News

WSB Elevates Leadership within Construction Division

The firm expands leadership opportunities with the promotions of Chris Kester and Mark Watson.

February 15, 2024

Minneapolis, Minn – WSB, a forward-thinking design and consulting firm, announced today they have expanded leadership in the construction division. Chris Kester has been promoted to director of project controls and Mark Watson has been promoted to director of materials engineering.

The promotions of Kester and Watson support WSB as the firm grows its national presence. Kester and Watson both have many years of experience in the Architecture, Engineering and Construction (AEC) industry, bringing immense value to the firm.

“This is an exciting opportunity for Chris to grow the team,” said Andy Kaiyala, vice president of technology & controls. “In this role, he will connect design and construction, creating a solid foundation to better support our clients. He is well-positioned to provide leadership in this new role at WSB.”

Kester has worked in the AEC industry for nearly 15 years with a background in field work, estimating responsibilities and more. Combined with the Digital Construction Management team, Kester focuses on delivering new methods and procedures, discovering how things are most effectively built and employing tools to optimize projects.

“We are uncovering what the future of the industry looks like,” said Kester. “This is an exciting time to work in the AEC industry. I look forward to using these advancements to serve communities across the U.S.”

Watson oversees quality management of materials for heavy civil, commercial, and vertical construction projects. In this role, he supports pre-letting services, design and post-letting construction related to material and quality control.

“It’s fulfilling to work toward expanding the role of field services at WSB,” said Watson. “My career began in materials, so I am eager to focus more attention on this area.”

“Mark has an extensive background in materials, design and construction— he’s very diverse,” said Mike Rief, senior vice president, construction. “Combining his experience with his passion and drive for his work sets up the construction division for success.”

Kester and Watson bring industry experience, strengthening WSB’s construction division. As WSB continues to grow, their leadership is a major asset to the firm.

WSB Ranks Number 2 on Twin Cities Largest Engineering Firms List

WSB recently made the Minneapolis/St. Paul Business Journal’s Twin Cities Largest Engineering Firms list. This list is designed for firms headquartered in the Twin Cities and is ranked on engineering billings. WSB is ranked second on the 2023 list.

View more information about the Twin Cities Largest Engineering Firms list here.

WSB, Minneapolis-Based Design and Consulting Firm, Announces Acquisition of AE 

February 20, 2024

AE’S strong footprint solidifies WSB’s presence in the Southeast U.S. 

MINNEAPOLIS, MINN. — WSB LLC (“WSB”), one of the nation’s fastest growing infrastructure engineering and consulting firms, today announced the acquisition of AE Engineering, Inc. (“AE”), a high-growth transportation infrastructure engineering firm based in Jacksonville, Florida. The strategic addition of AE will solidify WSB’s presence and service offerings in the southeastern United States. WSB is a portfolio company of GHK Capital Partners LP (“GHK”), a leading middle-market private equity firm based in Greenwich, CT.

“WSB is moving forward in building a national brand,” said Bret Weiss, WSB’s president and chief executive officer. “The Southeast is an important market for transportation infrastructure engineering given the significant population growth and infrastructure investment present in the region.  AE has an outstanding reputation, and their leaders match our culture with their approach and entrepreneurial spirit.  We are eager to build on the success of AE by introducing expanded services to complement their already successful program.”  

The acquisition of AE brings 13 offices and more than 170 employees into WSB across the Southeast. Combined, WSB now operates 49 offices with more than 1,250 employees nationwide to serve its clients across the government, commercial and energy markets.  

“WSB is a strong and growing firm that is an excellent match for AE and our clients,” said Rod Myrick, AE’s president. “We’ve always tried to represent the best in the industry and to be a trusted asset to our clients and partners.  AE is joining a firm with that same commitment.  We are eager to build on the strengths and success of WSB by introducing expanded services to complement our existing operation in Florida and throughout the Southeast.”   

WSB and AE will work together to develop a single go-to market approach as WSB in the coming months. This represents WSB’s second acquisition in the last twelve months. In September 2023, the firm acquired Oklahoma-based EST, a 350-person transportation infrastructure engineering firm. 

About WSB  

WSB, a design and consulting firm providing engineering, planning, environmental and construction services. Its staff improves the way people engage with communities, transportation, infrastructure, energy and our environment. WSB offers services in more than 50 complementary areas to seamlessly integrate planning, design and implementation. Its coast-to-coast client base is served from 49 offices in 9 states. WSB’s staff is inspired to look beyond today and capitalize on the opportunities of tomorrow. Guided by a strong vision and an authentic passion, WSB is a company that strives to forge ahead. To learn more, visit wsbeng.com. 

About AE

AE Engineering, Inc. (AE) is a client-focused transportation infrastructure engineering firm founded in 2006, and provides professional services to governmental agencies including State, County and City, as well as private sector clients. Headquartered in Jacksonville, FL, AE’s core capabilities include Construction Engineering & Inspection (CEI), Civil Engineering, Construction Management, Laboratory & Materials Testing, Contractor Quality Control (CQC), Asset & Infrastructure Maintenance, Building Inspection and Planning services.

About GHK Capital Partners LP

GHK is a leading middle-market private equity firm focused on making control investments in industrial companies across North America. More information about GHK and our team is available on our website www.ghk.com.

Minnesota Society of Professional Engineers Recognizes Rachel Scheu with the 2023 Young Engineer of the Year Award

February 21, 2024

Each year, the Minnesota Society of Professional Engineers (MnSPE) recognizes an outstanding individual with the Young Engineer of the Year Award. The recipient is selected based on their achievements of a licensed MnSPE member under the age of 35. We are proud to announce Rachel Scheu, Graduate Engineer, was selected as the 2023 recipient. Rachel was awarded this honor at the MnSPE Luncheon Awards on February 21.

Rachel was selected as the 2023 Young Engineer of the Year award for a variety of reasons. She supports municipalities with any civil engineering needs they may have, and she demonstrates many technical and soft skills. Rachel’s leadership among her peers also makes her an excellent choice. Not only did she serve on our internal LEAD committee, but she is also a member on the MnSPE Board of Directors and leads the Young Engineers committee group.

This is a great accomplishment for Rachel early in her career, and we are proud to have her on staff.

WSB Welcomes Rick Johnson, Vice President of Operations, to Leadership

February 28, 2024

Johnson’s addition elevates the firm’s national presence and operations across the country.

Oklahoma City, Okla. – Design and consulting firm WSB today announced the strategic hiring of Rick Johnson. Johson has joined WSB’s leadership as vice president of operations and is based out of the firm’s Oklahoma City office.

In this role, Johnson will support Jon Chiglo, WSB’s chief operating officer, in leading operations across the firm with a primary focus in Oklahoma. He improves operations, furthers project management and will integrate design and construction aspects in all regions moving forward. His guidance helps the firm build an even more consistent approach in its operations.

“Throughout his career, Rick has excelled in project management,” said Chiglo. “He has an extensive network in Oklahoma, and his local leadership ensures that we sustain our commitment to clients in the region. Rick’s collaborative efforts, attention to detail and ability to provide high-quality services make him very valuable to WSB and the future of this firm.”

Johnson holds 27 years of industry experience with the Oklahoma Department of Transportation (DOT), including many years on leadership. Throughout his career, Johnson has lead project delivery and design. Some notable projects include the I-244 Arkansas River tri-bridge and State Highway 51 Cottonwood Creek accelerated bridge construction (ABC).

“I have a long history supporting projects throughout Oklahoma and the region,” said Johnson. “Seeing the growth, potential and drive WSB brings to the table made me very excited to join the firm. I look forward to supporting operations across WSB as we continue to forge ahead.”

WSB is growing across the U.S. supporting communities in every region. The firm acquired EST Inc. in fall of 2023 and recently acquired AE Engineering in early 2024.

WSB Expands Construction Team Leadership

Expansion of leadership will elevate the firm’s environmental compliance and geotechnical capabilities across markets

August 16, 2023

Engineering and consulting firm WSB announced today that they have expanded their construction team leadership. Kory Bonnell has been promoted to director of environmental compliance and Mark Osborn has been promoted to director of geotechnical services.

“The promotion of Kory and Mark within our construction division is significant for both our clients and internal operations,” said Mike Rief, WSB senior vice president of construction services. “Both Kory and Mark have been with WSB for several years and have proven that they are true experts in their respective areas. Their approach to leadership has built our internal teams, expanded our services and driven repeat business through their commitment to client service. They are very deserving of their new roles.”

Bonnell first joined WSB in 2016 as environmental compliance specialist. Throughout this time, she has expanded the firm’s environmental compliance footprint into new markets and has taken a fresh approach to the offerings we provide.

“Our environmental compliance capabilities have expanded due to our commitment to seeking out multifaceted talent and diverse expertise within our field,” said Bonnell. “Environmental compliance is a large part of a project’s success and when performed well it mitigates risk, identifies impacts and streamlines project timelines. I’m proud of the way we’ve grown our team over the last several years and look forward to bringing a new set of eyes to the way we support our client’s environmental compliance needs.”

Osborn joined WSB in 2013. Since then, he’s focused on developing a strong team, supporting the firm’s geotechnical workload and performing more efficient and effective field services. Mark has been an active member of the Minnesota Geotechnical Society including serving as treasurer for many years. 

“We often say that a project is only as good as the materials used to build them,” said Osborn. “We have a deep understanding of how soils and rock impact different infrastructure projects allowing us to deliver accurate, precise and technical data for our clients. It’s not only about our commitment to quality, but rather the way we approach a project. We believe the best client relationships stem from true client service and I’m looking forward to expanding this approach with both existing and new clients.”

Both Bonnell and Osborn are recognized industry leaders and are well-positioned to support the government, commercial and energy market with their infrastructure needs. WSB’s construction services include alternative project delivery, constructability review, project management and construction administration, pavement management, surveying and more. Additional information about WSB’s construction services can be found here.

WSB Grows Central Minnesota Presence With the Expansion of Baxter Office

The fast-growing design and consulting firm first established a presence in Baxter in 2015.

September 13, 2023

WSB, a design and consulting firm, announced the expansion of their office in Baxter, Minn. The firm has relocated to the Johnson Center located at 14275 Golf Course Drive. The 2,360-square-foot space represents WSB’s further investment in the central Minnesota region.

“WSB’s Baxter office is a vital part of our operations,” said Monica Heil, WSB’s vice president of municipal services. “Our Baxter team serves a large region of the state, and the infrastructure needs of the surrounding communities continue to grow. We’re excited for the opportunity to support the region, and our expanded office strengthens our presence and provides more visibility.”

WSB first entered the central Minnesota region in 2015 with the opening of their Baxter office. Over eight years later, the firm is proud to continue investing in the region. The strategic office expansion and location of the Baxter office is appealing because of its accessibility to local clients and staff.

The Baxter office will support the development of infrastructure for counties and cities in central Minnesota. WSB will continue to build their team and focus on project delivery in the area.

“We have strong existing relationships with partners and clients in the Brainerd/Baxter area,” said Paul Sandy, WSB’s municipal senior project manager. “This office space and expansion allows us the opportunity to continue working with existing clients while expanding our footprint in northern Minnesota to provide services to clients we may not have worked with in the past. In a place developing as quickly as Crow Wing County and surrounding jurisdictions, we are eager to continue building our resume in the region and providing our clients with cutting-edge solutions to support their infrastructure and asset management needs.”

WSB currently serves as the city engineer in the city of East Gull Lake and supports other cities in the area such as Brainerd, Baxter, Breezy Point, and neighboring jurisdictions throughout northern Minnesota.  With geographic presences in St. Cloud, Baxter, Duluth, and Fargo, WSB services all northern Minnesota through collective office expertise.

Since moving to Baxter in 2015, more notable projects in the Brainerd/Baxter area include WSB serving as the lead design firm managing design and construction quality for the Highway 371 Design Build project from Nisswa to Jenkins, the College Drive Reconstruction Project from County Road 48 to Quince Street in Brainerd, and the newly constructed Lyman P. White Park located on the banks of the Mississippi River in Brainerd.

WSB, Minneapolis-Based Design and Consulting Firm, Announces Acquisition of EST

EST’S STRONG FOOTPRINT SOLIDIFIES THE FIRM’S GROWING PRESENCE IN THE SOUTHERN AND WESTERN U.S.

September 20, 2023

WSB, one of the nation’s fastest growing Architecture, Engineering and Construction (AEC) firms, with 17 offices across five states, today announced an acquisition of EST, a comprehensive engineering firm based in Oklahoma City, Okla. The partnership represents progress towards WSB’s strategic growth goals and will strengthen the firm’s presence in the southern and western United States.

EST’s depth and knowledge in transportation, construction engineering and inspection (CE&I) and municipal infrastructure expertise complements WSB’s service offerings and expertise. EST also brings years of experience working closely with state departments of transportation and across the government market.

“WSB is growing from a position of strength,” said Bret Weiss, WSB’s president and chief executive officer. “We are strategically adding new capabilities that complement our existing service offerings and expertise. EST is an outstanding firm with a strong culture and entrepreneurial spirit. Together, we’re now able to offer our clients new services and even deeper expertise through shared learnings and best practices, reinforcing the value of a partnership with WSB.”

WSB has significantly expanded its geographic footprint, acquiring 19 offices across four southern and western states, and has grown its talent base, adding more than 350 employees. The combined strength now gives WSB 36 offices nationwide and more than 1,100 employees to better serve its clients in the government, commercial and energy markets.

“WSB and EST are an excellent match in many ways,” said Michael Vahabzadegan, EST’s president and chief operating officer. “Our cultures align significantly, and so do our business goals. Our operations will integrate well and will provide us with more access to talent, technology and approaches to better serve our clients and partners.”

WSB and EST will work together to develop a single go-to market approach as WSB in the coming months. This is WSB’s third acquisition in the southwest. In September 2019, the firm acquired Houston-based Nathelyne A. Kennedy & Associates, Inc., and Rogers Design Services in 2018.

GHK Capital Partners LP (“GHK”) completed a majority recapitalization of WSB in August 2023. This acquisition of EST is WSB’s first in partnership with GHK and establishes a scalable, national platform to expand across the US critical infrastructure consulting space.

WSB Strengthens Leadership Team with Hiring of Waymon Votaw and Gordon McPhee

The addition of Votaw and McPhee will improve WSB’s capabilities and opportunities for staff and clients.

September 28, 2023

Design and consulting firm WSB announced the expansion of leadership within their company. Waymon Votaw has been hired as vice president of oil and gas operations, and Gordon McPhee has joined as vice president of digital solutions. The addition of these roles place WSB in a strong position as they continue to advance infrastructure. 

“Bringing Waymon on our team to oversee operations will strengthen our Oil and Gas division immensely,” said John Gerlach, vice president of oil and gas. “Waymon has an extensive background in the development and asset management of water, energy and power infrastructure and his leadership skills are unmatched. I look forward to seeing Waymon’s positive impact on the Oil and Gas division and our clients.”

Votaw will focus on day-to-day work of the division, finding ways to improve efficiencies and better manage our system and projects. In addition, he will support the firm’s efforts to provide career development pathways and professional opportunities for staff within the Oil and Gas division.  

“I was struck by WSB’s core values: bold, visionary, optimistic, passionate and authentic,” said Votaw. “I apply those qualities to my work, and once I saw them— I knew I wanted to be part of the environment they have at WSB. I am excited to support our clients and staff in this position.”

McPhee is another addition to WSB. As vice president of digital solutions, he will focus on creating, integrating and executing strategy and solutions to advance technology in all our service areas.

“Gordon has a wide variety of industry experience, and his broad background in engineering and knowledge in technology is critical to the growth and development of WSB,” said Jon Chiglo, WSB’s chief operating officer. “He is a valuable asset to our team. His capabilities will continue to strengthen our digital presence throughout our entire firm— improving the overall experience, results and value for our projects and clients.”

“I look forward to the challenge,” said McPhee. “Technology is the future and finding more ways to implement that into a company that is already leading the industry in that area is very exciting. I always want to work toward the next project, and I really appreciate that WSB strives to stay ahead of the curve.”

The fast-growing firm continues to expand its reach across the country. Through the hiring of multiple high-level positions, the firm has welcomed many new faces to leadership with innovative ideas to move business forward.

City of Hugo has been selected as a MRPA Award of Excellence recipient

The City of Hugo has been selected as a MRPA Award of Excellence recipient for the Lions Volunteer Park and Downtown Improvement Project. The award will be presented later this summer at a City Council meeting.

WSB’s design team collaborated with the City of Hugo and HCM Architects to engage in a comprehensive planning process aimed at transforming the existing downtown into an expanded civic space.  The project was completed in 2022 and features a fully redeveloped park with a wide variety of interactive features meeting a broad range of ages and abilities and includes event space, the Peder Pederson Pavilion, an inclusive playground, and athletic courts. It also includes an abundance of gathering areas surrounded by aesthetic landscaping that is irrigated through a stormwater reuse system. The new and redeveloped streets and trails greatly improve overall access to the park and the Hugo City Hall for both pedestrians and vehicles.