About Us

High Country Engineering, PC (HCE) is a locally owned civil engineering firm based in Asheville, North Carolina, serving private developers, municipalities, and institutions throughout Western North Carolina. Founded in 2009 by Michael R. Goforth, PE, HCE delivers practical, high‑quality engineering solutions rooted in experience and local knowledge.

Our team specializes in water, wastewater, stormwater, and site design, including floodplain management, storm recovery, and state‑ and federally funded infrastructure projects. From early planning and permitting through design and construction support, we guide clients through every phase of development.

HCE is known for its hands‑on approach and strong client service. Every project is overseen by a North Carolina licensed Professional Engineer, with in‑house quality control and direct involvement from firm leadership. Clients work with a dedicated team—not layers of management, ensuring clear communication, accountability, and timely delivery. We offer the responsiveness of a local practice with the technical capability to deliver major infrastructure improvements efficiently and effectively.

Rooted in Western North Carolina, our team lives and works in the communities we serve. This local presence gives us a deep understanding of regional codes, permitting processes, and agency expectations, and allows us to collaborate closely with municipalities, contractors, and regulatory partners. Our reputation has been built not on marketing, but on consistent, dependable work and projects that stand the test of time.

What Sets Us Apart:

HCE is a practical, relationship‑driven engineering firm focused on getting projects done right. We work seamlessly with local municipalities, reviewing agencies, and stakeholders to move projects efficiently from concept through approval and construction.

We partner with trusted Western North Carolina firms while maintaining full project oversight. Our long‑standing relationships with regional consultants and contractors not only support local business, but also strengthen our understanding of the region’s needs, keeping projects moving forward and completed the right way.

Meet Our Team

Michael R. Goforth, PE – President & Owner

Founder and President of High Country Engineering, PC

Michael Goforth founded High Country Engineering in 2009 and has more than 22 years of experience in civil and environmental engineering.

Jay Johnston, PE – Senior Engineer

Jay Johnston has worked in civil and environmental engineering since 1992, including three years as the City Engineer for the City of Brevard. His career has focused on municipal water and sewer infrastructure, including design, evaluation, rehabilitation, and long‑term system planning.

  • Erik Ballantyne – Civil Designer

  • Crawford Mann, EI – Project Engineer

  • Tyler Phillips, EI – Project Engineer

  • Michael Fizer – Project Engineer

  • Kyle Murphy – Project Engineer

  • Jacqueline Patterson – Project Coordinator & Office Administrator

Contact us to discuss the details of your project.

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