News

Matias Mendez Larrain Appointed to TRB Geomaterials Committee

Congratulations to Matias Mendez Larrain, Ph.D., P.E., our Director of Geotechnical and Pavement Services, on his appointment to the Transportation Research Board (TRB) Standing Committee on Geomaterials Behavior and Properties (AKH19).

The TRB—part of the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine—is internationally recognized for shaping transportation research, innovation, and policy. In his three-year term with the AKH19 Committee, Matias will contribute to advancing the understanding of geomaterials’ mechanical, physical, and chemical properties to support improved infrastructure design, construction, and long-term performance.

WSB names Jeremy Sumner director, enterprise application and services

His hiring will support the firm as it continues to build a national brand. 

MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. — WSB, fast-growing design and consulting firm, today announced that Jeremy Sumner has joined the firm as director, enterprise applications and services.   

In this role, Sumner will lead efforts to strengthen WSB’s enterprise technology systems, improve operational efficiency, and build strategic partnerships across business units to ensure technology empowers the work that matters most.  

Sumner is an accomplished senior IT executive with more than 15 years of global experience leading IT operations, enterprise cloud migrations, cybersecurity, and M&A integrations. His expertise spans business continuity planning, digital transformation, and stakeholder communication. Before joining WSB, Sumner held leadership roles in information technology and application management at other organizations.  

“I’m excited to join WSB and help build a strong technology foundation that supports growth and innovation,” Sumner said. “The culture here aligns with my values, and I’m energized by WSB’s vision to leverage technology as a strategic partner for the business.”  

John Mackiewicz, vice president, technology, shared, “Jeremy’s inspiring leadership, depth of technical experience, and alignment with our culture make him an outstanding addition to our team. His work will strengthen our division and lay the groundwork for advanced capabilities.”  

WSB promotes Shannon Gwost to director, contract administration

Additional leadership in the contract administration group will support the firm and strengthen the region. 

MINNEAPOLIS, Minn.— Fast-growing design and consulting firm WSB today announced that Shannon Gwost has been promoted to director, contract administration.  

Having been with the firm for 10 years, Gwost has grown with WSB while establishing a national brand. As director, Gwost will now oversee three offices throughout the region including Baxter, Fargo and St. Cloud.  

Craig Alberg, vice president, construction, said, “Shannon has been a leader in Minnesota’s central region for several years. His extensive expertise in both design and construction has been key in delivering outstanding service to our clients. We appreciate Shannon’s dedication and contributions, which have strengthened our team and enhanced our reputation for technical excellence.” 

Gwost’s expertise will be critical as WSB continues to expand its contract administration services. His mentorship will support the firm’s staff as it continues to deliver infrastructure projects that serve its communities.  

“I am honored to take on this leadership role and continue supporting our team and clients in new ways,” said Gwost. “WSB’s growth and commitment to excellence have inspired me throughout my career here, and I look forward to helping drive our contract administration group forward, fostering collaboration, and building on our strong foundation for the future.” 

WSB Hires Kevin G. Anderson, PE, DBIA as Vice President, Structures

Anderson joining WSB strengthens the firm’s focus on structural engineering as it continues to expand nationally.  

MINNEAPOLIS — Dec. 4, 2025 — WSB, forward-thinking design and consulting firm, announced today that Kevin G. Anderson. PE, DBIA has joined as vice president, structures. Anderson brings more than 30 years of structural engineering experience and a track record of delivering complex transportation projects across the Upper Midwest.  

In his new role, Anderson will manage WSB’s structures practice and partner with colleagues nationwide to advance the firm’s structural engineering capabilities. He will collaborate closely with WSB teams in Oklahoma and Texas to support growth initiatives while anchoring leadership in Minnesota.  

“WSB is investing in structural excellence to drive safer, more resilient transportation systems,” said Travis Wieber, vice president, transportation. “Kevin’s experience and leadership will help us deliver innovation and quality for our clients across the country.”  

“I’m excited to join WSB and build on the firm’s momentum,” Anderson said. “We’ll strengthen our structures practice, support project teams regionally and nationally, and keep our focus on outcomes that matter for communities.” 

Anderson led the design of major projects in Minnesota including the rehabilitation of the Smith Avenue High Bridge in St. Paul and the I-494 Airport to TH 169 Design-Build Project. Additionally, Anderson has partnered with WSB on several high-profile efforts prior to his hiring, including major corridor improvements and bridge work for the TH 169 Redefine Project in Elk River and the TH 10/75 11^th Street Underpass Project in Moorhead.

Newsletter | Volume 7 | Issue 2

Congratulations to Justin Messner and Shawn Poe | APWA Board Elections

We are thrilled to share two exciting updates for our staff. Justin Messner and Shawn Poe have both been elected to support their APWA board chapters.  

Justin Messner has been elected to the APWA-MN Board of Directors in the Consultant Director position for the 2026–2027 term. This achievement reflects Justin’s dedication to advancing public works and supporting the APWA-MN community. 

Shawn Poe has been re-elected to the Colorado Chapter APWA Board of Directors for another two-year term. Shawn will continue serving as a Director, a role he has held for the past two years. He is grateful for the opportunity to continue serving Colorado APWA members.

Congratulations to both on these incredible achievements.  

WSB Promotes Mohamed Elyazgi to Director, Transportation Design

The firm is strengthening leadership in Oklahoma through the promotion of Elyazgi. 

Oklahoma City, Okla– WSB, an engineering and consulting firm, today announced the promotion of Mohamed Elyazgi to director, transportation design. Elyazgi now oversees roadway design operations across its Oklahoma offices in Norman, Oklahoma City, and Tulsa. 

Mohamed Elyazgi joined WSB in 2021 and has been instrumental in managing complex transportation projects across the state. With over a decade of experience at Oklahoma Department of Transportation (ODOT) and an established background as a project manager, Elyazgi brings deep expertise and leadership to this role. 

“I’m excited to dive into the numbers behind our processes,” said Elyazgi. “Our goal is to improve efficiency, embrace advancing technology, and continue delivering excellence for our clients.” 

Caleb Austin, vice president of transportation, added, “Mohamed is an exceptional engineer who commands respect from his team. His calm, steady leadership and passion for collaboration make him the perfect choice to lead our Oklahoma design operations.” 

This promotion reflects WSB’s commitment to expanding its leadership and strengthening its team in Oklahoma. By investing in talented professionals like Elyazgi and enhancing its presence across the state, the firm is reinforcing its dedication to supporting local communities and advancing transportation infrastructure.  

TH 169 Redefine Elk River Project Wins APWA-MN Project of the Year

We’re proud to announce that the TH 169 Redefine Elk River Project has been awarded Project of the Year by the American Public Works Association – Minnesota Chapter (APWA-MN)! 

This award recognizes projects that exemplify excellence in public works through innovation, collaboration, and community impact. The TH 169 Redefine Elk River Project transformed a critical corridor, improving safety, mobility, and connectivity for thousands of travelers each day. 

The award was presented at the APWA-MN Fall Conference on November 20 at Mystic Lake Center in Prior Lake.  

Thank you to our partners, stakeholders, and community for making this achievement possible. Together, we’re redefining what’s possible in transportation infrastructure. 

Rachel Scheu Awarded 2025 Young Engineer of the Year

Rachel Scheu, Professional Engineer I in WSB’s Municipal division, has been named the 2025 Young Engineer of the Year by MFESTS. This prestigious award highlights Rachel’s dedication to innovation, professional excellence, and community involvement. 

WSB is thrilled to see Rachel Scheu recognized for the impact she’s making in the engineering community. 

Read more about MFESTS and the award: mfests.org 

WSB Promotes Craig Alberg to Vice President of Contract Administration

This promotion allows the firm to better support its staff, clients, and growth opportunities in the Midwest.  

Minneapolis, Minn.— WSB, a fast-growing design, consulting and engineering firm, announced today the promotion of Craig Alberg to vice president of contract administration. Alberg previously served as director of contract administration for the Metro Region and brings more than 20 years of experience in construction administration, project management, and quality oversight. 

In his new role, Craig Alberg will oversee contract administration operations across Minnesota, the Dakotas, Iowa, and Wisconsin. This promotion reflects WSB’s commitment to building a more efficient and scalable structure to support continued growth across the Midwest. 

“Craig’s leadership, organizational skills, and deep industry knowledge make him uniquely qualified to take on this expanded role,” said Mike Rief, senior vice president of construction. “He’s the kind of leader who can consistently manage demanding responsibilities. Craig’s extensive experience, integrity and strategic vision enable him to guide teams through complex challenges and deliver results that exceed expectations.” 

Alberg’s promotion initiates a strategic restructuring of WSB’s contract administration group, designed to improve support for staff and clients while enabling future expansion. He will  absorb oversight of not only additional areas in Minnesota, but also four additional states in the region. 

“I’m honored to step into this role and help shape the future of our contract administration team,” said Alberg. “WSB’s growth presents exciting opportunities, and I look forward to building a structure that supports our people and our mission.”