Project Management
That Actually Works!

Real-world training and consulting for utility and capital project teams—helping you deliver complex projects safely, on time, and on budget.

Backed by 40+ years of hands-on project management, engineering, and construction leadership.

Built on Experience.
Proven in the Field.

Value Engineering Solutions (VES) delivers practical project management that works in the real world, not theory.

Every capital project comes with pressure—schedule, cost, safety, and performance all competing at once.

VES helps project teams navigate that reality with clarity and control.


Everything we teach and apply comes from real projects, where decisions have consequences and results matter.

Built and Delivered by Experienced Project Leadership

• Civil Engineer
• Licensed Contractor (AZ)
• Owner, Value Engineering Solutions
• Former ASU Instructor

Gary C. Barras, P.E.

Gary brings over 40 years of hands-on experience leading complex capital projects across multiple industries.

His work includes:

  • International mining projects

  • High-voltage electrical distribution and transmission systems

  • Fossil fuel power plants and hydroelectric dams

  • Office buildings, warehouses, and heavy equipment facilities


Gary directed the demolition of the largest coal-fired power plant in the western United States. The project was recognized with the National Demolition Association’s 2022 Award for Excellence in Demolition.

He has co-authored industry publications, taught construction management at Arizona State University. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering from the University of Arizona and a Master’s degree in Construction from Arizona State University. Gary is licensed in the State of Arizona as both a Civil Engineer and a Contractor.

Ways to Work with VES

Practical training and consulting designed to help teams solve real project challenges.

Project Management Training

Customized training sessions designed for utility teams and project managers. Available for individuals or groups, these sessions focus on real-world application, not textbook theory.

  • Tailored to your projects and challenges

  • Focused on practical application, not theory

Consulting & Project Support

Support for organizations facing challenges on active capital projects. VES helps identify root causes, solve complex issues, and implement practical solutions to keep projects moving forward.

  • Solve complex delivery challenges

  • Improve performance across active projects

Contact

If you're facing challenges on a capital project or looking to improve how your team plans and delivers work, VES can help.

Share a few details below, and we’ll follow up to discuss your project and how we can support your team.