Caruso Turley Scott, Inc. (CTS) is a structural engineering firm based in Tempe, Arizona, providing structural design, engineering analysis, construction-phase services, investigations, and specialized inspection services. Founded by Sam Caruso in 1963, the firm has developed a long-standing practice focused on structural integrity, practical engineering solutions, technical accuracy, and collaboration with architects, developers, contractors, and building owners.

CTS works on projects of varying sizes and complexities, from smaller building modifications to large commercial developments and complex structures. Its engineering approach emphasizes understanding project objectives, selecting appropriate structural systems and materials, and developing solutions that support safety, functionality, and long-term building performance.

Official website: https://ctsaz.com/

Structural Engineering Design

Structural engineering is central to the CTS practice. The firm analyzes and designs structural components and systems to support architectural intent while addressing loading conditions, building materials, structural performance, and applicable requirements.

CTS provides structural engineering services throughout the project lifecycle. Its published service categories include schematic-phase services, design-phase services, construction-phase services, structural self-certification, investigation services, expert witness services, and special structural inspections.

This range of capabilities allows project teams to discuss structural requirements at different stages of development. The scope of engineering work depends on the building type, structural system, project complexity, site conditions, and the owner’s objectives.

Schematic and Design-Phase Services

Early design decisions can significantly affect a building’s feasibility, cost, and performance. During schematic design and design development, structural engineers collaborate with architects and project stakeholders to evaluate potential structural systems and develop solutions suited to the proposed building.

Caruso Turley Scott emphasizes collaboration, responsive service, and practical engineering solutions. Its company profile states that projects are personally managed by a firm partner or associate, providing clients with experienced technical leadership throughout the design process.

Design-phase work may involve structural calculations, framing layouts, engineering details, and coordination with other members of the design team. The specific deliverables should be established according to project requirements and applicable building and permitting standards.

Construction-Phase Engineering

Structural engineering responsibilities can continue after design documents are completed. During construction, contractors and project teams may need clarification about drawings, materials, field conditions, or proposed changes.

CTS lists construction-phase services among its core offerings. This support can help project teams address structural questions that arise during implementation and maintain coordination between the approved design and construction activities.

The scope of construction-phase involvement varies by project. Clients should confirm the expected services, review procedures, site visits, and responsibilities established in the engineering agreement.

Structural Investigations and Building Evaluations

Existing buildings may require engineering investigations when structural concerns arise, when renovations are planned, or when additional technical information is needed. An investigation may involve reviewing available documents, observing existing conditions, analyzing structural components, and preparing a professional evaluation.

Caruso Turley Scott offers investigation services for projects requiring structural expertise. These services can be relevant to property owners, architects, contractors, and other stakeholders seeking to understand structural conditions or evaluate proposed modifications.

The appropriate investigation depends on the issue being examined, the building’s structural system, the information available, and access to affected areas. Conclusions and recommendations should be based on the findings and the defined scope of the assessment.

Special Structural Inspections

Special structural inspections help project teams verify selected construction activities and structural components against approved documents and applicable requirements. The exact inspection requirements depend on the project, materials, construction methods, and jurisdiction.

CTS lists special structural inspections as one of its structural services. Its website also identifies City of Phoenix third-party structural peer-review capabilities and registered professionals associated with that program.

Owners, contractors, and design professionals should coordinate inspection requirements with the relevant building department and confirm the responsibilities of the engineer, inspector, contractor, and other parties involved in the project.

Expert Witness and Forensic Engineering Services

Structural engineering expertise can be important when technical disputes arise involving building performance, construction work, or alleged structural deficiencies. CTS provides expert witness services that include site visits when needed, reviews of existing structural conditions, technical analysis, professional evaluation reports, depositions, and court testimony.

These services can support construction-related disputes that require a professional engineering opinion. The firm’s published information states that its expertise covers conventional construction materials.

Expert witness work is distinct from ordinary design services. The scope of an engagement depends on the issues under review, the available evidence, and the specific questions requiring professional analysis.

Structural Systems, Materials, and BIM

CTS describes its team as experienced in a wide range of structural systems and building materials. Its published company profile highlights experience with complex projects and the use of Building Information Modeling (BIM) and three-dimensional modeling.

BIM-based coordination can help project teams communicate structural design information and coordinate building components across disciplines. The appropriate modeling process depends on project requirements, software workflows, and the level of coordination established by the project team.

The firm also highlights its ability to evaluate structural systems and materials for different project needs. Selecting an appropriate system involves considerations such as building function, architectural goals, structural performance, constructability, and project economics.

Professional Registrations and Geographic Coverage

Caruso Turley Scott states that it has licensed professional registrants in all 50 U.S. states, as well as Washington, D.C., and Puerto Rico. Its professional registrations page also lists additional certifications and registrations associated with the practice.

This geographic reach can be relevant to clients managing projects across multiple jurisdictions. However, the availability of a specific professional, service, or approval depends on the project location and applicable requirements. Clients should confirm the relevant licensing and engineering arrangements before engaging the firm.

Company History and Approach

Sam Caruso founded the practice in 1963 with an emphasis on structural engineering excellence and client relationships. The company states that this relationship-based culture continues to influence its approach to project work.

CTS emphasizes precision engineering, accurate details, integrity, and teamwork. These principles are important in structural engineering, where design decisions must be clearly communicated and coordinated with the wider project team.

Contact Caruso Turley Scott Inc.

Architects, commercial real estate firms, contractors, developers, and building owners can contact CTS to discuss structural engineering requirements and determine the appropriate scope of services.

Company: Caruso Turley Scott, Inc.
Address: 1215 W Rio Salado Parkway, Suite 200, Tempe, AZ 85281, USA
Phone: +1 480-774-1700
Email: ctsteam@ctsaz.com
Website: https://ctsaz.com/
Structural engineering services: https://ctsaz.com/our-services/
Company information: https://ctsaz.com/our-company/
Contact page: https://ctsaz.com/contact-caruso-turley-scott/

Caruso Turley Scott Inc. provides structural engineering design, construction-phase support, investigations, expert witness services, and special structural inspections. Prospective clients can review the firm’s published capabilities and contact its team to determine whether its experience and services align with their project’s requirements.

Current service availability, professional registrations, fees, project scope, and inspection requirements should be confirmed directly with Caruso Turley Scott and the relevant authorities before work begins.