This year marks an extraordinary milestone—WSB’s 30th anniversary! On October 3, we celebrate three decades of innovation, growth, and the incredible spirit that defines our team. Since 1995, our journey has been shaped by bold ideas, transformative projects, and, above all, the people whose passion fuels our success.
To honor this landmark year, we’re shining a spotlight on 30 remarkable stories. These stories celebrate the dedication and talent of our staff whose efforts have built WSB’s legacy. Join us as we look back, share memories, and toast to the next 30 years of excellence.
Story 23 out of 30
Project Manager
Antlers, OK
What is your first memory of WSB?
My first memory was “oh my I am to old to maybe have to look for a different job”. People are scared of change especially at my age, boy was I wrong. The first memory after the merger was this is something special. The tools that WSB has are very impressive. You can teach an old dog new tricks and it has been nothing but a learning experience from that day on.
What’s the most exciting change you’ve seen at WSB?
So many strangers treating you like they have know you for 30 years. The welcoming we all have had is very good. WSB does not want anyone to fail, if you do they have the tools to help you keep on tract and grow.
What project(s) are you most proud to have worked on?
I have a few different hats I wear. I market to the clients in SE OK for our road designers and bridges teams as well as the Tribes in the area. Makes me proud to be able to send a project RFP to someone and they get the job. WSB is the consultant at two airports and we maintain the CIP program for them to get the funds to build projects. I spent 25 years working on Department of Defense airfields across the country and I like to see these small airports get funds and use them to support the small towns where they are located.
What stands out to you about WSB’s culture and values?
First thought is how different two states like Minnesota and Oklahoma are in our people and daily lives and how WSB has combined both cultures and values to blend those two groups of people with ease. Life here in Oklahoma is much different than the cities were WSB was born but somehow we all share the same goals to grow WSB and we find out we have so much in common. It’s fun to talk to someone there and tell them it’s cold here when its 30 degrees and they are at -2.
Who is someone you’ve worked with at WSB that has really inspired or influenced you?
Jay Kennedy was one of the first I spoke to and he was impressive to speak to. Made you feel like you matter in the big picture. David Smith hired me back in 2014 and I learned so much from him and became close friends along the way. He will always be considered a transportation book of knowledge.
What do you think WSB does really well that more people should know about?
How they support the people who work for them. How they treat the client as a friend and not just someone paying them money. If you need something just ask – it gets done. The support they give us to make our clients feel we are the best is second to none. Many companies that are not as large as WSB have no personal touch to their employees they are just a number on a spreadsheet. That type of contact shows thru to the client and it matters to everyone.
Fast forward 30 years – what do you think people will say about WSB’s impact on the world?
They did it right. Did not sell out for profits over pride. Made sure they kept every promise along the way. Never stepped on the little guy while growing.
