News

WSB promotes Justin Hansen to senior director, GIS; Paul Reinhart to director, proposals 

April 30, 2026

MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. — WSB, a fast-growing design and consulting firm, today announced the promotions of Justin Hansen to senior director, GIS, and Paul Reinhart to director, proposals.  

These promotions reflect WSB’s continued investment in leaders who build high-performing teams, strengthen collaboration across disciplines and support evolving client needs while positioning the firm for continued growth. 

In his expanded role, Hansen will continue leading WSB’s GIS strategy and delivery, supporting teams and clients with technology-enabled solutions that enhance data-driven planning, design and operations. Previously serving as director, GIS services, Hansen has played a key role in advancing GIS initiatives, expanding integration across service lines. 

“I’m grateful for the opportunity to continue growing with WSB and to lead alongside such a talented team,” Hansen said. “The success of our GIS program is truly a team effort. As we continue expanding into new regions, this role allows us to empower more GIS leaders across the firm while delivering innovative solutions that help our clients make informed decisions.” 

“Justin has consistently led beyond the expectations of his role,” said John Mackiewicz, vice president, technology. “He brings strong technical leadership, strategic vision and a deep commitment to mentoring others. This promotion recognizes the impact he’s had across WSB—from enterprise GIS and application development to expanding how GIS is integrated across our markets and service lines.” 

Reinhart will lead WSB’s proposals team as director, proposals, guiding priority pursuits and strengthening proposal development across all regions and disciplines. Previously serving as proposal manager, Reinhart has been instrumental in unifying what were once separate proposal efforts into a single, coordinated team supporting the entire firm. 

“I’m honored to step into this role and continue supporting the teams that are doing great work across WSB,” Reinhart said. “Our proposals group plays an important part in how we tell our story—bringing clarity, consistency and collaboration to every pursuit. Building a unified process—while still recognizing the needs of different markets—has been a rewarding journey, and I’m excited to continue evolving how we support the firm.” 

“This promotion recognizes his leadership and positions him to continue building a strong, connected proposals team aligned with WSB’s growth,” said Ben Maurer, vice president, marketing & communications. “He helped establish a consistent pursuit and proposal process at WSB, introduced clearer procedures and roles, and strengthened coordination across regions. That foundation puts us in a much stronger position as we grow, welcome new teams and explore efficiencies to support high-quality, client-focused pursuits.” 

WSB Recognized with 2026 ASLA‑MN Merit Award

April 30, 2026

Minneapolis, MN — WSB is proud to announce that the Mississippi Gateway Regional Park project has received a 2026 Merit Award from the American Society of Landscape Architects Minnesota Chapter (ASLA‑MN). The award recognizes the collaborative work completed for Three Rivers Park District and the City of Brooklyn Park, honoring excellence in landscape architecture within the General Design category. 

Located along a significant stretch of the Mississippi River corridor in Brooklyn Park, MN, Mississippi Gateway Regional Park represents more than a decade of planning, design, and implementation. The project reimagines a heavily used but long‑underinvested park into a cohesive regional destination that balances ecological restoration, public access, and inclusive recreation. 

WSB partnered closely with Three Rivers Park District beginning in 2015, assisting with an extensive master planning process rooted in community engagement. Over the course of more than 30 public meetings and stakeholder discussions, input from park users and residents helped shape a unified vision focused on reconnecting people to the Mississippi River, enhancing year‑round use, and protecting sensitive natural systems. Implementation followed from 2021 through 2025, with WSB remaining engaged from concept through construction. 

As prime consultant, WSB provided landscape architectural leadership for the full redevelopment of the park’s core areas. Key project elements include a new Gateway Center serving as both a visitor hub and nature center, an elevated Treetop Trail offering access to the forest canopy and river views, and a series of nature‑based play experiences designed to encourage exploration and learning. Additional improvements include the Mini‑Mississippi interactive water feature, expanded trail connectivity, new picnic shelters, an upgraded archery range with accessible lanes, an expanded dog off‑leash area, and the South Pond Learning Lab—an outdoor classroom and dock set within a floodplain pond ecosystem. 

The project required careful coordination and phasing to allow the park to remain open throughout construction. WSB worked closely with the client and project team to manage sequencing, adapt to post‑pandemic cost fluctuations, and ensure new amenities were made available to the public as they were completed. This approach minimized disruptions while maintaining community trust and continued access to one of the region’s most valued public landscapes. 

The ASLA‑MN Merit Award recognizes Mississippi Gateway Regional Park as an example of long‑term collaboration, design stewardship, and landscape architecture’s role in shaping resilient, community‑centered public spaces. The project demonstrates how thoughtful planning and sustained partnership can translate shared values into an enduring park that will serve the region for generations. 

WSB Named to ENR’s 2026 Top 500 Design Firms, Ranking #106

April 29, 2026

WSB is proud to announce its ranking of #106 on Engineering News-Records (ENR) 2026 Top 500 Design Firms list, climbing three spots from last year’s position. 

ENR’s Top 500 Design Firms list is a nationally recognized ranking that highlights the largest U.S.-based design firms based on revenue for design services. WSB’s continued growth reflects the firm’s commitment to engineering excellence, community-focused solutions, and strong partnerships with clients nationwide. For 30 years, WSB has been committed to building resilient infrastructure that supports communities. This recognition is a testament to our talented staff and the trust our clients place in us. 

WSB’s 2026 ranking also includes commentary from COO Jon Chiglo, who was featured in the ENR issue “AI Boom Buoys Design Revenue.” 

“Firms must remain highly adaptable and proactive as continued cost sensitivity and uncertainty are seen across markets,” said Chiglo. He noted firms that carefully develop project budgets, build contingencies, and identify cost drivers early can reduce risk for clients and achieve better outcomes. Chiglo also shared that WSB has intentionally structured its operations to remain nimble amid evolving federal regulations and permitting requirements, enabling teams to proactively adjust project approaches and support efficient design and approval processes. 

This recognition reflects our commitment to delivering high-quality, resilient infrastructure solutions and adapting to evolving conditions across the nation. 

Read the full article and view our ranking here: 

ENR 2026 Top 500 Design Firms: AI Boom Buoys Design Revenue 

ENR Top 500 Design Firms  

Faye Gillespie Named IRWA Chapter 20 Professional of the Year 

April 6, 2026

WSB is proud to congratulate Faye Gillespie on being named the International Right of Way Association (IRWA) Chapter 20 Professional of the Year. This recognition honors Faye’s exceptional contributions to the right of way (ROW) profession and her continued commitment to advancing the industry. 

Faye’s leadership, expertise, and dedication have made a meaningful impact on both the ROW community and WSB’s ROW Group. Her work reflects a strong commitment to collaboration, professionalism, and service. 

Congratulations, Faye, on this well-deserved honor—and thank you for all that you do for the ROW industry and our team. 

Jason Amberg Reappointed to Minnesota Professional Licensure Board 

WSB is proud to share that Jason Amberg, WSB Director, Landscape Architecture, has been reappointed to the Minnesota Board of Architecture, Engineering, Land Surveying, Landscape Architecture, Geoscience, and Interior Design.

Jason’s reappointment reflects his commitment to professional standards and service to the State of Minnesota. WSB congratulates Jason on this continued appointment and thanks him for his leadership and dedication.

Bret Weiss Named Inaugural Honoree of Finance & Commerce’s C‑Level Awards 

February 6, 2026

WSB is proud to announce that Bret Weiss, President & CEO, has been selected as an inaugural honoree of Finance & Commerce’s C‑Level Awards. This recognition celebrates Minnesota business leaders who demonstrate exceptional leadership, integrity, vision and a strong commitment to excellence and community engagement. 

Throughout his career, Bret has championed WSB’s mission to deliver innovative, future‑focused infrastructure solutions that support strong, resilient communities. His dedication to building what’s next through technology, collaboration and a people‑first culture aligns directly with the values recognized by the C‑Level Awards and reinforces the purposeful leadership that drives WSB forward. 

As part of this honor, Bret will be profiled in the C‑Level Awards publication and recognized during the awards and networking event on April 9, 2026, at Quincy Hall in Minneapolis. 

“I’m honored to be included among leaders who reflect values so closely aligned with WSB’s mission,” said Weiss. “This recognition reinforces the meaningful work we’re doing together to shape a stronger, more resilient future.” 

As a longstanding and respected source for regional business news, Finance & Commerce plays an important role in highlighting leaders who shape Minnesota’s economic and community landscape. Their C‑Level Awards honor individuals whose leadership and values reflect the qualities that strengthen organizations and the communities they serve. Being recognized by an organization so deeply connected to the region makes this distinction especially meaningful for WSB, underscoring the alignment between the award’s purpose and our mission‑driven approach. 

WSB congratulates Bret on this meaningful achievement and celebrates the impact his mission‑driven leadership continues to have across our company and the industry. 

WSB Promotes Cody Hans to director, contract administration 

WSB elevates Hans to support growing contract administration operations and strengthen leadership in North Texas 

Melissa, Texas— WSB, a fast-growing design and consulting firm, today announced the promotion of Cody Hans to director, contract administration. His leadership and deep industry expertise will advance the firm’s contract administration operations in Texas.  

Hans previously served as a senior project manager, leading personnel on the $600 million I-35 project and contributing to strategic pursuits across the region. As director, he will oversee multiple project pursuits, lead contract review and negotiation efforts, and expand his responsibilities in staff management and project oversight.  

“Moving into a people-manager role is an exciting step,” Hans said. “I’m looking forward to cultivating a strong team mentality, supporting our staff and helping pursue new projects that continue the culture of excellence I’ve experienced at WSB.”  

Hans was selected for the promotion based on his industry experience, leadership style and ability to strengthen the division. His experience managing large-scale transportation projects combined with his collaborative approach will help WSB better support its clients.  

“Cody brings exceptional value to our team,” said Mykol Woodruff, vice president, contract administration. “His management style, industry knowledge and ability to build strong partnerships make him a natural fit for this leadership role. He understands how other firms operate, and his expertise positions us exceptionally well for continued growth in North Texas.” 

WSB continues to strengthen leadership across the country as the firm expands its national presence. The firm now hosts offices in over 10 states and supports projects and communities from coast-to-coast.  

WSB Expands Expertise in Water, Construction, and Power Delivery and Design Through Strategic Acquisitions  

The firm welcomes seasoned leaders to advance infrastructure solutions nationwide. 

Minneapolis, Minn. – WSB, a fast-growing design and consulting firm, announced the addition of key leaders following the recent acquisitions of CAS Consulting & Services (CAS), Agbara Engineering (Agbara) and NEO Virtus Engineering (NEO Virtus). The expansion of the leadership team enhances WSB’s expertise in water, wastewater, resources, construction management, power delivery and power design, supporting its commitment to comprehensive infrastructure solutions nationwide. 

CAS Leadership Joining WSB: 

• Channy Soeur, Senior Vice President, Water/Wastewater  

• Gail Hamrick-Pigg, Director, Water/Wastewater 

• Henry Leighton, Vice President, Construction Management 

• Jesse Penn, Senior Director, Water/Wastewater & Water Resources 

• Stephanie Blew, Director, Water Resources 

Agbara Leadership Joining WSB: 

• Jamil Newell, Vice President, Power Delivery 

• Craig Cameron, Director, Transmission & Distribution 

• Jon Hauser, Director, Business Development 

• Syed Rizvi, Director, Project Management 

NEO Virtus Leadership Joining WSB: 

• James Bing, Vice President, Distributed Energy Resources 

• Michael Hendrickson, Senior Director, Distributed Energy Resources 

• Griffin Anderson, Director, Distributed Energy Resources 

By combining CAS’s expertise in water and construction, Agbara’s specialized knowledge in power delivery and transmission, and NEO Virtus’s background in photovoltaic (PV) and energy storage system design— WSB is positioned to better serve communities and clients across multiple markets. These acquisitions align with WSB’s long-term strategy to expand into new markets and provide innovative solutions for critical infrastructure projects. 

“Our acquisitions of CAS, Agbara, and Neo Virtus reflect WSB’s commitment to investing in exceptional talent and expanding our service offerings,” said Bret Weiss, WSB president and CEO. “These leaders bring deep knowledge and experience that will strengthen our practices and help us deliver even greater value to our clients.” 

Founded in 1995, WSB has grown from a single office in Minnesota to a national firm offering services in more than 50 complementary areas. With the addition of CAS, Agbara and NEO Virtus, WSB continues to expand its footprint and capabilities to support infrastructure projects across the U.S.  These companies will form a single go-to-market approach as WSB in early 2026. 

Paul Kyle Promoted to Director, Contract Administration at WSB

The firm is elevating internal leadership to strengthen its contract administration group. 

Minneapolis, MN— WSB, a fast-growing design and consulting firm, today announced the promotion of Paul Kyle to director, contract administration.   

In his new role, Kyle will oversee metro-area contract administration staff, support business development efforts, and strengthen the firm’s construction offerings across the region.   

“As our construction services division continues to grow, Paul is the right leader to help drive expansion across the metro and surrounding regions,” said Craig Alberg, vice president, construction. “His experience, steady leadership and commitment to our staff and clients will help create new opportunities for our teams and strengthen our organization.”  

Kyle was selected for the role due to his strong leadership within WSB and the broader industry, as well as his deep expertise in construction services. With 16 years at the firm, Kyle has grown professionally within WSB and continues to champion the company’s longstanding approach to quality, service and client relationships.  

“I’m excited for the opportunity to take on additional leadership and support the continued growth of our division,” Kyle said. “There is so much momentum across the metro and beyond. I’m looking forward to working with new staff, helping people grow in their careers, and supporting infrastructure projects in our communities.”  

This promotion reflects WSB’s focus on developing strong internal leaders who can support its growing national presence. The firm now operates from offices in 10 states, delivering work for clients across the U.S. 

WSB Announces Acquisition of NEO Virtus Engineering

NEO Virtus strengthens WSB’s power division with new services and expertise. 

MINNEAPOLIS, MINN. — WSB LLC (“WSB”), one of the nation’s fastest-growing infrastructure engineering and consulting firms, today announced the acquisition of NEO Virtus Engineering (“NEO Virtus” or the “Firm”), a specialized engineering consulting firm with deep expertise in photovoltaic (PV) and energy storage system design. This strategic addition strengthens WSB’s ability to support the full lifecycle of power/energy infrastructure for clients across the country. 

“The acquisition of NEO Virtus Engineering marks a pivotal moment in WSB’s journey to build a national power/energy practice,” said Bret Weiss, WSB’s president and chief executive officer. “NEO Virtus’s technical excellence in PV, energy storage, and power system engineering perfectly complements our existing capabilities and allows us to deliver more comprehensive, future-focused solutions to our clients. Together, we’re expanding our services, empowering our teams, and positioning WSB as a leader in the power and energy space. I’m incredibly excited about what we’ll build together.” 

NEO Virtus Engineering, founded in 2001 and headquartered in Littleton, Massachusetts, brings a highly skilled team with a reputation for collaboration, efficiency, and reliability—especially in navigating complex interconnection challenges in emerging solar markets. The Firm’s core services include PV and energy storage system design, owner’s engineering, power system studies, protection and control engineering, witness testing, and solar analytics. 

“Joining WSB is an exciting step forward for NEO Virtus Engineering,” said Jim Bing, president of NEO Virtus. “We’ve always believed in engineering with purpose, and now we have the opportunity to scale that impact alongside a firm that shares our values and vision. This partnership gives our clients access to expanded services and deeper resources, while our staff gain new opportunities for growth, collaboration, and innovation. Together, we’re building something bigger—an energy practice that’s positioned to lead and evolve with the future.” 

With the addition of NEO Virtus, WSB expands its technical bench and geographic reach, offering clients enhanced expertise in solar and energy storage, as well as robust operational support in human resources, marketing, project management, and IT. The integration will create new pathways for professional development and upward mobility for staff, while reinforcing WSB’s commitment to delivering elevated service and innovative solutions. 

WSB and NEO Virtus will unify their market strategy as WSB in early 2026. This marks WSB’s sixth acquisition in two years and further expands WSB’s expertise across transportation, engineering, power, water resources, and construction management.