News

WSB Announces New Oklahoma Regional Leadership as Establishes National Presence

May 10, 2024

The firm promotes staff to the director level to support expansion initiatives.

Oklahoma City, Okla. –Fast-growing architecture, engineering and construction firm WSB today announced the expansion of its Oklahoma leadership team. The design and consulting firm is building a national brand that supports critical infrastructure across the United States and is prioritizing elevating leadership in each region it serves.

WSB has strategically invested in the development of its staff to better support the needs of each community it serves. Several staff have been elevated to the director level across all regions of the firm including Colorado/California, Minnesota/North Dakota, Oklahoma, Texas and the southeastern U.S. Recent promotions in the Oklahoma region include:

• Amber Freeman | Director, Project Management Office 
• Brent Frank | Director, Contract Administration  
• Brian Cales | Director, Water/Wastewater 
• Christopher Serrano | Director, Municipal Services  
• Darin Metzer | Director, Materials  
• Kevin Kriewall | Director, Contract Administration  
• Matias Mendez Larrain | Director, Geotechnical and Pavement Services  
• Peter Regan | Director, Strategy 
• Steve Allen | Director, IT Service Management  
• Tony Terrell | Director, Utilities Management   

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.

“We build what’s next in infrastructure— the places, spaces and systems that support our lives. Our top priority is to provide the highest-quality services to our clients, and we can do so with established leadership” said Bret Weiss, president and CEO. “There is a lot of potential in the Oklahoma region, and I am excited to see what we can accomplish together in this region with elevated staff. I am certain their guidance and expertise will support the firm and each community as we forge ahead.”

WSB was originally based out of one office in Minnesota. Over 28 years, the firm has continued to grow and expanded its footprint into the Oklahoma region last fall after the acquisition of EST. Today, the firm offers services in more than 50 complementary areas and has expanded its markets to support communities nationwide.

WSB Establishes National Footprint with Expanded Leadership in the Southeast

May 14, 2024

The firm’s presence continues to grow nationally through the acquisition of AE Engineering, expanding leaders in the region.

Jacksonville, Fla. – WSB, a design and consulting firm, today announced expanded leadership in the southeast region. Roderick Myrick and Cory Nichols will support the firm in vice president roles as it grows in the southeastern U.S.

“As we integrate with WSB, I am excited for the opportunities available. Together, we can expand our resources and capabilities to better support our clients,” said Myrick. “When we combine our expertise, resources and talents— we will be a powerhouse in the southeast. I look forward to embarking on this journey with WSB and making a positive impact on the communities we serve.”

“This is an exciting step forward for our staff at AE Engineering and by joining WSB it will only increase our capabilities in the southeast region,” said Nichols. “We have begun collaborating on projects to make a positive impact on infrastructure. AE already has strong roots in this region, and I am eager to develop our services and connections with our clients as one team.”

The firm acquired AE Engineering, a high-growth infrastructure firm based in Jacksonville, Florida, in February 2024. With this addition, WSB is establishing itself as a national brand and elevating leaders in the region. Myrick is now vice president, strategy and construction engineering and inspection (CE&I), and Nichols is vice president, operations.

“When I first met with Rod, Cory and AE Engineering, I was stunned by the services they were providing,” said Bret Weiss, president and CEO. “Seeing how they operate and the culture they built both internally and with their communities, I knew we would be a great match. I look forward to what we can accomplish together as we forge ahead.”

Through recent acquisitions, WSB has grown significantly in size and service offerings. The firm has over 1,250 staff across the U.S. in regions including California/Colorado, Minnesota/North Dakota, Oklahoma, Texas and now the southeast. With each acquisition, the firm’s services continue to grow, now offering more than 50 complimentary services in engineering, construction, environmental and community planning.

WSB Ranks 11 on 2024 Hot Firm List

June 6, 2024

WSB was recently named a Hot Firm by the Zweig Group for the eleventh consecutive year. Our firm ranks 11^th on the 2024 Hot Firm List, a significant increase from our position last year at 43. This is one of our highest placements on the Hot Firm List, and we are incredibly honored to share this achievement.

Hot Firm #11

The list honors the fastest growing firms in the AEC industry in the U.S. and Canada. The chosen companies have surpassed both the economy and their competitors to emerge as frontrunners in their respective industries. Ranking is based on three-year growth in revenue, by both percentage and growth. 

The Zweig Group is the leading research, publishing, and advisory services resource for firms in the AEC industry. The Zweig Group’s awards programs recognize and celebrate top AEC industry firms in several categories.  Winners will be recognized at the 2024 Elevate AEC Conference in September. 

View the complete list of Hot Firm winners.

WSB announces St. Cloud office relocation as part of national expansion

June 6, 2024

The firm has chosen to relocate to the new office space for improved efficiency.

Minneapolis, Minn. – Design and consulting firm WSB announced today the relocation of their St. Cloud office. The firm is building a national presence and making each office a welcoming space is included in that plan.

The firm’s new St. Cloud office is located at 3051 2nd Street South, Suite 103 and includes 3,998 square feet.

“The St. Cloud office is an integral part of WSB,” said Kyle Klasen, vice president of surveys. “We have had a building in the area since 1998, and we are excited to relocate to a new facility. We look forward to settling into the new space and continuing to build relationships in the area.”

St. Cloud hosts one of the seven Minnesota offices and has helped create the strong foundation WSB has with its Midwest clients and communities.

“Our top priority is making sure we find and create spaces where our staff will thrive and we can best support the community,” said Bret Weiss, president and CEO. “We are looking forward to a future in a new space with resources that reflect our values and brand for staff and clients. This relocation is a testament that we are continuing to invest in St. Cloud.”

With two recent acquisitions, the firm has grown significantly. Expanding its coast-to-coast client base and office locations has been a major focus for the firm. National development has been at the forefront, but the firm continues to prioritize the needs of each region. WSB looks forward to the future of the St. Cloud office in its new location.

WSB strengthens leadership in Florida with hiring of new vice president 

July 10, 2024

Jacksonville, FL. – WSB, the fast-growing design and consulting firm, today announced the strategic hiring of Rob Mizell. Mizell has joined WSB as vice president of transportation and will support the firm while establishing its national presence and growing the transportation division in Florida.

Mizell has over 30 years of industry experience in both the private and public sector in northeast and central Florida. His background makes him well equipped to lead the division to new heights in Florida.

“Rob has an impressive reputation, and his experience and leadership in the industry speaks for itself,” said Jon Chiglo, chief operating officer. “Our mindsets and values aligned regarding advancing technology in the industry and introducing clients to our innovative approaches. He’s a fantastic fit for our firm, and with his leadership we will see growth in our transportation services.”

Based in the firm’s Jacksonville office, Mizell will oversee the transportation division in Florida. Rob will build staff and client relationships throughout the state, continue to advance infrastructure by introducing southeast clients to technology strategies and provide support for overall growth. His background and knowledge will help position WSB as a powerhouse firm in the area.

“I was initially drawn to WSB because of its aggressive growth strategy,” said Mizell. “I am extremely impressed with the colleagues I have met and the advanced strategies the firm applies to its projects. WSB has a wide variety of services and innovative techniques to better support communities and clients. I am eager to further develop our footprint in Florida and establish WSB as a go-to firm.”

WSB joined the southeast market in February 2024 through the acquisition of AE Engineering Inc., a high-growth transportation infrastructure engineering firm based in Jacksonville, Florida. WSB has nearly doubled staff in the last year and provides services across the United States.

WSB Announces New Texas Regional Leadership as Firm Grows National Footprint

March 11, 2024

New leadership promotions announced to support regional expansions.

Minneapolis, Minn. –WSB is one of the fastest growing architecture, engineering and construction (AEC) firms in the nation and today announced the expansion of its Texas leadership team. This is part of the firm’s aggressive growth strategy to build a national firm that supports critical infrastructure across the United States.

This year, WSB added four new vice president roles in Texas, with others across the operating regions of Minnesota/North Dakota, Oklahoma, Colorado and the southeastern U.S. Currently, WSB operates ten offices in Texas including Dallas, Austin, Houston, Round Rock, Tyler, Melissa, Paris, Arlington, Texarkana and Sulphur Springs. The four new vice president promotions in Texas are:

• Kelly Selman, vice president of transportation
  • Operational focus for transportation in the Texas region
• Brad Martin, vice president of construction
  • Operational focus for construction in the Texas region
• Tracey Friggle-Logan, vice president of strategy
  • Oversees construction engineering & inspection strategy in the Texas region
• Buddy Williams, vice president of strategy
  • Oversees construction engineering & inspection strategy in the Texas region

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. This acquisition brings 13 offices and more than 170 employees into WSB across the Southeast. With the addition of these two firms, WSB now operates with more than 1,250 employees across the U.S.

“There is a lot of potential in Texas, and I look forward to further building our leadership in this region,” said Bret Weiss, president and CEO. “Texas is heavily investing in its infrastructure, and WSB is an industry-leader that can support their commitment to growth and improvement. With an expanded leadership team, we are rooting ourselves in their communities and building connections to take their infrastructure to the next level.”

WSB was founded in 1995 and its growth over the last 28 years has been significant. The firm first entered the Texas market in 2016. After acquiring EST in the fall of 2023, the firm’s ties in Texas have only been strengthened when it added five new offices in the area and many staff. Today, WSB offers services in more than 50 areas, to seamlessly integrate planning, design and implementation across the nation.

WSB Announces New Minnesota/North Dakota Regional Leadership as Firm Grows National Footprint

March 11, 2023

New leadership promotions announced to support regional expansions.

Minneapolis, Minn. – Today, WSB, one of the fastest growing architecture, engineering and construction (AEC) firms in the nation, announced the expansion of its Minnesota and North Dakota leadership team. WSB is building a national firm that supports critical infrastructure across the United States.

This year, WSB added a new vice president role in Minnesota/North Dakota, along with others in the Texas, Oklahoma, Colorado and southeastern regions of the firm. WSB currently operates nine offices between Minnesota and North Dakota including headquarters in Minneapolis, Baxter, Burnsville, Duluth, Rochester, St. Cloud, St. Paul, Bismarck and Fargo. The new vice president promotion in Minnesota/North Dakota is:

• Peter Muehlbach, vice president of strategy
  • Oversees transportation, construction engineering, & inspection strategy for the Minnesota/North Dakota region

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. This acquisition brings 11 offices and more than 170 employees into WSB across the Southeast. With the addition of these two firms, WSB now operates with more than 1,250 employees across the U.S.

“We are incredibly excited about elevating our next generation of leaders in Minnesota and North Dakota. We are strategically investing across the country to grow our impact,” said Bret Weiss, president & CEO of WSB. “The acquisition of EST and AE and the subsequent growth of our leadership team is a testament to our commitment to meet the demands of our nation’s growing population and build the resilient, sustainable infrastructure of tomorrow.”

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.

WSB Announces New Colorado Regional Leadership as Firm Grows National Footprint

March 12, 2024

New leadership promotions announced to support regional expansions.

Minneapolis, Minn. –WSB, an industry-leading design and consulting firm, today announced the expansion of leadership in its Colorado region. The firm is one of the fastest growing architecture, engineering and construction (AEC) firms in the nation and is establishing itself as a national firm that supports infrastructure— the places, spaces and systems that support our lives.

This year, WSB added one new vice president role in Colorado, with others across the operating regions of Minnesota/North Dakota, Texas Oklahoma and the southeastern U.S. WSB currently operates 4 offices in Colorado in Denver, Westminster Colorado Springs and the Centennial Lab. The new vice president promotion in Colorado is:

• Paul Jesaitis, vice president of transportation
  • Oversees construction engineering & inspection in Colorado

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. This acquisition brings 11 offices and more than 170 employees into WSB across the Southeast. With the addition of these two firms, WSB now operates with more than 1,250 employees across the U.S.

“I am excited to promote leaders across the firm, and I am certain elevating leadership in Colorado will have a positive impact on the communities we serve and the services we provide,” said Bret Weiss, president and CEO. “There is a lot of potential in the Colorado region, and this promotion only enhances our commitment to growth and our dedication to our clients. With increased leadership across the nation, we will continue to forge ahead.”

Originally founded 1995, WSB was based in Minnesota. The firm continued to expand its markets to several regions across the U.S. and first entered Colorado in 2017.  After acquiring EST in the fall of 2023, 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.

WSB Announces New Oklahoma Regional Leadership as Firm Grows National Footprint

March 12, 2024

New leadership promotions announced to support regional expansions.

Minneapolis, Minn. –Design and consulting firm WSB today announced the expansion of its Oklahoma leadership team. The fast-growing firm is building a national brand that supports critical infrastructure across the United States.

WSB recently added three new vice president roles in the Oklahoma region, with others across the operating regions of Minnesota/North Dakota, Texas Colorado and the southeastern U.S. The firm operates 10 offices throughout Oklahoma including Antlers, Tulsa Lab, Ardmore, Lawton, Moore, Norman, Tulsa, Oklahoma City and Durant. The three new vice president promotions in Oklahoma are:

• Mike Vahabzadegan – executive vice president
  • Oversees strategy across the nation and Oklahoma region
• Caleb Austin, vice president of transportation
  • Operational focus for transportation in the Oklahoma region
• Gary Evans, vice president of construction
  • Operational focus for construction engineering & inspection in the Oklahoma region

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. This acquisition brings 11 offices and more than 170 employees into WSB across the Southeast. With the addition of these two firms, WSB now operates with more than 1,250 employees across the U.S.

 “We are establishing WSB as a national brand to better support communities across the U.S.,” said Bret Weiss, president and CEO. “As we elevate and strengthen our leadership team in Oklahoma, WSB is better equipped to provide high-quality services to our clients, and our staff has improved guidance and mentorship to fulfill these responsibilities.”

 Founded in 1995, WSB was originally based out of one office in Minnesota. Over 28 years, the firm has continued to grow and expanded its footprint into the Oklahoma region last fall after the acquisition of EST. Today, the firm offers services in more than 50 complementary areas and has expanded its markets to support communities nationwide.

WSB Hires Chief Financial Officer to Support National Growth

March 12, 2024

Newly hired, James Bainbridge brings financial expertise to the firm as it expands its markets across the country.

Minneapolis, Minn – WSB, a forward-thinking design and consulting firm, announced today the hiring of James Bainbridge as chief financial officer (CFO). This strategic decision supports the fast-growing firm as it nationally expands its services to new markets.

With 15 years of finance and accounting experience and previous work as a CFO, Bainbridge is well poised to assume the responsibilities of this position. His knowledge and background supporting fast-growing companies will benefit WSB as the firm continues to be one of the most rapidly growing in the Architecture, Engineering and Construction (AEC) industry.

“We take pride in providing high-quality services to our clients and supporting them with technical excellence,” said Bret Weiss, president and chief executive officer (CEO). “We are establishing WSB as a national brand, and to do so successfully, we need business excellence as well. James’s financial expertise, history and adaptability allow us to better serve our clients and staff. He fits well with the culture of our firm which will allow WSB to continue to successfully expand into new and exciting markets.” 

In this role, Bainbridge oversees all financial functions of the firm nationwide as the firm continues to grow both organically and through acquisitions.

“WSB is a leader in the industry, and the fast growth creates opportunities and excitement for staff and clients,” said Bainbridge. “I am fascinated by the services WSB provides and the positive impact they have on the communities in which we live and do business. I look forward to lending my knowledge and being part of the build out as we forge ahead.”

WSB recently acquired two firms in the past six months. As CFO, Bainbridge will support the firm’s growth plans as it continues to grow across the U.S.