New Hire

WSB appoints Tumer Akakin as director of materials engineering

The firm strategically hires Akakin to support the growth of Midwest materials engineering operations.

Minneapolis, Minn.— Forward-thinking design and consulting firm WSB today announced the appointment of Tumer Akakin as director of materials engineering. Based in Burnsville, Minnesota, Akakin brings over two decades of experience in the construction materials industry.

Akakin holds a doctorate in construction materials and a master’s degree in structural engineering from Turkey. His career began at the Turkish Ready Mixed Concrete Association and later moved to Minnesota in 2016, where he held leadership positions at Aggregate Ready Mix of Minnesota and worked and Intertek.

In his new role at WSB, Akakin will oversee the materials lab in Burnsville and lead vertical building projects. He will support WSB’s initiative of expanding materials testing capabilities, particularly in the area of vertical building projects. Akakin will also explore additional testing and inspection opportunities to diversify WSB’s offerings and strengthen its competitive edge.

“We are thrilled to welcome Tumer Akakin to WSB,” said Mike Rief, senior vice president of construction. “His expertise and extensive knowledge will be instrumental in enhancing the firm’s resume and building credibility with clients. I look forward to the future of the division with Tumer’s leadership.”

“I am excited to contribute to this dynamic firm,” said Akakin. “The expansive services offered at WSB provide incredible opportunities for our clients. I look forward to leveraging my expertise in materials engineering to enhance our testing capabilities and explore new avenues for growth.”

Akakin’s appointment will support the firm’s mission to drive innovation and quality in the materials engineering sector. His leadership will help WSB expand its services and continue to build strong client relationships as the firm continues its national expansion. WSB serves communities from nearly 50 offices across the country.

WSB welcomes Christopher Rousseau as vice president of renewables

April 29, 2025
Rosseau’s hiring is part of the firm’s national expansion strategy through strengthening the renewables division.

Minneapolis, Minn.— WSB, a fast-growing design and consulting firm, today announced the strategic hiring of Christopher Rousseau, PE, as vice president of renewables. With over two decades of experience in hydro engineering, dam safety, and renewable energy project management, Rousseau brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to WSB.

Throughout his career, Rousseau has held several prominent positions in the industry. He served as chief operating officer at Mavel America’s, Inc., hydro and renewable energy market leader at J.F. Brennan Company, Inc., and manager of renewable business operations at Minnesota Power. His extensive background in managing complex projects, mentoring staff, and optimizing team performance will be instrumental in advancing WSB’s renewable energy initiatives.

As vice president of renewables, Rousseau will work closely with Behnaz Beladi, the director of the renewables department, to drive innovation and oversee the development and execution of renewable energy projects. His expertise in hydro engineering and dam safety, combined with his experience in alternative project delivery and early contractor involvement, positions him as a key leader in navigating the challenges and opportunities in the renewables sector.

“I am excited to join WSB and contribute to the firm’s mission of delivering sustainable energy solutions,” said Rousseau. “I look forward to working with the talented team at WSB and leveraging my experience to drive innovation and growth in our renewable energy projects.”

“We are thrilled to welcome Chris to our leadership team,” said Jon Chiglo, WSB’s chief operating officer. “His extensive knowledge and experience in renewable energy will be invaluable as we continue to expand our renewables initiatives. Chris’s vision and leadership will keep WSB at the forefront of the industry, delivering high-quality projects that meet and exceed our clients’ needs and contribute to a sustainable future.”

Rousseau’s leadership will drive the renewables division to new heights. The firm has doubled in size through recent acquisitions and organic growth supporting communities from coast to coast.

WSB welcomes Jennifer Bullard as vice president of construction

April 16, 2025
The firm hired Bullard as part of its national expansion strategy.

Tulsa, Okla.— WSB, a fast-growing design and consulting firm, today announced the strategic hiring of Jennifer Bullard as vice president of construction.

In her new role, Bullard will oversee various groups including materials, construction management, and more. She will prioritize expanding construction management services and contract administration throughout Oklahoma with a strong focus on integrating advanced 3-d model-centric technology.

“We are thrilled to have Jennifer on board,” said Rick Johnson, vice president of operations at WSB. “Her experience, expertise, and fresh perspective are exactly what we need to elevate our services. Jennifer’s proven track record and her ability to connect deeply with the industry and the Oklahoma region make her the perfect fit for WSB.”

Bullard brings over 20 years of experience from her tenure at the Oklahoma Department of Transportation. Her vast knowledge, coupled with the significant relationships she has established in the state, has greatly contributed to her reputation as a respected leader across Oklahoma. She was honored as the Women in Transportation Seminar’s (WTS) Woman of the Year for Oklahoma in 2024, showcasing her outstanding contributions to the field.

“Through communications with Rick and others at WSB, it just felt right,” said Bullard. “WSB felt like my new home, and I’m excited to bring my expertise and ideas to the team. I look forward to collaborating with the group and contributing to the innovative projects WSB is known for while support communities throughout Oklahoma.”

Bullard’s strategic hiring is a testament to WSB’s commitment to excellence and innovation in the contract administration field. Her experience and leadership promise to drive significant growth and success for the firm as it continues to grow as a national brand.

WSB has doubled in size through recent acquisitions and organic growth. The firm provides services throughout the nation, with offices in various regions including Minnesota/North Dakota, Oklahoma/Texas, Colorado/California and the Southeast.

John Hudspeth joins WSB as vice president of Texas operations

April 9, 2024
WSB strategically hires Hudspeth to lead expansion and innovation in Texas and beyond.

Minneapolis, Minn.— WSB, a rapidly growing design and consulting firm, today announced the addition of John Hudspeth as vice president of Texas operations.

In his new role, Hudspeth oversees all operations in Texas, with a focus on expanding WSB’s reach and capabilities within the state and beyond. His extensive background in alternative delivery methods, major infrastructure projects, and building client relationships will be instrumental in driving the firm’s growth while exploring new opportunities in the market, including the support of WSB’s digital delivery efforts.

“We are excited to welcome John to WSB. His experience and innovative mindset make him a perfect fit for our team,” said Kelly Selman, Senior Vice President of Texas. “Having worked with John for many years, I know firsthand his dedication and skills. He is exactly the kind of leader we need to continue WSB’s growth and success.”

Hudspeth worked at the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) for 29 years. His career at TxDOT is marked by numerous achievements including his role as the project manager for the $2.7 billion reconstruction of the LBJ Freeway. He also served in several leadership roles as director of transportation planning, director of operations for the Dallas district and deputy district engineer.

“Joining WSB is a remarkable opportunity to leverage my knowledge in transportation and infrastructure projects to drive growth and innovation,” said John. “I am excited to work with the talented team at WSB and contribute to the firm’s mission of delivering cutting-edge solutions to our clients.”

The firm is a leader in the Architecture, Engineering and Construction (AEC) industry, pioneering digital delivery. WSB was the first firm to deliver fully paperless plans to the Minnesota Department of Transportation.

WSB Welcomes New Vice President of Traffic Modeling and Planning

March 18, 2025
Josh Maus joins WSB, prioritizing collaboration across various divisions and regions.

Minneapolis, Minn. — Fast-growing design and consulting firm WSB today announced the hiring of Josh Maus as vice president of traffic modeling and planning.

With nearly 25 years of experience in the AEC industry, Maus brings a wealth of expertise in traffic operations and analysis. Throughout his career, he has made notable contributions to several significant projects in Minnesota, and his vast background with the private sector makes him an asset to the firm.

“We are excited to welcome Josh to WSB,” said Travis Wieber, vice president of transportation. “His extensive experience and industry reputation will be invaluable as we continue to grow and elevate our traffic modeling and planning divisions. Josh is a great cultural fit for our team, and we are confident that his leadership will drive us to new heights.”

In this role, Maus will oversee traffic modeling for all regions as part of the firm’s nationwide initiative. He will also lead transportation planning efforts in the Midwest region. There are many overlapping elements between these divisions, and having a leader integrate them allows WSB to deliver cohesive and superior results for clients. Maus will encourage collaboration among the groups—enhancing the capabilities and performance of WSB.

“I am thrilled to be part of such an innovative and forward-thinking firm,” said Maus. “WSB’s commitment to investing in technology and looking ahead to future opportunities is truly inspiring. I look forward to working with this talented group of professionals and contributing to WSB’s growth.”

WSB has doubled in size over the last two years through acquisitions and organic growth. The firm provides services throughout the nation, with offices in various regions including Minnesota/North Dakota, Oklahoma/Texas, Colorado/California and the Southeast.

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.  

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 hires Shawn Poe, strengthening leadership in Colorado

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.

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 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.