Hector Columbani, an engineer who lived in the Hackensack/New Jersey area and collaborated with countless OEMs and independents over the decades on complex elevator design surveys and drawings, passed away unexpectedly in June. He was in his mid-60s. Tommy Curran, owner of North American Elevator, a new installation, modernization and service provider in the NYC metropolitan area, described Columbani as "an absolute giant in our trade," with a "level of experience and knowledge that was truly second to none." North American Elevator worked with Columbani on ground-up new construction and building conversions. North American Sales and Contracts Manager Lisa Nikki-Perry said Columbani was "brilliant" — a master engineer who always knew what to do to make a project work. Curren said Columbani never looked for the spotlight or personal praise. “He cared about the work, the team and solving the toughest engineering challenges right alongside us at the table. Another NYC area colleague, Diversified Elevator Products’ Matt Jackson, described Columbani as “an engineer’s engineer” who knew there was always an engineering solution for a vertical-transportation problem. “I will never forget working with him and Otis NY on the Apple store project,” Jackson said. “He was the kindest soul; always willing to listen and offer his help. RIP, my friend.”