We are geotechnical engineering and construction problem solvers and solution providers.
We’ve been solving geotechnical construction and engineering problems and providing high-quality solutions for our clients and partners across the country for more than 70 years. We’re proud to be using our expertise to build the foundations of America’s infrastructure, including projects that focus on clean air and clean water.
Nicholson is the North American subsidiary of Soletanche Bachy, a France-based global leader in geotechnical and civil engineering construction.
Soletanche Bachy and its subsidiaries around the world serve a wide range of clients in the public and private sectors, including central and local governments, industrial, general building and civil engineering contractors, property developers and project promoters.
The company offers an extensive portfolio of geotechnical solutions, special foundations, underground construction, ground improvement and pollution treatment and control.
Nicholson is Back in NYC
Nicholson installed a 215,000SF Diaphragm Wall along the Gowanus Canal in Brooklyn, NY to provide excavation support and groundwater cutoff for a 4-million gallon CSO tank for the NYCDEP. This marks the return of Nicholson to the NYC market since the mid 2010s.
Innovative Stormwater Solution Installed on I-35W
The Kraemer/Nicholson Joint Venture, through an Early Contractor Involvement (ECI) contract with MnDOT, installed a stormwater storage facility along I-35W to prevent flooding. The project includes six diaphragm wall shafts, deep well dewatering, cross passages, jet grouting, and a pump station.
Wanapum Dam Emergency
Nicholson leads a 24/7 emergency operation to prevent Wanapum Dam failure, installing large anchors, including underwater stabilization. This project showcases Nicholson’s ability to rapidly mobilize teams and deploy advanced geotechnical solutions for critical infrastructure challenges.
Growth Under Vinci
Soletanche Bachy, Nicholson's parent company, is acquired by Vinci, a global construction leader. This acquisition provides us with expanded resources, cutting-edge technology, and international market access, furthering its reputation as an industry leader in geotechnical engineering and infrastructure solutions.
New Era with Soletanche Bachy
After Rodio, the previous owner files for bankruptcy, Nicholson joins global geotechnical leader Soletanche Bachy, expanding its capabilities with advanced technologies like diaphragm walls. This partnership strengthens Nicholson’s expertise in deep foundation solutions and complex ground improvement techniques worldwide.
World Trade Center Recovery
Less than a month after 9/11, Nicholson steps in for emergency repairs at the Twin Towers, stabilizing basement excavation supports. Nicholson remains engaged in reconstruction, demonstrating its rapid response capabilities and dedication to restoring critical infrastructure.
Mandalay Bay Emergency
Nicholson played a pivotal role in stabilizing the Mandalay Bay Hotel before its grand opening, preventing excessive settlement with the installation of 536 micropiles. Each micropile was equipped with a permanent frame and jack, allowing for lifting and stabilization of the hotel’s foundation mat. This project showcased our expertise in rapid, effective solutions for critical infrastructure under extreme conditions.
Boston Big Dig
Nicholson contributed to the Boston Big Dig, installing the first U.S. soil mixing support system for the Ted Williams Tunnel and Central Artery Tunnel. The project also marked Nicholson’s debut in jet grouting, demonstrating its expertise in advanced ground engineering on one of the nation’s most complex infrastructure projects.
Micropile Breakthrough
Nicholson introduces the first high-capacity micropile (Pin Pile) in the U.S. for Shenango Steel. This breakthrough technology revolutionizes foundation reinforcement, providing innovative solutions for challenging soil conditions and expanding Nicholson’s reputation as an industry leader in geotechnical engineering.
Innovation in Anchors
Arthur, driven by a passion for innovation, expanded into anchor technology by forming a joint venture with Universal Anchorage, creating NAC under the leadership of his son, Pete. This venture led to two industry firsts: the installation of the first permanent soil anchor in the U.S. for the Corps of Engineers in South Haven, MI, and the first permanent rock anchor in Butler, PA.
The Beginning
Nicholson was founded by Arthur Nicholson in his Pittsburgh basement, initially specializing in pile driving. As steel mills and the interstate highway system expanded, the company grew rapidly, establishing itself as a leader in deep foundation solutions.
Our Team is extremely passionate about the work that we do. To be good at this work, you really have to love every aspect—meeting the challenges when they present themselves, solving the problems and seeing the projects come to life. And we do —we love it all.
Safety
Nicholson believes every incident is preventable, and is dedicated to achieving zero incidents on every project. We’re stepping up to make our job sites some of the safest in the country. Learn more about our safety practices and initiatives.
People
Our culture feels like family. We work hard, we laugh a lot and we look out for each other. Though we don’t always agree one everything, at the end of the day—we’re all in it together.
Join Our Team
Build a great career with a solid support system! Join a company that feels like family and learn from some of the best in the industry.
Women in Construction
We are committed to the forward progress of women in the construction industry and the development and success of the women in Nicholson.
Sustainability
As a company, and as part of the global Soletanche Bachy family, we are committed to initiatives that keep our planet thriving (and green!)for future generations. Our global family’s directive is to reduce our collective carbon footprint by 40% in 2030.
