The firm continues to establish roots in Oklahoma, joining several offices and staff throughout Tulsa into an improved and centralized office space.

May 13, 2025

Tulsa, Okla — WSB is thrilled to announce the opening of its new office at 416 South Utica Avenue, Tulsa, OK 74120. This strategic move reflects the firm’s ongoing commitment to growth and investment in the Tulsa region.

The firm acquired several offices throughout the city in recent years. By consolidating these existing locations into a modern, state-of-the-art facility, WSB aims to foster enhanced collaboration among staff and deliver superior service to clients. The new office will serve as a central hub, allowing the firm to streamline operations and improve efficiencies across various projects and service lines.

“We are excited about the new, updated space and the progress it signifies for WSB in the region,” said Rick Johnson, vice president of operations. “This office is a testament to our dedication to providing exceptional service and fostering a collaborative work environment. The upgraded facilities will enable us to better support our clients’ needs and pursue innovative solutions to complex challenges.”

The new office space is equipped with advanced technology and amenities, ensuring a high-quality environment conducive to successful project execution. The design facilitates communication and teamwork, promoting a culture of creativity and continuous improvement.

The new office officially opened its doors on December 2. This marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for WSB in Tulsa, reinforcing the firm’s commitment to excellence and community engagement.

May 13, 2025

We are thrilled to announce that three of our outstanding staff members have been recognized by the International Right of Way Association (IRWA) for their exemplary contributions to the profession.

• April Randall has been named the IRWA Oklahoma Young Professional of the Year by the Oklahoma Chapter of IRWA.
• Audrey Fincannon has been honored as the Oklahoma IRWA Professional of the Year by the same chapter.
• Christie Saenz has been awarded the title of Texas IRWA Professional of the Year by the Texas Chapter of IRWA.

These awards celebrate individuals who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, innovation, and commitment to the Right of Way profession. We are immensely proud of their achievements and their dedication to advancing the field.

Congratulations to April, Audrey, and Christie on these well-deserved honors!

May 1, 2025

WSB is honored to be featured on the Engineering News-Record’s (ENR) nationally ranked list for the thirteenth consecutive year, climbing 25 spots from last year’s position. Through ENR’s annual survey, companies throughout the United States are ranked according to revenue for design services performed. ENR’s mission is to connect diverse sectors of the industry with coverage of issues that include business management, design, construction methods, technology, safety, law, legislation, environment and labor.

Since WSB was founded nearly 30 years ago, we have been committed to growth and excellence. For many years, we have worked hand-in-hand with our communities to build the future of infrastructure. Through strong partnerships, we have collaborated to solve some of our communities’ biggest challenges. Our growth would not be possible without the trust and support of our dedicated clients. Thank you for entrusting us with your infrastructure needs.

It is an honor to be recognized amongst our peers. We extend gratitude to our incredible staff who play a significant role in driving our growth and shaping our company. At WSB, we foster innovation at every level and across all service areas. We look forward to continuing to advance project delivery with our clients.

Review the full ranking list: ENR 2025 Top 500 Design Firms Preview | Engineering News-Record

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Our Chief Operating Officer, Jon Chiglo, is featured in the 2025 Top 500 Design Firms: Design Market Shifts Overnight article by Engineering News-Record (ENR). Jon discusses the ongoing challenges and opportunities in the design market, emphasizing the critical need for STEAM education. Jon highlights that while technology is helping to bridge gaps, the industry still requires key subject matter experts to drive progress.

“Without key subject matter experts driving progress, projects cannot be evaluated or designed, and without field workers, projects cannot be built. We need more planners, earth scientists, engineers, and field staff. Technology will be a tool to assist our staff, not replace them.”

Jon Chiglo

This recognition underscores WSB’s commitment to innovation and excellence in the design industry. We are proud to have Jon’s insights featured in such a prestigious publication.

Read the full article to learn more about the shifts in the design market and how Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) companies are navigating these changes.

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.

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.

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.

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.