NICB

What We Have Done

A&L Engineering and Consulting is a full-service engineering firm specializing in geotechnical surveys, land development, and consulting services. Since 1983, the firm has completed over 45,000 inspections and delivered countless design-build projects.

Licensed in the State of Texas for more than 37 years, A&L is a minority-owned and operated company committed to excellence, innovation, and community impact.

Nick Manesh Engineering (NME) was founded with a strong focus on research and development. Through extensive materials research and testing, NME developed a patent-pending, second-generation interlocking concrete frame (ICF) system known as the Nick Interlocking Concrete Block (NICB)—also referred to as cable block.

This innovative system represents the first post-tension concrete block of its kind.

The NICB (Cable Block) Technology
The NICB is a next-generation building material designed to enhance energy efficiency while maintaining superior structural integrity. Each block is composed of:
  • Styrofoam (EPS)
  • Concrete
  • Surfactant materials
  • The blocks contain two or three cavities:
  • One cavity is used for post-tension cables or reinforcing steel (rebar)
  • Others are used for mechanical and plumbing systems
  • Remaining cavities are filled with high-strength (4000 PSI) concrete
  • Unlike traditional block systems, NICB allows for integrated structural reinforcement, making it significantly stronger and more versatile.
Performance & Advantages
  • Structural Strength:
  • Withstands wind speeds up to 220 mph
  • Earthquakes up to 9.0 magnitude
  • Resistant to hurricanes and tornadoes
  • Fire Resistance:
  • Fire-retardant up to 3000°F for up to 4 hours (R-rating 32)
  • Energy Efficiency:
  • Up to 45% energy savings from exterior walls
  • Up to 90% savings when combined with solar systems
  • Durability:
  • Mold-free and termite-resistant
  • Performs exceptionally in extreme hot and cold climates
  • Ideal for arid environments and coastal areas
  • Construction Benefits:
  • Lightweight and easy to transport
  • On-site manufacturing capability
  • Suitable for remote or difficult-to-build locations
  • Approximately 4-week construction timeline for a 2,200 sq. ft. home
Sustainable & Scalable Innovation
NICB technology supports environmentally responsible construction by using recycled EPS materials that would otherwise end up in landfills.
  • The ability to manufacture blocks on-site allows for:
  • Reduced transportation costs
  • Faster build times
  • Greater adaptability to local materials and conditions
  • This approach enables scalable solutions for both domestic and international markets.
Applications
  • NICB technology is versatile and suitable for:
  • Affordable housing
  • Investment properties
  • Mixed-use developments
  • Vacation homes
  • Hotels and resort-style living
  • This flexibility supports a wide range of socioeconomic groups and promotes inclusive development.
Our Mission
  • Our mission is to provide affordable, eco-friendly housing solutions while advancing construction technology through innovation and research.
  • We are committed to:
  • Expanding access to homeownership
  • Supporting sustainable building practices
  • Promoting equitable economic opportunities
About Dr. Nick Manesh
Dr. Nick Manesh brings over 45 years of international and domestic experience in engineering, design, and construction.
  • Education & Background
  • Educated in Tabriz, Iran
  • Immigrated to the United States in 1976
  • Master’s degree in Civil Engineering (Oklahoma)
  • Doctorates in Structural and Geological Engineering
  • Juris Doctor (JD) for legal expertise in damage assessment and expert testimony

Innovation Inspired by Resilience

The concept for Cable Block emerged following the devastation of Hurricane Harvey. Motivated to create disaster-resistant structures, Dr. Manesh developed a building system capable of withstanding extreme natural forces. These homes function like reinforced protective structures while maintaining architectural flexibility. Designs can range from traditional to modern, offering both aesthetic appeal and high performance.
Social Impact & Vision
  • At the core of our work is a commitment to social responsibility.
  • We believe:
  • Homeownership should be accessible to more people
  • Strong communities are built through inclusion and opportunity
  • Sustainable housing can reduce long-term societal challenges
  • We also advocate for:
  • Women’s rights and participation in housing and labor decisions
  • Equal access to resources and opportunities