Meet The People Behind the Projects

Lee R. Beckman, P.E., P.L.S.

Owner / Project Manager

As a key leader and co-owner of Milano & Grunloh Engineers, LLC, Lee Beckman plays an essential role in guiding the firm’s vision, operations, and engineering standards. Since joining the company in 1999 and becoming a partner in 2002, Lee has been instrumental in shaping its reputation for technical excellence, regulatory reliability, and client trust across Central and Southern Illinois.

With a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from the University of Illinois and dual licensure as a Professional Engineer and Professional Land Surveyor, Lee offers a rare depth of expertise across both design and fieldwork. His leadership influences everything from municipal infrastructure development to strategic project administration, making him a cornerstone in the firm’s success.

Lee is actively involved in professional associations—serving as past President of the Ambraw Chapter of the Illinois Society of Professional Engineers (ISPE), a member of the National Trail Chapter of the Illinois Professional Land Surveyors Association (IPLSA), and an engaged supporter of the Friends of St. Anthony. These roles reflect his commitment to both industry advancement and community engagement.

Born and raised in rural Bishop Creek, Illinois, Lee now resides in rural Dieterich with his wife, Angie, and they have five children—Jake, Devin, Claire, Connor, and Dawson. They also have one grandson – Walker.

See Professional Resume

Douglas C. Grunloh, P.L.S.

Owner / Project Manager

Doug Grunloh has been a cornerstone of Milano & Grunloh Engineers, LLC since 1992, contributing decades of expertise in surveying and project management. He became a partner in 2014 and continues to lead with a hands-on approach and deep knowledge of field operations.

Doug earned a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Technology from Southern Illinois University Carbondale, and he holds licensure as a Professional Land Surveyor. Doug is a longstanding member of the Illinois Professional Land Surveyors Association (IPLSA)—where he served as President of the National Trail Chapter.

He brings advanced technical skills to his role, including proficiency in CAD and extensive experience in boundary surveys, topographic surveys, ALTA surveys, construction staking, and material testing. In addition to managing day-to-day operations of the field survey crew, Doug oversees critical aspects of construction staking and material testing, ensuring accuracy and regulatory compliance across all stages of development.

Born and raised in Teutopolis, Illinois, Doug currently resides in rural Lillyville with his wife, Erin, and their three children—Ben, Alex, and Sophia.

See Professional Resume

Rex A. Gower, P.E.

Principal Engineer / Project Manager

Rex Gower joined Milano & Grunloh Engineers, LLC in 2018, bringing a versatile engineering background and a strong track record in infrastructure design. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Engineering from Southern Illinois University Carbondale, where he developed a foundation in civil and environmental systems.

As a Project Manager, Rex contributes to a range of public and private development initiatives, with specialized expertise in water treatment plant design and municipal infrastructure. His experience spans preliminary design through final construction, ensuring projects meet both technical and regulatory standards.

Rex maintains an array of industry certifications, including Soil Testing, Concrete Testing, Nuclear Gauge Testing, OSHA Safety Training, and Pipeline Emergency Response and Damage Prevention. These credentials reflect his commitment to safe, compliant, and high-performing engineering practices.

Mitch J. Hardiek, P.E.

Project Engineer / Project Manager

Mitch Hardiek joined Milano & Grunloh Engineers, LLC in 2021, bringing a solid foundation in civil engineering and a detail-oriented approach to infrastructure development. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, where he cultivated a strong technical background in site design and municipal systems.

At Milano & Grunloh, Mitch specializes in the design and implementation of infrastructure projects, with particular expertise in site plans, potable water distribution systems, wastewater treatment solutions, and street improvements. His work reflects a commitment to precision, compliance, and community-focused engineering.

Mitch maintains multiple industry certifications, including Nuclear Gauge Testing, OSHA Safety Training, and Pipeline Emergency Response and Damage Prevention, underscoring his dedication to safety and regulatory standards in the field.