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Pensacola, Florida

Ft. Walton Beach, Florida

Who We Are LMJ

Who We Are

We really like what we do. We explore, we test, we solve, and we work with amazing people on amazing projects.

About

Larry M. Jacobs & Associates, Inc. (LMJ) is a local small business that specializes in geotechnical engineering, drilling, materials testing, and special inspection services. We are proud to be the longest-standing geotechnical firm in our area and a trusted partner on over 10,000 projects within our community.


Our Mission

Leveraging specialized local experience, LMJ is dedicated to providing innovative and responsive solutions to enhance our clients’ success. Our core values—teamwork, honesty, and excellence—guide our commitment to our clients and shape every aspect of our work.

Our Story

Celebrating its inception in 1976 by Larry M. Jacobs, PE, our company traces its roots back to a modest office on Palafox Street in downtown Pensacola, Florida. Over the years, LMJ earned a reputation as the top choice for geotechnical engineering and materials testing.

Larry’s journey began at the University of Illinois, where he initially pursued aerospace engineering. Finding the math a little too impractical, Larry shifted to civil engineering with a focus on soil mechanics and studied under Dr. Ralf Peck, a world leader in geotechnical engineering. After college, Larry joined the United States Navy and served in Vietnam and then at Pensacola Naval Air Station, where he worked in the ROICC office.

Larry’s son, Keith Jacobs, began working at LMJ in 1995 after school in the office and lab. During school breaks, Keith worked in the field with the drillers, gaining valuable hands-on experience. Keith graduated from UCF in 2002 with a degree in civil engineering (focus in geotechnical engineering) and returned to LMJ as an engineer. Over the next decades, Keith worked alongside Larry and gained valuable experience from the soil expert in our area.

Today, Keith leads the company with the same passion, dedication, and values, and Larry still spends time providing senior review of reports and his unique expert advice when the situation demands. LMJ continues to grow and expand our services, and we are proud to be a trusted partner, working with great people, on important projects in our community.

Our Team

Keith Jacobs, PE

President
Principal Geotechnical Engineer

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With over 25 years of experience in geotechnical engineering and laboratory materials testing, Keith Jacobs serves as President and Principal Engineer at LMJ. He brings unparalleled expertise and leadership to the organization. Starting his career behind a drill rig at the age of 15, Keith has contributed to more than a thousand projects across the Florida Panhandle, demonstrating deep technical knowledge and unwavering dedication to the field.

He earned his Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering in 2002 from the University of Central Florida and holds licenses as a Professional Engineer, Florida Certified Threshold Inspector, ACI Concrete Construction Special Inspector, and ICC certifications for steel and bolting, structural masonry, and soils.

Keith specializes in the analysis and design of shallow and deep foundations, flexible and rigid pavements, stormwater systems, retaining walls, sheet pile walls, and bulkheads. His skill set also includes earth dams, settlement analysis, vibration analysis, value engineering, project management and problem solving.

Known for his outgoing, charismatic, and friendly personality, Keith is a highly effective leader who excels both technically and relationally. He builds strong, lasting relationships with clients and team members while driving successful project outcomes through strategic oversight and innovative solutions.

Larry Jacobs, PE

Senior Principal Geotechnical Engineer

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For nearly 50 years, Larry has been widely recognized as one of the foremost experts in geotechnical engineering throughout the Gulf Coast and southeastern United States, with extensive experience spanning projects from North Carolina to Texas. His distinguished career began in the United States Navy Civil Engineer Corps during the Vietnam War, where he developed the technical expertise, leadership, and discipline that would later become the foundation of his professional success. His military service ultimately brought him to Pensacola, a community he would go on to serve for decades through his engineering work and industry leadership.

In 1976, Larry founded Larry M. Jacobs & Associates, Inc. (LMJ), building the company from the ground up into one of the region’s most respected geotechnical engineering, inspections, and materials testing firms. Throughout his career, he has played an instrumental role in countless public and private projects across the Southeast, earning a reputation for technical excellence, practical problem-solving, and unwavering integrity. His depth of knowledge and decades of hands-on experience have made him a trusted advisor to engineers, architects, contractors, developers, and municipalities alike.

Beyond his technical accomplishments, Larry is known throughout the office and industry for his infectious, world-famous laugh and the positive energy he brings to every room. His passion for engineering and dedication to the profession have inspired not only colleagues and employees, but also his own family. Two of his children followed careers connected to the industry: Keith serves as Principal Engineer of LMJ, continuing the family legacy in geotechnical engineering, while Melanie is the Director of Marketing at a local architecture firm.

Even after decades in the profession, Larry’s enthusiasm for engineering, mentorship, and relationships remains as strong as ever. When he is not in the office, he enjoys staying busy tackling his ever-growing “Honey Do” list, spending quality time with family, and traveling to exotic destinations with his sweetheart, always ready for the next adventure.

Kimberly Carlisle

Director of Operations and Administration

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Kimberly is the Director of Operations and Administration at LMJ, and seasoned Administrator with over 20 years of experience. She holds a B.A. in Business Administration and HR Management from Pensacola State College and maintains active affiliations with SHRM, SMPS, OSHA Education Association, and Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society. Kimberly joined LMJ in 2019 and has since become an indispensable leader within the organization. She excels at navigating new business ventures, implementing effective branding strategies, and managing both legal and engineering solutions with precision. Her expertise also extends deeply into corporate finances, allowing her to provide strategic oversight across multiple areas of the business.

Beyond her operational responsibilities, Kimberly plays a key role in strengthening company culture and championing employee development. She is passionate about fostering a positive, collaborative work environment where team members feel supported and empowered to grow both personally and professionally.

With a dynamic background that spans the sun-kissed beaches of southern California to the serene slopes of ski resorts, Kimberly embodies adaptability and a solutions-oriented mindset. Known as “the problem solver,” she thrives on challenges and is deeply committed to delivering innovative solutions that drive organizational success.

Terry Niemann

Geotechnical Engineer
Senior Project Manager

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Terry serves as LMJ’s Geotechnical Engineer and Senior Project Manager, bringing more than 20 years of dedicated experience to the firm. He has been an integral part of the LMJ team since joining in 2002. Terry earned his Bachelor of Science in Geological Engineering from the University of Missouri-Rolla in 1995. Prior to joining LMJ, he gained valuable hands-on experience working with challenging expansive soils in Texas and the complex Appalachian soils in Birmingham, Alabama.

His deep expertise in geology and hydrogeology has made him a trusted resource for complex geotechnical investigations, foundation analysis, site evaluations, and problem-solving across a wide range of commercial, industrial, and public sector projects. Terry is highly regarded for his technical acumen, sound engineering judgment, and ability to deliver practical, cost-effective solutions. He is also deeply committed to mentorship and training, actively guiding and developing junior engineers that strengthen the overall capabilities of the LMJ team.

Known for his cool, calm, and collected demeanor, Terry provides steady leadership and a reassuring presence on every project. He is also famous around the office for consistently bringing the best snacks, adding a welcome touch of camaraderie and enjoyment to the LMJ work environment.

Manny Colon

Special Inspector
CMT Department Manager

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Manny serves as the CMT Manager at LMJ and Special Inspector. He embarked on his career as an engineering technician in 1997, bringing more than 30 years of expertise in the construction testing and inspection industry. Originally from Puerto Rico, Manny joined LMJ in 2003, relocating to the United States to build a successful life and career. He has since become a cornerstone of the organization.

In his role, Manny provides strong leadership through project management of both commercial and military projects, along with hands-on problem solving in the field. He has extensive experience overseeing complex inspection projects, laboratory testing and quality control, materials testing, as well as pile hammer and ACIP analysis and monitoring. He also serves as the firm’s Radiation Safety Officer (RSO). His ability to anticipate challenges, deliver practical solutions, and maintain the highest standards of quality has made him an invaluable asset to both the team and LMJ’s clients.

Known for his kindness, reliability, and positive attitude, Manny consistently uplifts the team’s spirit whether he is in the office or working on-site. His personal motto is “Today is a great day to have a great day.”

Outside of work, he enjoys his daily runs and spending quality time with his lovely wife and two sons.

Robert Madden

Special Inspection Department Manager

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Robert serves as the Special Inspection Department Manager. With more than 12 years of experience in traffic engineering, he brings a broad range of technical, operational, and managerial expertise to the organization. Originally from Tacoma, Washington, Robert relocated to Pensacola in 1989 and has since become a well-respected and integral figure in the local construction and engineering industry.

His expertise spans a wide array of critical areas, including special inspections, proposal development, detailed report writing, CADD drafting and design, and certified commercial drone operations as a licensed Remote Pilot. This diverse and well-rounded skill set allows him to serve as a true “jack of all trades” at LMJ. Robert is recognized for his exceptional versatility, strong project management abilities, and practical problem-solving skills, enabling him to seamlessly oversee complex technical inspection projects while effectively handling broader operational responsibilities.

Outside of work, Robert is a talented photographer who maintains a healthy balance between his professional commitments, creative passions, and family life. He enjoys spending quality time with his beautiful wife and their three children on their mini farm.

Robin Wynn

Laboratory Department Director

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Robin serves as the Laboratory Department Director at LMJ, bringing over 25 years of invaluable experience in the testing of concrete, aggregates, soils, and various other construction materials. He has contributed to a wide range of significant projects, including those for the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT), U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), U.S. Navy (USN), and U.S. Air Force (USAF). Robin has been a key member of the LMJ team since joining in January 2021.

A U.S. Army Infantry veteran with 10 years of service, Robin brings exceptional discipline, attention to detail, and a strong commitment to quality and mission accomplishment. He excels in all aspects of laboratory operations, including advanced materials testing, quality systems compliance, and the ongoing maintenance and improvement of LMJ’s Laboratory Quality Management System. His technical certifications include ACI Aggregate Base Testing Technician, ACI Aggregate Testing Technician, and CTQP LBR Testing Technician.

Known for his friendly, positive, and approachable demeanor, Robin embodies a true “Mr. Do Whatever Needs to Be Done” attitude. He is highly respected for his willingness to step up, solve problems, and support the team in any capacity necessary to ensure laboratory excellence and project success.

Ronnie Albritton

Special Inspector
CMT Project Manager

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Ronnie serves as a CMT Project Manager and Special Inspector at LMJ. Born and raised in Pensacola, Florida, he earned an Associate of Science (A.S.) in Cybersecurity from Pensacola State College. With more than 4 years of experience in the geotechnical and construction materials testing industry, Ronnie joined LMJ in 2023 as a CMT Technician and quickly advanced to Project Manager and Special Inspector through his strong work ethic, technical aptitude, and rapid professional growth.

He holds certifications as an ACI Concrete Construction Special Inspector and an ICC Soils Special Inspector. Ronnie’s expertise spans a wide range of critical areas, including CADD drafting and design, proposal and report development, client management, construction materials testing, special inspections, and laboratory testing. He brings strong proficiency and adaptability to every responsibility, excelling at managing multiple tasks with efficiency and keen attention to detail.

Outside of work, Ronnie enjoys riding his Harley Davidson Street Glide, playing golf, and building high-performance gaming computers.

Juell Gibson

Special Inspector Senior Engineering Technician

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Juell serves as a Senior Engineering Technician and Special Inspector at LMJ, bringing more than 25 years of extensive hands-on experience in the construction materials and laboratory testing, and inspection industry. He earned an Associate of Science (A.S.) in Drafting & Design Technologies and has been a valued member of the LMJ team since joining in April 2005.

Juell maintains key certifications including ACI Concrete Special Inspector, GPR Operator, and is a highly experienced stormwater and preexisting conditions inspector. His diverse and accomplished background includes achieving the rank of Eagle Scout and serving as an Engineering Aid in the U.S. Navy Seabees (Naval Mobile Construction Battalion), experiences that strengthened his discipline, technical skills, and commitment to excellence.

His technical expertise is broad and deep, encompassing geotechnical and concrete testing, laboratory testing and management, surveying, drafting and design, as well as detailed special inspections. Juell is recognized for his ability to tackle complex field challenges with confidence and precision, consistently delivering accurate, high-quality results that support successful project outcomes. Known for his knowledgeable yet relaxed and approachable demeanor, Juell is a dependable, steady professional who serves as a strong mentor and resource for the team.

Michelle Singleton

CMT Project Administrator

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Michelle Singleton serves as the CMT Project Administrator at LMJ. With a strong background in administrative support and coordination, she brings valuable experience from previous roles as a Project Assistant at Ernst & Young and as a Training Registrar for OSHA classes at Orr Safety Corporation. She earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science from Bellarmine University and is originally from Louisville, Kentucky. Michelle recently relocated to Pensacola, Florida, and has quickly become a vital member of the LMJ team.

In her role as CMT Project Administrator, Michelle excels in project documentation and records management, report preparation, scheduling and coordination of field and inspection activities, client communication, and billing support. She ensures smooth project execution by maintaining organized records, tracking deliverables, and supporting compliance with industry standards and project requirements.

When she’s not at work, Michelle enjoys spending time with her husband, three children, daughter-in-law, and two dogs. A fun fact: she is a huge Arsenal fan and one of her favorite activities is watching English Premier League games with her family.

JC Carstens

Business Development and Marketing Specialist

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We are thrilled to welcome JC to the LMJ team as our new Business Development and Marketing Specialist!

JC brings a unique blend of technical expertise, innovative problem-solving, and proven business development acumen to our team. With a strong foundation in biomedical engineering from Florida International University and specialized training in Advanced Engineering Principles from Rhein-Waal University in Germany, he has driven revenue growth, market expansion, and strategic sales initiatives for cutting-edge technologies.

A creative and exceptionally talented Business Development and Marketing professional, JC thrives in dynamic, team-oriented environments. He is passionate about advancing the A/E/C industry through client-focused solutions, relationship-building, and collaborative growth strategies. He strengthens client relationships to drive repeated business and build long-term partnerships

JC’s hands-on experience includes groundbreaking research in cardiovascular therapeutics at FIU and a key role in enhancing heart valve stent production at Strait Access Technologies. He combines deep technical knowledge with the ability to translate complex engineering solutions into compelling business opportunities. Fluent in Afrikaans, English, and German, he excels at building international relationships and navigating global markets.

We are excited to have JC on board and look forward to the fresh insights, energy, and strategic growth he will bring to our clients and projects.

Gerald Manning

CADD Specialist

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Gerald serves as CADD Specialist at LMJ, bringing more than 10 years of experience and a strong, diverse background in the U.S. Marine Corps (USMC), healthcare, and construction industries. He earned an Associate Degree in Architectural Design & Building Construction and has been a valuable member of the LMJ team since joining in August 2020.

Gerald demonstrates exceptional expertise in AutoCAD, GIS, and Revit, producing precise, detailed, and highly efficient designs that support complex engineering projects. He is particularly skilled at working under tight deadlines and performing critical utility clearance tasks to ensure each project is fully prepared for drilling operations, helping the team consistently meet contract timelines and deliverables. Always willing to help in any department in any way he can, Gerald is a true team player who readily steps up to support colleagues across the firm.

Known for his excellent communication skills, Gerald excels at clearly conveying technical information to team members, which greatly enhances project coordination and collaboration. With a professional and friendly demeanor, he consistently delivers high-quality results that contribute to overall project success.

Beyond the office, he is a dedicated Primitive Baptist Church Elder, a devoted family man, and a passionate music lover.

Terry Wheeler

Senior NDT Inspector

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Terry brings more than 40 years of experience in non-destructive testing (NDT) to LMJ. A former owner of a materials testing company, Terry possesses a rare combination of entrepreneurial insight and deep technical mastery that strengthens the firm’s NDT capabilities. He has pursued decades of continuous professional development and advanced certifications through the American Society of Naval Engineers (ASNE) and the American Welding Society (AWS).

Since joining LMJ in 2016, Terry has further refined his expertise across a wide range of NDT services, including liquid penetrant testing, magnetic particle testing, ultrasonic testing, and visual testing. His hands-on background in materials testing allows him to approach complex inspections with exceptional skill, efficiency, and attention to detail.

Known for his extensive knowledge, self-sufficiency, and strong commitment to quality, Terry consistently upholds the highest standards in NDT practices. He is a reliable and respected member of the team.

When he is not conducting inspections in the field, Terry enjoys spending time with his wife and granddaughter at travel volleyball tournaments.

Brandon Newkirk

Engineering Intern Project Manager

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Brandon earned a Bachelor of Science in Engineering Physics from the University of West Florida and is currently pursuing his Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering, with plans to obtain his Engineer Intern  (FE/EIT) certification and graduate in Spring 2027. His strong technical background, analytical mindset, and passion for engineering make him a valuable and growing member of the LMJ team.

Originally from Key Largo, Florida, Brandon relocated to the Pensacola area in 2014. At LMJ, he supports the engineering department on a wide range of projects and operational tasks, including project coordination, proposal preparation, report development, soil classification, and general engineering assistance. His ability to adapt quickly, stay organized, and contribute across multiple aspects of a project helps keep assignments moving efficiently from start to finish.

A lifelong enthusiast of geology and construction environment, Brandon has found a natural fit in the geotechnical engineering field. He enjoys learning the practical and technical aspects of the industry and is continually expanding his knowledge through both hands-on experience and academic study. Known for being motivated, dependable, and hardworking, Brandon consistently demonstrates a strong work ethic and a willingness to take on new challenges while continuing to grow professionally.

Outside of work, Brandon enjoys spending time outdoors and taking advantage of the natural environments that first inspired his interest in engineering and geology. His hobbies include camping, kayaking, snorkeling, and exploring the outdoors whenever possible.

Cherie Schofield

Administrative Support Specialist

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Cherie is a key member of the LMJ administrative team, bringing a strong background in accounting, insurance, and operational support to her role. She provides essential administrative support to both the office and the CMT department, managing and distributing CMT reports and laboratory test results while helping ensure daily operations run smoothly and efficiently.

In addition to maintaining all fleet records and responsibilities, Cherie oversees certificate of insurance records, firm insurance policies, office supply inventory, and Not-to-Exceed (NTE) contract tracking, ensuring accurate documentation, organization, and compliance across multiple areas of the company’s operations. Her attention to detail and proactive approach make her an invaluable resource for both field and office staff.

Cherie also plays a vital role in supporting company culture by planning and coordinating staff parties, celebrations, and team events that foster a welcoming and positive work environment. Known for being incredible and lovely to work with, she is highly regarded for her reliability, professionalism, exceptional organizational skills, and willingness to support the entire team wherever needed.

Originally from Smyrna, Georgia, Cherie has called the Pensacola area home since 2003. Outside of work, she is a talented mural artist who enjoys painting and expressing her creativity. She treasures spending quality time with her family, including her husband of 28 years and their three children.