News
August 21, 2024
The firm strategically hires leadership to facilitate expansion in the south.
Houston, Texas – Design and consulting firm WSB announced today the strategic hiring of Michael Hodgkinson. Based out of the firm’s Houston office, Hodgkinson joins WSB as director of survey operations.
Hodgkinson has a strong background in the industry with over 30 years of experience in survey. His close relationships with the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) and other industry leaders are valuable to the firm as it continues to grow nationally.
“Michael was selected for this position for a variety of reasons,” said Brad Oswald, director of survey. “He comes to WSB with a wealth of industry knowledge, and his relationships in the region will help us expand our service offerings throughout the state. I’m really excited to watch our division thrive under Michael’s leadership.”
This is the first time the firm will offer survey services of this scale in Texas, and Hodgkinson will be instrumental in its growth. In his position, Hodgkinson will oversee survey operations and business development throughout the state. He will primarily focus on building the firm’s team in Texas and expanding into new market spaces, such as municipal, renewables and energy markets, in the south and southeast regions.
“I see potential for growth at WSB, both internally and nationally,” said Hodgkinson. “I am passionate about building and strengthening operations. I look forward to applying my experience in my new role to support the firm.”
Strengthening the firm’s Texas presence will support national expansion. After doubling in size through two acquisitions in the past year, the firm has increased its service offerings and reach across the United States.
August 27, 2024
Amidst national expansion, the design and consulting firm strengthens leadership in the newly expanded region.
Jacksonville, Fla. – Fast-growing design and consulting firm WSB today announced the expansion of leadership in the Southeast region. This is part of WSB’s aggressive growth strategy to build a national firm that supports critical infrastructure across the United States.
The firm acquired AE Engineering, a high-growth infrastructure firm based in Jacksonville, Florida, in February 2024. Through this acquisition the firm has gained several offices throughout Florida, Geogia and North Carolina.
“Infrastructure is booming in the southeast, and in turn so has our growth,” said Rod Myrick, Vice President of Strategy & Construction. “We have many leaders in this region who have been driving forces of our expansion. These individuals represent our firms dynamic, strong core of difference makers that support our clients, and I’m proud to recognize promotions throughout the region.”
WSB has elevated several leaders within the southeast region to support its newfound growth. Promotions in the southeast region include:
- Andres Atehortua | Director, Contract Administration
- Ricardo Baraybar | Director, Contract Administration
- Udin Dwarica-Ogeer | Director, Quality Assurance
- William Glennon | Director, Contract Administration
- Eduardo Hernandez | Director, Contract Administration
- Van Mason | Director, Contract Administration
- Julian McKinley | Director, Contract Administration
- Christopher Nolen | Director Contract Administration
- Michael Russo | Director, Materials
- Christopher Sweat | Director, Contract Administration
“I am thrilled for our firm to support more communities across the nation,” said Bret Weiss, president and CEO. “The southeast is heavily investing in infrastructure, and AE Engineering has built phenomenal relationships with communities throughout the region. As we forge ahead together, I am excited about the expanded services we can bring to the southeast. Our teams have been collaborating across various divisions to provide the best services for our clients while building what’s next in infrastructure.”
Founded in Minnesota in 1995, the growth of WSB has been significant. With offices in various regions including Minnesota/North Dakota, Colorado/California, Texas/Oklahoma and now the southeast, the firm supports communities across the nation. Today, WSB offers services in more than 50 areas, to seamlessly integrate planning, design and implementation.
August 30, 2024
George Prien will support multiple divisions across the firm as director of data integrity
Denver, Colo. – WSB, design and consulting firm, announced today the strategic hiring of George Prien. Based out of the firm’s Denver location, Prien has joined as director of data integrity.
With 16 years of industry experience, Prien’s expertise lies in data analysis and management. Prien has a background in both GIS and survey, making him well-equipped to support the firm as director of data integrity.
“George’s talent and technical experience in the industry is impressive, and he has been a staple in the energy division for years,” said John Gerlach, vice president of energy utilities. “With connections in Colorado and Houston and a diverse background, he will support our firm well. I am confident with George’s leadership we will continue to advance technology in the energy sector, providing even better services for our clients.”
In this role, Prien works in the energy utilities division— driving technology and data integration into the energy space. Working alongside WSB’s GIS and survey teams, he will oversee the integration of these services. This supports the firm’s initiative to remain an industry leader through advanced project delivery.
“I love building teams, and I have a passion for data,” said Prien. “To combine both interests and support a firm that is already well-established with diverse services is incredibly exciting. I appreciate that WSB is technology driven and the forward-thinking vision embedded in their culture. There are endless opportunities at WSB, and I look forward to my role in helping this firm forge ahead.”
With two acquisitions in the last year, WSB has doubled in size. The technology-driven firm continues to expand services in regions across the country and lead the industry.
September 4, 2024
Each year, the Design-Build Institute of America (DBIA) recognizes outstanding projects in various disciplines that exemplify the principles of Design-Build Done Right®.
DBIA recently announced that the Minnesota Department of Transportation’s (MnDOT) $75 million Highway 52 Zumbrota to Cannon Falls Design-Build project received the 2024 National Award of Merit in the Transportation (Other than Aviation) category. WSB supported MnDOT and this project through the Alternative Delivery General Engineering Consultant Contract (GEC) developing the Contract bidding documents and as the Owners Contract Administration Verification team providing quality management, contract administration, inspection, materials testing and plant inspection.
As a result, this project is automatically a nominee for the DBIA National Award of Excellence in the same category. Only one winner is selected for this award making it the highest honor in each category. Merit winners and Excellence winners will be announced during the awards program at the 2024 Design-Build Conference & Expo in Dallas, TX on November 7.
Click here for more information on the project.
September 4, 2024
Poe’s leadership will solidify the firm’s municipal service offerings in the Colorado/California region.
Denver, Colo. – Fast-growing firm WSB today announced the hiring of Shawn Poe. Based out of the firm’s Denver office, Poe has been strategically selected as director of municipal services to strengthen the service offering across the firm.
In this role, Poe will lead the firm’s efforts in expanding services to municipalities in Colorado. He will grow and strengthen relationships with public agencies not only in the state of Colorado, but in regions Shawn is familiar with and WSB supports.
“I was looking for an opportunity to grow with a firm, and WSB perfectly aligned,” said Poe. “I was drawn in by how visionary the firm is, and I value building relationships and supporting communities. I look forward to bringing my experience to WSB to build what’s next in infrastructure.”
Poe comes to WSB with nearly 30 years of experience in the public and private sectors in both Colorado and Texas. Throughout his career, he has supported communities across the nation as a city engineer and a director of public works. His involvement in professional organizations, including his role as a former president of the APWA Texas Chapter and current role on the board of the APWA Colorado Chapter, make him an asset to WSB.
“Shawn’s experience is going to directly benefit our clients,” said Monica Heil, vice president of municipal services. “He can advocate for and understand the needs of our public infrastructure. Shawn’s guidance will expand our services in the Colorado municipal market, allowing us to most efficiently and effectively support communities.”
The firm first entered the Colorado market in 2017. After recent acquisitions, WSB continues to grow nationally, expanding service offerings and building relationships with communities from coast-to-coast.
May 9, 2024
WSB is proud to announce our newly promoted staff. Annually, we recognize the staff who display leadership, determination and expertise in their field. Each staff member consistently brings different elements of our values, results and leadership into their work. We are dependent on the continual development of new talent and leadership to build our success and support our growth. We are fortunate to have such strong and committed leaders at WSB that have chosen to invest their careers with us. Each of the staff members below have made a commitment to the company, clients and each other to lead by example and help us improve each day. Congratulations!
Principals
- Ben Barker | Director, Right of Way
- Brad Martin | Vice President, Construction
- Buddy Williams | Vice President, Strategy
- Caleb Austin | Vice President, Transportation
- Chad DeMenge | Director, Contract Administration
- DJ Sosa | Senior Project Manager
- Gary Evans | Vice President, Construction
- Jeremy Kilbo | Director, IT Operations
- Karne Newburn | Vice President and General Counsel
- Kelly Selman | Vice President, Transportation
- Kevin Kriewall | Director, Contract Administration
- Liz Weber | Director, Financial Planning and Analysis
- Loyl Bussell | Director, Structures
- Mike Vahabzadegan | Executive Vice President, Strategy
- Paul Jesaitis | Vice President, Transportation
- Paul Poynter | Director, Structures
- Rick Johnson | Vice President, Operations
- Tracey Friggle-Logan | Vice President, Strategy
Senior Associates
- Amber Freeman | Director, PMO
- Brandon Sparkman | Director, Transportation Design
- Brent Frank | Director, Contract Administration
- Bryan Pittman | GIS Lead
- Carla Easton | Director, Municipal Services
- Chris Serrano | Director, Municipal Services
- Darin Metzer | Director, Materials
- Ed Souri | Director, Geotechnical Services
- Eric Grow | Controller
- Gordon McPhee | Vice President, Digital Solutions
- Jay Adams | Proposal Coordinator
- Jenn Edison | Sr. Project Manager
- Josh Golleher | Director, Materials
- Kathy Hurst | PMO Manager
- Laine Peitzmeier | Project Manager
- Mark Andrew | Director, Contract Administration
- Mark Barrett | Senior Director, Geotechnical Services
- Matias Mendez | Director, Geotechnical and Pavement Services
- Michael Skoviera | Technology and Design Team Manager
- Mike Bostic | Director, Contract Administraion
- Mohamed Elyazgi | Project Manager
- Mykol Woodruff | Director, Contract Administration
- Nolan Harvey | Director, Municipal Services
- Pete Regan | Director, Strategy
- Raffi Dermendjian | Project Engineer
- Richard Zamora | Director, Geotechnical Services
- Saeed Sobhi | Director, Traffic
- Sarah Rohne | Director, Human Resources
- Shawn Napier | Director, Civil Site Development
- Steve Allen | Director, IT Service Management
- Tony Terrell | Director, Utilities Management
- Trevett Cullers | Executive Business Partner
- Valerie Brennan | Director of Marketing
Associates
- Ananna Anu | Engineer II
- Angellia Points | Senior Project Manager
- Brian Cales | Director, Water/Wastewater
- Brian Mielke | Senior Right of Way Specialist
- Christie Saenz | Area Manager, Right of Way
- Colin Schultz | CDOT Coordinator
- Dale Routon | Director, Human Resources Operations
- Haley Corbit | Field Services Supervisor
- Hamideh Etemadnia | Senior Transportation Modeler/Engineer
- Isabel Panek | Professional Engineer I
- Javier Garcia | Project Manager
- Jennifer Mullins | Design Technology Manager
- John Bradford | Senior Project Manager
- Jordan Gedrose | Landscape Architect
- Jose Sandoval | Senior Design Manager
- Kory Bonnell | Director, Environmental Compliance
- Kyle Stender | Senior Project Manager
- Mallori Fitzpatrick | Professional Engineer I
- Mark Watson | Director, Materials
- Matt Indihar | Senior Project Manager
- Misti Daigle | Lead City Ambassador
- Nickie Stephenson | Sales Enablement Manager
- Paul Sandy | Sr. Project Manager, Municipal
- Ranuel Ortiz | Area Manager, Municipal
- Reddy Erra | Design Team Lead
- Richard Harper | Director, Contract Administration
- Rob Reed | Sr. Structural Engineer
- Ryan Earp | Director, Public Engagement
- Shannon Heitmann | Senior Design Manager
- Tyler Purdom | Engineer
May 10, 2024
Building the next level of leadership strengthens the firm as it continues to build a national presence.
Denver, Colo. – Fast-growing design and consulting firm WSB today announced the expansion of leadership in its Colorado region. The firm leads the architecture, engineering and construction (AEC) industry while establishing itself as a national firm that supports infrastructure— the places, spaces and systems that support our lives.
WSB recently promoted several staff to directors across all regions including Colorado/California, Minnesota/North Dakota, Oklahoma, Texas and the southeastern U.S. With an expanding footprint, more service offerings and increased expertise throughout each region, the firm is eager to elevate the next level of leadership. Recently promoted to directors in the Colorado/California region include:
- Mark Andrew | Director, Contract Administration
- Richard Zamora | Director, Geotechnical Services
- Saeed Sobhi | Director, Traffic
Through an aggressive growth strategy, WSB is expanding into new markets and geographies while continuing to make strategic investments in cutting-edge tools and technology. In fall of 2023, WSB acquired EST, a respected civil structural and construction engineering consulting firm with offices in Texas, Oklahoma, Colorado and California. In addition, WSB announced in February 2024 the acquisition of AE Engineering, Inc. (“AE”), a high-growth transportation infrastructure firm based in Jacksonville, Florida. With the addition of these two firms, WSB now operates with more than 1,250 employees across the U.S.
“Now more than ever, we are committed to not only the growth of our firm, but also the growth of our staff,” said Bret Weiss, president and CEO. “I am excited to develop additional leadership throughout each region of the U.S., and I know these elevated directors will provide a strong foundation for our staff moving forward. With their guidance, I am certain we will continue to make a positive impact on the communities we serve.”
WSB, headquartered in Minnesota, was founded in 1995. Since then, the firm has expanded its markets and service offerings to meet the needs of its clients. After recent acquisitions, the Colorado region was strengthened even more. Today, the firm offers services in more than 50 areas, employs more than 1,250 people and has expanded its markets across the U.S.
May 10, 2024
The firm announced new leadership promotions at the director level to develop growing regions and service offerings.
Minneapolis, Minn. – Design and consulting firm WSB today announced the expansion of its Minnesota and North Dakota leadership team. The firm is one of the fastest growing in the architecture, engineering and construction industry, and additional leadership will support WSB’s initiatives as it continues to expand its geographic footprint from coast to coast.
WSB is developing leaders from within, creating a strong foundation to move the firm forward. Several promotions were made at director level in the Minnesota/North Dakota region, along with others in Colorado/California, Oklahoma, Texas and the southeastern U.S. Some recently elevated staff in the Minnesota/North Dakota Region include:
- Jess Karls | Senior Director, Transportation Design
- Jesse Sievers | Director, Talent Acquisition
Through an aggressive growth strategy, WSB is expanding into new markets and geographies while continuing to make strategic investments in cutting-edge tools and technology. In fall of 2023, WSB acquired EST, a respected civil structural and construction engineering consulting firm with offices in Texas, Oklahoma, Colorado and California. In addition, WSB announced in February 2024 the acquisition of AE Engineering, Inc. (“AE”), a high-growth transportation infrastructure firm based in Jacksonville, Florida. With the addition of these two firms, WSB now operates with more than 1,250 employees across the U.S.
“As we continue to establish WSB as a national firm, we are excited to bring recognition to staff at the director level in each of our regions,” said Bret Weiss, president and CEO. “We have been serving communities in the Minnesota/North Dakota region since we founded WSB in 1995, and our staff continues to raise the bar each year. I know this next level of leadership will only improve the services we already provide, and I look forward to seeing what we can accomplish with their mentorship and expertise.”
When WSB was founded in 1995, the company had five staff, one office and three services areas. Today, the firm offers services in more than 50 complementary areas, employs more than 1,250 people and has expanded its markets to support communities nationwide.
May 10, 2024
The firm is prioritizing the development of staff to support regional expansions.
Minneapolis, Minn. –Design and consulting firm WSB today announced the expansion of its Texas leadership team. The firm is one of the fastest growing in the architecture, engineering and construction industry. This is part of WSB’s aggressive growth strategy to build a national firm that supports critical infrastructure across the United States.
WSB is committed to elevating leadership within the firm. Recently, WSB has promoted several staff to the director level across all regions including Texas, Colorado/California, Minnesota/North Dakota, Oklahoma and the southeastern United States. Director promotions in the Texas region include:
- Brandon Sparkman | Director, Transportation Design
- Carla Easton | Director, Municipal Services
- Dale Routon | Director, Human Resources
- Ed Souri | Director, Geotechnical Services
- Josh Golleher | Director, Materials
- Loyl Bussell | Director, Structures
- Michael Bostic | Director, Contract Administration
- Mykol Woodruff | Director, Contract Administration
- Nolan Harvey | Director, Municipal Services
- Richard Harper | Director, Contract Administration
- Shawn Napier | Director, Civil Site Development
WSB is expanding into new markets and geographies while continuing to make strategic investments in cutting-edge tools and technology. In fall of 2023, WSB acquired EST, a respected civil structural and construction engineering consulting firm with offices in Texas, Oklahoma, Colorado and California. In addition, WSB announced in February 2024 the acquisition of AE Engineering, Inc. (“AE”), a high-growth transportation infrastructure firm based in Jacksonville, Florida. With the addition of these two firms, WSB now operates with more than 1,250 employees across the U.S.
“Texas is heavily investing in their infrastructure, and it is an exciting time to support its communities and the infrastructure surrounding them,” said Bret Weiss, president and CEO. “We are leading the industry through revolutionary technology and the incredible expertise of our staff. With an expanded leadership team, we are building on our commitment to this region. I am confident these promotions will support our clients and staff to provide the highest-quality of service.”
Founded in Minnesota in 1995, the growth over the last 28 years has been significant. The firm first entered the Texas market in 2016, and after acquiring EST in the fall of 2023, the firm’s ties in Texas have only been strengthened. Today, WSB offers services in more than 50 areas, to seamlessly integrate planning, design and implementation across the nation.
