foundations) to large-scale projects requiring the monitoring and analysis of hundreds of test piles. In addition, GRL continues to engage in deep foundation testing research and education. GRL maintains a quick, cost-effective responsiveness to client needs throughout the United States, the Caribbean, Central America and Northern South America. GRL also performs offshore foundation testing work and other complex jobs in countries across the globe. Nationally recognized and veteran foundation engineer Patrick Hannigan, P.E. succeeded Frank Rausche at the helm of GRL in 2011. GRL’s central office and nine branch offices are staffed by more than 30 highly accomplished engineers, many with advanced degrees and 10 or more years of experience. Most GRL Engineers have achieved Advanced Level or higher on the PDCA/PDI Dynamic Measurement and Analysis Proficiency Test.