PKA was founded in February, 1993, as a partnership by Gary Pickett and William Kelm, professional engineers with combined experience of over 50 years in the design and project management of facilities that include advanced technology manufacturing facilities, office buildings, schools, churches, retail developments, industrial facilities, parking structures, sports facilities, public works facilities, vehicular and pedestrian bridges, retaining walls and site structures, dams and water quality structures. The firm incorporated as Pickett, Kelm & Associates, Inc. in December, 1995.

The firm occupies leased office space at 4100 Duval Road, Building 4, Suite 103 in northwest Austin, Texas.

The firm emphasizes the use of computer technology for communications, planning, engineering production and general business functions. Applications encompass a library of specialized and general purpose structural engineering analysis and design programs, including those for finite element analysis and the analysis and design of structural steel, composite concrete and steel, reinforced concrete and post-tensioned concrete structures. Drawing production is based on the use of AutoCAD computer aided drafting software. Business applications include Microsoft word processing, spreadsheet, database and desktop publishing software. An integrated project management and bookkeeping system provides timely, accurate tracking of project costs and invoicing.

PKA currently has 4 licensed structural engineers on staff.