Draper Aden Associates
Challenge: Draper Aden Associates, an engineering, surveying, and environmental services firm, had an impressive project list and lengthy roster of clients in Virginia, but had not gained earned media coverage in a number of years and was having trouble expanding its reach to the broader Mid-Atlantic region. The firm recognized the need to raise awareness in new markets about its powerful track record of success and growing services. Furthermore, the engineering sector was becoming increasingly competitive.
Solution: Gray Ryan Communications designed a multi-year public relations and awards campaign that positioned Draper Aden and targeted team members as leaders in their field. The PR campaign focused on local coverage in new and existing markets as well as trade publications that were highly respected and widely read by the firm’s clients. Media outreach was tailored to align with the firm’s business development objectives and emphasized the practice areas that the firm prioritized for growth. In addition to the PR campaign, Gray Ryan also developed and implemented an awards program to identify prestigious recognitions and assist the firm in crafting compelling submissions.
Bottom Line: The results of Gray Ryan’s efforts are tremendous. The firm and its leaders have been featured in numerous publications, including The Richmond Times-Dispatch, Virginia Business, InsideBusiness, Triangle Business Journal, College Planning + Management, American Infrastructure, Engineering News-Record, Industry Today, Public Works, Erosion Control, Construction Today, American City & County, and dozens of others. Since 2016, Draper Aden has received over 250 earned media placements. Many of these feature profiles have led to new business for the firm. Gray Ryan also developed more than 10 successful award nominations for the firm, including a national award from the American Council of Engineering Companies and ACEC Virginia’s Pinnacle Award (top engineering project in the state). These awards have led to new projects from existing clients.