MISSION
Our mission is to provide clear, concise, unbiased opinions and conclusions on causes of investigated accidents
Authoritative Evidence. Objective Analysis.
SEFS analyses include comprehensive engineering, reviewing physical evidence, testing, as well as site inspections to provide unbiased opinions based on sound principles, operational experience, and regulatory requirements. This approach ensures clients understand the underlying factors of the investigation.
Unifying Approach
We bring objectivity to accident investigations, grounding every finding in physical evidence, engineering principles, and/or established standards.
Knowledge Base
SEFS serves as technical lead or specialized support, backed by active professional memberships and an extensive library of equipment documentation, standards, and practices.
Industry Expertise
We support marine, construction, terminal, and manufacturing operations, with deep experience in material‑handling, maintenance, reliability engineering, and mechanical systems.
Principal & Firm Background: Bransford Pickett, PE, DFE
Systems Engineering and Forensic Services (SEFS) is led by Bransford Pickett, PE, DFE, Board Certified Forensic Engineer. Mr. Pickett has investigated many equipment failures, construction and industrial accidents, and material‑handling incidents across marine, terminal, and manufacturing environments. He provides technical analysis, expert reports, and testimony for attorneys, insurers, and corporations in complex litigation matters.
Qualifications include:
• Worked across the marine for more than 30 years as a manager, engineer, supervisor, and trainer.
• Led engineering design teams from conceptual design through detailed design on several major engineering projects, including ship repair and construction as well as mechanical systems.
• Court appearances in both criminal and civil matters in the states of New York, California, and Massachusetts.
• Maintenance Reliability Engineer for a 165-acre facility covering all cranes, forklifts, conveyors, robots, docks, small tools, rolling stock, piping, various distribution systems.
Board Certifications & Licenses
- PE: Registered Professional Engineer (Mechanical)
- DFE: Diplomate in Forensic Engineering
- Board Certified by the National Academy of Forensic Engineers
- Technical Library Resources for Standards & Practices
Professional Associations
- American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) - Standards Development
- National Academy of Forensic Engineers (NAFE) - Senior Member
- National Society of Professional Engineers (NSPE)
- Focus: State and Federal Regulatory Compliance
- Technical Lead for Fact Assembly & Case Development
Credentials: MScBA, Systems Engineering & Management; BScE, Mechanical Engineering.
Start Your Expert Consultation
Submit your case details for initial technical review. Systems Engineering and Forensic Services provides authoritative analysis and expert testimony for complex mechanical and structural failures.