Top 8 Engineering Firms in West Michigan (2025 Rankings & Reviews)
Oct 23, 2025 | 2 min read
Choosing the right engineering partner can be difficult. There are dozens of options across West Michigan (and beyond), each with different specialties, price points, and promises. It’s hard to tell which ones truly deliver and which are just good at marketing.
If that’s where you’re at, this guide will help. At DISHER Engineering, we’ve spent years collaborating (and competing) with manufacturers and innovators across West Michigan. We’ve done the legwork to document the most reputable firms in the region.
In this article, you’ll learn:
- How we selected the top engineering firms
- Which firms are leading across product design, industrial, civil, electronics, and more
- How to compare capabilities and fit
- What questions to ask before choosing a partner
- What you can expect to pay for engineering services in West Michigan
How We Selected the Top Engineering Firms in West Michigan
To create this list, we analyzed online reviews, local recognition, and project portfolios across a number of engineering disciplines. We prioritized firms that:
- Have a physical presence or active projects in West Michigan
- Demonstrate proven results and strong client relationships
- Offer transparency in process and communication
Our intent isn’t to name a single “winner,” but to highlight the best options depending on your specific project goals.
What Types of Engineering Firms Serve West Michigan?
West Michigan is a diverse hub of manufacturing, design, and technology. From Holland to Grand Rapids to Muskegon, companies rely on local engineering expertise in several key areas:
- Product design and development: Concept through prototype for consumer, industrial, and automotive products
- Industrial and automation: Machine design, robotics, and process improvement for manufacturers
- Civil and structural: Infrastructure, utilities, and construction support
- Embedded systems and software: Hardware, firmware, and testing for electronics
Knowing which type of firm fits your project is half the battle.
Top 8 Engineering Firms in West Michigan (Rankings & Reviews)
Below are eight firms consistently recognized for quality work, collaboration, and innovation in West Michigan.
1. DISHER Engineering
Focus: Innovation & Design | Product Development | Manufacturing Support
At DISHER Engineering, we specialize in flexible yet fully engaged engineering services. We have 100+ engineers, designers, and innovators who can plug in wherever help is needed throughout the product development lifecycle.
Key strengths:
- Support anywhere from concept ideation through design and production
- Flexible staffing model (single engineer, cross-functional team, direct hire)
- Broad industry reach
- Strong culture aligned with client outcomes: emphasis on trust, communication, ownership
Service offerings: Product Strategy, Ideation, Conceptual Design, Design Engineering, Electronics Engineering, Project Management, Manufacturing Engineering, Automation Engineering, Capital Project Management
Industries served (our work spans many industries, but we most commonly find ourselves working in): Aerospace, Agriculture, Automotive, Consumer Goods, Energy, Food & Beverage, Furniture, Marine, Medical & Medical Device, Military & Defense, Manufacturing, Transportation
What clients appreciate:
- “DISHER offered a holistic approach and flexibility that allowed them to merge successfully with our internal team.”
- “DISHER led the way with confidence and clarity.”
- “Community engagement and stewardship are fully integrated into the organizational culture.”
- “DISHER is truly the #1 product development company in Michigan.”
2. Broadview Product Development
Focus: Engineering | Prototyping | Manufacturing Support
Broadview helps clients accelerate design cycles with rapid prototyping and engineering support. They have an integrated prototype shop that’s ideal for organizations wanting end-to-end product realization.
Key strengths:
- In-house prototyping resources
- Broad industry reach
- 35+ years in business
Service offerings: Concept Development, Product Engineering, Reverse Engineering, Engineering Analysis, Project Engineering, Project Management, Prototyping, Manufacturing Engineering, Quality Engineering, Continuous Improvement, Jigs and Fixtures, Consulting, VA/VE
Industries served: Contract Office Furniture, Automotive & Transportation, Consumer Products, Medical, Manufacturers, Entrepreneurs & Innovators
What clients appreciate:
- “I am very satisfied with the level of technical support and responsiveness from everyone.”
- “We very much appreciate the lengths that [Broadview] and [their] extended team went to in order to deliver these parts, and the clear and timely communication.”
- “I was very impressed with the quality and turnaround time.”
3. Twisthink
Focus: Digital Strategy | Product Innovation
Twisthink is a digital innovation firm that blends strategy, design, and engineering to help organizations build connected products and data-driven experiences. They specialize in bridging the gap between physical products and digital ecosystems.
Key strengths:
- Combines strategy, design, and engineering for digital transformation
- Human-centered innovation
Service offerings: Innovation, Product Strategy, Experience Strategy, Portfolio Strategy, UI/UX Design, Product Design, Hardware & Software, Mobile/Web Apps, AI & Data Intelligence, Cloud
Industries served: Industrial, Consumer Goods, Automotive, Furniture, Medical
What clients appreciate:
- “What sets Twisthink apart from other partners is their level of engagement in our company and their true love for the project.”
- “Great group of people who are dedicated to producing high value for customers through passion-infused innovation.”
- “They are community minded and generous.”
4. Atomic Object
Focus: Software Design & Development
Atomic Object is a custom software consultancy that designs and develops web, mobile, and embedded applications. They have a small, cross-functional team that partners with clients to create reliable, well-crafted products through an agile and transparent development process.
Key strengths:
- Custom software development and design
- Product strategy and user experience
- Agile, transparent communication
Service offerings: AI Software Development, New Product Development, Product Enhancement, Product Modernization
Industries served: Agriculture, Automotive, Education, Entertainment, Financial Services, Government, Healthcare, Insurance, Logistics, Manufacturing, Retail, Utilities
What clients appreciate:
- “Their process is so open. The developers I worked with were such good communicators that I never had to worry about anything.”
- “I’m always impressed and inspired not just by the products they create and problems they solve, but by the progressive and innovative ways their business is run.”
- “If you are looking for development support that is reliable, communicative, efficient, detailed and very good at what they do, these guys are it.”
5. Holland Engineering
Focus: Civil | Surveying | Energy Infrastructure
A trusted civil and structural specialist, Holland Engineering has been involved in transportation, energy, and municipal projects across the state. Their deep regulatory knowledge and field experience make them a solid choice for infrastructure work.
Key strengths:
- Deep regional expertise in Michigan codes, permitting, municipal standards
- Partnerships with local contractors, municipalities, and utilities
- Familiarity with local site constraints (soil, drainage, environmental impact)
Service offerings: Civil Engineering, Energy, Environmental, Geospatial, Survey
Industries served: Energy, Civil, Government
What clients appreciate:
- “By responding quickly, our project was completed ahead of schedule.”
- “Exceeded my expectations. I highly recommend them to anyone looking to get survey done.”
6. Perception Engineering
Focus: Design | Automation | Manufacturing Support
Perception Engineering bridges design and manufacturing. They help clients improve manufacturability, reduce costs, and strengthen automation systems, making them a go-to resource for OEMs aiming to modernize production lines.
Key strengths:
- Bridging design and factory floor reality
- Emphasis on manufacturability, cost optimization, automation integration
- Process improvement
Service offerings: Product Design & Development, CAD & Technical Support, Automation & Tooling Solutions, Project Management & Onsite Support, Engineering Process Optimization, Supply Chain & Manufacturing
What clients appreciate:
- “The best part of working with Perception is the seamless flow we have into our system.”
- “You can expect great service, great communication, and a personal/professional experience.”
- “Perception is always looking ahead, checking out the latest and greatest.”
7. Array of Engineers
Focus: Embedded Systems | Hardware | Software
Array of Engineers brings specialized expertise in embedded systems. Their team handles everything from firmware to hardware validation, often supporting aerospace and defense clients that require rigorous testing and documentation.
Key strengths:
- Specialized focus on firmware, hardware, and software co-design
- Test validation, compliance, and lifecycle support
- Works with clients needing tight integration and/or high reliability
Service offerings: Automated Hardware-Software Testing, Embedded Software Development & Testing, Firmware & Hardware Design, Electronic Prototyping & Internet of Things
Industries served: Aerospace, Space, Medical Device, Internet of Things, Automotive, Defense
8. DornerWorks
Focus: Electronics Engineering
DornerWorks partners with organizations building connected products, IoT devices, and high-reliability systems. Their engineers blend deep technical expertise with agile project management to help teams launch faster.
Key strengths:
- Deep experience building connected, regulated systems
- Agile methods
- IP protection and modular architecture thinking
Service offerings: Products & IP, Secure Technologies, Virtualized Platform Development, FPGA Engineering, Connected Product Development, Medical Device Engineering
Industries served: Aerospace & Defense, Automotive, Consumer Products, Industrial, Medical
How These Firms Compare (Capabilities, Clients, Industries)
| Firm | Primary Focus | Ideal Client Type | Typical Engagement |
|---|---|---|---|
| DISHER Engineering | Innovation & Design, Product Development, Manufacturing Support | Manufacturers & OEMs | Anywhere from concept to launch |
| Broadview Product Development | Prototype & Design | Startups & R&D teams | Prototype to production |
| Twisthink | Digital Strategy & Product Innovation | Enterprises & OEMs | Strategy, product innovation, and connected system design |
| Atomic Object | Custom Software Development & Design | Startups, manufacturers, and enterprise teams | Web, mobile, and embedded software development |
| Holland Engineering | Civil & Structural | Municipal & energy | Infrastructure projects |
| Perception Engineering | Design & Automation | OEM manufacturers | Manufacturing process optimization |
| Array of Engineers | Embedded Systems | Aerospace & defense | Hardware, firmware, software |
| DornerWorks | Electronics | IoT & connected products | Product integration |
How to Choose the Right Engineering Partner for Your Project
Start with clarity. What problem are you solving, and what outcomes matter most?
Then look beyond the proposal price and seek value. Great engineering partners bring structure, curiosity, and accountability to every phase.
Ask these questions:
- What industries have you been working in recently?
- Who will be on my team day-to-day?
- How do you handle scope changes or budget adjustments?
- What does success look like from your perspective?
At DISHER Engineering, we’ve found that the best collaborations happen when both sides treat the project like a shared mission rather than a transaction. Here’s an article that expands on partner vetting a bit more.
What Does It Cost to Work with an Engineering Firm in West Michigan?
Costs vary widely by discipline, pricing model, project scope, and more, but here’s a general idea of what you can expect:
- Product design & mechanical engineering: $70-$175 per hour
- Industrial & automation engineering: $100-$200 per hour
- Civil & structural engineering: $70-$150 per hour
- Embedded systems & software engineering: $100-225 per hour
Some firms charge in fixed-bid models, some in hourly models, and some in a hybrid of both. Here’s a more elaborate article on engineering firm pricing.
Next Steps: Connect with the Right Engineering Partner
You now have a clear picture of the engineering landscape in West Michigan.
The next move is simple: reach out, have a conversation (or multiple conversations), and see which team feels like the right fit. Many organizations vet multiple contractors for a project.
If you’d like to explore how we at DISHER Engineering could support you, get in touch online. We’d love to talk about what you’re building next.
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