Unified practice combines AEC industry strategy and financial expertise to accelerate the success of ownership transitions.

YORK, PA / ACCESS Newswire / January 29, 2026 / Stambaugh Ness and Zweig Group today announced the formal alignment of their M&A practices into a unified, expanded platform designed to better serve architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) firms navigating ownership transition and growth strategies.

By joining forces, the two firms will operate one integrated transition-focused practice across both businesses, encompassing Ownership Transition Services, Valuation & Modeling Services, and full-spectrum M&A Advisory. The unified approach is intended to provide AEC firm leaders with more efficient, coordinated, and industry-specialized experience-from early-stage planning through transaction execution and post-deal value creation.

"This is a natural evolution of our strategic partnership and shared commitment to the AEC industry," said Chad Clinehens, President and CEO of Zweig Group. "By aligning our teams, methodologies, and go-to-market strategy, we're expanding the capabilities and resources available to our clients while growing the prospects available to them on the buy-side and sell-side. This provides greater opportunities for strategic and cultural fit on both sides of a transaction."

The combined practice leverages Stambaugh Ness's deep financial, operational, and transaction advisory expertise alongside Zweig Group's decades-long focus on AEC firm performance and strategy. Together, the firms offer a purpose-built solution for owners considering internal succession, external sale, recapitalization, or strategic growth through acquisition.

"Our clients are facing increasingly complex decisions around ownership, transition, and value," said Steven L. Hake, President and CEO of Stambaugh Ness. "Operating as a single practice allows us to meet those challenges head-on with a cohesive team that understands both the technical and human sides of transition."

Additional information can be found online at AECgrowth.com, which will serve as a centralized resource for AEC firm leaders exploring transition options, market insights, and advisory services.

About Stambaugh Ness
Stambaugh Ness (SN) is a professional services firm serving clients nationally with a singular focus on architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC). With Stambaugh Ness, clients have access to a wide array of services - including advisory, technology, and accounting and tax - that enable them to meet compliance requirements, avoid risk, thrive, and grow. Learn more at www.stambaughness.com.

About Zweig Group
Zweig Group is the leading advisory firm exclusively serving the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry. With a full suite of services including consulting, training, publishing, and events, Zweig Group is dedicated to helping AEC firms achieve their goals and drive sustainable growth. Learn more at www.zweiggroup.com.

Media Contact: Alyson Fieldman, Chief Growth Officer, Stambaugh Ness afieldman@stambaughness.com 717.481.3025

SOURCE: Stambaugh Ness