CANTON - A Michigan-based architectural and engineering firm has inked a merger with a 16-year-old Canton company specializing in water and wastewater projects.

C2AE, a Lansing-based firm completed the deal with Burley-Guminiak & Associates, 70 Main St., during a ceremony Wednesday afternoon in Canton. The local company’s new name will be Capital Consultants Architecture and Engineering.

“This merger will provide more services to more clients,” stated William J. Kimble, president and chief executive officer. “This group brings a tremendous amount of expertise and will be a great asset and good fit.”

Founded in 1966, C2AE provides similar services as its Canton associates from its five Michigan offices.

Burley-Guminiak & Associates partners Timothy A. Burley and Robert F. Guminiak were excited about the merger, expressing optimism the move would help the Canton office attract and retain qualified employees while stimulating the local economy.

“It’s like a kid graduating from high school and it’s time to go to college. It’s time to stretch a bit and C2AE gives us that opportunity,” Mr. Burley said. “We have worked hard to grow our business in the north country and now it’s time to grow nationally.”

Mr. Burley used Clarkson University as an example of recruiting highly qualified engineers.

“This merger will have a big impact on our ability to attract and retain local talent,” he said.

His partner agreed.

“This is a tremendous opportunity to get people hired from northern New York and have them remain in northern New York,” said Mr. Guminiak. “C2AE has an exemplary reputation. It’s a perfect fit.”

Despite unsteady economy times, he said the company, in the next five to 10 years, would like to double its office staff from 10 to 20 employees and possibly open other offices in New York State.

State Sen. Patricia A. Ritchie (R-Heuvelton) was on hand to offer accolades on the merger.

The Canton office joins C2AE offices in Lansing, Grand Rapids, Gaylord, Escanaba, and Kalamazoo, MIch..

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