RGD Project Management, Inc. (“RGD”), a Cary, North Carolina–based project management firm specializing in life sciences manufacturing, has merged with Cumming Group, an international project management and cost consultancy.

RGD will join Cumming Group’s recently launched Fortschrittliche Technologien division, which provides a unified international platform to better support clients delivering high-tech facilities across life sciences, data centers, semiconductors, and advanced manufacturing. In addition to bringing specialized biotechnology and pharmaceutical expertise to the Advanced Technology team, the merger further enhances Cumming Group’s presence in one of the most active biopharmaceutical regions in the United States.

Founded in 1999, RGD Project Management is an 81‑person firm specializing in technical owner’s representation, advisory services, and construction management for blue‑chip pharmaceutical and biotechnology manufacturers. The firm has delivered over 2,200 pharmaceutical and high‑technology projects and is widely recognized across the Research Triangle for its long‑standing client relationships and proven ability to execute complex, schedule‑critical life sciences manufacturing programs with speed and reliability.

The merger reflects Cumming Group’s commitment in the long‑term growth of life sciences manufacturing sector in North Carolina and the broader Southeast. The state is one of the most established life sciences markets in the United States, home to approximately 860 life sciences companies, more than 100 biopharmaceutical manufacturing sites, and a strong presence of global pharmaceutical and biotechnology firms. Anchored by Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill, the Research Triangle continues to drive this momentum, with more than $10 billion in recent life sciences manufacturing investments.

“RGD’s deep life sciences expertise and strong presence in North Carolina meaningfully accelerate our Advanced Technologies strategy, particularly on the East Coast,” said Derek Hutchison, President and CEO of Cumming Group. “Bringing our Advanced Technologies team to more than 700 professionals, RGD bolsters our capabilities and reinforces our commitment to supporting clients across the built environment.”

“RGD has earned its reputation by understanding our clients’ needs at a level that enables faster, more predictable delivery,” said Michael Rafetto, Co‑Founder and President of RGD Project Management. “Becoming a part of Cumming Group allows us to preserve that trusted approach while leveraging the scale of a larger organization with access to expanded technical resources and an international Advanced Technologies Group that aligns perfectly with our life sciences focus.”

“This merger is about strengthening what we already do best—delivering critical projects safely, efficiently, and with accountability,” said Jack Deloso, Co‑Founder and CEO of RGD Project Management. “By joining Cumming Group, we’re giving our team and our clients access to broader capabilities while staying true to the values that have defined RGD for more than 26 years.”