History

Founded in 1969 in Winchester, Kentucky, Palmer Engineering began with two University of Kentucky graduates, Ralph Palmer and Richard Nunan, who saw an opportunity to bring their vision for a client-focused, quality-driven engineering firm to life. With determination, long hours, and a commitment to excellence, they laid the foundation for what would become one of the region’s most trusted civil and structural engineering and surveying firms.

From those early years—when Palmer Engineering was recognized for its hard work, in-house collaboration, and dedication to quality—the company has grown steadily while staying true to its values. By its 25th anniversary, the firm had expanded to nearly 60 employees and earned a reputation for delivering reliable, innovative solutions.

Today

Palmer Engineering is proud to carry that legacy forward with a team of more than 120 professionals and 11 offices across Kentucky, Ohio, Tennessee, West Virginia, and Florida. Our expertise spans civil and structural engineering, bridge and transportation design, land surveying, stormwater management, and environmental services. With more than 3,500 projects successfully completed for public and private clients, we continue to strengthen communities, improve infrastructure, and build lasting relationships. Check out some of our projects here to see how we deliver innovative, real-world solutions.

What began as a small Winchester-based firm with deep community roots has grown into a trusted, employee-owned company driven by the same values of integrity, collaboration, and technical excellence that shaped our earliest days.