OUR HISTORY
The Founding of Lars Andersen & Associates, Inc.
Lars Andersen & his brother immigrated from Denmark, first arriving in Australia before making their way to the United States. After landing in San Francisco, they traveled along the West Coast, working at Yosemite National Park before settling in California’s Central San Joaquin Valley.
The brothers began their careers as surveyors, gaining valuable experience at prominent Fresno firms such as W.O. Gentry Land Surveying. Afterward, they partnered with Mr. Segel to establish their own firm in the Central Valley, laying the foundation for Lars Andersen & Associates, Inc.
Working at Yosemite National Park
Upon earning enough for the transoceanic voyage, the brothers boarded a ship to the port of San Francisco. From there, they made their way along the West Coast, working at Yosemite National Park along the way, before ultimately settling in California’s Central San Joaquin Valley.
Modest Beginnings
The brothers honed their skills working for prominent Fresno survey firms, including W.O. Gentry Land Surveying. After gaining valuable experience, they partnered with Mr. Segel to launch their own firm in California’s Central Valley.
Expanding into Entrepreneurship
With the founding of the firm, Lars Andersen’s wife, Ruth, opened a Bed & Breakfast in Santa Cruz, where Lars spent his weekends. Known as the Santa Cruz Tavern, the home still stands today near the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. Guests and visitors can view an original letter from a United States Coast Guard seaman, praising the hospitality of Mr. and Mrs. Andersen.
Incorporation and Growth
Following the passing of Mr. Segel and then Andy Andersen, Lars assumed full leadership and incorporated the firm in 1941. Starting with surveying services, Lars Andersen & Associates gradually expanded into civil engineering and design, becoming a trusted provider for residential, commercial, municipal, and educational projects across California.
Building a Family Legacy
Lars involved his daughter, Mary Mommer, and grandson, Scott Mommer, in the firm’s daily operations, ensuring continuity and hands-on leadership. He remained actively engaged well into his 90s, taking pride in the thriving company he and his brother built.
Favorite Adages
In his work, Andersen was fond of two adages, which he often quoted, now fondly remembered by his grandson.
“A good contractor will make a bad engineer look good, and a bad contractor will make a good engineer look bad.” And
“Every project should always be completed to the highest level of engineering, regardless of cost. Quality should not be compromised so we can save the firm a buck.”
Leadership of Scott Mommer
Scott Mommer pursued a Bachelor’s Degree in Civil Engineering at California State University, Fresno, with the goal of leading the firm. After gaining experience as a Public Works Inspector for the City of Reedley, he returned to Lars Andersen & Associates, working his way up through the ranks.
Trained under his grandfather’s guidance, Scott eventually became company president and expanded the firm to its largest size in the mid-2000s, serving Fortune 500 clients across the Western United States while maintaining its strong reputation for expertise, reliability, and client-focused solutions.
Launching Careers in Civil Engineering and Design
Lars Andersen & Associates has been a springboard for some of Fresno’s most prominent civil engineers. By providing a strong foundation in surveying, civil engineering, and project management, the firm has helped countless individuals launch successful careers. Many dedicated employees have remained integral to the firm’s ongoing success, contributing to its reputation for excellence throughout the Central Valley.
Engineering Relationships
Our firm maintains a great ongoing relationship with several distinguished engineers as they continue to contribute to the industry. One former team member who made a great impression on the firm was Manuel Furtado. After he was honorably discharged from the Navy in World War II, Manuel, known throughout the civil engineering industry as "Bucky," came to work at Lars Andersen.
Giving Honor
Manuel Furtado stayed with Lars Andersen & Associates, Inc. for 46 years. He continued with the firm until a short time before his death on October 13th, 1991. Our firm continues to owe the men and women like “Bucky” deep gratitude for their contribution to Lars Andersen & Associates, Inc., one of the oldest civil engineering and design firms in the valley.
One of the Oldest, Family-Run Civil Engineering Firm
Seventy-five years after Andy and Lars Andersen began pursuing the American Dream, Lars Andersen & Associates, Inc. remains one of the oldest civil engineering firms in California. Under the leadership of Scott Mommer, the firm continues to deliver innovative and impactful civil engineering and surveying solutions nationwide. Serving municipal, residential, commercial, and educational clients, Lars Andersen & Associates, Inc. is trusted for expertise in all areas of development and design.
Daniel Zoldak
Today, Lars Andersen & Associates, Inc. is guided by Daniel Zoldak, P.E., LEED AP, CASp, the firm’s Vice President and Chief Operating Officer (COO). With years of dedicated service, Zoldak has provided the leadership, vision, and forward-thinking approach needed to diversify the firm’s client base and ensure continued growth. His expertise has helped the firm thrive through evolving market conditions, maintaining its reputation for excellence in civil engineering and surveying services.