In 1982, after working in design/build feed mill construction and as Regional Manager of Engineering for Continental Grain Company, Richard Kobetz, P.E., formed Sunfield Engineering, Inc. with the goal of providing engineering services tailored to the specific needs of clients engaged in the handling, processing and storage of grain, feed and dry bulk materials. From his construction engineering background, Richard knew there were many companies in need of impartial technical assistance in planning and executing capital projects, but could not afford their own engineer on staff. To make professional engineering accessible and affordable for every client, Sunfield would focus on the economics of sound engineering decisions: Engineering should not only pay for itself, but should contribute to the client’s bottom line. Since opening, Sunfield has continuously served both family-owned businesses and major national and international corporations.
Richard Kobetz, P.E., President
Richard is a hands-on design professional who enjoys every aspect of engineering, from fieldwork to computer-aided design. His greatest professional satisfaction has come from learning and understanding his client’s operation, then applying his experience and engineering skills to solve problems and help make their business grow. Richard holds a Master of Science in Civil/Structural Engineering and a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from Michigan Technological University, and served in the United States Navy Seabees.
Kay Kobetz, Vice President
Kay is responsible for the management of the firm; her client-centered responsibilities include facility evaluations and reports, construction observation, master plan development, project manual preparation, and the logistics of competitive bidding. She earned a Bachelor of Business Administration from the Seidman College of Business at Grand Valley State University and an Associate in Science from Southwestern Michigan College. Prior to forming Sunfield, she worked in electrical wholesaling and industrial flexible duct manufacturing.
For an engineer, licensure is an ongoing commitment to act in the best interest of the client and the public, to uphold the profession by competently executing their technical responsibilities. Sunfield’s engineering services are conducted under the direction of a Registered Professional Engineer licensed to perform consulting services, stamp and seal designs, and offer services to the public. Current licensure includes over 25 states and British Columbia. A Counsel Record is maintained with the national "National Counsel of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying" to expedite the process for licensure in additional states. To learn more about licensure and NCEES visit: National Counsel of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying®
American Concrete Institute | Committee 313: Concrete Bins & Silos
- Voting Member
Feed Plant Layout and Design by Richard Kobetz, P.E./Kay Kobetz
Chapter 5, Section II - Feed Manufacturing Technology IV
American Feed Industry Association, Inc.
Feed Plant Layout and Design by Richard Kobetz, P.E./Kay Kobetz
Chapter 5 - Feed Manufacturing Technology V
American Feed Industry Association, Inc.
Pellet line layout and design: A systems approach by Richard Kobetz, P.E.
Kansas State Univerity | NC State University
Reviewed and Edited by Cassandra Jones, Charles Stark, and Adam Fahrenholz
A Plan with a Purpose by Steve Davidson, Feed & Grain Magazine
Cover Story | Belstra Milling Co., Inc.
Turning Crisis into Progress by Elise Schafer, Feed & Grain Magazine
Cover Story | Egg Innovations
Added Storage, More Flexibility by Karl Ohm, Milling Journal
Cover Story | Jiffy Mix
Many clients request confidentiality as they seek a competitive edge in today’s market.
Projects being executed under confidentiality agreements with Sunfield Engineering include:
• Development of New Products
• Creation of Proprietary Processes
• Corporate Mergers
• Acquisition of Facilities
• Development of New Equipment
• Exploration of New Markets
Sunfield Engineering is not affiliated with any manufacturer or construction company and does not derive any income from commissions or a percentage of construction costs. Project services, based on an established scope of work, are performed on a fixed fee basis to ensure that the owner is provided with extensive, impartial information. Sunfield subscribes to the National Society of Professional Engineers® Code of Ethics.
