Terracon has been awarded a 2026 Engineering Excellence Award (EEA) for Building/Technology Systems by the American Council of Engineering Companies (ACEC) for the MUSC Health Jean and Hugh K. Leatherman Behavioral Care Pavilion Project, led by Medical University of South Carolina and Stantec.
The award was presented by ACEC at the 2026 EEA Gala on Tuesday, May 5 at the Grand Hyatt in Washington, D.C. ACEC’s 2026 Engineering Excellence Awards competition showcases the year’s best engineering achievements to a national audience of industry leaders and decision-makers. Prior to this event, Terracon also received the 2026 National Finalist Award by ACEC South Carolina for the same project.
Terracon played a pivotal role in ensuring this critical behavioral health facility became a reality through innovative, problem-solving solutions. During design, the roof assembly included a vapor barrier that added cost and complexity without clear functional benefit. Terracon performed advanced WUFI hygrothermal modeling to evaluate real-world HVAC conditions and moisture transfer. The analysis confirmed the vapor barrier was unnecessary, leading to its removal — a decision that saved approximately $80,000 and shortened the construction schedule by two to three weeks, vital gains for a fast-tracked project.
“This national recognition reflects Terracon’s commitment to delivering innovative, high‑performance solutions that create real value for our clients and communities,” said Vu Nguyen, E.I., RBEC, Facilities principal at Terracon. “Through advanced building science and proactive collaboration, our team helped accelerate delivery of the Jean and Hugh K. Leatherman Behavioral Care Pavilion while enhancing durability, efficiency, and long‑term performance. We’re proud that our work supports a facility setting a new standard for behavioral healthcare in South Carolina.”