News

WSB welcomes Tara Dresen as Chief Human Resource Officer

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.  

Major Milestone Achieved in EPA Grant Funding

September 18, 2024

WSB’s Sustainability Division has successfully helped secure $5 million in EPA grant funding for the St. Croix Chippewa Indians of Wisconsin. This funding will enhance building efficiency, develop and install 1MW of solar electricity infrastructure and increase local workforce capacity for renewable energy on Tribal lands.

The application, developed in collaboration with the Tribe’s Grants Administrator, was selected as one of 33 recipients from a competitive pool of over 100 applications. This success highlights the comprehensive and compelling nature of the proposal, which demonstrated significant potential for advancing the Tribe’s goals of energy sovereignty and reducing negative environmental impacts.

The funding is expected to open new possibilities for the Tribe. WSB looks forward to supporting future Tribal clients in their pursuit of sustainability goals.

For more details on the grant awards, please visit the EPA’s official announcement.

WSB invests in Arkansas office, elevating training and evaluation standards

September 27, 2024

The firm announces a new office in the state to better support communities in the region.

Conway, Ark. – Fast-growing design and consulting firm WSB today announced the opening of a new office located at 1335 Covington Pk Dr, Conway, AR 72034. This facility is set to serve as a hub for advanced training and operator qualification (OQ) of third-party contractors, underscoring WSB’s commitment to enhancing service quality and safety in pipeline operations across the state.

The new facility will primarily focus on the specialized training and evaluation of fusion processes essential in polyethylene (PE) pipe installations — a critical component in modern pipeline infrastructure. The facility is equipped to conduct comprehensive training on a variety of techniques such as manual butt fusion, hydraulic butt fusion, socket fusion and the use of electro fusion tees and couplings. This hands-on approach ensures that third-party contractors across Arkansas are well-versed in pipeline construction and maintenance techniques.

Beyond third-party contractor evaluation, the new space is designed to better support how the firm’s inspection staff are trained and evaluated. Moving away from traditional computer-based knowledge assessments, the facility features workstations that simulate real-life scenarios. This practical training environment allows staff to sharpen their skills effectively, ensuring they are well-equipped to uphold and surpass the stringent standards required in pipeline inspection and safety.

“This space represents a transformative leap in our training capabilities,” said Rick Bradway, distribution utility inspector. As master evaluator, Bradway will be critical in overseeing the facility. “By simulating real-world scenarios, we can ensure our staff not only meet but exceed the rigorous standards required in our industry today. It’s about building a future-ready workforce that can tackle any challenge with confidence.”

The establishment also reaffirms its long-term commitment to the Arkansas community. WSB has worked on several projects throughout Arkansas since 2020. Investing in this region allows expanded service offerings in more than 50 complementary areas to better contribute to the state’s infrastructural development.

WSB promotes Kelly Selman to oversee the firm’s Texas transportation and construction engineering and inspection efforts

October 2, 2024

As senior vice president, Selman will lead WSB’s transportation and construction engineering and inspection divisions in Texas

Melissa, Texas – Engineering and consulting firm WSB announced today that Kelly Selman has been promoted to senior vice president of Texas. Selman, who previously led WSB’s transportation efforts throughout Texas, will now oversee and manage both the transportation and construction engineering and inspection (CE&I) divisions.

As senior vice president of Texas, Selman will oversee the firm’s growing portfolio of public and private transportation and construction clients. His role aims to strengthen and expand the firm’s transportation and CE&I services and solutions throughout the state. For years, WSB has been delivering engineering services in Texas, but the elevated role for Selman will help to support the fast growth within the region, strengthen existing and new client relationships, and build on the firm’s local expertise.   

“In 2023, we gained an industry infrastructure leader in Kelly Selman,” said Jon Chiglo, chief operating officer at WSB. “The experience, leadership and drive that Kelly brings to WSB has quickly enhanced our offerings in Texas. I am confident that Kelly will elevate our CE&I services in Texas and lead our strong teams.

Selman took on the role of vice president of transportation at WSB in 2023, concentrating his efforts on addressing the state’s infrastructure needs. Prior to joining WSB, Selman spent nearly six years at EST as Texas regional manager and 32 years at the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) in a variety of roles including area engineer, director of operations, director of TP&D, and district engineer of Dallas.

“WSB is advancing our industry and changing the way we deliver for our clients,” said Selman “This is the perfect opportunity to take our expertise in 3D design in Texas.  I’m thrilled to be leading these two key areas for WSB and I’m excited to support more clients across the state.”

As division lead for the firm’s transportation and CE&I teams in Texas, Selman will oversee WSB’s bridges and structures, roadway design, traffic engineering, transportation planning, right of way, transit planning and intelligent transportation systems, construction management, survey, materials testing services and more.

Selman is replacing Brad Martin, vice president of construction at WSB.  Martin retired on September 27. “On behalf of WSB, I would like to thank Brad Martin for his commitment, leadership and contributions to our firm,” said Bret Weiss, president and CEO at WSB.  “From the moment he joined WSB, he was a dedicated leader to our staff and a committed consultant to all our clients.  On behalf of all our staff and leadership, we wish Brad nothing but the best in retirement.”

Orion Solar Belt Project: Powering the Future with Google’s Largest Solar Investment

October 23, 2024

We are excited to be part of the Orion Solar Belt project, a remarkable 900 MWdc solar power-plant that recently began commercial operations in Texas. Our team contributed to this project by conducting the survey and providing full civil, hydrology, and pile plan design for this initiative.

As Google’s largest solar energy investment to date, this project will power the company’s data centers in Ellis County, Texas, and plays a vital role in their commitment to achieving carbon-free energy by 2030.

Notably, this project included Google as a primary off-taker and complied with the domestic content provisions of the Inflation Reduction Act, enabling them to secure an additional 10% investment tax credit. It utilized 1.3 million American-made solar modules from First Solar, domestic steel from Gerdau Steel in Midlothian, Texas, and components from Nextracker Inc., predominantly produced in the U.S.

For more information, visit: https://www.msn.com/en-us/money/companies/google-backed-orion-solar-belt-farm-opens-in-the-us/ar-AA1sDOXm

WSB opens new office in Orlando, establishing strong roots in the southeast region

November 7, 2024

As the firm continues to nationally expand, WSB is prioritizing its investment in the southeast.

Orlando, FL — WSB, a rapidly-growing design and consulting firm, has opened a new office located at 6220 Hazeltine National Dr., Suite 116, Orlando, FL. This strategic move marks a pivotal moment in the firm’s nationwide expansion efforts, reflecting a commitment to growing roots in the vibrant Southeast.

The firm wants to emphasize its commitment to the local communities it serves. This location enhances the firm’s ability to provide exceptional services to clients in the region and strengthens its brand presence across the southeastern United States.

“Opening our office in Orlando is a crucial part of our national growth strategy,” said Chris Nolen, director of contract administration. “We are thrilled to extend our expertise and services to the region and look forward to strengthening our relationships with the local community.”

WSB is prioritizing the needs of the communities it serves while expanding brand awareness from coast to coast. The new Orlando office is a testament to the firm’s unwavering commitment to excellence and innovation.

The firm first entered the southeastern region in early 2024 after acquiring AE Engineering, a high-growth transportation infrastructure engineering firm based in Jacksonville. Since then, the firm continues to grow and supports projects nationwide. 

WSB, Minneapolis-Based Design and Consulting Firm, Announces Acquisition of Meshek & Associates, LLC

November 12, 2024
Meshek’s footprint strengthens WSB’S presence in the southern U.S. 

MINNEAPOLIS, MINN. — WSB LLC (“WSB”), one of the nation’s fastest growing infrastructure engineering and consulting firms, today announced the acquisition of Meshek & Associates, LLC. (“Meshek”), a specialized civil engineering firm based in Tulsa, Oklahoma. The strategic addition of Meshek will strengthen WSB’s service offerings and presence in Oklahoma.  

“WSB is evolving into a national brand,” announced Bret Weiss, WSB’s president and CEO. “Oklahoma is making significant investments in its infrastructure, boasts a growing economy, and ranks among the top states for job creation, which gives us access to a robust talent pool. Meshek enjoys an excellent reputation and is an ideal fit with our culture and entrepreneurial spirit. We are excited to expand on their success by providing additional services.” 

The acquisition of Meshek brings three offices and more than 50 employees into WSB. Combined, WSB now operates over 50 offices with more than 1,500 employees nationwide to serve its clients across the government, commercial and energy markets.  

“WSB is a robust and expanding company that aligns perfectly with Meshek and our clients,” stated Brandon Claborn, CEO of Meshek. “For many years, we have been dedicated to providing top-tier service to our clients. By joining WSB, which shares this unwavering dedication, we are excited to gain additional expertise and resources to serve our clients and enhance their strengths and achievements by offering additional services.”   

WSB and Meshek will work together to develop a single go-to market approach as WSB in early 2025. This represents WSB’s third acquisition in the last 13 months. In September 2023, the firm acquired Oklahoma-based EST, a 350-person transportation infrastructure engineering firm and in February 2024, WSB acquired Florida-based AE Engineering, a 180-person construction, engineering and inspection (CE&I) firm.

Morrissey Goodale advised Meshek & Associates in connection with the transaction.

WSB strengthens leadership amidst national expansion with strategic hire Corey Johnson

November 19, 2024
Johnson’s role at WSB is valuable as the firm supports clients across the country.

Orlando, Fla. — Design and consulting firm WSB today announced the strategic hiring of Corey Johnson. Johnson supports the firm as director of strategy for digital construction management (DCM).

With 25 years of industry experience, Johnson’s background and expertise make him an asset to WSB. From time as a consultant and solution engineer in civil, to managing design and construction teams, to establishing strong relationships with most Departments of Transportation (DOTs)— Johnson is well equipped to lead WSB to success.

“Corey has a comprehensive understanding of what it takes to provide practical-minded digital delivery,” said Andy Kaiyala, vice president of DCM. “His diverse technical skills coupled with his ability to collaborate with staff and clients is incredibly valuable. The strategic vision, mentorship and guidance Corey provides strengthens the group as we continue to grow.”

In this position, Johnson leads the national effort to expand the firm’s DCM service, prioritizing client engagement to accelerate the adoption of a model-centric future. Additionally, his background and strong relationships support the firm and increase brand awareness.

“I had worked with WSB in the past and always admired how they approached projects,” said Johnson. “WSB is progressive and is targeting the right things to solve real problems. From assembling a strong team to finding solutions for the communities we serve; I knew this would be a good fit.”

The firm first launched DCM in spring of 2023. Since then, the service area and team of experts continue to grow as the firm partners with national brands, raising awareness about the model-centric future for the Architecture, Engineering and Construction (AEC) industry. 

WSB honored with Zweig marketing excellence

July 12, 2024

The Zweig Group is the leading research, publishing and advisory services resource for the Architecture, Engineering and Construction (AEC) industry. Each year, the organization offers an awards program that specifically recognizes outstanding work within the AEC industry throughout North America.

WSB was recently honored with five awards from the Zweig Group for 2024 Marketing Excellence. Entries are judged by a team of marketing professionals and evaluated based upon overall creativity, messaging, results achieved by the campaign, and level of design.

1^st Place in Brochure Design | Digital Lifecycle Brochure

WSB is a forward-thinking firm, and we value our innovative approach with advanced project delivery. The firm uses technology to remain a leader in the industry, and this is reflected in our marketing efforts.

Recently, WSB created an improved digital sales tool about the Digital Lifecycle. Our efforts to design an interactive presentation that uniquely caters to each audience was recognized by the Zweig Group and received first place in Brochure Design.

2^nd Place in Brochure Design | New Firm Overview

The WSB 2024 firm overview brochure is designed as a presentation folder that accommodates division collateral, one-pagers and additional marketing materials.

It also includes a cutout for holding a business card. This innovative folder can serve as a standalone piece or a leave behind. We received second place from the Zweig Group for this timeless and contemporary brochure presentation.

2^nd Place in Internal Newsletters | 2023 Year in Review

Since 2009, WSB has published our annual Year In Review. This publication recaps the previous year and is distributed at our firm’s annual celebration. The goal is simple – to tell the story of WSB to our staff. In recent years, we have grown significantly both in staff size and geography. The stories of how we are building what is next in infrastructure across the country are important for our staff to hear.

The Year in Review helps us reconnect to our mission and reminds us of what we work together towards. It received second place in Internal Newsletters.

2^nd Place in External Newsletters | Nov/Dec 2023 Newsletter

Twice a year, WSB publishes an external newsletter. For over 10 years, WSB has mailed a newsletter highlighting projects, innovations, techniques, and news. We feel there is still value in a well-done printed piece. Issuing a newsletter helps us tell our WSB story in a broader way than digital marketing.

This newsletter focused on the work we have done across the country and our growth as a firm. It received second place from the Zweig Group for External Newsletters.

3^rd Place in Advertising | MSHSL State Tournaments Advertising

We know that the future is what we make of it, and we value the bright minds of the next generation. This is why we chose to advertise in environments where the next great engineers are as a Minnesota State High School Sponsor.

00:15-second commercials ran during the live web-streaming of the 2024 Girls’ & Boys’ State Hockey and Basketball, as well as rotational courtside signage during the basketball tournaments. We received third place in Advertising.

To read more about the awards and view a full list of winners, please visit Marketing Excellence Award (zweiggroup.com)

WSB Awarded Special Achievement in GIS

August 2, 2024

WSB was recently awarded Special Achievement in GIS (Geographic Information Systems) at the 2024 Esri User Conference. This award is given to users around the world recognizing outstanding work with GIS technology. WSB was recognized for its work as a consultant supporting renewable energy organizations with implementing Esri GIS technology.

Esri is the global market leader in GIS software, location intelligence and mapping. The firm is honored to have received this prestigious award.