In 1972, Richard Kier and James Wright open a civil engineering and land surveying firm in the center of the Santa Clara Valley. As a two-man show working out of a machine shop in Santa Clara, Dick and Jim design improvements, prepare maps, complete field work, and provide construction staking services to support commercial land development and construction projects. Through their commitment to consistently preparing quality, constructible plans and their eagerness to go the extra mile for their clients, Dick and Jim begin to build a reputation for their new business.