WSB welcomes Christopher Rousseau as vice president of renewables

April 29, 2025
Rosseau’s hiring is part of the firm’s national expansion strategy through strengthening the renewables division.

Minneapolis, Minn.— WSB, a fast-growing design and consulting firm, today announced the strategic hiring of Christopher Rousseau, PE, as vice president of renewables. With over two decades of experience in hydro engineering, dam safety, and renewable energy project management, Rousseau brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to WSB.

Throughout his career, Rousseau has held several prominent positions in the industry. He served as chief operating officer at Mavel America’s, Inc., hydro and renewable energy market leader at J.F. Brennan Company, Inc., and manager of renewable business operations at Minnesota Power. His extensive background in managing complex projects, mentoring staff, and optimizing team performance will be instrumental in advancing WSB’s renewable energy initiatives.

As vice president of renewables, Rousseau will work closely with Behnaz Beladi, the director of the renewables department, to drive innovation and oversee the development and execution of renewable energy projects. His expertise in hydro engineering and dam safety, combined with his experience in alternative project delivery and early contractor involvement, positions him as a key leader in navigating the challenges and opportunities in the renewables sector.

“I am excited to join WSB and contribute to the firm’s mission of delivering sustainable energy solutions,” said Rousseau. “I look forward to working with the talented team at WSB and leveraging my experience to drive innovation and growth in our renewable energy projects.”

“We are thrilled to welcome Chris to our leadership team,” said Jon Chiglo, WSB’s chief operating officer. “His extensive knowledge and experience in renewable energy will be invaluable as we continue to expand our renewables initiatives. Chris’s vision and leadership will keep WSB at the forefront of the industry, delivering high-quality projects that meet and exceed our clients’ needs and contribute to a sustainable future.”

Rousseau’s leadership will drive the renewables division to new heights. The firm has doubled in size through recent acquisitions and organic growth supporting communities from coast to coast.

EY US unveils Bret Weiss of WSB as an Entrepreneur Of The Year® 2025 Heartland Award finalist

April 29, 2025
Entrepreneur Of The Year celebrates ambitious entrepreneurs who are shaping the future

Minneapolis, MN – Ernst & Young LLP (EY US) announced the finalists for the prestigious Entrepreneur Of The Year 2025 Heartland Award. Now in its 40th year, the Entrepreneur Of The Year program celebrates the bold leaders who disrupt markets through the world’s most ground-breaking companies, revolutionizing industries and making a profound impact on communities. The program honors bold entrepreneurs whose innovations shape the future and pave the way for a thriving economy and a hopeful tomorrow. The Heartland program celebrates entrepreneurs from Minnesota, Kansas, Missouri, Iowa, Nebraska, North and South Dakota.

An independent panel of judges selected Bret Weiss among 30 finalists for their entrepreneurial spirit, purpose, growth and lasting impact in building long-term value.

“I am honored to be recognized as a finalist for the Entrepreneur Of The Year® 2025 Heartland Award,” said Bret Weiss. “This nomination is a testament to the tremendous growth and success that we have achieved at WSB. It is an acknowledgment of the hard work and dedication of our entire team, who have consistently pushed the boundaries to innovate and advance the industry. Representing WSB in this prestigious program is not just a personal achievement, but a celebration of our collective journey and the impact we have made in our industry and community.”

Entrepreneur Of The Year honors business leaders for their ingenuity, courage and entrepreneurial spirit. The program celebrates original founders who bootstrapped their business from inception or who raised outside capital to grow their company; transformational CEOs who infused innovation into an existing organization to catapult its trajectory; and multigenerational family business leaders who reimagined a legacy business model to strengthen it for the future.

Regional award winners will be announced on Thursday, June 19, during a special celebration in Minneapolis and will become lifetime members of an esteemed community of Entrepreneur Of The Year alumni from around the world. The winners will then be considered by the National judges for the Entrepreneur Of The Year National Awards, which will be presented in November at the annual Strategic Growth Forum^®, one of the nation’s most prestigious gatherings of high-growth, market-leading companies.

Sponsors

Founded and produced by Ernst & Young LLP, the Entrepreneur Of The Year Awards include presenting sponsors PNC Bank, Cresa, LLC, Marsh USA and SAP. In the Heartland, sponsors also include Twin Cities Business, Padilla and Brillect.

About Entrepreneur Of The Year

Founded in 1986, Entrepreneur Of The Year has celebrated more than 11,000 ambitious visionaries who are leading successful, dynamic businesses in the US, and it has since expanded to nearly 60 countries globally.

The US program consists of 17 regional programs whose panels of independent judges select the regional award winners every June. Those winners compete for national recognition at the Strategic Growth Forum^® in November where National finalists and award winners are announced. The overall National winner represents the US at the EY World Entrepreneur Of The Year™ competition. Visit ey.com/us/eoy.

About EY

EY is building a better working world by creating new value for clients, people, society and the planet, while building trust in capital markets.

Enabled by data, AI and advanced technology, EY teams help clients shape the future with confidence and develop answers for the most pressing issues of today and tomorrow.

EY teams work across a full spectrum of services in assurance, consulting, tax, strategy and transactions. Fueled by sector insights, a globally connected, multi-disciplinary network and diverse ecosystem partners, EY teams can provide services in more than 150 countries and territories.

All in to shape the future with confidence.

EY refers to the global organization, and may refer to one or more, of the member firms of Ernst & Young Global Limited, each of which is a separate legal entity. Ernst & Young Global Limited, a UK company limited by guarantee, does not provide services to clients. Information about how EY collects and uses personal data and a description of the rights individuals have under data protection legislation are available via ey.com/privacy. EY member firms do not practice law where prohibited by local laws. For more information about our organization, please visit ey.com.

Leading the Charge for Sustainable Construction: Minnesota’s Buy Clean Initiative

April 21, 2025
By Nicole Muske, Senior Graduate Engineer, WSB

Earth month is an opportune time to highlight the strides being made in sustainability, particularly through initiatives like the Buy Clean Buy Fair Minnesota Act, passed in 2023. This act highlights Minnesota’s efforts and commitment to responsible environmental practices.

Understanding Buy Clean

The initiative is an industry and government-focused step on carbon emissions associated with construction materials on state-funded projects. Minnesota’s Department of Transportation (MnDOT) is a key stakeholder with the Buy Clean initiative, due to the state’s commitment to lower carbon materials and responsible procurement practices. This initiative is part of a larger goal to decrease the carbon footprint of construction projects throughout the state. By laying the groundwork for the use of lower embodied carbon products, states like Minnesota are providing examples for how other states can explore these types of approaches to resilient infrastructure.

Broader Adoption and Innovation

Currently, 20 states have implemented their own Buy Clean programs. This highlights the need for broader adoption across the nation. By pushing for initiatives that prioritize sustainable materials, we can pave the way for a more resilient future.

Additionally, the initiative encourages research into products that offer lower emissions and embodied carbon, without compromising on quality, resilience, or durability. This involves thorough testing and evaluation to ensure that materials meet high standards while contributing to a reduction in carbon emissions.

WSB has relevant experience with helping clients analyze and adopt the use of lower embodied carbon materials in infrastructure, such as through pavements utilized in the Heights, a master development project developed by the St. Paul Port Authority. At the state level, we are coordinating a DOT project in Oklahoma on Balance Mix Design.

These and other real-life examples were discussed at a transportation materials conference that WSB recently co-sponsored. By discussing cutting edge ideas with key stakeholders through these efforts, we work with other thought leaders to advance cost-effective solutions.

Environmental Product Declarations (EPD)

A crucial aspect of the Buy Clean initiative is the focus on Environmental Product Declarations (EPD). By obtaining more EPDs, stakeholders can better understand the origin and composition of materials, allowing for informed decisions that prioritize sustainability. The initiative promotes sourcing and availability within a certain radius, ensuring that concrete and asphalt used in projects are both locally sourced and environmentally responsible.

With Earth Month here, it is essential to recognize and celebrate these efforts. The Buy Clean initiative exemplifies how state-level actions can lead to significant environmental benefits, and how collective efforts can drive change. By supporting the implementation of such programs, we are not only contributing to a cleaner and more sustainable planet but also setting a standard for future generations.

How WSB Can Help

The WSB team includes subject matter experts in materials, transportation planning and design, sustainability, resiliency, and beyond, who support communities in exploring and integrating sustainable pavements and other materials into their operational and infrastructure plans. We offer comprehensive services including project assessment, strategy development, and implementation guidance to help municipalities and states align infrastructure projects with community goals. Our expertise results in efficient, resilient, sustainable, and strategic outcomes.

Nicole is a Senior Graduate Engineer in WSB’s Construction and Design-Build Division with extensive experience in contract administration, construction inspection, and material testing on large transportation projects. She has served as a Lead Inspector overseeing concrete bridge construction, bridge rehabilitation, and roadway paving. Nicole developed an app-based spreadsheet for the I-494 and TH52 Design-Build projects to track material testing and summarize results. She excels in coordinating with contractors and stakeholders to maintain project schedules and resolve issues effectively.

[email protected] | 612.210.5676

WSB welcomes Jennifer Bullard as vice president of construction

April 16, 2025
The firm hired Bullard as part of its national expansion strategy.

Tulsa, Okla.— WSB, a fast-growing design and consulting firm, today announced the strategic hiring of Jennifer Bullard as vice president of construction.

In her new role, Bullard will oversee various groups including materials, construction management, and more. She will prioritize expanding construction management services and contract administration throughout Oklahoma with a strong focus on integrating advanced 3-d model-centric technology.

“We are thrilled to have Jennifer on board,” said Rick Johnson, vice president of operations at WSB. “Her experience, expertise, and fresh perspective are exactly what we need to elevate our services. Jennifer’s proven track record and her ability to connect deeply with the industry and the Oklahoma region make her the perfect fit for WSB.”

Bullard brings over 20 years of experience from her tenure at the Oklahoma Department of Transportation. Her vast knowledge, coupled with the significant relationships she has established in the state, has greatly contributed to her reputation as a respected leader across Oklahoma. She was honored as the Women in Transportation Seminar’s (WTS) Woman of the Year for Oklahoma in 2024, showcasing her outstanding contributions to the field.

“Through communications with Rick and others at WSB, it just felt right,” said Bullard. “WSB felt like my new home, and I’m excited to bring my expertise and ideas to the team. I look forward to collaborating with the group and contributing to the innovative projects WSB is known for while support communities throughout Oklahoma.”

Bullard’s strategic hiring is a testament to WSB’s commitment to excellence and innovation in the contract administration field. Her experience and leadership promise to drive significant growth and success for the firm as it continues to grow as a national brand.

WSB has doubled in size through recent acquisitions and organic growth. The firm provides services throughout the nation, with offices in various regions including Minnesota/North Dakota, Oklahoma/Texas, Colorado/California and the Southeast.

Tribal Technical Assistance with WSB

WSB’s sustainability team has a contract with the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) to provide a cumulative total of approximately $200,000 in technical environmental and climate-related assistance to Minnesota Tribes at no cost to tribal communities, now through June 2026. In the coming weeks and months, WSB will be reaching out to your Tribe to listen, understand your goals, and explore opportunities to align our support with your community’s vision. This funding is designed to enhance capacity and offer free, expert assistance to identify, prioritize, and implement Tribal environmental and climate-related projects that may have otherwise faced barriers to completion, ensuring that the projects we support reflect your Tribe’s unique priorities and long-term goals.

What projects are eligible?

This technical assistance can include activities such as:

Sustainability/Climate Work
- Climate plans and greenhouse gas inventories
- Sustainability Plans
- Renewables development
- Policy development such as for solar, EVs, water conservation
- Feasibility studies (such as EV or solar plans)
- Community planning and economic development
- Public engagement support on climate topics
Natural Resource Support
- Water resources, water reuse, and hydrology modeling
- Forestry services
- Fisheries services
- Wetland and soils services
- Regulatory assistance
- Limnological analysis
- Vegetation surveys
- GIS support
Transportation Support
- Transportation or transit planning that reduce vehicle miles travelled
- Trail planning and fundraising
- Traffic engineering such as to support pedestrian or EV-related projects
Grant Support
- Identification, writing, and administration assistance
- Partnership development
- Research and analysis to identify most competitive grant applications

How can WSB support my Tribe?

WSB is a trusted engineering and consulting firm with deep expertise in energy, resiliency, water, environmental stewardship, transportation, and a range of other disciplines. We have had the privilege of partnering with Tribes across the Midwest, providing tailored support in climate planning, renewable energy development, and natural resource management. Our team approaches every project with respect for Tribal sovereignty, cultural values, and traditions—prioritizing meaningful relationship building, adaptability, and genuine curiosity. Based in Minneapolis, our project team is readily available to travel to your community to engage directly and ensure our work reflects your Tribe’s unique needs and priorities.

Amy has nearly 25 years of experience across many industries, particularly energy and agriculture, in the public, private and nonprofit sectors. This experience has provided Amy with a broad background that enables her to meet community and business needs based on the business case for sustainability. By working across intersecting systems to simultaneously advance environmental, economic and social goals, she is able to uncover creative solutions.

[email protected] | 612.965.1489

John Hudspeth joins WSB as vice president of Texas operations

April 9, 2024
WSB strategically hires Hudspeth to lead expansion and innovation in Texas and beyond.

Minneapolis, Minn.— WSB, a rapidly growing design and consulting firm, today announced the addition of John Hudspeth as vice president of Texas operations.

In his new role, Hudspeth oversees all operations in Texas, with a focus on expanding WSB’s reach and capabilities within the state and beyond. His extensive background in alternative delivery methods, major infrastructure projects, and building client relationships will be instrumental in driving the firm’s growth while exploring new opportunities in the market, including the support of WSB’s digital delivery efforts.

“We are excited to welcome John to WSB. His experience and innovative mindset make him a perfect fit for our team,” said Kelly Selman, Senior Vice President of Texas. “Having worked with John for many years, I know firsthand his dedication and skills. He is exactly the kind of leader we need to continue WSB’s growth and success.”

Hudspeth worked at the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) for 29 years. His career at TxDOT is marked by numerous achievements including his role as the project manager for the $2.7 billion reconstruction of the LBJ Freeway. He also served in several leadership roles as director of transportation planning, director of operations for the Dallas district and deputy district engineer.

“Joining WSB is a remarkable opportunity to leverage my knowledge in transportation and infrastructure projects to drive growth and innovation,” said John. “I am excited to work with the talented team at WSB and contribute to the firm’s mission of delivering cutting-edge solutions to our clients.”

The firm is a leader in the Architecture, Engineering and Construction (AEC) industry, pioneering digital delivery. WSB was the first firm to deliver fully paperless plans to the Minnesota Department of Transportation.

WSB welcomes Tara Dresen as Chief Human Resource Officer

April 7, 2025

Dresen will enhance organizational culture and talent acquisition as the firm expands nationally.

Minneapolis, Minn.— WSB, a fast-growing design and consulting firm, today announced the appointment of Tara Dresen as its new Chief Human Resource Officer (CHRO). Dresen brings a wealth of experience and expertise in human resources and recruitment, and she will play a pivotal role in supporting the firm’s growth and enhancing its organizational culture.

In her new role, Dresen will oversee all aspects of WSB’s human resources strategy, including talent acquisition, employee development, performance management and organizational culture. She will collaborate closely with the leadership team to align human resources practices with business objectives and support WSB’s mission to build what’s next in infrastructure. Dresen will focus on attracting and retaining top talent in the industry, enhancing team member engagement, and fostering a positive and inclusive work environment.

“We are excited to welcome Tara to WSB,” stated Bret Weiss, president and chief executive officer (CEO). “Her extensive experience in human resources is invaluable and makes her an excellent addition to our firm. We are confident that Tara will significantly contribute to supporting WSB’s growth and enhancing our organizational culture.”

A seasoned human resources professional, Dresen’s expertise includes accelerating growth through strategy and people alignment, transparent cultures and talent analytics. She has held significant roles in various organizations, including Global Vice President of Talent Planning & Attraction at Trimble, Global Head of People at CBRE and CHRO at TwentyEighty.

“I am thrilled to join WSB and contribute to the firm’s continued success,” said Dresen. “I look forward to working with the talented team at WSB to enhance our HR practices, support our employees’ growth and development, and foster a culture of inclusivity and innovation.”

This strategic move aligns with WSB’s commitment to excellence and the goal of driving growth amidst its national expansion. The firm now operates from offices in 10 states, with projects across the U.S.

WSB Welcomes New Vice President of Traffic Modeling and Planning

March 18, 2025
Josh Maus joins WSB, prioritizing collaboration across various divisions and regions.

Minneapolis, Minn. — Fast-growing design and consulting firm WSB today announced the hiring of Josh Maus as vice president of traffic modeling and planning.

With nearly 25 years of experience in the AEC industry, Maus brings a wealth of expertise in traffic operations and analysis. Throughout his career, he has made notable contributions to several significant projects in Minnesota, and his vast background with the private sector makes him an asset to the firm.

“We are excited to welcome Josh to WSB,” said Travis Wieber, vice president of transportation. “His extensive experience and industry reputation will be invaluable as we continue to grow and elevate our traffic modeling and planning divisions. Josh is a great cultural fit for our team, and we are confident that his leadership will drive us to new heights.”

In this role, Maus will oversee traffic modeling for all regions as part of the firm’s nationwide initiative. He will also lead transportation planning efforts in the Midwest region. There are many overlapping elements between these divisions, and having a leader integrate them allows WSB to deliver cohesive and superior results for clients. Maus will encourage collaboration among the groups—enhancing the capabilities and performance of WSB.

“I am thrilled to be part of such an innovative and forward-thinking firm,” said Maus. “WSB’s commitment to investing in technology and looking ahead to future opportunities is truly inspiring. I look forward to working with this talented group of professionals and contributing to WSB’s growth.”

WSB has doubled in size over the last two years through acquisitions and organic growth. The firm provides services throughout the nation, with offices in various regions including Minnesota/North Dakota, Oklahoma/Texas, Colorado/California and the Southeast.

Brian Glaser Promoted to Director of Design Technology at WSB

March 13, 2025
The firm is elevating internal leadership to enhance its design technology group.

Houston, Texas — WSB, a fast-growing design and consulting firm, today announced the promotion of Brian Glaser to director of design technology.

In his new role, Glaser will oversee company-wide design technology initiatives, driving innovation, collaboration and revenue generation. His leadership will be instrumental in enhancing internal collaboration between design technology and operation teams, ensuring continued delivery of cutting-edge solutions to clients.

John Mackiewicz, vice president of technology, states, “Brian’s promotion is a testament to his dedication and innovative mindset. His ability to foster strong relationships and drive technological advancements makes him the perfect fit for this role. We are confident that under his leadership, WSB will continue to be at the forefront of design technology, scaling up our capabilities.”

With almost two years of service at WSB and nearly 15 years of industry experience, Glaser has shown outstanding technical excellence and remarkable relationship-building skills that have significantly contributed to the firm’s success.

“I am eager to take my knowledge and success from my previous role and bring it to the director position,” stated Glaser. “Taking the successes from various areas throughout our division and implementing them in other aspects is critical as our group continues to expand. I look forward to fostering internal growth at WSB while supporting the needs of our clients and software partners.”

With Glaser’s leadership, WSB will continue to lead the industry in innovation, rapidly expanding design technology capabilities and greater collaboration within its teams and with clients.

City of North St. Paul Honored with Concrete Paving Award for 7th Avenue East Project

February 10, 2025

The 7th Avenue East Project in North St. Paul recently received a Concrete Paving Award in Category 7 for City New/Reconstruction. This prestigious award underscores the complexity and significance of the project, which involved extensive preliminary work, design, construction, surveying, materials testing and construction observation. WSB was proud to support the project, and the firm’s comprehensive involvement spanned from inception to completion, showcasing its expertise and dedication.

This project was part of a larger effort to revitalize downtown North St. Paul, aligning with a long-term vision aiming to rejuvenate the area. The project included the construction of a new water main, storm sewer, and brand-new concrete pavement roadway with sidewalks, lighting and landscaping. Notably, there were several complex challenges, including utilities crossing an 88-inch storm sewer and the need for vibration monitoring due to a medical manufacturing facility immediately adjacent to the project.

This award is a significant honor as it highlights a major urban project for the City of North St. Paul to revitalize the community and accommodate future growth. The 7th Avenue East Project not only improved infrastructure but also enhanced the character of downtown North St. Paul, attracting residents and businesses and supporting the city’s vision for the future.

Close collaboration between the City, Eureka Construction, Inc., Curb Masters, Inc., and WSB was integral to the project’s success and the achievement of this award. WSB is honored to be a part of the collaborative team, together with all project stakeholders, where the combined talents and expertise from all culminated in the successful delivery of this award-winning project for the City of North St. Paul.