Building on a solid 32 years of success in construction and design, PLATZ evolved from its’ founding company, Arab Engineering for Construction and Urbanization.
In the capable hands of Hussein El Sharkawy, the re-branded company is poised to expand its range of services and cement its place as a leader in design and engineering. CW caught up with him for a chat.
Hussein, how did you launch your career?
I hold a bachelor’s degree from the American University in Cairo with a construction management concentration and a minor in Architectural and Interior Design. My studies further fueled my passion for interior finishing.
Today, I am widely known for my ability to implement the latest out-of-the-box construction methods and technologies in line with international standards into our projects, this is a key element of the PLATZ identity.
How would you define the PLATZ mission?
The company’s mission is simple: Safety, quality, and aesthetically pleasing results, all integral elements of the PLATZ code of conduct. Over the several past years, PLATZ has built an excellent record of not only meeting, but surpassing client expectations by operating under fast-track timelines and delivering the promised scope of work within the agreed delivery schedule.
PLATZ’s latest methods of value engineering are implemented to deliver the finest finishing quality in accordance with client budgets.
Can you tell us about your scope of work?
Our family-owned business has maintained a successful track record for more than 30 years; delivering residential, commercial, and industrial projects. As a contracting company our scope of work includes core & shell, and internal finishes.
What is the PLATZ Edge?
PLATZ has an experienced team of highly qualified engineers, supervisors, and technicians that excel in executing the required items specified by experienced consultants and architects and interior designers.
By embracing a Lean Construction discipline we are able to serve client needs effectively, while working within budgetary and time constraints. Our team’s dedication and loyalty to the firm has enabled PLATZ to deliver each client’s special requests through ad hoc solutions implemented under our proficient managerial system.
How has PLATZ Evolved?
Carrying the responsibility of such a legacy is a challenge. In order to maintain the company’s reputation, while remaining up-to-date with ever-evolving construction methods and new international technology, PLATZ has established a research department to ensure that the company’s delivery methods are relentlessly rationalized; especially in aspects of budgeting, planning, and scheduling.
These are the most recurrent issues that arise in construction projects. As a company, discussions take place once or twice a year with expert members of the field in the US and UK, to discuss more advanced, unconventional technical innovations and managerial techniques to ensure consistent enhancement in the level of service provided by PLATZ.
What else is in the pipeline?
I’ve been offered an opportunity to supervise the senior graduation project in the concerned department at AUC, for the upcoming semester. And talks are currently taking place as to starting giving tutorials and seminars on modern approaches from a practical “working” perspective.
