WGI Unleashed: Recent Episodes
WGI
A podcast about the people, the projects, and the culture of WGI. We sit down with our team members to see what they do on a daily basis to chase their passions and help our clients become successful.
In this episode of the WGI Unleashed Podcast, hosts Dan and Katie are back in our Fort Lauderdale office to sit back down with David Gerber, Project Manager on our transportation team!
David is a two-time guest, a "two-peat" he happily likens to Steve Martin's SNL record. Last time around, he got a little feedback for being too tight-lipped about his coworkers, so this time he came prepared to fix that, handing out shout-outs across thirteen years and five offices…
From Miami to Lakeland
David was born in Miami and lived there until he was about five, when Hurricane Andrew came through and cost his parents their jobs. The family moved north to Lakeland, the Central Florida town tucked between Tampa and Orlando, where he grew up. By his own account, the third-best restaurant in town back then was Publix.
He was a classic-rock kid who played the drums and, at a high school too small to have a band, tried to start a drum line of his own. His path toward engineering began somewhere less obvious: a pile of Legos on the living room floor. David says he was drawn to the field partly because he assumed it would involve as little writing as possible, a theory that every report, invoice, and email since has cheerfully disproven.
Two Business Cards
David headed to the University of Miami in 2005, but when the tuition math stopped working, he transferred across town to Florida International University and finished his degree while working in the school's structures lab. His summers went to roadway construction, first on a bridge job down in the Keys, then on a turnpike widening up in Orlando.
Here's the full-circle part. At his very first college career fair, David walked away with two business cards: one from a construction company, one from WGI. He went with the construction company. Years later, when that firm pulled out of Florida during the 2010 slowdown, he ran into Brett Fuller at a wedding and heard that Fuller's company was interviewing for a position. David wasn't sure about the role, but he thought, "Why not?".
A full day of round-robin interviews with the entire West Palm Roadway group later, he finally cashed in that second business card.
The Work: Interchanges, Depositions, and Five Offices
David started as a project engineer back when WGI's roadway team was small enough to count the PE's on one hand. The jump to project manager came with a line he still quotes: "I will never pay you more to do less." Get the design down cold, the thinking goes, and you earn the tracking, invoicing, staff-hour estimates, and resource planning that come with running projects. He compares it to learning guitar, where nobody masters it after one song. Design, he's quick to add, is still his favorite part of the job.
Over thirteen years he's worked out of five WGI offices, a run almost no one at the company can match. Right now he's wrapping up a brand-new interchange up in Orlando, laying out ramps on ground where nothing exists yet. The project comes with heavy right-of-way work and eminent domain, and property owners entitled to a real appraisal, which means David has answered for his designs under deposition. Ask him what keeps him at WGI and the answer is simple. Dump out a bowl of alphabet soup and you can spell every engineering firm in the country, all chasing the same projects for the same clients. What's different, he says, is the people.
Life Outside the Office
Off the clock, David is a self-described foodie who books the hard-to-get tables months in advance and plans trips around them. He married his wife, Kristen, in Jupiter this past December, then the two Floridians spent their honeymoon ice fishing over New Year's in Kennebunk, Maine, huddled in a heated tent, drinking champagne, and photographing the bucket that passed for a restroom. Napa and Chicago are next on the list.
Home is a townhouse they share with Bruno, the world's most outgoing miniature dachshund, and two gray cats, including a Nebelung named Charcoal who once relocated to Austin with him. A second doxy, Gus, is on the way.
As for hidden talents, David is ambidextrous, which he insists just means he's equally bad with both hands. He also does a John Madden impression that only surfaces after four beers, and in 2018 he talked a group of West Palm interns into learning to juggle, on the theory that sharper hand-eye coordination makes for better drafting.
Tune In
For a guy who once got flagged for being too tight-lipped, David more than made up for it this time around.... His episode runs on career advice, road-trip stories, and shout-outs to just about everyone he's worked with. Tune into this episode of WGI Unleashed on your favorite podcast platform and stay tuned for more conversations with the people, projects, and culture that define WGI!
Visit your favorite podcast app now and subscribe to WGI Unleashed to receive alerts every time a new episode drops – You can find us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, iHeart Radio, or wherever you find your favorite podcasts.
In this episode of the WGI Unleashed Podcast, hosts Dan and Katie head down to our West Palm Beach corporate headquarters to sit down with Rachel Starck, Environmental Scientist!
Rachel is a Florida native who grew up in Orlando with a childhood reputation for attracting wildlife, and a mother who gave her exactly the right career advice at exactly the right time. Two and a half years into her first job out of college, she's doing the work she set out to do... and loving every second of it.
From Orlando to the Atlantic Coast Rachel grew up in Orlando, where both of her parents built long careers at Walt Disney World, her father in Food and Beverage and her mother in Merchandising and Park Operations. It was a fun place to grow up, but Rachel always had one thing on her mind: the beach. When it came time to choose a college, she toured nearly every university across Florida before landing on Florida Atlantic University, which checked both boxes: a smaller campus and easy access to the coast.
Her initial studies focused on biology, but she soon made the switch to geoscience in her sophomore year, and the move turned out to be a natural fit. Geoscience at FAU covered earth science, climate, and environmental systems, exactly the direction she was already headed.
Outside of the classroom, Rachel stayed busy. She served as president of SEEDS (Strategies for Ecology, Education, Diversity, and Stewardship), participated in student government, and spent a significant amount of her undergraduate years conducting paid research on gopher tortoises with FAU faculty.... As it turns out, this research would come in more useful than she ever expected!
Finding Her Way to WGI Midway through her senior year, with COVID-era online classes freeing up her schedule, Rachel began sourcing and applying for jobs to see what may stick. Through these efforts, a director on WGI's environmental team soon found her profile and reached out.
Upon learning that Rachel was already available and working remotely, he invited her to start as an intern in February rather than wait for summer. She graduated from FAU, transitioned to full-time, and the rest is history as she now closes in on two and a half years with WGI.
The Work: Puzzles, Permits, and Smoothies Environmental science at WGI covers more ground than most people expect. Rachel's day-to-day spans protected species surveys (including gopher tortoises and burrowing owls), wetland and mangrove permitting for roadway projects, tree surveys ahead of development, and contamination work on sites being redeveloped from prior agricultural or commercial use.
For example, when a former golf course or farm is being converted to residential use, Rachel's team assesses soil and groundwater for pesticide contamination, develops a remediation approach, and works to bring the site up to residential standards. She describes it as a puzzle, figuring out what's wrong with a site and then solving it.
But that's not all. Beyond her day-to-day, Rachel is also a registered FWC Gopher Tortoise Agent, or as Dan put it on the episode, Agent Starck.
Life Outside the Office Beyond the office, Rachel is most comfortable outdoors. She paddleboards, hikes, swims, and logs long walks regularly, including a recent appearance at WGI's West Palm Beach Corporate Run 5K. At home, she shares her space with Kiwi, a calico cat who has zero interest in being taken on walks.
In reflecting on what she would do if she weren't an environmental scientist, Rachel shares that she would probably be captaining a sailboat somewhere across an ocean. And while she doesn't sail just yet, plans are certainly in motion.
Tune In Rachel's story is a great reminder that sometimes the clearest path is the one you find early. She set out to work in environmental science, found a team that trusted her to run with projects independently, and landed somewhere she's genuinely glad to be, but don't take our word for it.... Tune into this episode of WGI Unleashed on your favorite podcast platform and stay tuned for more conversations with the people, projects, and culture that define WGI!
Visit your favorite podcast app now and subscribe toWGI Unleashed to receive alerts every time a new episode drops – You can find us on Spotify,Apple Podcasts,iHeart Radio,or wherever you find your favorite podcasts.
In the latest episode of the WGI Unleashed Podcast, hosts Dan and Katie head back to South Florida to sit down with Susanna Coleman, an Administrative Assistant in WGI's Fort Lauderdale office!
Susanna's story is one of curiosity, reinvention, and an unshakable love of learning. From the south side of Chicago to the shipyards of Scandinavia, Susanna has lived what she jokingly calls "several lives" — and each one has shaped the curious, people-loving teammate she is today. This is one conversation you won't want to miss.
From the South Side of Chicago to South Florida Born and raised in a tight-knit, blue-collar suburb just south of Chicago, Susanna grew up as a self-described "total '80s kid." She and her sister walked to school, rode bikes around the neighborhood, and stayed out until their mom called them in. Family and culture were at the heart of it all. Her father immigrated from central Mexico in his twenties, and with both sides of her family rooted in Mexican heritage, Susanna grew up immersed in the culture, the language, and the food. Each year, the family made the epic three-day drive from Chicago to Celaya, Guanajuato — armed with coloring books, crayons, and a lasting appreciation for the great state of Texas, which never seemed to end.
Even as a kid, Susanna sensed that Chicago wasn't her forever home. Standing at a bus stop in negative-degree weather, she remembers thinking, "There has to be something better." That instinct would eventually carry her south.
Several Lives, One Common Thread After heading to Southern Illinois University, Susanna earned a degree in photo production technology, the technical, chemistry-driven side of photography. A professor's recommendation led to her first career with Noritsu, a company that manufactured one-hour photo lab equipment. For the next nine years, she traveled the world installing and balancing photo equipment, covering Central and South America and even outfitting brand-new cruise ships in the shipyards of Finland and Sweden. She filled two passports and visited nearly every country in Central America along the way.
When the photo industry went digital, Susanna took a leap. A lifelong lover of teaching and the outdoors, she found her place at Camp Live Oak, operating out of Birch State Park in Fort Lauderdale. What began as an on-site director role grew into 18 years as associate director. She did a little of everything, from canoeing and archery to art and science, and shepherded the camp through its rigorous American Camp Association accreditation every three years.
Ready for a change after nearly two decades outdoors, Susanna spent three years as a clinic manager at a health and wellness practice, sharpening her operations and HR skills before realizing healthcare wasn't her long-term fit.
Finding Her Place at WGI The throughline in every chapter of Susanna's career is simple: she loves to learn. "If the subject interests me, I will dive in headfirst," she says — reading, asking questions, and digging into the "why" behind everything. That same curiosity is exactly what she brought to WGI. This August will mark three years with the firm, and Susanna says she's finally fluent in the acronyms and the surprising amount of work that goes into building a road (IYKYK).
No two days look the same. Susanna keeps the office running while managing events and conferences across WGI's Customer Support Manager, supporting HR initiatives, helping plan Engineers' Week, and lending a hand wherever her teammates need her. As one of WGI's busiest hosting offices, Fort Lauderdale always has something happening, and Susanna is often the person behind the scenes making sure it all runs smoothly.
Life Outside the Office These days, much of Susanna's time is happily spent at the ballfield, cheering on her daughter's softball games and her son's travel baseball. When she carves out time for herself, she returns to her first love: photography. She's an active member of 52 Clicks, an Instagram community of photographers who shoot a new themed prompt each week and trade feedback. Her medium of choice is black-and-white portraiture, and she's planning a portrait series of her book club friends, complete with a small gallery opening at the end of the year! At home, she's joined by Lupita, a 12-year-old boxer mix affectionately known as "Lupita La Loca."
And her hidden talent? Susanna is a gifted party host — a skill she credits to her mother. She has a knack for making everyone feel welcome, connecting guests who might never have met otherwise, and bringing the energy the moment the party starts.
A Few Fun Surprises True to WGI Unleashed form, the episode is packed with games and a few great reveals. Susanna is fully confident she'd survive a zombie apocalypse (camp-director skills, a trusty sword, and all), and she nearly stumped Dan and Katie with a round of Two Truths and a Lie. Did she go to high school with a young Kanye West? You'll have to listen to hear the rest.
Tune In Susanna's journey is a reminder that there's no single path to a meaningful career. Sometimes it's the curiosity to keep learning and the courage to reinvent yourself that lead you exactly where you're meant to be.
Listen to this episode of WGI Unleashed on your favorite podcast platform and stay tuned for more conversations with the people, projects, and culture that define WGI.
Subscribe toWGI Unleashed to receive alerts every time a new episode drops.
You can find us on Spotify,Apple Podcasts,iHeart Radio,or wherever you find your favorite podcasts.
In this episode of the WGI Unleashed Podcast, we head to Fort Lauderdale to catch up with Kristen Nowicki, Senior Project Manager on WGI's Planning team. From her early days climbing trees in Pennsylvania to helping shape communities across South Florida, Kristen's story is equal parts thoughtful, driven, and refreshingly down to earth.
We also learned one very important thing right away: she could eat pineapple pizza every day for the rest of her life. That might be the boldest take we've had on the podcast yet.
From Tree Hugger to Planner Kristen's path into planning was anything but linear, and it makes perfect sense when you hear her story. Growing up just outside Philadelphia, she spent a lot of time outdoors, which sparked an early interest in the environment. That passion led her to study environmental science at the University of Florida.
But somewhere along the way, her perspective shifted. Instead of trying to stop development, she realized the real opportunity was in shaping it responsibly. That mindset led her back to school for a master's in urban and regional planning and into a career where she could balance growth with environmental and community needs.
Finding Her Lane at WGI Since joining WGI in 2020, Kristen has expanded her role beyond traditional planning. She now works across multidisciplinary teams, manages complex projects, and plays a key role in business development.
From municipal planning efforts to private development projects, her work covers a wide range of services. One standout example is a recent affordable housing project designed for seniors on fixed incomes, a meaningful contribution to a growing need in South Florida.
What she enjoys most? The ability to take ownership of her career.
At WGI, Kristen has found the flexibility to explore new opportunities, build relationships, and grow her impact. It's not about staying in a box. It's about stepping outside of it and making things happen.
Building Connections That Matter Kristen is deeply involved in the planning community through organizations like the American Planning Association, where she has taken on leadership roles and helped organize major industry events.
For her, these connections are a way to stay engaged, keep learning, and contribute to the future of the profession. Whether it's mentoring students, speaking at conferences, or collaborating with peers, she's all in.
Planning for People One of the biggest takeaways from this episode is Kristen's perspective on planning itself.
Land use, zoning, and development approvals are all a part of the gig, but ultimately, it's about people.
From public spaces to housing to infrastructure, every project impacts how communities live, work, and connect. Kristen approaches her work with that bigger picture in mind, always considering how decisions today will shape experiences tomorrow.
Life Outside the Office When she's not managing projects or attending industry events, Kristen is making the most of everything South Florida has to offer.
She's a Yelp Elite reviewer, always on the hunt for new restaurants and local spots. She enjoys checking out festivals, live music, and anything that brings people together. And in the kitchen, she's taken things to another level with homemade kombucha, hot sauce, and just about anything she can experiment with.
She also keeps things growing with a small hydroponic garden, proving that once a "tree hugger," always a "tree hugger."
Tune In Kristen's story is a great reminder that careers don't have to follow a straight path. With the right mindset, a willingness to adapt, and a focus on people, you can build something meaningful along the way.
Listen to the full episode of WGI Unleashed to hear more about Kristen's journey, her projects, and her take on what it means to plan for the future.
Visit your favorite podcast app now and subscribe toWGI Unleashed to receive alerts every time a new episode drops.
You can find us on Spotify,Apple Podcasts,iHeart Radio,or wherever you find your favorite podcasts.
At WGI, every associate brings a unique story to the table, but few start on a remote fishing island in Alaska and end up leading cutting-edge geospatial solutions across the country.
In this episode of the WGI Unleashed Podcast, Dan and Katie sit down with Scott Jones, Technical Solutions Manager on our Geospatial + Land Surveying team, to talk about a career path shaped by adventure, curiosity, and a willingness to solve problems in some of the most challenging environments imaginable.
A Childhood Built for Adventure Scott's story begins in Petersburg, Alaska, a small fishing community where getting anywhere requires a boat or a plane and where imagination fills the gaps between long winters and remote living.
His introduction to surveying came through a high school class that quickly turned into something much bigger. One of his first projects involved surveying a glacier by helicopter, an experience that sparked a lifelong interest in the field and set the tone for everything that followed.
From Screenwriting Dreams to Surveying Reality Surveying wasn't always the plan.
Scott originally pursued creative writing in college with the goal of becoming a screenwriter. That changed after landing an internship with the Alaska Department of Transportation, where he spent his summers traveling across the state collecting geospatial data.
What started as a job quickly became a turning point. The combination of travel, technical work, and real-world impact pulled him away from writing and into a career in geomatics.
Surveying at the Edge of the World Before joining WGI, Scott built his experience in environments that most people would never encounter on the job.
Working in Alaska meant navigating extreme terrain, unpredictable conditions, and projects that required constant adaptation. One of the most memorable was a remote "Road to Nowhere" survey effort that pushed crews deep into the wilderness for months at a time.
From coordinating helicopter access to dealing with wildlife and harsh conditions, the work demanded resilience, creativity, and a strong understanding of the field.
Bringing That Experience to WGI Today, Scott applies that same mindset at WGI, where no two days look the same.
As a Technical Solutions Manager, he moves between projects, helping teams identify challenges, develop workflows, and find practical solutions that keep work moving forward. His role spans aerial operations, Lidar processing, GIS support, and everything in between.
What sets his approach apart is a focus on execution. Big ideas matter, but for Scott, success comes from turning those ideas into real, actionable results.
Projects That Push Boundaries Scott has been involved in several standout projects during his time with WGI, including a highly coordinated Grand Canyon mapping effort that required extensive planning across multiple agencies and airspace approvals.
Another favorite took him to White Sands National Park, where Lidar technology was used to help identify prehistoric sloth footprints. It's a perfect example of how WGI's work blends advanced technology with unique, real-world applications.
Why WGI? For Scott, it comes down to the people.
He highlighted the value of working with teams that take pride in what they do and hold themselves to a high standard. That shared mindset creates an environment where collaboration is strong and the work is meaningful.
It also opens the door for growth. At WGI, associates aren't limited to one role or skill set. There are constant opportunities to expand, learn, and contribute in new ways.
Life Outside the Office While his days of fishing in Alaska may be behind him, Scott hasn't lost his sense of adventure.
In Huntsville, he's traded ocean waters for kayaking, discovered a passion for caving, and continues to explore the outdoors in new ways. It's a different landscape, but the same mindset that has guided his career from the beginning.
Final Thoughts Scott's journey is a reminder that there's no single path to success. From creative writing aspirations to leading technical solutions at WGI, his story is built on adaptability, curiosity, and a willingness to take on new challenges.
And like many of the stories featured on WGI Unleashed, it reinforces what makes WGI unique—the people, the experiences, and the opportunity to be part of something bigger.
Tune In If you are looking for a story that blends adventure, innovation, and real-world impact, this episode is one you will not want to miss.
Listen to this episode of WGI Unleashed on your favorite podcast platform and stay tuned for more conversations highlighting the people, projects, and culture that define WGI.
Visit your favorite podcast app now and subscribe toWGI Unleashed to receive alerts every time a new episode drops.
You can find us on Spotify,Apple Podcasts,iHeart Radio,or wherever you find your favorite podcasts.
On the latest episode of the WGI Unleashed Podcast, we travel to WGI's Huntsville, Alabama, office to sit down with Jason Alvarez, Senior Operations Manager for our Geospatial + Land Surveying group.
In this episode, hosts Dan and Katie explore Jason's 23-year journey at WGI, from starting in the field as a rod person to leading operations in one of the firm's growing offices. His story highlights persistence, curiosity, and the impact of saying yes to opportunity.
From Florida Roots to Geospatial Leadership Jason grew up in Central and South Florida, including time in Lake Wales, where he balanced football and marching band. Yes, marching band. And yes, there were kilts involved.
Before surveying ever entered the picture, Jason thought he might become a computer programmer. He built computers in high school and enjoyed working with technology, but he quickly realized that sitting behind a screen all day was not for him. He wanted something that blended tech with the outdoors.
Enter surveying.
Through a family connection, Jason got his first exposure to the field. What began as data entry and CAD work turned into a genuine interest in geospatial technology. When an opportunity at WGI opened up, he took it and started as a rod person on a survey crew.
And that is where it all began.
Building a Career by Saying Yes Jason did not map out a 20-plus-year plan. Instead, he leaned into every opportunity that came his way.
He asked to learn new equipment. He stepped into office production. He volunteered for projects. He even spent two years working in IT to expand his technical skill set before returning to Geospatial.
If someone asked, "Can you do this?" Jason's answer was usually, "Sure."
That mindset helped shape his career. Over time, field experience turned into project management. Project management turned into operational leadership. Today, he oversees geospatial operations in Huntsville, bringing both technical expertise and years of institutional knowledge to the table.
Lessons from Brightline and Beyond One of Jason's most memorable projects was supporting the Brightline construction effort. Managing multiple crews operating seven days a week required coordination, adaptability, and the integration of advanced technology, including robotic total stations and monitoring systems.
It was a demanding assignment, but one that pushed him to grow both technically and as a leader.
Implementing new technologies, coordinating teams, and navigating the pace of construction taught him lessons that continue to shape how he leads today.
Watching WGI Grow After 23 years, Jason has had a front-row seat to WGI's evolution.
What started as a smaller firm focused primarily on land development has grown into a multidisciplinary powerhouse offering transportation, lidar, planning, architecture, and more. With that growth has come expanded opportunities, new technologies, and a broader range of projects.
Through it all, Jason says two things have remained constant: opportunity and people.
He credits WGI's collaborative culture and the willingness of associates to help one another as the biggest reasons he has stayed. Whether learning a new system, tackling a complex project, or transitioning into leadership, there has always been someone willing to share knowledge and support the team.
Fun Facts and Family Time Outside of work, Jason is a self-proclaimed big kid at heart. These days, most of his free time is spent with his two-and-a-half-year-old son building Lego sets and playing with toy trains.
He also shared a few memorable facts during the episode:
- He does not drink tea. Under any circumstances.
- He has never used the restroom on an airplane. Not even on a 14-hour international flight.
- Despite attending a Scottish-themed high school, he did not play the bagpipes.
You will have to tune in to hear the full stories behind those...
Tune In Jason's journey is a reminder that careers are not one-size-fits-all. Growth can happen through curiosity, persistence, and a willingness to step up when opportunity knocks.
If you are looking for a story about starting at the ground level and building a career through determination and adaptability, this episode is for you.
Listen to this episode of WGI Unleashed on your favorite podcast platform and stay tuned for more conversations with the people, projects, and culture that define WGI.
Visit your favorite podcast app now and subscribe toWGI Unleashed to receive alerts every time a new episode drops.
You can find us on Spotify,Apple Podcasts,iHeart Radio,or wherever you find your favorite podcasts.
On the latest episode of the WGI Unleashed podcast, we head back to WGI's corporate headquarters in West Palm Beach to sit down with Maria Acosta, Video Multimedia Editor!
In this episode, hosts Dan and Katie take listeners behind the camera to spotlight Maria's creative journey, the role she plays in shaping WGI's multimedia content, and the passion she brings to telling stories through video. From her early artistic roots to her role producing podcasts, training videos, and campaign visuals, Maria's story shows how curiosity, resilience, and creativity can lead to an exciting and impactful career at WGI.
Early Creativity and Artistic Beginnings Maria's passion for art began at a young age while growing up just down the road from her current residence in Delray Beach, FL. From drawing in sketchbooks to exploring perspective and composition, she always gravitated toward creative expression. That foundation pushed her to explore graphic design in school and shaped her aspirations as a visual storyteller.
Her childhood interests weren't just hobbies. They became the building blocks for a career focused on creativity, design, and communication, a path that would eventually bring her to WGI.
Finding Her Place in Design and Multimedia After earning her associate degree in graphic design, Maria worked in various design and marketing roles where she sharpened her skills. But she knew she wanted impactful mentorship and collaboration within a creative team — something she didn't always find earlier in her career.
That realization helped guide her decision to join WGI shortly after the COVID-19 pandemic. She was drawn to a culture that fostered teamwork, continuous learning, and opportunities to experiment with new creative mediums.
Jumping Into Video Production at WGI Once on the Creative Services team, Maria found herself quickly stepping into video production. Within weeks of joining, she was producing and editing content across formats — from internal training videos and podcasts to dynamic marketing pieces and campaign visuals.
Maria credits her willingness to "learn as she goes" and her curiosity for mastering new tools and workflows. Taking on challenges with confidence and grit has helped her grow her skill set and expand her creative reach at WGI.
Creative Freedom and Impactful Collaboration One of Maria's favorite parts of working at WGI is the trust placed in her to contribute ideas and shape visual content. She thrives on the creative freedom the role offers and enjoys collaborating with teams across the firm.
Whether she's supporting YES Week with vibrant visuals, crafting cinematic proposal videos, or producing the recordings you hear on WGI Unleashed, Maria embraces projects that allow her to blend creativity with purpose.
Life Outside the Editing Desk When she's not editing or designing, Maria is immersed in the things she loves most: playing video games, engaging in Dungeons and Dragons campaigns, and caring for her growing collection of plants.
Her sense of humor and vibrant personality come through in every conversation, offering listeners a genuine look at the person behind the camera.
Tune In for a Creative Conversation This episode is a must-listen for anyone curious about the creative process, the art of storytelling through video, and what it's like to build a multimedia career in a collaborative environment.
Grab your headphones, tune in, and get ready to learn more about Maria's path, her work at WGI, and the imaginative way she brings stories to life one frame at a time. So, tune in, and as always, stay curious, stay driven, and keep unleashing your full potential!
Visit your favorite podcast app now and subscribe toWGI Unleashed to receive alerts every time a new episode drops.
You can find us on Spotify,Apple Podcasts,iHeart Radio,or wherever you find your favorite podcasts.
In the final episode of 2025, the WGI Unleashed Podcast heads to West Palm Beach as hosts Dan and Katie sit down with Jill Mathison, a long-time member of WGI's Geospatial team! Jill's story is one of persistence, adaptability, and wholehearted commitment. From her early days growing up on Long Island to helping shape WGI through years of growth and transformation, Jill's journey reflects what it truly means to build a career with intention.
From Long Island to South Florida
Born in New York and raised on Long Island, Jill grew up surrounded by creativity and culture. Thanks to a mother who loved the arts, childhood trips into Manhattan included Broadway shows, Radio City Music Hall, and unforgettable memories like watching Herbie the Love Bug perform high above the audience.
At age 11, Jill and her family relocated to South Florida, where her parents opened their own automotive business. While leaving home was bittersweet, the move sparked Jill's excitement for new opportunities and fresh starts, a theme that would follow her throughout her career.
Finding Her Path Through Business
Like many great career stories, Jill's path was anything but linear. She initially explored computer science before realizing it was not quite the right fit. A switch to business management at Broward Community College and later Florida Atlantic University opened the door to a wide range of opportunities.
Over the years, Jill worked across insurance, direct response marketing, and construction. She even spent 17 years with an electrical contractor, growing from administrative support to project management and eventually purchasing management. Along the way, she built strong relationships, learned the ins and outs of operations, and picked up skills that would later become a huge asset at WGI.
A Bold Move That Led Back Home
In 2010, during a tough job market, Jill decided to take a proactive approach. After submitting her resume to WGI, she picked up the phone and followed up directly. That call led to her first role with the firm. While the position started as temporary, Jill made it clear she was invested.
When a permanent opportunity opened up later, she returned and this time, she was here to stay.
Since then, Jill has seen WGI grow from a small firm with manual timesheets and filing cabinets into the dynamic, multidisciplinary company it is today. She has been part of the journey every step of the way.
Growing With WGI
Jill's role has evolved right alongside the company. What started with administrative support expanded into fleet coordination, safety initiatives, and operational leadership within the Geospatial group.
She has supported major projects like the Brightline High-Speed Rail Project and I-595 Expansion in Ft Lauderdale, helping teams navigate complex logistics and field operations. One area she is especially passionate about is safety. From early involvement to today's robust programs, Jill takes pride in helping create a culture where associates look out for one another and speak up when it matters.
Life Outside the Office
Outside of work, Jill's life is just as full. She is a proud mom, stepmom, and self-described caretaker of a "zoo," including rescue dogs, a cat, and even red-footed tortoises. When she is not managing her household menagerie, Jill enjoys staying active through karate, a hobby she shares with her daughter, as well as dancing, shopping, and spending time with friends and family.
Advice for the Next Generation
When asked what advice she would give to those just starting their careers, Jill's answer is simple and powerful: always give your best. Showing up fully, staying responsive, and committing to excellence are principles she has lived by throughout her career and ones that continue to define her impact at WGI.
This episode is a reminder that meaningful careers are built step by step, shaped by persistence, curiosity, and a willingness to grow alongside the people and organizations you believe in.
This is one you don't want to miss! So, tune in, and as always, stay curious, stay driven, and keep unleashing your full potential!
Visit your favorite podcast app now and subscribe toWGI Unleashed to receive alerts every time a new episode drops.
You can find us on Spotify,Apple Podcasts,iHeart Radio,or wherever you find your favorite podcasts.
In this episode of the WGI Unleashed Podcast, hosts Dan and Katie sit down with Amanda Wojtasiak, a Graduate Architect in our Tampa office, whose path into the profession is anything but ordinary. Amanda brings a spark of creativity, a global childhood, and a love of learning to everything she touches, and this episode shines a light on the personality behind her growing design career at WGI.
From living overseas to mastering artistic crafts to racing sailboats under the moonlight, Amanda's story is filled with movement, energy, and curiosity. This episode offers a fun, vibrant look at one of the many talented young professionals shaping WGI's future.
A Childhood Filled with Culture, Curiosity, and Lots of Moving Around Amanda may have been born in Maryland, but she grew up across two continents. After her family relocated to Orlando, FL, while Amanda was still in diapers, they later moved to a small town in Germany, where she attended an international school surrounded by classmates from all over the world. Her "core memories" include biking through town, weekend visits to local beer gardens, and neighborhood block parties where every family represented a different country.
She bounced between English, Spanish, and German as a child, picking up languages much like she picked up hobbies. Those early experiences taught her how to connect with others, adapt quickly, and appreciate the world through different cultural lenses.
Growing Up Creative Creativity was always central in Amanda's home. She spent years sketching, painting, sculpting, and playing piano. With architects sprinkled throughout her mother's side of the family, she was constantly surrounded by blueprints, model homes, and design conversations. By the time she was old enough to imagine a career, the idea of designing meaningful spaces already felt familiar and exciting.
She balanced that artistic side with academics and athletics. In high school, she ran cross-country, took AP classes, and excelled in art studios, laying the groundwork for an early foundation of discipline, curiosity, and hands-on exploration.
Choosing Miami and Diving Into Architecture When it came time for college, Amanda chose Florida International University for its accelerated five-year master's program. Miami felt like the perfect place to study design. The city's cultural energy, vibrant architecture, and global influence mirrored the environment she thrived in as a kid.
While there, Amanda found her way into the Robotics and Digital Fabrication Lab, a hands-on hub where students worked with 3D printers, industrial robotic arms, laser cutters, and more. She helped create a large-scale replica of an underwater research lab, a months-long project that combined engineering precision with artistic detail. It solidified her love of the technical side of design and introduced her to fabrication techniques that would later influence her professional work.
Launching Her Career and Landing at WGI After graduation, Amanda completed a short-term role with a large A&E firm, but she quickly realized she wanted a place where she could learn, contribute, and participate in design conversations earlier in her career.
When she discovered an opening in WGI's Tampa architecture group, the timing felt perfect. Within weeks, she interviewed, joined the team, and began working across a variety of project types. What she found was exactly what she hoped for: supportive mentors, collaborative teammates, and an environment where questions, sketches, and curiosity are encouraged.
Seeing Ideas Come to Life in Real Projects One of Amanda's defining experiences at WGI has been contributing to the Jacksonville Transportation Authority's Autonomous Innovation Center. She supported floor plan development and construction drawings, then later toured the completed building during the ribbon-cutting. Seeing her work translated into a real-world facility was both surreal and motivating, and it helped fuel her confidence as a young architect.
She is also part of a project in Miami that will incorporate 3D-printed concrete components. The connection between her academic fabrication work and her current design responsibilities brings her full circle and gives her hands-on insight into the future of construction technology.
A Team That Builds Confidence and Creates Opportunity Amanda credits much of her professional growth to the mentorship she has received at WGI. Whether she is huddled around a desk reviewing drawings, learning new detailing techniques, or watching a teammate sketch a solution on trace paper, she thrives in environments where knowledge flows freely and curiosity is welcomed.
The trust her team places in her has helped her build technical confidence, sharpen her design instincts, and grow into her role more quickly than she expected.
Life Outside the Office: Creativity, Running, Baking, and More Outside of work, Amanda's hobbies are just as colorful as her professional journey. She paints, crochets, and bakes everything from cookies to homemade Swiss Rolls. She also stays active as a runner and is training for her first 10K since high school.
One of the most unexpected parts of Amanda's story is her love for sailing. After being invited to a casual cruise night at the Davis Island Yacht Club, she quickly fell in love with the sport. Within a year, she moved from learning the basics to racing weekly, competing in long-distance events, and even captaining an all-female crew for the annual Sailing Sisters Regatta.
It is a hobby that blends strategy, teamwork, and adventure, and it mirrors many of the qualities that make her a strong designer.
Tune In Amanda's story moves with the same energy she brings to every project, shaped by creativity, curiosity, and a lifetime of exploration. Whether she's sailing under the moonlight, 3D-printing models in the lab, or tackling new responsibilities at WGI, she approaches each experience with excitement and heart.
This episode captures that spirit from start to finish. So, tune in, and as always, stay curious, stay driven, and keep unleashing your full potential!
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You can find us on Spotify,Apple Podcasts,iHeart Radio, or wherever you find your favorite podcasts.
The October edition of the WGI Unleashed Podcast is officially here! Join us as we travel to Austin, Texas, to chat with Coleen Johnson, RPLS, WGI's Director of Geospatial.
Coleen's story is one of resilience, curiosity, and a lifelong passion for learning. From hand-drafting machine parts in Houston to leading cutting-edge geospatial teams at WGI, her journey proves that sometimes the best career paths are the ones you create yourself.
From Small-Town Roots to the Lone Star State Coleen grew up in the rural town of Hannibal, New York, surrounded by rolling hills, dairy farms, and open skies. With four siblings, a farm-loving grandfather, and 21 acres to explore, she learned early on the value of hard work and curiosity.
After high school, uncertain about her next step, Coleen made a bold move—she packed her bags and headed to Houston, Texas, chasing opportunity (and maybe a little adventure). She landed a job at an oilfield manufacturing company, working in the warehouse under the blazing Houston sun.
Her dedication didn't go unnoticed. The company's owner brought her into the office to learn mechanical drafting by hand—pencil, vellum, and all. That moment changed everything. "It was fun," Coleen recalled. "And that's how I ended up getting into surveying eventually… through drafting."
Learning by Doing: The Path to Surveying When the oil industry slowed, Coleen moved to Austin with an abundance of ambition but no real plan. She found work with a new civil engineering firm that needed a drafter, and not long after, the firm expanded to start a survey department. Coleen jumped at the chance to join, and from that moment, she was hooked.
Surveying turned out to be the perfect fit: a mix of math, mapping, and the great outdoors. While working full-time, she attended Austin Community College at night, earning her land surveying degree after several years of late nights and determination. By then, she was also a licensed professional surveyor—a huge milestone in a field she'd learned entirely on the job.
Her advice for others figuring out their path?
"It's okay not to know right away," Coleen says. "Figure out what you love first, then follow it. The rest will fall into place."
A Trailblazer for Women in Surveying Coleen's career took her through just about every side of surveying imaginable. From private developments to public utilities, and even a stint at TxDOT and the Lower Colorado River Authority (LCRA), where she surveyed electric transmission lines and the parks surrounding Lake Travis.
But her biggest achievements go beyond project work. In 2007, she became the first woman to serve as President of the Texas Society of Professional Surveyors (TSPS)—a major milestone in a profession where women were once few and far between.
Today, she continues to pay it forward as a member of the Texas Board of Professional Engineers and Land Surveyors and the National Council of Examiners for Engineers and Surveyors (NCEES), mentoring others and shaping the future of the profession. "I love giving back to the field that gave me everything," she said.
Life at WGI: Leading with Vision and Innovation Now celebrating her sixth year at WGI, Coleen leads the Geospatial division in Austin—managing teams, securing contracts, and helping shape how WGI captures and analyzes data across the country. She even landed WGI's first TxDOT Austin District contract, a major win for both her team and the firm. Her role is fast-paced and constantly evolving.
"Technology has changed tremendously," she says. "We've gone from hand-drawing on Mylar to laser scanning, drones, and LiDAR. That's what I love about this field—it's never monotonous. There's always something new to learn."
And Mondays at her office? They start with a safety meeting and breakfast tacos, of course.
Life Outside the Grid When she's not overseeing survey crews or reviewing proposals, Coleen enjoys the quiet life on her two-acre property outside Leander, where she lives with her husband and three rescue Dobermans—Prada, Ruby, and Cooper. She's a passionate gardener, cultivating flowers, herbs, and vegetables in raised beds.
"Taking care of the yard is actually therapeutic," she says. "I love mowing, trimming, and just being outside—it's my kind of peace."
A creative at heart, Coleen even sewed her own clothes growing up, a skill passed down from her grandmother, a 4-H teacher for 60 years. She credits that upbringing for her independence, creativity, and love of hands-on work.
A Legacy of Leadership Coleen's story is one of grit, gratitude, and growth. From learning drafting by hand to leading a team of geospatial experts, she's built a career defined by curiosity and love for what she does. As for what keeps her excited about coming into work every day?
"The people," she said without hesitation. "I love working with our teams, mentoring others, and watching them grow. That's what makes it all worth it."
Tune In This episode is packed with moments that showcase Coleen's curiosity, grit, and passion for her craft - So, tune in, and as always, stay curious, stay driven, and keep unleashing your full potential!
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Join us for the latest episode of the WGI Unleashed Podcast, as we round out Q3, getting to know Erin Sandoval, PE, a Civil Engineer based in WGI’s San Antonio, Texas office.
If you think all engineers are quiet and reserved, Erin will quickly change your mind. She’s a runner who tackles 20-mile weekends for fun, a world traveler with a fascination for the British royal family’s “not-so-pretty” history, a former synchronized swimmer who once competed nationally, and a magnet for rescue dogs who seem to literally follow her home.
Oh, and somewhere along the way, she’s also built a thriving career in land development.
Finding Her Way Into Engineering Growing up in San Antonio with two military parents, Erin was always equal parts disciplined and curious. She excelled at math from a young age (asking teachers for extra homework in first grade!) and knew she wanted to build a career doing something she loved. What she didn’t know was that her journey to becoming a civil engineer would take a few unexpected turns.
Originally aiming for a degree in environmental engineering, Erin discovered midway through her college career at the University of Texas at San Antonio that her program track was actually civil-heavy. Instead of giving up, she powered through, focusing her frustration and eventually found herself at a career fair where she landed an internship at Big Red Dog, right as it was joining WGI. That “lucky break” turned into the perfect fit — giving her the chance to see the impact of land development firsthand and connect with mentors who helped shape her path.
Wearing Many Hats (and Preferring Baseball Caps Over Bucket Hats) From drainage reports to subdivision plats, public hearings to client meetings, Erin’s days are anything but boring. She’s quick to point out that civil engineering isn’t just about sitting behind a computer — it’s about problem-solving, communicating, and wearing “a lot of different hats.” While she’ll pick a baseball cap over a bucket hat any day, Erin shines when she’s putting on her client-facing hat, presenting projects at zoning cases, or mentoring the next wave of interns.
She credits her success not only to her own determination but also to the culture of the San Antonio office: “The people are what keep me coming back every day,” she says. “We’ve got such a solid team that balances each other out — everyone brings different strengths to the table, and it just works.”
Life Outside the Office Outside of work, Erin is just as driven. When she’s not coordinating with clients or leading projects, Erin’s probably running 20 miles for "fun", hiking, or planning her next active adventure. She admits her idea of a perfect vacation is the kind where she comes home exhausted from exploring instead of lounging on the beach. Her love for animals also shines through: her two rescue dogs, Nipsey and Frannie, both came into her life in true “storybook” fashion by literally following her home and quickly making themselves part of the family.
A former synchronized swimmer who once competed nationally, Erin brings the same competitive spirit and determination to her career, proving that her blend of technical expertise, people-first mindset, and adventurous nature are what make her such a dynamic force as part of WGI's Civil Team.
And if you ask her about hidden talents? Erin can still belt out the alphabet in a series of burps — a childhood party trick that may or may not resurface at the next WGI happy hour...
Tune In This episode is filled with stories that highlight Erin's resilience, humor, and drive to succeed - So, tune in, and as always, stay curious, stay driven, and keep unleashing your full potential!
Visit your favorite podcast app now and subscribe toWGI Unleashed to receive alerts every time a new episode drops.
You can find us on Spotify,Apple Podcasts,iHeart Radio,or wherever you find your favorite podcasts.
In the latest episode of the WGI Unleashed Podcast, we get to know Cody Lambert, PE, a Senior Structural Engineer based in WGI’s Austin, Texas office. With a laid-back attitude, a passion for mentoring, and a knack for complex design challenges, Cody brings his thoughtful and collaborative spirit to everything he does, whether it’s leading structural efforts on a unique residential build or fostering a learning culture among his teammates.
Growing Up in Cypress Originally from Cypress, Texas (a large suburb just outside Houston), Cody describes his upbringing as classic suburban - playing basketball in the street, riding his bike around the neighborhood, and earning a reputation for missing curfews despite his mom’s best efforts (and watch purchases). While he played traditional sports early on, Cody eventually traded team athletics for something a little more daring: BMX biking. Though he wasn’t part of an official team, he spent much of his free time at skateparks and backyard halfpipes.
Discovering Austin and the Path to Engineering After visiting his older brother at the University of Texas at Austin, Cody instantly fell in love with the city’s energy and set his sights on becoming a Longhorn. Though he entered college undeclared, a transformative architecture course and a growing interest in design led him to architectural engineering.
Ultimately, he found his niche in structural engineering, drawn to the challenge of solving tough technical problems. That realization set the course for both his undergraduate and graduate degrees at UT, where he specialized in structural design.
Early Career and Joining WGI Cody continued on to earn his master’s degree at UT, then launched his career through a series of impactful internships, including one where he worked on a toll kiosk project at Austin’s airport, and ultimately, a long-term position at a structural firm. That journey eventually led him to WGI, thanks to former colleague and now-supervisor Forrest Bratton. Since joining the firm, Cody has become an integral part of WGI’s Buildings division, known not just for his engineering expertise but for his dedication to mentoring younger team members.
In fact, mentorship and knowledge-sharing are Cody’s favorite parts of the job. He helped implement a biweekly “Lessons Learned” session in the Austin office, creating space for engineers to reflect on project experiences, share mistakes, and grow together as a team. His philosophy? Teach others so well that you make yourself obsolete.
Standout Projects Cody also shared some highlights from his project work, including a complex private residence in Telluride, Colorado, where his team designed a two-story basement structure underneath a suspended historic cottage, an incredibly intricate feat of coordination and engineering. He also contributed to the recently completed Jacksonville Transportation Authority's Autonomous Innovation Center (AIC), helping navigate tricky soils and deep foundation design.
Away From His Desk Outside of the office, Cody is an avid rock climber, often hitting the gym several times a week. He’s also passionate about cooking, discovering new restaurants, and spending time with his two dogs—Kade and Bonita—who he and his girlfriend brought together to form one very quirky (and lovable) pet family.
From his early days in Cypress to tackling world-class projects and championing team growth, Cody brings a humble, people-first approach to structural engineering—and it’s clear his impact at WGI stretches far beyond the drawings and calculations.
Tune In This episode is full of thoughtful insights, surprising stories, and inspiring moments - from BMX and rock climbing to navigating complex structural challenges and mentoring the next generation of engineers.
So, tune in, and as always, stay curious, stay driven, and keep unleashing your full potential!
Visit your favorite podcast app now and subscribe toWGI Unleashed to receive alerts every time a new episode drops.
You can find us on Spotify,Apple Podcasts,iHeart Radio,or wherever you find your favorite podcasts.
In the 95th episode of the WGI Unleashed podcast, we’re thrilled to introduce you to Darcy Nuffer, PLA, a Studio Manager on our Landscape Architecture team in Austin, Texas!
Join us as hosts Dan and Katie sit down with Darcy for a lively and thoughtful conversation that spans continents, career pivots, and sustainable design. From her roots in Michigan to her leadership in one of WGI’s most creative practices, Darcy’s story is anything but ordinary…. and it’s packed with surprises you won’t want to miss.
Early Days of Development
Growing up near Lake Michigan, Darcy spent her youth immersed in nature. Volleyball games, water skiing, campfires, and long summer days at her family’s cabin instilled in her a deep appreciation for the great outdoors. This early connection with nature became a foundation for what would soon become her future career, despite landscape architecture not being her initial calling.
Darcy’s first academic pursuit came in the form of writing. She dreamed of becoming a novelist, even moving to London after college on a student work visa to soak in new experiences that would fuel her creative ambitions. But it was there, while exploring Europe’s rich urban landscapes, that Darcy’s fascination with urban communities and the built environment began to take root.
Path Through Design and Sustainability
After relocating to Austin, Darcy worked for the City of Austin’s Watershed Protection Department, where she met a landscape architect who inspired her career shift. Intrigued by the blend of ecology, design, and community, Darcy pursued a graduate degree in landscape architecture, becoming part of the inaugural class of the University of Texas at Austin’s newly established program.
From there, her journey took her to San Francisco, back to Austin, through the 2008 financial crisis, and even into work on the Sustainable Sites Initiative at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. Eventually, she returned to the City of Austin, stepping into the very role once held by the mentor who first introduced her to the industry that she had grown to love.
Leading with Purpose at WGI
Today, Darcy brings all of that experience and passion to WGI. As a Studio Manager, she plays a critical role in growing the firm’s public landscape architecture practice, particularly through projects with the City of San Antonio. From park master planning to sustainable green infrastructure, Darcy leads with a strong commitment to environmental stewardship and design excellence.
She also plays a key role as a frequent collaborator within WGI’s multidisciplinary efforts, adding landscape architecture insights to a wide range of public and private projects that enhance Civil Engineering, Buildings, and Land Development service offerings…. to name a few.
But she doesn’t stop there – Darcy is also expanding WGI’s sustainability offerings, including LEED and Sites certifications, and routinely consults with clients on how to integrate conservation and resilience into the built environment.
A Love for Sketching, Gardening, and Storytelling
When she’s not managing major projects or mentoring fellow designers, Darcy can be found tending to her garden, working on her hand-built accessory dwelling unit in Austin, or sketching the urban landscape during WGI’s lunchtime “sketch crawls.”
A self-proclaimed poetry lover and former published poet in a local Austin publication, Darcy still dreams of writing a book one day, and she even has a few ideas tucked away…. And did we mention she’s a trained blacksmith? That’s right – Darcy took classes at Austin Community College and still has a collection of hammers she forged herself.
Why WGI?
Darcy highlights the diversity of work, supportive team culture, and the opportunity to wear many hats as her favorite parts of being at WGI.
“No two projects are the same,” she shares, “and I love collaborating across disciplines to solve new challenges every day.”
Tune In
This episode is packed with thoughtful reflections, unexpected talents, and creative inspiration – from London pubs to leading sustainable park development across Texas and a whole lot more.
So, tune in, and as always, stay curious, stay driven, and keep unleashing your full potential!
Visit your favorite podcast app now and subscribe to WGI Unleashed to receive alerts every time a new episode drops.
You can find us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, iHeart Radio, or wherever you find your favorite podcasts.
In the 94th episode of the WGI Unleashed podcast, we’re excited to introduce you to Chris Velasquez, EIT, a Senior Graduate Engineer in our Civil + Land Development Team based out of WGI’s San Antonio, TX office!
Join us as hosts Dan and Katie travel to the Alamo City to sit down with Chris for a spirited, insightful, and entertaining conversation filled with compelling career highlights, hilarious anecdotes, and fascinating behind-the-scenes stories from Chris’s unique journey within the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry.
From Curiosity to Engineering Excellence Chris’s passion for engineering and innovation sparked long before his professional career began, and his journey to where he is today is anything but conventional.
Born in New Jersey but raised in Rosenberg, Texas, Chris humorously recounts his childhood experiences growing up in a quiet subdivision, jokingly referring to it as "the hood." His curiosity and keen problem-solving abilities were evident from a young age.
On the podcast, Chris shares vivid memories of his school years, including an unusual educational structure where sixth, seventh, and eighth grades each had their own separate buildings, and his early fascination with engineering, sparked by hands-on high school classes in aerospace, mechanical, and civil engineering.
College Triumphs and Steel Bridge Competitions Chris chose to attend the University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA), balancing the desire for independence with proximity to family. At UTSA, Chris actively participated in the American Society of Civil Engineers' Steel Bridge Competition, where his team repeatedly secured regional wins and competed nationally against some of the most prestigious universities in the country!
Internship Experiences and Transition to WGI Chris gained valuable experience through internships, initially exploring public works before discovering WGI through a UTSA career fair. His humorous anecdote about initially confusing WGI with a color guard organization highlights his amicable personality and underscores his seamless fit within WGI's culture. His internship at WGI proved instrumental, smoothly transitioning him into a full-time role upon graduation, thanks to the mentorship of colleagues in the public works team.
From Intern to Influencer Over four years at WGI, Chris has grown from an eager intern to a respected Senior Graduate Engineer. He reflects on his professional development, noting how he now actively mentors new team members and interns. Chris highlights how each project presents unique challenges, making every day exciting and engaging. He emphasizes how teamwork and a supportive environment have significantly contributed to his personal and professional growth at WGI.
Life Beyond The Office Outside work, Chris enthusiastically shares his love for chicken wings, especially lemon pepper wings cooked in an air fryer, proudly noting his dislike of chicken nuggets. He also humorously recounts the San Antonio office tradition of participating in the "Hot Ones" spicy wings challenge, despite his aversion to spicy foods, simply because he "doesn't like giving up."
What Makes WGI Special Chris quickly points out that what makes WGI stand out is its remarkable people and collaborative spirit.
"At WGI, you're more than just an employee - you’re part of a close-knit community genuinely invested in your growth and success," Chris shares, emphasizing the nurturing and supportive company culture that inspires everyone to reach their highest potential.
Tune In This episode is packed with unforgettable moments - from conquering UTSA’s Steel Bridge competitions and navigating spicy wing challenges in the San Antonio office, to mentoring the next generation of engineers and solving real-world infrastructure problems with heart and humor. So, tune in, and as always, stay curious, stay driven, and keep unleashing your full potential!
Visit your favorite podcast app now and subscribe to WGI Unleashed to receive alerts every time a new episode drops.
You can find us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, iHeart Radio, or wherever you find your favorite podcasts.
In Episode 93 of the WGI Unleashed podcast, we’re excited to introduce you to Grant Farley, EIT, a Senior Graduate Engineer in our MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing) Division based out of WGI’s Austin, TX office.
Grant joined hosts Dan and Katie for a lively conversation full of laughs, career insights, and fun stories. From his small-town Texas roots and a childhood fascination with robotics to designing electrical systems for complex infrastructure projects across the country, this episode offers a look into the life of a young engineer making waves at WGI and proving that passion, curiosity, and a great team can take you far.
From East Texas to Texas A&M Born and raised about 50 miles east of Dallas, Grant grew up in a town so small that his high school graduating class had just 47 students.
But don’t let the size fool you - Grant’s drive and curiosity were anything but small. He was a standout athlete, an all-state football player, and a self-proclaimed tinkerer who loved pulling apart computers and competing in state-level robotics competitions. It was clear from early on that Grant was destined for a career in STEM.
After high school, he enrolled at Texas A&M University and pursued a degree in Electrical Systems Engineering Technology, gravitating toward coursework focused on microcontrollers, embedded systems, and energy-efficient building technologies. Though he originally considered cybersecurity and IT due to family influence, Grant’s experience in college steered him toward something more tangible - designing real-world electrical systems and infrastructure.
Launching a Career with WGI Grant’s professional journey with WGI began at a Texas A&M career fair, where he connected with company recruiters and "saw the light," so to speak. He immediately saw alignment between WGI’s core values and his own - especially our commitment to innovation, integrity, and a people-first culture.
Fast forward three years, and Grant has already earned a promotion from Graduate Engineer to Senior Graduate Engineer, taking on more responsibility and autonomy in the design process. He now collaborates directly with architects, project managers, and other disciplines to develop sophisticated electrical systems for buildings and infrastructure projects across the country.
Spotlight on Projects: EV Infrastructure, Parking Garages, and Life Sciences Grant has had the opportunity to work on a diverse range of projects that reflect both the breadth and depth of WGI’s capabilities. Some of his most notable contributions include:
- A major parking garage in Georgetown, TX – one of Grant’s first opportunities to lead electrical design, from incoming utility coordination all the way down to branch-level circuits and lighting.
- Fleet EV (Electric Vehicle) charging infrastructure – part of a national initiative, these projects have deepened his expertise in power distribution and are helping drive the future of sustainable mobility.
- One of Austin’s largest life sciences lab developments – a technically complex and 'power-dense' facility that has challenged Grant to apply creative thinking to a new project type for WGI.
These experiences have taken him across the country - from St. Louis and Chicago to Louisiana and Arkansas - giving him valuable field exposure through punch walks, site investigations, and even topping-out ceremonies.
A Day in the Life A typical day for Grant involves reviewing project scopes, breaking down design tasks, collaborating with internal teams, and diving deep into electrical layouts and code compliance. He frequently references the National Electrical Code, which serves as a standardized framework for his designs across state lines, with some jurisdictional nuances along the way.
While the bulk of his work is rooted in design, Grant also appreciates the field-side experiences that bring his designs to life - literally seeing a project go from paper to reality.
Life Outside of Work Outside the office, Grant is just as interesting. He’s an avid fisherman and enjoys annual trips with his wife and her family to Port Aransas, TX, where beach days, charter fishing, and jetty-side hangs are a tradition. He even once rescued a sea turtle caught in the rocks - snapping a selfie before safely returning it to the ocean.
He’s also an occasional golfer, a dedicated sci-fi fan (currently working through The Expanse series), and a proud pet parent to what he jokingly calls a “mini zoo”: two dogs, two cats, and two ball pythons. From a sweet orange tabby named Kitty to their newest rescue cat Cipher, Grant and his wife have created a home that’s as full of personality as he is.
Oh—and he does a mean Gollum impression. You'll have to listen to believe it.
Why WGI? When asked what makes WGI special, Grant doesn’t hesitate: the people. He reflects on the supportive, collaborative environment and how the open design of WGI’s new Austin office encourages cross-disciplinary conversations and teamwork. According to Grant, WGI’s people-first culture is a key reason why he’s not only stayed, but thrived.
“Being able to go to work with people you enjoy, who support your growth and push you to do your best—that’s what sets WGI apart.”
Tune In This episode is packed with memorable moments—from rescuing sea turtles on the Texas coast to designing cutting-edge electrical systems across the country. So, tune in, and as always, stay curious, stay driven, and keep unleashing your full potential!
Visit your favorite podcast app now and subscribe to WGI Unleashed to receive alerts every time a new episode drops.
You can find us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, iHeart Radio, Google Podcasts, or wherever you find your favorite podcasts.
In the 92nd episode of WGI Unleashed, we’re excited to introduce you to Jason Miholovits, PLA, our Director of Landscape Architecture, who joins us from WGI’s West Palm Beach Corporate Headquarters!
With over 20 years of experience, Jason's deep passion for design and a thoughtful leadership style have helped shape WGI’s national landscape architecture practice, and his story is just as inspiring as the spaces he helps create each and every day.
From Sketches to Studios Like many, Jason’s love for design started at an early age - Inspired by his high school drafting classes and a natural talent for drawing, he pursued the study of architecture at the University of Florida, where he ultimately refined his interests and discovered his passion for landscape architecture.
After graduation, a job fair frisbee - and a well-timed beer koozie - led him to his first role within the industry.... And the rest, as they say, is history. The chance encounter sparked a 10-year career with his first firm, where he met his wife, built a foundation in public-sector work, and eventually launched his current career with WGI.
Designing for Both People and Place Today, Jason leads five landscape architecture studios across the nation, each with its own unique identity and design approach. Under his guidance, the group blends the best of both worlds - public and private sector work - offering clients a depth of experience that they can't find elsewhere.
From vibrant parks and public spaces to amenity-rich pool decks atop high-rises, Jason’s portfolio of projects reflects his belief that landscape architecture is about more than aesthetics - it’s about creating a sense of space that people can love.
His favorite part of the career that has brought him so much? Visiting parks he’s helped design and watching his son enjoy the very spaces he's helped bring to life.
A Culture of Creativity and Trust And if you're wondering what keeps Jason inspired at WGI, that's simple.... It’s the people - and the freedom to lead with trust.
He’s proud of the collaborative, cross-functional environment he’s helped foster, where each studio operates like its own small business, giving team members room to grow, experiment, and shape their own paths.
That same autonomy Jason values in his own role is what he now passes down to his team. It’s a leadership philosophy rooted in respect, accountability, and empowering others to take creative risks.
Life Outside the Office When not leading national design studios, Jason enjoys staying close to home with his wife and son. He’s a hands-on DIYer, working on home projects and restoring classic cars - including a ‘69 Camaro passed down from his father.
And while he’s traded the college party scene for backyard soccer and family trips to Key West, Jason wouldn’t have it any other way.
Tune In This episode is filled with great stories—from childhood bike rides in South Florida to building a nationwide team of talented designers. So, join us, and as always, stay inspired and keep unleashing your full potential!
Visit your favorite podcast app now and subscribe to WGI Unleashed to receive alerts every time a new episode drops.
You can find us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, iHeart Radio, Google Podcasts, or wherever you find your favorite podcasts.
It's that time again - Time for another episode of the WGI Unleashed Podcast!
In this episode, we’re sitting down with Eric Luttmann, WGI's Director of Architecture based out of our Tampa, Florida office – So, join us as Eric reflects on his career thus far, shares insights into his passion for innovative design, and unveils the WGI projects that are shaping the future of the Architecture landscape!
From the Florida Coast to Architecture Born and raised in St. Petersburg, FL, Eric’s love for the great outdoors was a clear driver and influence throughout his early years.
Whether it was fishing in the Keys, playing sports, or spending time with his family, Eric developed a deep and early appreciation for the built environment around him. However, a career in architecture was far from the initial plan as he first considered careers in engineering and even the medical field before discovering his passion for design at the University of South Florida.
Building a Career in Architecture Eric’s introduction to architecture came during his time at USF, where he discovered the perfect balance between creativity and technical problem-solving.
After graduating during the 2008 recession, he took a detour into the mortgage industry before finally landing a position with a small Tampa-based architecture firm. From there, his career flourished, leading him to one of the world’s largest firms before ultimately joining WGI in 2016 to help establish and expand its architectural service line.
Now, as Director of Architecture, Eric plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of WGI’s multidisciplinary approach, blending creativity with innovative problem-solving to deliver world-class design solutions for his clients.
Innovative Projects & the Future of Architecture at WGI Throughout this episode, join us as Eric highlights some of WGI’s most exciting architectural projects, including the Escambia County Regional Traffic Management Center and Jacksonville’s Autonomous Innovation Center.
He also shares how WGI is pioneering cutting-edge design solutions that integrate technology, functionality, and aesthetics to meet the needs of rapidly growing communities.
Tune In for an Inspiring Conversation! From an enthusiasm for all things architecture matched only by his love of family life and the great outdoors, it's time to drop what you’re doing, grab those headphones, and engage in another thrilling conversation of WGI Unleashed as we learn all there is to know about Eric Luttmann!
This episode is packed with inspiration, career insights, and a behind-the-scenes look at WGI’s innovative architectural practice – making it a must-listen for anyone passionate about design and the built environment.... So, join us, and as always, stay inspired and keep unleashing your full potential!
Visit your favorite podcast app now and subscribe to WGI Unleashed to receive alerts every time a new episode drops. You can find us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, iHeart Radio, Google Podcasts, or wherever you find your favorite podcasts.
It's that time again - Time for another episode of the WGI Unleashed Podcast!
Join us as we sit down for an engaging new episode of the WGI Unleashed Podcast, where we shine the spotlight on Jaime Jones, a Civil Project Manager from our Tampa, FL office. From his roots in the Midwest to his dynamic role at WGI, Jaime shares his unique journey filled with personal insights, professional achievements, and the values that guide him.
From Barefoot Beginnings to Big-City Dreams Jaime grew up in the suburbs of Chicago, splitting his childhood between Lynwood and La Grange, Illinois. His early years were spent exploring the outdoors, playing sports, and cultivating a love for community.
Raised by a father who was a building and zoning commissioner, Jaime developed a fascination with the built environment and its impact on shaping communities.
A Path of Learning and Leadership After earning a political science degree and a master’s in urban planning from the University of Illinois, Jaime's career took off. He gained experience at the Army Corps of Engineers and the City of St. Petersburg before transitioning into construction management. This diverse background gave him a holistic view of urban development, from planning and permitting to construction.
Making a Mark at WGI Today, Jaime thrives at WGI, where he bridges his love for planning and construction. Starting with WGI’s P.L.A.C.E division, Jaime quickly immersed himself in multidisciplinary projects, eventually transitioning to the civil team where Jaime's passion for representing clients and collaborating across disciplines has made him an invaluable asset to WGI.
He credits WGI's core value of “Be the Change You Seek” for enabling his career growth and fostering an environment of innovation and inclusivity. Jaime emphasizes the importance of putting in the effort, seeking mentorship, and boldly stepping out of your comfort zone to achieve your goals.
Life Beyond the Office Outside of work, Jaime wears many hats—a proud father to his three-month-old son, Jrew, and a self-proclaimed handyman who enjoys tackling creative projects. A former college wrestler and avid traveler, Jaime continues to live by his "do something crazy" mantra, whether it's skydiving, scuba diving, or dreaming up his next big adventure!
Tune In for an Inspiring Conversation! In this episode, Jaime opens up about his Midwest roots, his career evolution, and the lessons he’s learned along the way. His story is a testament to the power of perseverance, adaptability, and passion.
So, it's time to drop what you're doing, grab those headphones, and crank up the volume as we celebrate Jaime's incredible story and the people, projects, and culture of WGI.... And don't forget to tune in next time as we unravel more captivating tales and insights on the WGI Unleashed Podcast.
Until then, stay inspired and keep unleashing your potential!
Visit your favorite podcast app now and subscribe to WGI Unleashed to receive alerts every time a new episode drops. You can find us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, iHeart Radio, Google Podcasts, or wherever you find your favorite podcasts.
It's that time again - Time for another episode of the WGI Unleashed Podcast!
Prepare to be inspired as we sit down with Lyndsey Duty, Environmental Scientist from Tampa, FL, in the latest episode of the WGI Unleashed Podcast! Join us as Lyndsey takes us on a journey through her love of nature, the path that led her to WGI, and her adventures beneath the waves.
From Landlocked Beginnings to Underwater Explorer Lyndsey grew up in York, Pennsylvania, a small rural town surrounded by farmland, where she spent her childhood exploring the outdoors. Her fascination with nature began early, as she eagerly searched for salamanders, snakes, and bugs to collect in her “bug box” or spent time caring for box turtles in a pen her dad built. Despite being far from the ocean, her curiosity about wildlife planted the seeds for a lifelong passion.
It wasn’t until 2015, on a family vacation to Jamaica, that Lyndsey discovered her love for diving. She and her father completed their diving certifications together, and from that moment, her underwater adventures began.
Now living in Florida, one of the best places for diving, Lyndsey takes every opportunity to explore the underwater world, marveling at rare sights like frogfish mating rituals and seahorses releasing eggs.
A Career Born of Curiosity and Determination Lyndsey’s journey to becoming an Environmental Scientist at WGI was shaped by her drive to work with wildlife and her academic pursuits. Initially drawn to veterinary medicine, she pivoted to biology, earning her degree with a marine science concentration from Old Dominion University in Norfolk, Virginia. Her favorite courses, like invertebrate zoology and marine ecology, gave her hands-on experience studying marine life and deepened her love for the natural world.
After graduation, Lyndsey’s career began with an internship at Clearwater Marine Aquarium on their dive team, followed by a position at the Florida Department of Environmental Protection that allowed her to experience the regulatory side of Environmental Science. Eventually, she found her home at WGI, where she now combines her passion for the environment with impactful projects that leave her feeling fulfilled.
Life at WGI and Beyond At WGI, Lyndsey is part of a team dedicated to environmental preservation and sustainable development. Her role allows her to make a difference by protecting the ecosystems she’s loved since childhood. Outside of work, Lyndsey’s enthusiasm for nature and wildlife continues through her diving adventures and ongoing quest to encounter unique marine species.
Tune In for an Inspiring Dive! This episode is packed with stories of adventure, determination, and the joy of pursuing your passions. Don’t miss Lyndsey Duty’s remarkable journey and the insights she shares about her life and career.
So, it's time to drop what you're doing, grab those headphones, and crank up the volume as we celebrate Lyndsey's incredible story and the people, projects, and culture of WGI.... And don't forget to tune in next time as we unravel more captivating tales and insights on the WGI Unleashed Podcast.
Until then, stay inspired and keep unleashing your potential!
Visit your favorite podcast app now and subscribe to WGI Unleashed to receive alerts every time a new episode drops. You can find us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, iHeart Radio, Google Podcasts, or wherever you find your favorite podcasts.
It's that time again - Time for another episode of the WGI Unleashed Podcast!
Join us as we travel to Austin, TX, to sit down with Marc Remmert, Director of MEP Engineering for an engaging and insightful conversation about his journey through life, career, and personal passions.
Marc’s story is one of transformation, determination, and an entrepreneurial spirit that continues to inspire his work and his team.
Small-Town Beginnings Marc grew up in a small town near Peoria, Illinois, where his family’s roots run deep, spanning generations. Life there was simple yet meaningful, and Marc fondly recalls clear nights spent gazing at the stars—something he misses to this day. His upbringing instilled in him the values of hard work and perseverance, shaping the person he is today.
After high school, Marc left his hometown in search of broader horizons and new opportunities. He enrolled at Washington University in St. Louis, where he found the perfect blend of independence and connection—it was close enough to visit family on weekends but far enough for space during the week. It was also in St. Louis that he met his wife, a life-changing moment that added yet another layer to the city’s special place in his heart.
A Dynamic Career Path Marc’s academic journey wasn’t without its challenges. Initially drawn to biomedical engineering, he soon realized that a future filled with chemistry wasn’t for him. After switching to electrical engineering, Marc discovered a passion for the field and a supportive community that fueled his ambition. While he initially envisioned designing computer chips, he pivoted to construction—a decision that launched his unconventional yet impactful career.
Marc began his professional life with an electrical contractor in Charleston, South Carolina, working on data center projects for Google. The 70-hour weeks were grueling but transformative, giving Marc hands-on experience and a unique engineering perspective that would prove invaluable later in his career.
A new chapter began when his wife accepted a job in Austin, Texas. Eager to pursue his Professional Engineer license, Marc joined Big Red Dog as a graduate engineer. At the time, the company had a startup feel, with only 35 employees. Over the next decade, Marc’s career flourished as Big Red Dog merged with WGI.
Today, he leads WGI’s MEP department and the Austin office, crediting the company’s innovative and entrepreneurial culture for empowering him to explore new ideas and grow with the organization.
Life Beyond the Office Outside of work, Marc enjoys a balanced life filled with hobbies and intellectual pursuits. He’s an avid reader with a knack for sharing book recommendations and a passionate golfer who’s even managed to get his wife hooked on the sport. These activities allow Marc to unwind, recharge, and stay inspired.
When asked about alternate career paths, Marc muses that he might have made a great lawyer—an intriguing "what if" for someone with his sharp intellect and drive.
See You Next Time! So, don't wait a moment longer - Grab those headphones and crank up the volume because it's time to get unleashed.... And don't forget to tune in next time as we unravel more captivating tales and insights on the WGI Unleashed Podcast.
Until then, stay inspired and keep unleashing your potential!
Visit your favorite podcast app now and subscribe to WGI Unleashed to receive alerts every time a new episode drops. You can find us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, iHeart Radio, Google Podcasts, or wherever you find your favorite podcasts.
It's that time again - Time for another episode of the WGI Unleashed Podcast!
Join us as we sit down with Mike Mills, WGI’s VP of Stormwater Resources, for an inspiring conversation about his life and engineering journey.
Mike’s story is a tale of determination, gratitude, and a steadfast commitment to making a difference, from his unique upbringing and early career challenges to his now impactful projects and passions.
Growing Up with a Global Perspective Born in Virginia to a Navy father, Mike spent a significant portion of his early years in Japan on an American Naval base. Mike's father met his mother abroad, sparking a bond that shaped a childhood rich with international experiences which Mike still treasures to this day.
Living between Japan and the U.S. until he was 16, Mike credits his early international exposure with giving him a valuable perspective that continues to fuel his gratitude and open-minded outlook on life today. Having moved to Orlando during high school, however, he experienced a significant culture shock. Yet, this transition unknowingly marked the start of his journey into the world of civil engineering.
From Architecture Dreams to Civil Engineering Realities Initially set on becoming an architect or archaeologist, Mike was led to civil engineering when his first-choice schools appeared to no longer be an option. Ultimately electing to attend the University of Central Florida, Mike saw engineering as a way to design the spaces surrounding buildings if he couldn’t design the buildings themselves.
With guidance from state-renowned professors, Mike’s passion for land development and stormwater management grew, cementing his career path in the AEC industry.
Rising Through the Ranks with Determination Mike’s career began in land development at a company where technology was just beginning to enter the scene—so much so that he was tasked with exploring the company’s first computer and seeking out the industry's new and innovative software and technologies.
This early exposure to cutting-edge tools such as ICPR, now known as StormWise, became a defining moment. Mike credits this experience and his connection with Pete Singhofen, ICPR's creator and now a WGI colleague, as pivotal influences on his career.
After immense success with his first job in Orlando, Mike's journey led him to a stormwater management role in Tampa, leading to multiple company acquisitions and, ultimately, the founding of his very own consulting firm in 1999 - And after 21 successful years of acting as his own boss, Mike’s firm was acquired, and his longtime connections with WGI leaders, including Pete Singhofen, brought him to WGI in 2024.
A Legacy of Diverse and Impactful Work Mike’s extensive work spans public and private projects, from collaborations with some of Tampa’s favorite brands such as Publix and Outback Steakhouse to meaningful contributions to wetland mitigation, including Hillsborough County's first-ever wetland mitigation permit.
His dedication and experience also recently contributed to WGI’s substantial win on the Turnpike & Sawgrass Interchange project—a major milestone he credits to WGI’s exceptional proposal and project management teams.
Life Beyond the Office Beyond the workplace, Mike finds joy in Sunday morning bike rides to brunch with his wife and friends, playing guitar and bass, practicing yoga, and running. And in recent, exciting news, Mike is now proud to call himself a grandfather as he welcomes in his first grandchild!
Mike's dedication to work-life balance and his love for spending time outdoors reflect his commitment to both personal well-being and professional growth. Mike is also deeply committed to philanthropy, particularly through Operation Christmas Child with Samaritan’s Purse - with his leadership and empathy helping to bring joy and hope to children around the world during the holiday season.
See You Next Time! So, don't wait a moment longer - Grab those headphones and crank up the volume because it's time to get unleashed.... And don't forget to tune in next time as we unravel more captivating tales and insights on the WGI Unleashed Podcast.
Until then, stay inspired and keep unleashing your potential!
Visit your favorite podcast app now and subscribe to WGI Unleashed to receive alerts every time a new episode drops. You can find us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, iHeart Radio, Google Podcasts, or wherever you find your favorite podcasts.
It's that time again - Welcome back to yet another episode of the WGI Unleashed Podcast!
Join us for episode 86 as we sit down with Kimberlee DeBosier, WGI's VP of Transportation in Tampa, Florida - From humble beginnings in East Lansing, Michigan, to leading major infrastructure projects across the nation, Kim's story exemplifies resilience, determination, and a deep passion for making a difference in the transportation engineering field.
A Coin Flip That Changed Everything Kim’s early aspirations were far from civil engineering. While attending Michigan State University, her initial goal was to become a research chemist. However, her exposure to engineering through MSU’s STEM program ignited a new passion, leading her to make a life-changing decision.
In a twist of fate, Kim literally flipped a coin to decide between Civil and Chemical Engineering - The coin landed on Civil Engineering, and the rest, as they say, is history.
The Road to Success Throughout her college years, Kim’s determination was unwavering. She worked hard to put herself through school, driven by a desire to graduate in four years with a degree that would support her long-term goals. Her grandmother, who raised her with the belief that women should always be able to take care of themselves, instilled in her a strong sense of independence and perseverance.
After earning her degree, Kim embarked on a journey that took her across the country—from Oklahoma City, where she began her career in building design, to Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where she earned her MBA from Louisiana State University and spent her time honing her skills in bridge design. It was during this time that Kim discovered her true passion for engineering consulting, and under the mentorship of a supportive leader, she grew into a well-rounded professional.
Entrepreneurial Spirit and Landmark Projects After gaining invaluable experience under her mentor in Baton Rouge, Kim moved to Tampa, Florida, where she eventually went out on her own to found an engineering consulting firm. With a desire for greater flexibility and control over her work-life balance, Kim was motivated to become a true entrepreneur. For over two decades, she led her firm to success, working on notable projects such as the Wallaroo Station at Tampa’s Lowry Park Zoo and the Selmon Expressway project connecting St. Pete, Tampa, and Brandon.
Despite the demands of running her own business, Kim’s passion for engineering never waned, and after selling her firm, she was highly sought after by many companies.
Ultimately, she chose to join WGI, where she now leads the transportation division. Initially brought on as Director of Project Excellence, she quickly rose to the position of Vice President of Transportation and became an integral part of WGI’s Senior Leadership Team.
A Well-Rounded Life Beyond her impressive professional achievements, Kim is an avid fitness enthusiast and a lover of the outdoors. She enjoys spending time jet skiing with her family and is always up for an adventure.
A proud mother of two grown sons and a grandmother, she balances her personal and professional life with grace, coming full circle as someone that others in the industry can look up to.
Kim’s story is one of resilience, innovation, and leadership - She has paved the way for future generations of women in engineering, demonstrating that with hard work and determination, anything is possible.
See You Next Time! So, don't wait a moment longer - Grab those headphones and crank up the volume because it's time to get unleashed!
And don't forget to tune in next time as we unravel more captivating tales and insights on the WGI Unleashed Podcast - Until then, stay inspired and keep unleashing your potential!
Visit your favorite podcast app now and subscribe to WGI Unleashed to receive alerts every time a new episode drops. You can find us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, iHeart Radio, Google Podcasts, or wherever you find your favorite podcasts.
It's that time again - Welcome back to yet another episode of the WGI Unleashed Podcast!
Join us for episode 85 as we sit down with Chris Stermer, WGI's Senior Utility Coordinator Manager in Tampa, Florida - From his early days in Pompano Beach, FL, to his long-standing dedication to service, Chris’s journey has been nothing short of inspiring.
Exploring a Life of Service and Leadership Although he was born in Norfolk, VA, Chris' early childhood was spent in Pompano Beach, FL, growing up in a time before the bustling I-95 corridor in South Florida was even constructed. His passion for service was ignited early in life, leading him to join the Navy at just 17 years old in the year 1979.
Chris spent an impressive 27 years in active service, most of which took place on the flight deck of aircraft carriers as a jet engine mechanic. His Navy career took him around the globe, with Cairo, Egypt standing out as his favorite destination. During his time in service, Chris also seized the opportunity to further his education through a scholarship program - standing as a testament to his lifelong commitment to learning.
A Transition to Civilian Life After retiring from the Navy, Chris quickly transitioned to civilian life as a defense contractor, where he specialized in “In-Flight Refueling," and ultimately became a subject matter expert as he earned the trust of his superiors and all those around him. It was in this role that he honed his skills in AutoCAD, a tool that would become invaluable in his subsequent career.
His technical prowess and dedication to his craft led him to a position with a gas company in Port St. Lucie, where he learned to draw utilities, a skill that set the stage for his future role in utility coordination here at WGI.
A History of Recognition and Humility Throughout his tenured career, Chris’s expertise and dedication have certainly not gone unnoticed.
In 2020, he was honored with the John J. Farkas Award for Outstanding Utility Coordination, a prestigious accolade bestowed upon him by his peers, and standing as a true highlight of his career - And despite his many successes, Chris has made it a point to remain humble, attributing his knowledge to the “school of hard knocks.”
Beyond the Office Chris and his wife, now empty nesters, share their home with Gizmo, a Yorkie/Chihuahua mix who Chris calls "A Bundle of Energy." - And beyond the office, Chris finds his life deeply rooted in spirituality, service, and motorcycles, otherwise known as the three pillars that guide him.
For over 20 years, he has been actively involved in a prison ministry program, participating in an organization that brings motorcyclists to prisons to hold church services and deliver testimony to inmates. This work is a profound part of who Chris is, and he credits it as one of the most fulfilling aspects of his life.
And when he's not busy sharing his expertise in utility coordination or involved in ministry, you can find Chris playing taps on his bugle, a testament to his time in the service, or cruising around town!
But that's not all - In this episode, Chris also shares some intriguing anecdotes from his life, such as:
- Did he really circumnavigate the globe in 1986?
- Has he really been to all 50 states?
- And did he once joyride in a helicopter dressed as Santa?
So, don't wait a moment longer - Grab those headphones and crank up the volume because it's time to get unleashed. Plus, don't forget to tune in next time as we unravel more captivating tales and insights on the WGI Unleashed Podcast. Until then, stay inspired and keep unleashing your potential!
Visit your favorite podcast app now and subscribe to WGI Unleashed to receive alerts every time a new episode drops. You can find us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, iHeart Radio, Google Podcasts, or wherever you find your favorite podcasts.
Welcome back to another captivating episode of the WGI Unleashed Podcast!
For our 84th episode, we sat down with Coriann Salas, WGI's Corporate Program Manager in our Fort Lauderdale, Florida office!
Coriann’s journey began in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan before relocating to Florida at the age of ten. Now, with over two decades spent in the Sunshine State, she proudly considers herself a “Native Floridian.” Having spent her formative years in the sun and sand, it's no surprise that her academic path led her to the University of Central Florida during the exciting Dante Culpepper days.
Finding Her True Calling in Engineering Coming from a family of engineers, Coriann initially chose to study environmental sciences, hoping to carve out a different path than that of her relatives. However, her natural aptitude for mathematics and an interesting piece of advice from a professor quickly guided her back to engineering. This switch, small as it may seem, not only aligned with Coriann's strengths but also equipped her with essential life skills that she consistently incorporates into her daily work, such as problem-solving and organization.
Coriann’s professional journey began with a structural engineering internship, where she, not so excitingly, helped design water and wastewater treatment tanks. Determined to secure a better foothold in the industry, she tirelessly reached out to numerous engineering firms in the state of Florida until she landed a position as a junior bridge designer. Over 13 years at this firm, she honed her skills and deepened her understanding of the engineering landscape while creating connections and relationships that would benefit her greatly down the road.
Rising to New Challenges at WGI Through relentless tenacity and effective networking over her years in the business, Coriann was offered an opportunity to grow WGI’s transportation team and lead a team of bridge designers. One of her significant achievements at WGI was opening a new office location in Fort Lauderdale - allowing her to grow professionally and create something she is incredibly proud of.
Embracing a New Role with Broader Impact Coriann’s career took a pivotal turn when she was asked to spearhead WGI's companywide transition from a legacy internal associate and client database, Deltek Vision, to a new and improved platform, BST. Achieving the success she did throughout this initiative resulted in Coriann being promoted to WGI’s Corporate Program Manager. In this role, she has spearheaded other key initiatives, including enhancing Quality Assurance/Quality Control practices and procedures across the company. Her work now involves collaborating with almost every department, from Finance and Accounting to Human Resources and everywhere in between.
Coriann's dedication and commitment to WGI’s core value of “Be the change you seek” have cemented her as an invaluable resource for WGI. While she enjoys working behind the scenes and making significant impacts across various facets of the organization, she still appreciates her roots and occasionally gets her hands dirty in some plan sheets.
A Multifaceted Life Beyond Engineering Outside of her professional life, Coriann is a devoted mother of two and a fitness enthusiast who has completed the 7-mile marathon in the Florida Keys (once) and has hiked the Everglades National Park during the rainy season, showcasing her adventurous spirit. Even though health is a priority for Coriann, she also has a passion for baking sweet treats, appreciating the precision and mathematical aspects it involves.
Join us in this inspiring episode as Coriann Salas shares her journey, insights, and the values that drive her contributions to WGI. Don’t miss out on this engaging conversation on the WGI Unleashed Podcast!
Join us in thanking Coriann Salas for sharing her fascinating story - from her early days at school in Orlando to the many hats she wears now; Coriann's journey has been nothing short of thrilling! So, put on those headphones and crank up the volume because it's time to get unleashed!
Don't forget to tune in next time as we unravel more captivating tales and insights on the WGI Unleashed Podcast. Until then, stay inspired and keep unleashing your potential!
Visit your favorite podcast app now and subscribe to WGI Unleashed to receive alerts every time a new episode drops. You can find us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, iHeart Radio, Google Podcasts, or wherever you find your favorite podcasts!
Welcome back to another captivating episode of the WGI Unleashed Podcast!
In Episode 83, we dive into the story of Andrew Miller, WGI's Senior Client Manager in our Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing Engineering (MEP) department. Andrew's journey from a young engineering enthusiast to a key figure at WGI showcases his dedication, passion, and diverse range of interests. This episode offers a fascinating glimpse into his life, career, and hobbies that have shaped him into the professional he is today.
Laying the Foundation
Andrew was born in Orlando and grew up in Tampa, Florida. Unlike many kids who grew up with LEGO sets, Andrew preferred K’nex, enjoying the process of assembling and disassembling. This early fascination with "how things work" was his first step into the world of engineering.
A pivotal moment came when a commercial on TV sparked his interest in pursuing a career in engineering. Determined, Andrew applied to only one school—Georgia Tech—where he majored in mechanical engineering after deciding that Robotics was not the path he wanted to follow. He relished the experience of attending college in the vibrant city of Atlanta, Georgia, a non-traditional college environment that offered unique opportunities.
From Intern to Senior Client Manager
While at Georgia Tech, Andrew participated in an internship co-op program, gaining hands-on experience through multiple internships at the same company. Looking back, Andrew realizes that this experience was crucial in his professional development and also helped pave the way for a job offer from the firm upon graduation.
After graduating in 2010, amidst the lingering effects of the 2008 recession, Andrew felt the urge to explore new horizons and gain additional professional experience. A job opportunity in Austin, Texas, found through, of all places, Craigslist, allowed him to dive deeper into the MEP industry and cut his teeth with one of the largest firms in Texas. This move was instrumental in his career, providing him with invaluable experience.
Andrew then joined Big Red Dog, which was later acquired by WGI. This acquisition opened up numerous opportunities for him, enabling significant growth within the MEP department. Today, as the only Senior Client Manager at WGI, Andrew serves as the point person for all new MEP opportunities, describing his role as "working at the intersection of creativity and engineering expertise."
The Man Behind the Engineer
Beyond his professional life, Andrew is a self-described "Hobby Guy." Currently, he is passionate about golf and woodworking, and although he is not yet a scratch golfer, his woodworking skills are impressive—he has built nearly all the furniture in his home.
Before meeting his wife, Andrew was an avid weightlifter but now, after settling down, he and his wife share their home with a Shih Tzu named Peter Cornelius (affectionately known as Peco). Music has also played a significant role in Andrew's life; he has been playing the trumpet and guitar for many years.
Engineering for the Community
Instead of the designs themselves, Andrew takes immense pride in creating spaces that serve his community. He finds excitement in seeing people interact with the designs he has helped bring to life and relishes seeing the enjoyment that his work can bring to his clients. This dedication to his community and profession truly sets Andrew apart as a leader in the MEP field!
Join us in thanking Andrew Miller for sharing his fascinating story - from his early days in Tampa to his current role at WGI, Andrew's story is one of inspiration, growth, and unwavering dedication to his craft!
Don't forget to tune in next time as we unravel more captivating tales and insights on the WGI Unleashed Podcast. Until then, stay inspired and keep unleashing your potential!
Visit your favorite podcast app now and subscribe to WGI Unleashed to receive alerts every time a new episode drops. You can find us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, iHeart Radio, Google Podcasts, or wherever you find your favorite podcasts!
Welcome back to another captivating episode of the WGI Unleashed Podcast!
In our 82nd episode, we sit down with Melissa McKinlay, VP of Government Relations, from our West Palm Beach corporate office.
From early childhood roots in the Northeast to becoming a key player in Palm Beach County’s political landscape, it’s safe to say that Melissa’s journey is nothing short of riveting.
From New York Beginnings to Florida Roots Melissa’s story began in Sarasota, Florida, where she relocated from the Northeast with her family when she was just six years old – But it didn’t take very long for the Sunshine State to win her over and become home.
For the past 20 years, Melissa has called Palm Beach County her home, deeply embedding herself in the community and working to make a difference along the way.
Academic and Early Political Aspirations Melissa’s passion for politics took root during her high school years when she ran for class president, with her ambition leading her to Florida State University (FSU), where she pursued a degree in Political Science. Drawn to Tallahassee for its proximity to the state capital, she relished the experience of attending a renowned “football school” while simultaneously cultivating her political acumen.
A pivotal recommendation from a professor landed her a legislative internship, setting the stage for her career in public service.
Making a Difference in Palm Beach County Melissa’s commitment to making a tangible difference in the community around her is evident through her impressive contributions. Notably, she has played a crucial role in establishing the Butterfly House, a sexual assault treatment center in Palm Beach County.
Her collaboration with Senator Marco Rubio to improve housing conditions for farm workers in Belle Glade further underscores her dedication to advocacy and community welfare.
Political Career and Personal Resilience In 2014, Melissa was elected as a Palm Beach County Commissioner, a role she approached with vigor and determination.
Balancing the demands of political life and being a mother of three was no small feat, and Melissa candidly shares the challenges and triumphs of this journey in our latest episode of the WGI Unleashed Podcast.
A New Chapter at WGI Melissa joined WGI to leverage her extensive experience and connections in government relations, with her role involving influencing public officials and securing vital contracts that shape how communities are envisioned, designed, and experienced.
Her dedication to public service seamlessly aligns with WGI’s value of ‘being the change you seek,’ making her an invaluable asset to the team.
Beyond the Office When she’s not shaping policy or advocating for her community, Melissa enjoys exploring the great outdoors. An avid hiker, she also embodies a particular fondness for national parks, with Glacier National Park holding a special place in her heart.
Join us in thanking Melissa McKinlay for sharing her remarkable journey, her insights on balancing career and family, and her unwavering commitment to making a positive impact. And tune in next time as we unravel more captivating tales and insights on the WGI Unleashed Podcast. Until then, stay inspired and keep unleashing your potential!
Visit your favorite podcast app now and subscribe to WGI Unleashed to receive alerts every time a new episode drops. You can find us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, iHeart Radio, Google Podcasts, or wherever you find your favorite podcasts!
Welcome back to another captivating episode of the WGI Unleashed Podcast!
In episode 81, we had the privilege of sitting down with Todd Polk, Director of Federal/Water Management Business Development, from our West Palm Beach corporate office.
From growing up in Cincinnati, OH, to serving in the US Army and ultimately bringing his expertise to WGI, it's safe to say that Todd's journey has been nothing short of extraordinary.
Finding Purpose Through Service Although eventually answering the call to service, Todd's initial path to the military was far from straightforward.
After attending the University of Kentucky on a swimming scholarship and majoring in communications, Todd found himself uncertain of his career path and future. However, after further immersing himself in the ROTC program, Todd found his calling as he swore into the US Army in 1999 and ultimately found his passion as a combat engineer.
Rising to Challenges Throughout his military career, Todd faced numerous challenges, from injuries during training to the life-altering events of September 11th, 2001. Yet, as he reflects, it was during the busiest times that he and his colleagues rose to their best, exemplifying resilience and dedication in the face of adversity.
A Global Perspective Todd's numerous deployments have taken him across the globe, from Afghanistan to Alaska, with each experience shaping his leadership philosophy and perspective. His tenure in the US Army Corps of Engineers, particularly in South Florida's Everglades restoration efforts, underscored his commitment to service and environmental stewardship.
Transition and Growth After 24 years of service, Todd transitioned to civilian life, bringing his expertise to WGI's corporate headquarters in West Palm Beach. As Director of Federal/Water Management Business Development, Todd's addition to the team further solidifies WGI's commitment to excellence in design and professional services.
Beyond the Uniform Outside of work, Todd cherishes time with his family, enjoying outdoor activities such as hunting, fishing, and boating in the Florida sunshine. His recent engagement and the antics of his pets, Ginger and Cody, also add a touch of humor and warmth to his ever-growing story.
Looking Ahead As Todd navigates the next chapter of his career, his journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring leaders and veterans transitioning to civilian life. His blend of leadership, service, and unwavering commitment to excellence embodies the core values of WGI and underscores our firm's "Commitment to Greatness."
In our conversation with Todd, we were privileged to glimpse into a life shaped by service, leadership, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. His journey reminds us that greatness is not just a destination but a commitment to continuous growth and a service to others.
Join us in thanking Todd for sharing his story and for his invaluable contributions to WGI and our nation. Tune in next time as we unravel more captivating tales and insights on the WGI Unleashed Podcast. Until then, stay inspired and keep unleashing your potential!
Visit your favorite podcast app now and subscribe to WGI Unleashed to receive alerts every time a new episode drops. You can find us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, iHeart Radio, Google Podcasts, or wherever you find your favorite podcasts!
Welcome back to another captivating episode of the WGI Unleashed Podcast!
In our 80th episode, we had the pleasure of sitting down with none other than Mike Madison, PE, WGI's esteemed Vice President of Transportation Roadway. Get ready to delve into the fascinating life and career of yet another exceptional member of WGI with your hosts, Dan DeBellis & Katie Bolger!
The Journey Unveiled Mike's journey is as dynamic as the roads he designs.
Born in Virginia Beach, Mike's childhood was initially shaped by his mother's service in the Navy - requiring the Madison family to regularly re-locate around the world. From Sicily and the crystal clear waters of the Mediterranean to Key West, Florida, and finally settling in Jacksonville during his formative years, Mike's upbringing instilled in him a sense of adaptability and resilience, qualities that would serve him well in his future endeavors.
From Swimming Pools to Engineering Tools Despite his affinity for competitive swimming and being the backstop for his high school baseball team during his years in Jacksonville, Mike found his true passions lying in the realm of engineering. While contemplating his academic path at Florida State University, he initially toyed with the idea of pursuing Chemical Engineering or Law before ultimately finding his calling in Civil Engineering—a decision that would shape the trajectory of his career.
Mike's Professional Odyssey with WGI Straight out of college, Mike embarked on his professional journey with WGI—setting the stage for a successful and fulfilling career. Over 15 years later, Mike's dedication to his profession and his unparalleled expertise have become synonymous with WGI's commitment to excellence in transportation infrastructure.
Navigating Challenges Among Mike's many achievements, the Dixie Highway Design-Build project holds a special place in his heart. One of his first large-scale endeavors, this project not only showcased Mike's technical prowess but also underscored the collective strength of WGI's Transportation department. It was a challenge that Mike embraced wholeheartedly, ultimately emerging victorious and leaving an indelible mark on WGI's legacy.
Beyond Engineering Beyond his corner office and drafting tables, Mike is a man of diverse interests and passions.
An avid CrossFit enthusiast and triathlon runner, he embodies the spirit of perseverance and discipline in all facets of his life. Moreover, as a devoted husband and father, Mike cherishes moments spent playing baseball with his 10-year-old son, bridging the gap between work and family with unwavering grace.
A Testament to Excellence As we draw the curtains on yet another illuminating episode, Mike's story serves as a testament to the limitless possibilities that await those who dare to chase their dreams. From humble beginnings to professional acclaim, Mike's journey exemplifies WGI's core value — Commitment to Greatness.
Tune in next time as we unravel more captivating tales and insights on the WGI Unleashed Podcast. Until then, stay inspired and keep unleashing your potential!
Visit your favorite podcast app now and subscribe to WGI Unleashed to receive alerts every time a new episode drops. You can find us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, iHeart Radio, Google Podcasts, or wherever you find your favorite podcasts!
Welcome back to another captivating episode of the WGI Unleashed Podcast!
In our 79th episode, we dive into the noteworthy journey of Taylor Allen, PE, a Civil Market Leader from WGI's San Antonio, TX office.
So, grab your headphones and tune in as we explore Taylor's unique story, from his Texan roots to celebrating a decade of work with WGI.
Career and Education Taylor, born and raised in San Antonio, TX, always dreamed of attending a big university.
Having grown up just outside of the University of Texas at Austin, it seemed like destiny that he would one day join the Longhorn Nation. Yet, it was actually Texas A&M University in College Station that Taylor ultimately fell in love with, where he spent four years and discovered his passion for "urban living," thus setting the stage for his future endeavors.
Upon graduation, however, Taylor's career took an unexpected turn as he explored a different field prior to pivoting back into the world of design. And with a hunger for growth paired with the goal of attaining a Professional Engineers License, Taylor sought a firm and mentor with the experience to support his growth both personally and professionally, which he ultimately found with WGI.
Now celebrating over 10 years with WGI, Taylor reflects on the growth, challenges, and successes of the past decade, with his commitment to making a positive impact on his hometown through his work serving as a testament to his passion for community growth and development.
On a Personal Note On a personal note, join us as Taylor divulges his travel spreadsheet and passion for travel as he details his recent explorations of Brussels, Amsterdam, and Copenhagen. Plus, you'll have to tune in to find out if he's experienced the thrill of hot air balloon rides or hiked in and out of the Grand Canyon!
And beyond travel, Taylor also shares some of his interests outside of the office. From his thoughts on yardwork to his passion for making meaningful connections, Taylor is truly an enigma waiting to be unraveled.
Are You Ready To Get Unleashed?
So, don't miss the laughter, insights, and surprises that await!
Tune into Episode 79 of WGI Unleashed to learn about Taylor's potential proof of alien life, how his idea of a backyard diverts from the norm, exactly where Taylor plans on traveling next, and so much more - Trust us, this is one podcast you won't want to miss.
Visit your favorite podcast app now and subscribe to WGI Unleashed to receive alerts every time a new episode drops. You can find us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, iHeart Radio, Google Podcasts, or wherever you find your favorite podcasts!
Welcome back to another episode of the WGI Unleashed Podcast! Today, we're diving deep into the remarkable journey of Edgar Segovia, a seasoned Civil Engineering Project Manager hailing from the vast landscapes of the Rio Grande Valley in Texas. Buckle up as we unravel the unique story of Edgar's life, from humble beginnings to becoming a mentor and leader at WGI.
Edgar's roots trace back to the heart of nowhere – the rural landscapes of the Rio Grande Valley. Growing up in challenging circumstances, Edgar's determination and resilience shone through.
Our protagonist's educational journey led him to UT Pan American, now known as UT Rio Grande Valley, where he pursued a degree in mechanical engineering. Edgar's insight into the world of engineering echoes his belief that you don't fully understand it until you immerse yourself in the field.
The story takes an adventurous turn as Edgar found his first job opportunity in Civil Engineering in Laredo, Texas, where he lived with his best friend for two years. It was during his college days at UT Rio Grande Valley that he encountered the love of his life through a series of intriguing circumstances – cue the romantic subplot!
Edgar's entry into WGI came through an "old school method" that got him in the door. His decision to join WGI was influenced by trust, as he sought a mentor with experience, wisdom, and reliability. Little did he know that he would evolve to become a mentor himself, utilizing his knowledge for the betterment of others.
In his role at WGI, Edgar has spearheaded several mentorship initiatives, including "Speed Dating," Lunch Coupons, The Summit, and ART, fostering a culture of collaboration and growth within his office. Edgar's passion extends to client relations, particularly in his work with the San Antonio Water System (SAWS). While others focus on design work, Edgar thrives on building meaningful connections and ensuring client satisfaction.
Beyond the professional realm, Edgar's softer side is revealed through his love for animals. He's the proud parent of two rescue bunnies named Cosmo and Luna, proving that his heart is as big as his professional achievements.
For Edgar, the best things in life are a mix of "Beer, BBQ, and Football," and he recently acquired a brand new grill that he loves using to cook tacos al pastor, Mexican street corn, and much more for large groups of family and friends!
Discover the hilarious allergy that Edgar loves bringing up to his Doctor at his yearly check-ups, learn about his passion for romance and celebration, and determine whether or not you think he has met Quentin Tarantino by tuning in to our latest episode!
Join us as we explore the incredible odyssey of Edgar Segovia, from his humble beginnings to his influential role at WGI. This is a conversation you won't want to miss – tune in now and be inspired by the story of Edgar!
Welcome back to another captivating episode of the WGI Unleashed Podcast! In this installment, we had the privilege of sitting down with Juan Enriquez, a seasoned project surveyor from our Geospatial Team in Austin, TX. Juan's journey in the world of survey drafting began at a remarkably young age, and his passion for the profession is both inspiring and infectious.
Juan's story unfolds in the charming town of Reynosa, Mexico, where he was exposed to the world of surveying through an educational initiative requiring students to practice a trade while in grade school, leading to Juan's interest in the world of engineering being piqued at age 11. This early exposure ignited Juan's interest in drawing, drafting, and the intricate world of land survey work.
After relocating to San Marco, Texas, Juan pursued his education at a trade school, eventually earning his GED (even though he already had his high school diploma!). He continued his academic journey at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, graduating with a bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering. Juan's unconventional path led him to his first job in a construction company, where he honed his skills in construction management and architectural drafting, leading to a deeper and more comprehensive understanding of the engineering industry as a whole.
Throughout our conversation, Juan's deep appreciation for the history of his profession became evident. Reminiscing on some of his favorite and most interesting projects, we learned how his appreciation for the history behind his profession has shaped his career. Beyond his work, Juan finds joy in spending time camping with his daughters, gardening with his wife, and cooking delightful meals. And did we mention he's a self-proclaimed 'cat person' with a 'dog problem'?
Discover the person behind the profession as Juan shares one of his biggest fears while working in the field. Learn about his family dynamics, including his wife's fluency in Thai and his amusing struggle to do more than ask for food in the language. Plus, delve into Juan's hypothetical scenario of a lottery win and what his first purchase would be!
In this episode, we unravel the intricacies of Juan's journey to WGI and how his unique upbringing shaped both his life and career. Join us as we ponder hard-hitting questions, from the possibility of Juan's training as a Catholic Priest to the mystery of whether he holds a Brown Belt in martial arts. It's a conversation you won't want to miss—tune in to WGI Unleashed to explore the journey of Juan Enriquez!
In the highly-anticipated 76th episode of the WGI Unleashed Podcast, we had the distinct pleasure of engaging in conversation with Jeff Brophy, WGI's accomplished Vice President of PLACE. With an impressive resume that includes over 20 years of experience, an esteemed license, and an education abroad, we could not have been any more excited to feature Jeff on the latest episode of WGI Unleashed.
During our compelling conversation, we uncovered that Jeff is actually the second guest of WGI Unleashed, hailing from the picturesque environment of Southern Ontario, Canada. It was in this region that he proudly earned his Bachelor of Landscape Architecture from the esteemed University of Guelph.
Following his graduation, Jeff embarked on a journey that took him from the eastern expanse of Southern Ontario to the western beauty of British Columbia, traversing the American north and taking in the scenery of the surrounding areas. Recognizing the financial challenges of this venture and spurred by some 'words of encouragement' from his parents, Jeff redirected his course southward, ultimately finding himself in the vibrant community of South Florida. It was here that he secured a career opportunity with an engineering firm, where he fine-tuned his skills. In 2014, his then-firm was acquired by WGI, catapulting him into a realm of endless possibilities for career advancement.
Jeff generously shared the narrative of his origin in landscape architecture, recounting his childhood visits to Disney World, which sparked an enduring fascination with park layouts and maps as opposed to the conventional rides and attractions.
Beyond his professional pursuits, Jeff opened up about his family life, recounting the joys of playing hockey with his sons and daughter. He revealed the charming story of meeting his wife during his University of Guelph days, highlighting the perseverance it took to convince her to join him in the Sunshine State.
Despite his self-proclaimed quiet demeanor, Jeff disclosed his genuine enjoyment of public speaking in his work. The most gratifying aspect, he explained, is receiving public feedback on projects he has contributed to.
In a parting gesture of generosity, Jeff offered valuable advice for aspiring landscape architects and those interested in assuming leadership roles in the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) industry.
Don't miss the opportunity to delve into our latest podcast episode, where you'll discover Jeff's thoughts on the actor he envisions portraying him on the big screen, unravel the intricacies of his journey to achieving dual citizenship, and ponder the intriguing question of whether or not Jeff has ever shared a dance with Serena Williams - It doesn't get better than this!
On the 75th episode of the WGI Unleashed Podcast, we had the pleasure of sitting down with Cheryl Callender, a Studio Manager on WGI's Landscape Architecture team in sunny Fort Lauderdale, FL! Cheryl boasts over 25 years of professional experience, 7 of which she has spent with us here at WGI.
In speaking with Cheryl, we learned that she was born and raised in the Central American country of Panama, where she is proud to have obtained her Bachelor of Science in Architecture degree from the University of Panama.
Post-graduation, Cheryl spent the first seven years of her career as a licensed architect in Panama before being offered the opportunity to relocate to the United States to further her education via a Master's program. It was then that she decided to make the jump from architecture to landscape architecture by obtaining her Master of Landscape Architecture degree from Florida A&M University.
Cheryl shared what drew her into the architecture industry as well as what she loves most about the field, her reasoning for making the transition to landscape architecture, and the likenesses and differences between the two professions.
Cheryl also told us the story of how she met her husband, who just happens to be a professional landscape architect, and we were shocked to find out that he actually works with us here at WGI, too!
We then learned that Cheryl is tri-lingual, speaking English, Spanish, and French, and discovered that she had a hand in developing a memorable commercial you may have seen a time or two for a well-known tax preparation company.
In her spare time, Cheryl enjoys traveling to new places, working out, visiting the Disney parks with her family, and diving into home improvement projects.
So what are you waiting for? Check out Cheryl's podcast today to discover Cheryl's hidden talent, learn more about the many languages she speaks, and hear about the unique place where she said: "I do."
On the 74th episode of the WGI Unleashed Podcast, we head down to our corporate office in West Palm Beach, FL, to chat with Keegan Larson, our VP, Transportation Operations Manager. Keegan began his professional career with WGI in our Transportation Engineering Division and is steadily approaching his 20-year anniversary with our firm.
Tune in as we learn about Keegan's original roots in the Pacific Northwest, spending the first several years of his childhood in Seattle, WA. However, with his father working as a consulting engineer on large-scale transportation projects, Keegan found himself relocating around the nation as he grew up, spending time in New Jersey as well as Tallahassee and Orlando, Florida.
With a passion for engineering, like his father, and a yearning for a true "college town" experience, Keegan packed his bags and headed to Purdue University in Indiana, where he obtained his Bachelor of Science Degree in Civil Engineering. Be sure to listen 🎧 to his two truths and a lie segment to find out some of the other things that Keegan picked up while in school!
Upon completing college, Keegan had already lined up a job working with the same firm as his father. However, much to his dismay, that plan fell through in the 11th hour, and Keegan found himself perusing the Purdue job boards, which is where he happened upon an opening at WGI. The next thing Keegan knew, he was sitting face-to-face in an interview with our CEO, David Wantman.
Despite a questionable first impression of the office at that time, Keegan found himself quite impressed with David's knowledge of the industry and inspired by his vision for growth in the public sector transportation division. The meeting ultimately led Keegan to accept a job offer, and he hit the ground running on what would turn out to be an illustrious transportation career with WGI.
Flash forward two decades and several industry awards later, Keegan is now a member of our senior leadership team as part of our transportation division, serving as the VP, Transportation Operations Manager.
Despite the ongoing barrage of erroneous calls he's since received from people looking for transportation shipping logistics help, Keegan has found his home with WGI, describing his role as essentially being the manager of the project managers. Keegan also oversees the delivery of all project engineering design deliverables, which include resource loading, staffing, quality control, and monitoring financial metrics, and even finds himself dabbling in a few client services areas as well.
When not busy leading a division of transportation engineers or helping assist with new business development efforts, Keegan says he enjoys traveling the world with his wedding photographer wife, having recently visited such places as Tuscany, Switzerland, and Germany.
As you read this, Keegan and his wife will have just embarked on a vacation to Norway, Sweden, and Prague, finishing the trip in Munich to celebrate Oktoberfest with their extended families.
Be sure to check out the latest episode of WGI Unleashed now to learn what shenanigan almost got Keegan kicked out of college, his unorthodox connection to Kurt Cobain, and what his top three favorite condiments are.
On the latest episode of the WGI Unleashed podcast, we get to know Mark Topping, a Geospatial Technology Specialist III based out of our Huntsville, AL office. Mark, a member of the WGI Geospatial division, joined our team a little over a year ago as part of WGI's acquisition of The Atlantic Group, LLC.
In this unique episode, Mark gave us the privilege of being WGI Unleashed's first international guest, as we discovered that he resides in Canada for the majority of the year when not traveling for work.
Getting to know Mark throughout our conversation, he expressed what it was like to grow up in the second-largest country in the world, just outside of the dynamic metropolis of Toronto, and also shared some of the geographical and cultural likenesses and differences between living in Canada versus the United States. Referring to himself as your "stereotypical Canadian," he jokingly shared that he was born with hockey skates on and grew up participating in all of the winter sports that the country had to offer, such as hockey, skiing, snowboarding, and snowmobiling.
We learned that Mark attended college in Ontario at the University of Guelph, where he obtained his Bachelor of Arts degree in Geography and History, and we also had the pleasure of hearing the hilarious tale of how he decided on the University of Guelph in the first place. Spoiler alert, it had nothing to do with academics.
Mark discovered remote sensing during his time in college. Upon graduating, Mark decided that he wished to pursue geographic applications of remote sensing technology with his father, who had been engaged in engineering work for a local lidar sensor manufacturer. In his time working as a Flight Operations Specialist and later as a Training and Delivery Manager for one of the industry's largest builders of lidar equipment, Mark established and solidified his passion for airborne surveying.
It was at this time in Mark's young career that he met and trained the folks at the Atlantic Group, a major geospatial service provider in the southeast. Mark and the Atlantic Group worked so well together that he found himself joining the team and, shortly thereafter, joining WGI through the firm's acquisition. And the rest, they say, is history.
As our conversation went on, we gained an overview of Mark's role and responsibilities in his position with us here at WGI and were also clued in on a few of the cool perks of his job, such as getting to travel to remote, untouched regions in areas like the Grand Canyon National Park, the Amazon Rain Forrest, and even Borneo!
And when he's not globetrotting to collect aerial lidar data, Mark can be found playing softball with his coed recreational team, visiting new places with his wife, and hanging out with his Sheltie dog Winston.
And if that's not enough... Since recording this episode of the WGI Unleashed podcast, Mark has also joined the new Dad's Club! So, as could be imagined, his spare time is now mostly spent changing diapers, making bottles, and snuggling with his adorable newborn daughter at every chance he gets.
What are you waiting for? Go give the latest episode of WGI Unleashed a listen now - you know you want to. This is your chance to get a peek behind the curtain as Mark reveals the unique way fate stepped in to help him meet his wife, shares about the rare oral condition he has to be extra cognizant of now that he has a baby, and so much more!
For our latest episode of the WGI Unleashed Podcast, we got to chat with Ashley Orr, a Mobility Engineer in our Arlington, VA, office. Ashley is a part of our Mobility division, where she is focused on proposing creative-but-feasible solutions to improve mobility methods and promote growth while also preserving and enhancing the unique character of communities.
Ashley grew up in Southeastern Pennsylvania, deep in the heart of Amish country, where she enjoyed a slower, more peaceful pace of life. She reflects fondly on her time spent outdoors hiking and visiting national parks with her family.
We listened intently while she talked about her time at Penn State University, where we were shocked to learn that she had originally enrolled in the NROTC program with plans to join the Navy and major in Aerospace Engineering with the hope of fulfilling her childhood dream of becoming an astronaut. She discovered very quickly that while she enjoyed what she was learning, studying something more tangible that she could actually see people utilizing daily was far more important than going to space. This epiphany is what ultimately led her to obtain her Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering.
Ashley joined the WGI team in our Tallahassee office right after graduating from college but recently made the move northeast to help establish our new Arlington, Virginia office, where she just celebrated eight years of service with the company.
We found out that when she originally joined WGI, Ashley's focus was more on transportation engineering, where she learned that her interests lie more in how transportation networks connect communities and less about how the actual roadway is constructed. This revelation is how she found herself gravitating toward a focus on New Mobility + Connected Communities.
She joked with us as she called herself a "plangineer" and explained that most of her role consists of coordinating, advising on Traffic Impact Analysis, reviewing technical reports, and managing WGI's existing clients.
In addition to everything we learned about her professional life, we discovered Ashley is married to her high school sweetheart, whom she shares a three 1/2-year-old daughter with, as well as a very fat cat (her words, not ours) named John Pierre. She enjoys spending weekends with her family exploring their new quaint hometown of Alexandria, where her idea of a perfect lazy Saturday consists of lounging at a local coffee shop with a good book to read sprinkled with a side of people-watching.
She also spoke about her love for travel, having been to several unique destinations such as Algeria, Peru, Spain, Qatar, and Paris, France, where she had the rare opportunity to live abroad as a perpetual tourist for nine months and has since labeled herself a Francophile.
Listen now to find out what the most exotic food she's ever eaten is, what professional sports team she had the exclusive honor of naming, and what the heck shoofly pie is!
On the latest episode of the WGI Unleashed Podcast, we had the opportunity to sit down with Jacob Gonzalez, WGI's VP of Client Solutions, based out of our Houston, TX, office. Jacob joined the WGI team over five years ago and has passionately dedicated his time to helping leverage WGI's multi-discipline platform in order to provide our partners and clients with integrated solutions and maximum value.
In our sit down, we had the opportunity to discuss many details surrounding Jacob's personal & professional life, such as what it was like growing up as a fourth-generation Texan and 1st generation "Houstonian," where he was born, raised and still resides with his family to this day. Jacob also explained how he was introduced to the AEC industry at a young age, spending his summers surveying in the sweltering Texas sun with his father and grandfather, who are both professional surveyors.
In this episode, we discovered how Jacob remained in Houston to attend college, initially starting his post-secondary education as a Psychology major at Sam Houston State University before quickly realizing that was not the path for him. After this revelation, Jacob promptly transferred to the University of Houston, where he graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering with a specialization in Structural Engineering.
Although Jacob initially started in the field of Restoration Engineering, where he stayed for many years, after being forced to face one of his greatest fears on a particular project, he decided it was time for a change and switched gears to a role in project management.
Jacob then elaborated on how & why he fell in love with project management, explaining his "the buck stops here" philosophy and letting us in on the reason he refers to himself as an integrator and an influencer, although it's not why you may think 😋.
Don't miss out on what Jacob's new position as the VP of Client Solutions entails, which he described as a mix of managing and building the business development team, responding to RFPs and RFQs, developing collateral items, putting together publication plans, and ultimately making sure we are consistently shining a light on our experts and the services that our firm offers.
On top of all of the other hats that he wears, we learned that Jacob is a devoted husband and full-time dad to four beautiful children. Inspired by the interests and passions of his children, Jacob is heavily involved in the Boy Scouts of America, serving as a Den Leader for his son's troop, and also finds himself spending many weekends at the soccer field with his youngest daughter, who plays competitively.
And if that's not enough, we also discussed Jacob's interest and enthusiasm for Formula 1 racing (which he shares with multiple WGI associates and former podcast guests), as well as all of the exotic places he has traveled to and the "down under" destination that he hopes to visit next.
Be sure to check out the latest episode of the WGI Unleashed Podcast featuring Jacob Gonzalez for a sneak peek into a few insider tips on how to leverage the platform, connect the dots, and identify the value proposition 😉!
In the latest episode of the Unleashed Podcast, we got to know Ayse Heckel, an Innovation Engineer from our Dallas, TX, office. Ayse has only been with WGI for just over a year and has already made an impact by helping streamline processes and implement new technologies to help improve efficiency.
Ayse talked to us about growing up as one of three sisters in a family who moved around a lot, jumping from Connecticut to Indiana and ultimately Texas, where she decided to put down roots. We discussed the cultural differences between the regions she has lived in and even tested out some of the local sayings and accents on each other.
We learned that Ayse is a "triple threat," having attended Texas Tech University for her undergrad, where she double majored, receiving bachelor's degrees in Civil Engineering AND Architecture. And if that wasn't enough, she then went on to MIT and obtained her Master of Engineering degree in Civil Engineering.
We discussed the invaluable instruction and mentorship she received during her first internship and how it helped her understand the real-life applications of the things she was learning in class. She then explained how she leveraged that internship into a full-time position with the same company during the height of the pandemic. She told us the story of how she joined WGI after a co-worker from her previous company offered her what she called "her dream job", helping jump-start the R&D Department for our Structural Engineering group.
We learned what Ayse's role as an Innovation Engineer entails, which does not involve her working on any physical projects but is more focused on doing anything she can to make her Structural team more efficient and accurate at their jobs. Some of those tasks include but are not limited to organizing training exercises and making sure that all of the engineers are up to date on the latest regulatory information, as well as vetting different software or, in some cases, even writing that software or code.
She was able to put those code writing skills she learned at MIT to work last year during our annual company innovation contest, where her team placed third, and they are currently in the process of developing the observation report app they submitted to be used internally across the company.
We also talked about what Ayse enjoys doing in her spare time, which includes traveling out of the country as often as she can, playing volleyball and tennis, and spending time with her cat Ezra.
Go listen to Ayse's episode now to learn what her hidden talent is, what prominent mountain range she has hiked, and where we all landed on the age 'ole debate of "Is a hot dog a sandwich?".
On this episode of Unleashed, we chatted with Erica Guertin, an Urban Planner in our Arlington, VA office. Erica has been an essential member of our Urban + Community Planning team for over three years, and recently packed up and made the trek from West Palm Beach, FL to Washington D.C., to assist with the opening of one of our newest offices.
We discovered that Erica is a native Floridian having grown up in the Boynton Beach neighborhood of Southern Florida. She stayed close to home for college, attending Florida Atlantic University, where she graduated with a Bachelor degree in Urban Design.
Thanks to a nudge from one of her college professors, who just so happened to previously work at WGI, Erica joined the company's internship program in her final academic year. Now, just three short years later, she is helping lead the establishment of a new office for WGI in Washington D.C., while also bolstering our Urban + Community Planning department nationwide.
Originally, she started out at WGI as a designer, but has since transitioned into her role as a planner, which she intriguingly describes as being "the renaissance men and women of development."
She walked us through what her duties and a typical day look like in her new position, and talked about some of the interesting projects she's been working on lately.
We also talked about what spurred her relocation to our nations capital city and discussed some of the adventures she has had in the urban epicenter since her recent move.
Aside from work, we delved into Erica's personal life a bit, where she eloquently compared herself to an 80 year-old grandma who loves thrifting, cooking, and traveling.
And if all of that wasn't enough for you, we also announced the upcoming release of our new sister-show, The Daily Designer, a podcast focused on urban design and planning which Erica will be hosting. Stay tuned for that to drop in the next couple of months!
Go listen to Erica's episode now to find out if she can do a back flip, what her go-to karaoke song is, and whether she would prefer to travel back in time or into the future if she had a time machine.
On this episode of the WGI Unleashed podcast, we had the pleasure of talking with Russell Yeager, the Director of Civil Engineering here at WGI. Russell is based out of our San Antonio, TX office but made the short drive up I-35 to Austin for a face-to-face chat with us.
We learned Russell grew up in Austin, back when it was considered a "small town," and attended the University of Texas, where he graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering. We also discovered he was quite the athlete growing up, uncovering his love for baseball in grade school and swimming competitively throughout high school and college, where he also dabbled in a bit of ultimate frisbee.
He walked us through some of his first jobs following graduation and told us the story of what led him to assist in establishing our San Antonio office, which he has been instrumental in leading and growing for over a decade now.
Russell was eager to disclose what a typical day looks like for him as the Director of Civil Engineering, which consistently brings dynamic new challenges and remains to be anything but a typical occupation. In a nutshell, his job requirements are to take care of both the client experience and the people inside our firm that deliver that experience.
We also talked about what he enjoys doing in his spare time, which includes fishing, hiking, photography, vegetable gardening, and spending time with his wife and 4 children, who range in age from 7 years to 7 months.
Stop what you're doing and go listen to Russell's episode now to learn what famous music festival his high school garage band played at, what interesting sound he can make with his mouth, and what his walk-out song would be if he was a professional wrestler. He also gave us a surprise book recommendation too!
On our latest episode of the WGI Unleashed podcast, we head back to Florida to chat with Jennifer Priem, Transportation Business Development Manager, located in our Tampa, FL office. Jennifer joined WGI over 3 years ago and has quickly established herself as a changemaker, helping to create more streamlined processes and often taking on additional projects outside her role’s general scope.
We learned Jennifer was born in "The Thumb" region of Michigan, where she grew up along Saginaw Bay with her twin brother. She spent her early years outdoors exploring and rescuing any and all animals she encountered. Jennifer discussed her nomadic adolescence and how her father got a job working for a prominent construction company in Philadelphia, which finally allowed her family to settle down in New Jersey. Her first job involved working in public relations for a large environmental company, but when commissioned by her sister to write a listing ad for her condo, Jennifer promptly fled the cold northeast weather for the sunny beaches of Florida!
We intently listened to Jennifer as she walked us through her unique career path prior to joining WGI, which consisted of hotel hopping around the UK as a trainer for a large corporate hotel chain, leading ghost tours at the historic (and haunted) Belleview-Biltmore Hotel, and working for a dental lab making teeth.
We discovered she was introduced to WGI by a previous co-worker who had just joined the firm, and how after reading a Business Development Proposal Manager job description that she felt had been written "just for her," she knew this was exactly the place she needed to be.
Fast forward 3+ years and Jennifer is now the Business Development Manager of our Transportation Division, where she jokingly compared her job to "herding cats." This really means that Jennifer provides key assistance in facilitating and managing the pursuit process, overseeing the annual strategy meetings that work to identify more fruitful and diverse pursuits, curating and leading the WGI client experience, and being a leader of the transition team tasked with governing WGI's recent project management software rollout.
Aside from her illustrious career, Jennifer has a passion for fostering kittens and a deep love for travel and exploring new destinations. She is not a fan of traditional exercise and prefers to kickbox, play pickleball, and kayak. She even told us the story of how she met her husband and how their relationship culminated in a Princess Bride-themed wedding, which was fittingly held at an animal sanctuary. Fun fact, her husband is actually a published author!
Go check out Jennifer's episode now to learn what her middle name is and how it uniquely ties into her last name, how she really feels about Tom Brady, and who (or should we say what) walked her down the aisle at her wedding.
For our first WGI Unleashed episode of the new year, we chatted with Christian Stewart, a Geospatial Technologies Specialist, out of our West Palm Beach, FL office. Christian is an extremely talented and knowledgeable member of our robust Geospatial division with over 18 years of dedicated service at WGI!
Christian gave us a glimpse into his early life in the Berkshires, NY, and revealed that the traditional college education path wasn't right for him, so after high school, he booked it down to sunny Florida.
We talked about how one of his friends, who already worked at WGI, scored him a job as a rodman on a field crew focusing on land surveying. He explained that he was attracted to this work because it provided him the opportunity to be outside in nature while also allowing him to travel to different parts of the state and country.
Soon after beginning his career here, he and a few others on his team decided to take advantage of WGI's tuition reimbursement program and joined a Geospatial apprenticeship program at a local college, where he received several professional certifications, and all the while furthering his desire for this field of work.
Christian walked us through what "a day in the life" looks like for him here at WGI, and was quick to boast about all the high-tech pieces of equipment he has gotten to put his hands on and all the different types of challenging projects he has had the opportunity to work on during his time here.
We also talked about what he likes to do in his spare time and discovered he is an avid long-distance runner, having completed multiple ultramarathons in the United States and several other countries.
We also learned how following the death of a close friend, he leveraged his love for running and desire to honor her memory into an annual charity event called the JW Corbett 50 Mile Race. This event, which is near and dear to Christian's heart, raises money for underprivileged schools in South America to purchase musical instruments.
Listen now to find out what Christian's cell phone wallpaper is, which celebrities he's had the unique opportunity to meet, and how many different countries he has completed ultramarathons in.
For our final WGI Unleashed episode of the year, we talked to Tamara Henderson, a Senior Project Engineer in our Jacksonville, FL, office. Tamara is an integral part of our Civil Engineering team and recently marked two years with WGI.
Tamara talked to us about her family and growing up as a “big, awkward nerdy girl” in Prichard, Alabama, a suburb of Mobile, where we learned she graduated from The University of Alabama with a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering.
She took us through her journey of narrowing down what engineering field she wanted to focus on, and what ultimately led her to choose the civil engineering path. She also talked to us about her involvement in professional organizations, such as ASCE and SWE, and how networking played a pivotal role in helping her land her first job.
We delved into her passion for mentoring and volunteering and discussed how she gives back to her local community by being involved in non-profits such as Big Brothers Big Sisters of America and Habitat for Humanity.
We talked about her role here at WGI and what a typical workday looks like for her, where we learned she is primarily focused on land development, which she described as “everything from the building to the street and sometimes the street.”
Tamara let us in on her deep love for travel and shared several of the destinations she has visited and what's up next on her agenda. She also divulged some pro tips for traveling, interesting tours to check out, and how to properly immerse yourself in the culture of where you are visiting.
Listen now to discover the unique name of Tamara's blog 📝, why you should never take a class with a teacher who wrote the book 📔, and what major household appliance 📺 she never uses.
For episode 64 of the Unleashed podcast, we head back to Texas again to talk to Nina Fuentes, the Office Coordinator for our San Antonio office. Nina has been with WGI for over four years and is integral to keeping our San Antonio office running smoothly and our team members there feeling supported.
We talked with Nina about what it was like growing up in Brownsville, TX, and what spurred her cross-country move to Wisconsin, where she taught us the meaning of "the lady at the well" while talking about her family. She told us the heartfelt story about how she met her now husband and how her soothing voice and some flashlight assistance on a last-minute job brought them together.
We learned that Nina worked in the early childcare industry and legal field for many years before fate stepped in and helped her find WGI. Nina took us through what she does on a typical day here and explained why she loves her job and the people she works with so much.
She also shared about her faith, gave us a few inspirational tips on how to remain positive in difficult circumstances, and taught us that the outcome of a given situation is essentially determined by how you choose to react to it.
Check out the full episode now to find out who her favorite professional football team is, what the one thing is that she cannot function without, and what her favorite part of working at WGI is.
For episode 63 of WGI Unleashed, we sat down with WGI’s Director of Mobility, Ravali Kosaraju, who joined WGI over a year ago and has significantly grown our Mobility division during her short time with the firm.
Ravali explained what it was like growing up and attending grade school in India and cleared up the debate on how to correctly pronounce her name. She talked to us about the culture shock she experienced after moving from India to Canada as a teenager and what it was like to attend college in Canada, where she earned her Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from the University of Toronto.
She took us through the first few years of her career working in the public sector for several cities and told us why she decided to transition to the private arena and join WGI. Ravali also detailed her involvement with the Institute of Transportation Engineers (ITE) and how she was recently named one of their ITE Young Leaders to Follow for 2022.
We discovered she met her now husband on an online dating website 💻 and that they have a bright and active three-year-old daughter 👼. She shared that in her spare time, she enjoys going on long hikes 🏞 in nature, crocheting 🧶, and just spending quality time with her family 👨👩👧.
Listen to Ravali's episode now to find out if she's ever gotten a speeding ticket 🚨, what superpower 🦹♀️ she would like to have and why, and how many different languages 🌏 she can speak.
Episode 62 of the WGI Unleashed podcast takes us back to West Palm Beach, FL, to get to know David Gerber, a Project Engineer in our Roadway (Transportation) division. David (aka Gerber to most) has been an integral part of the WGI team for over a decade and has had the unique pleasure of working out of several different WGI offices during his time here.
Despite thinking we knew all of Gerber's ins and outs, we discovered during this podcast recording that we had only scratched the surface.
We learned that he was born in Miami but grew up in the Lakeland area between Tampa and Orlando. Following high school graduation, he quickly booked it back to South Florida, where he first attended the University of Miami (UM) before transferring to Florida International University (FIU), where he completed his Bachelor of Science degree in Civil Engineering.
We listened while Gerber told us how a chance encounter at a wedding was not only how he ended up here with us at WGI but also what spurred his interest in transportation engineering in the first place. We learned that he primarily focuses on roadway design for public projects, handling the roadway geometrics, the phases of construction, and coordinating with all the other disciplines working on the project.
Aside from talking about his career, we also delved into what Gerber enjoys doing in his spare time, which includes traveling🧳, trying new foods 🍜, playing trivia 🏆, scuba diving 🤿, and simply spending time outside 🌳.
Listen to Gerber’s podcast now to find out which celebrity he has been mistaken for, which WGI office is his favorite, and how many animals he has had named Charcoal.
For episode 61 of the Unleashed podcast, we traveled down to West Palm Beach, FL, to talk to Connor Bailey, a Senior Planner in our Land Development group. Connor has been a part of the WGI team for over five years and recently earned his planning certification through the American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP).
Connor told us what it was like growing up in Orlando after spending the first few years of his life in a tiny town in northern Wisconsin. We learned he earned not one but two degrees from Florida Atlantic University; a Bachelor of Urban Design (BUD) AND a Master of Urban and Regional Planning (MURP).
In talking to Connor, we learned what an urban planner does and what exactly his job here entails. He shared with us what his favorite part about working at WGI is, and we also uncovered the fact that he has another unique role here at the company, one specific only to the 2nd floor of our corporate office 👨🚒🧯.
We also talked about his charcuterie board side hustle 💵, taking cross-country road trips with friends 🚙, and his love for EDM music 🎶 and dancing 🕺 on tables.
In the 60th episode of our WGI Unleashed Podcast, we spoke with Hang Masterson, Studio Manager for our Landscape Architecture team in the West Palm Beach, FL office.
We listened to Hang as she told us what it was like growing up in a small town in Northern China 🌏, and how her love for drawing and fashion design 👗 inspired her to pursue a career in landscape architecture.
We learned she received her Bachelor's degree 🎓 in Landscape Architecture from Dalian University of Technology in China, then went on to obtain a Master of Landscape Architecture degree from the University of Pennsylvania.
We discussed the culture shock she experienced when first moving to the US and why she chose to put down roots in South Florida. Hang also told us what she enjoys doing in her spare time with her husband and daughter and discussed what country they hope to travel 🧳 to next.
Go listen now to find out what popular food Hang doesn't like, what song she knows all the words to, and how many times she has changed her name!
On the newest episode of WGI Unleashed, we got to know Jasmin Ramirez, a human resources generalist who is based out of our Orlando office. Jasmin has been an integral part of WGI and the HR team for over 4 years and is a Florida native who is also bilingual. (Fun fact 💡- Spanish was her first language)
Jasmin talked to us about what it was like growing up in and around Orlando in a large, tight-knit, Columbian family. We learned that she graduated from the University of Central Florida with a bachelor’s degree focused in industrial and organizational psychology, which she said proved to be very beneficial within the field of human resources.
Jasmin walked us through what a typical day looks like for her here in the world of HR coordination and explained exactly why she loves working at WGI so much.
We discussed her love for travel 🧳 and went through the extensive list of places she has visited 🌎 and others she still wants to see. She told us about the most important "person" in her life, her adorable pup Jax 🐶, and then smoothly slid in the fact that she was a Latin dance instructor 💃for several years in her past life.
We also discovered, despite Jasmin's best efforts to keep it concealed 🔐, that she is apparently an international superstar as well 😋.
Jasmin is a Human Resources Generalist with extensive knowledge and a demonstrated history of working in the engineering and hospitality industries. She is highly skilled in onboarding, new hire orientations, training, communications, customer service, and catering and events.
For episode 58 of our Unleashed podcast, we had the pleasure of speaking with the always entertaining Andrew Kong, a senior manager for our Restoration division based out of our Charlotte, NC office. Andrew has been an integral part of WGI for over 16 years and leads a team of restoration engineering professionals in the southeastern region of the U.S. Right from the beginning of our interview with Andrew, we knew we were in for a treat! He brought so much energy and positivity 🙌 to the room that it was hard not to get completely swept up in all of the interesting stories he had to share with us.
Andrew took us along on his journey from Jamaica to Canada and finally to the United States, where we learned he picked up several post-secondary degrees along the way, including a Bachelor of Engineering in Civil Engineering from North Carolina A&T State University, as well as, 2 Master's degrees, one in Civil Engineering - Structures from Queen's University, and the other in Business Administration from Duke University.
We talked about his tight-knit team, were enthused about his passion for his job, and discussed why he loves working at WGI. He also gave several shout-outs to co-workers throughout the podcast, so listen closely because you may have gotten some love from Andrew 🥰.
We also had an interesting time learning about what he likes to do in his spare time, which includes: gardening 🌱, traveling 🧳, attending F1 races 🏁, and enjoying lots and lots of rum 🥃😎!
In episode 57 of WGI's Unleashed podcast, we spoke with Sandor Laszlo, the Regional Manager of Technology in our Geospatial division. Sandor joined the WGI team about three years ago and brought over 20 years of professional experience with him. Sandor told us what it was like growing up in Fords, New Jersey, a diverse suburb of New York City, where he spent the entirety of his childhood before heading off to college.
We discovered that he started his career in software development, spending almost 20 years in that field before transitioning into engineering, ultimately refining his focus on geospatial technology. We also delved into some of the latest, cutting-edge technology WGI has been investing in, and learned how Sandor and his team have being utilizing this equipment to enhance our projects and benefit clients.
Listen to Sandor's episode now to find out what his go-to karaoke song is, what exit he's from in New Jersey, and to hear the unique way he pronounces the word coffee!
For episode 56 of our Unleashed podcast, we chatted with Augustine Verrengia, a Market Leader for our Civil Engineering team in our Austin, TX office. Augustine has over 12 years of Engineering experience and is coming up on his 1st anniversary with WGI.
Augustine talked to us about growing up in the Austin area, walked us through the early days of his career after graduating from The University of Texas at San Antonio with a bachelor of science in civil and environmental engineering, and told us the story of how he ended up here at WGI.
We learned he recently got married and discussed the joys of becoming a new parent and raising a family in the same city he grew up. He also let us in on some intriguing endeavors he has embarked on in the past, took us through some of his hobbies, and told us the life-altering reason he had to scale back on one of his favorite outdoor activities.
Augustine has substantial experience in civil engineering design, project management, and construction administration duties gained through a wide range of assignments, including mixed-use, residential, aviation, industrial, municipal, education, commercial, and master-planned projects.
In our first episode of 2022, we got the privilege to speak with Britney Cooper, Business Development and Marketing Representative located in our Houston, TX office. Britney talked about studying abroad in Italy, being born in south Florida, and studying at Southern State University. She also discusses how she met her now-husband on a blind date before both of them moved to Texas to teach kindergarten. Britney now has two young boys, a dog named Luca (named after the movie), and 4 chickens where she gets fresh eggs every day!
Britney jumped into the AEC world in 2015 and has not looked back. Her creative side, management, and organization skills have assisted her in becoming a successful marketing manager and assisting in business development efforts.
For our final WGI Unleashed episode of the year, and in celebration of National Twin Day on December 18th, we talked to WGI’s only set of twins, Ashley Schmidt and Jackie Tuten. Both are located in our Austin, TX office and have been with WGI for over 6 years.
We had an entertaining time this episode talking with Chad Riddle, a Project Manager on our Land Development team in Jacksonville, FL. Chad began his career with WGI in the West Palm Beach, FL office before transferring to our Jacksonville office to help jump-start our land development division there.
Chad has extensive knowledge and experience in the production and management of design and drafting services on a variety of projects. His range of work includes mixed-use developments, residential community design, and commercial/urban infill. As a project manager, Chad is responsible for site and landscape design, managing projects through the local agency approval process, and assisting clients from concept through construction to ensure their design intent is maintained.
We had a blast this episode talking to Blake Wallace, a Data Engineer in our Tampa, Florida office. Blake is a part of our Info Technology division and has been with WGI for over 3 years.
Blake told us what it was like growing up in a small town in Florida, after being adopted from Thailand as a toddler. We learned that he joined the Marines fresh out of high school, and also got some insight on just how much fun one can have when working the night shift alone at Kinkos.
Blake discussed his love for all genres of music, that he likes to build and race drones (who knew you could race drones 🤷♀️), and how he used to compete in autocross. As for pets, we learned he has one cat at home, as well as 3 adorable parking lot strays he cares for at work!
We had the privilege of talking to Wes Kaisershot, Regional Manager Utilities Engineering on our SUE team located in our Austin, TX office. Wes has been with WGI for less than a year but has over 23 years of experience in his field.
In this episode, we got to chat with Amanda Montgomery, an Environmental Scientist on our Environmental Services team. Amanda is based out of our Fort Lauderdale, FL office and has been with WGI for 4 years. She is one of WGI's most active brand ambassadors and exudes passion in everything she does, which is why our hosts were so eager to have her as a guest on the show.
In this episode, we got to chat with Tom Bernard, the Market Leader of our MEP Division based in our Tampa, FL office. Tom has recently celebrated his one-year anniversary with WGI and was excited to hop on the mic and join us on the show.
In this episode, we got to chat with Shad Shafie, VP of the Buildings division based in our San Antonio, TX office. Shad drove to the Austin, TX office to record this episode of the podcast for a riveting conversation.
Shad discussed his early life growing up in the Austin, TX area and going to college at The University of Texas where he played football and studied Architectural Engineering. He also discussed moving around the country to many cities with his wife before they had two daughters. We also learned about Shad's passion for photography, skydiving, 80s music, Las Vegas, and more!
In this episode, we got to sit down in the Tallahassee, Florida office to chat with Loren Steele, Project Engineer with our Transportation team.
Loren is originally from Jacksonville, FL, and moved to Tallahassee, FL to attend FSU where she obtained her bachelor’s in Civil Engineering. In her free time, she discussed how she enjoys home improvement projects and spending time outside at the park where her kids can play. She also gave gardening tips to our host, calling back to our previous episode with Floyd Jackson.
Loren's transportation design experience encompasses a wide range of assignments involving roadway design, plans production, quantities/estimating, planning, public involvement, and engineering research, analysis, and reporting.
In this episode, we got to sit down in the Tampa, Florida office to chat with Floyd Jackson, Chief Designer with our Civil Engineering team.
Floyd talked about growing up in Florida and attending the Santa Fe College in Gainsville, FL on a scholarship for being a school ambassador for two years. He then graduated from the University of Central Florida where he obtained his Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering. He also discussed getting married, traveling the world, and his newfound hobby - gardening! Floyd and his wife started gardening during the pandemic and have not stopped since.
In this episode, we got to sit down in the Tampa, Florida office to chat with Marcia Alvarado, Market Leader for our Structures and Parking division.
Marcia discussed growing up in a military family and her travels around the world. She also discussed her path to the engineering profession, going to college with a full-ride to play basketball, and her life as a model working during New York Fashion Week. She received the USF College of Engineering Young Alumnus Award in 2018. Marcia is a graduate of Leadership Tampa Bay and serves as the Diversity and Inclusion Chair for the Board of Directors.
Marcia provides a unique combination of experience with structural engineering and Building Information Modeling (BIM) coordination as a project manager. She has 16 years of structural engineering experience and project management of new construction and renovation in healthcare, commercial, higher education, multi-story residential, federal, aviation, and parking garages. She also has engineering experience in structural design for restoration construction and forensic engineering investigations, structural analysis for existing buildings for seismic, wind, and AT/FP blast resistance, and progressive collapse upgrades, including National Technical Reviews for various FEMA programs.
In this episode, we got to sit down in the Austin, TX office to chat with Colter Sonneville, Project Manager and Certified Arborist in our Landscape Architecture department.
Our hosts got a kick out of our new guest this month, Joelle McCormick, Team Leader based in our Austin, Texas office on our MEP Engineering team. She talked about growing up in New Jersey and going off to college at The Pennsylvania State University to become a doctor. She changed her career path to becoming an engineer because she is good at solving problems and making systems work efficiently. She went on to talk about how she found herself moving to Austin, Texas after a site visit with a previous employer while eating Thai food. She ended up here at WGI and has been with us for 5 years!
In this episode of WGI Unleashed, we got to chat with Mario Garcia, Graduate Civil Engineer located in our Houston, Texas office. We were thrilled to get to have Mario as a guest in this podcast episode. Mario has expressed great interest and fandom towards Unleashed since the beginning and was excited to finally be on the show! He discussed many projects he has worked on throughout his career with WGI, growing up raising cattle, his love for movies, and how his two-year-old daughter and the family dog both fight for his attention daily!
Mario works in our Civil Engineering division on land development projects across Texas and the Southwest. He also has extensive experience in parking planning, parking design, parking analysis, and operations studies.
If you enjoyed this podcast, be sure to subscribe in your favorite podcast app – Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts!
In this episode of WGI Unleashed, we chat with Jose Mendoza, Geospatial Field Supervisor located in our West Palm Beach, Florida office.
We were excited to get to know Jose since he was recommended so many times to be on the podcast. He talked about how he was a military kid growing up in many different countries and how he eventually ended up in Florida. He also talked about his favorite place he has ever been to which is Barbados. He is an avid surfer and he loves visiting Barbados to surf. He told our hosts that he had visited Barbados at least 6 times. Today, he's a father and a new hobby he shares with his son is knife throwing!
At WGI, Jose is responsible for a wide variety of surveying assignments. He is proficient in the use of conventional surveying methodology, and hydrographic surveying technology, as well as both static and RTK global positioning. Jose's project experience over the past 13+ years includes work on major highway projects as well as urban and local roads. Jose is also proficient with boundary surveys, topographic surveys, and large land development surveys.
In this episode of WGI Unleashed, we got to chat with Jeff Cassell, Proposal Coordinator who is located in our Orlando, FL office, and Katherine Heighway, Senior Proposal Coordinator located in our Austin, TX office. Both Katherine and Jeff work in our Business Development Team. They both work with our technical professionals to develop captivating responses to RFPs/RFQs that spark the interest of our clients.
Jeff's experience is very broad and versatile from various forms of media which include magazine production, special print and digital projects in the newspaper industry, working at an advertising agency, and in radio broadcasting. Katherine's strategic writing and proposal development skills stem from my Bachelor of Arts degree in Journalism from the University of Texas at Austin.
Check out Jeff's podcasts Jeff Allen Sportstalk and AAC Report With Jeff Allen.
In this episode of WGI Unleashed, we chat with Lilli O'Steen, Roadway (Transportation) Engineer Intern located in our Orlando, Florida office.
When we sat down with Lilli, we discussed how she grew up in Georgia and how she came to find herself in Florida working as an intern for WGI. She displayed her knowledge of Disney facts and claims to be the "queen of Disney karaoke". Lilli also talks about her home life, her 4 dogs, and how excited she is to get married this year! Lili is also the first podcast guest to ever win our "Two Truths and a Lie" segment!
Monte discusses his professional and personal life. He talks about his upbringing on a cattle ranch in Montana, attending the University of Montana to study Music and Education, planting trees across the country, developing a "roadshow" for a large chain of membership-only warehouse clubs, and how he finally made his way to West Palm Beach, Florida. He also discusses his role at WGI in helping solve clients' problems and helping connect people to bring projects to life.
Monte has more than 20 years of experience in business leadership and sales, he has a wide reach statewide with the many leaders of business and government that run the state of Florida. Monte has developed a network of people that enable him to connect the team with new sectors and opportunities. He is able to bring this diversity of skills together to advance established strategic business development plans across all of WGI’s business sectors within Florida and beyond.
In this episode, we talk with Matt Blankenberger, Senior Engineer Intern from our Parking Design team in our Indianapolis, Indiana office.
Matt is an experienced structural engineer specializing in the design of parking facilities. He is involved in multiple phases of new parking structure design, from preliminary concepts in schematic design to construction review and inspection throughout construction administration. He has experience with a variety of structural systems including reinforced concrete, post-tensioned concrete, precast concrete, and structural steel, and is also knowledgeable in the review and rehabilitation of existing concrete structures, including structural modifications and retrofitting.
During the podcast, Matt talked about growing up on a farm in a small town in southern Illinois, and how he is happy he is still close to home while living in Indiana. He also talked about recently buying a new home, his desire to travel to Australia, and the favorite projects he has contributed to across the country.
In this episode, we talk with Casey Sveiven, an Electrical Project Engineer from our MEP team in our Austin, TX office.
Casey has a wide range of experience from transportation and infrastructure development to high-rise senior living and laboratory design. Having spent most of his early career working on retail roll-out programs, Casey excels on projects that are thoroughly designed at a fast pace and delivered within a succinct schedule.
Casey talks about his training for RECA KnockOut Night that he participated in, his passion for jiu-jitsu, and what it was like growing up with eight siblings in southern California. Casey also discusses how he grew up around electrical contractors in his family, so becoming an Electrical Engineer was almost unavoidable.
In this episode, we talk with Megan Amitrano who was more than excited to be a guest on the Unleashed podcast. Megan is a Graduate Engineer for our Civil Engineering team in our San Antonio office. She has been with WGI for over three years and counting!
In this episode, we introduce our revamped podcast and get to know our new co-host Ashley Weldon, Financial Accounting Specialist from our Austin, Texas office. We've added some exciting new segments to the show to get to know our guests a little better, including Spin the Wheel, The Hot Seat, and Two Truths and a Lie.
To kick off the new format, we took a peek "behind the curtain" of the show and talked to Raili Flint, Digital Marketing Coordinator. Raili is the producer and editor of the podcast, in addition to her other responsibilities on the Marketing and Creative Services team.
Raili discusses how she found herself living in Austin, TX, and finding a career in digital marketing after college. She also discusses her passions and hobbies such as pottery, video games, and swimming at the local swimming spot Barton Springs Pool.
Listen to the full episode and get to know more about Raili!
If you enjoyed this podcast, be sure to subscribe in your favorite podcast app – Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts!
In this episode, Eliza discusses her passion surrounding alternative delivery projects and how they can benefit our clients. We also get to know Eliza on a personal level - she loves to stay local to Jacksonville, FL, and hang around her neighborhood. She also enjoys many outdoor activities - including scalloping, paddle boarding on the St. Johns River, and being on the water during the weekends.
In this episode, Ray discusses his passion for transportation engineering and how he discovered that passion in college. He also speaks about his loving new family, becoming a dad, and his travel adventures. Raymond enjoys running, weekends with his son, traveling to as many places as possible, and DIY projects (even though he admits he is not the best at them!).
Shayna Johnson is a Civil Team Leader in our Houston, Texas office and she has worked for WGI for about two years. Shayna has extensive expertise in planning, design, and permitting experience covering civil/site design and land development projects. Serving as a project manager, Shayna’s project experience includes single-family residential, multifamily, senior living, urban infill, K-12, and mixed-use developments for both private and municipal sector clients.
In this podcast, Shayna discusses how she started her career in the Civil Engineering field, why she went to college outside of her home state of Texas, and how she found herself back in the city she grew up in.
In this episode of WGI Unleashed, we get to know Jeremiah Slaymaker, the Regional Survey Manager for our Geospatial Divison in the Tallahassee, Florida office.
Lindsay has over 13 years of experience providing professional planning services in both the public and private sectors. Her extensive experience includes due diligence reports, comprehensive plan amendments, rezoning, and site and master planning. Lindsay has also provided planning support for land acquisition through the eminent domain process for the FDOT, facilitated public outreach, and worked with neighborhood groups on master plans, and with government entities on corridor and streetscape studies. Lindsay also has experience managing and representing multidisciplinary projects through the entirety of the land use entitlement process.
On the podcast, Lindsay discusses how she started working in the planning field and her role as Director of Planning for WGI. She initially went to school for Pharmacy but changed her major a few times until she found her passion in Planning. Lindsay shares about her time growing up in New Hampshire, making her way to Florida, and raising her twin daughters.
In this episode of WGI Unleashed, we get to know Eric Luttmann, Project Architect from our Tampa, Florida office. Eric joined WGI's Architecture Division in 2017 as a Project Architect in the Tampa, Florida office. Eric's experience includes architectural design, facility planning and programming, master site planning, project management, contract document production and coordination, and Building Information Modeling (BIM).
Eric discusses his role as a project architect and the past projects he has contributed to in the Tampa, Florida area. He also discusses what lead him to pursue a career in architecture architect, what it was like growing up in St. Petersburg, FL, and life during and after college.
In this episode of Unleashed, we had a conversation with Bob Clemens, National SUE Services Manager from Tampa, Florida. Bob joined WGI in the summer of 2018 and has 26 years of experience as a Consultant in Utilities/SUE. He is a National SUE Services Manager in our Tampa, Florida office. Bob shared with us his day-to-day tasks in the office as well as his personal life revolving around his family and interests. He also spoke about growing up in Miami, Florida, and how he came to pursuing a career in SUE. Bob talked in-depth about his role as the National SUE Services Manager for WGI and about how he looks at ways he can position his team to grow, and support existing recourses to keep projects successful while in development. He also discusses his team's goal to expand work in Georgia, New York metropolitan area, and in Colorado.
Welcome back to WGI Unleashed! In this episode, we have a conversation with Mike Oler, a Structural Market Leader with our Structural Team in Dallas, Texas. Mike joined WGI full-time in 2019 and has worked on a variety of project types for public and private clients across Texas. Mike discussed how he came to be an engineer in college while receiving two degrees - both in Architecture and Structural Engineering. Mike spoke about growing up in Frisco, Texas, working as a contractor, and his newfound love for cooking and baking. Learn more about what inspires Mike by listening to the full episode! If you enjoyed this podcast, be sure to listen and subscribe to Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Play Music, or wherever you get your podcasts!
Welcome back to WGI Unleashed! In this episode, we have a conversation with Matt Floyd, a Project Surveyor with our Geospatial Team in West Palm Beach, Florida.
Matt joined WGI full-time in 2018 and has worked on a variety of project types for public and private clients across the southeast with a focus on the Florida Department of Transportation projects. Matt shared with us his day to day tasks and how he coordinates with both his team out in the field and in the office.
Matt also discussed with us the start of his career as an instrument operator and how his six years of experience in the field was critical to his career path of becoming a project manager.
Matt spoke about growing up in Troy, Alabama, working in the family lumber business, and what brought him to South Florida. Spoiler Alert: the warm weather was a major draw for him!
Learn more about what inspires Matt by listening to the full episode!
If you enjoyed this podcast, be sure to listen and subscribe to Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Play Music, or wherever you get your podcasts!
Welcome back to WGI Unleashed! In this episode, we have the opportunity to chat with Engineer Intern, Artis Dukes.
Artis is a part of our Roadway Team in the Orlando, Florida office. Artis spoke with us about his experience with engineering analysis, design, and production for roadway projects here at WGI. Artis also discussed the benefits of starting as a drainage engineer and then transitioning into the roadway position he now holds.
Artis shared his experience of working on the now completed Wekiva Parkway Design-Build project, and how being a civil engineer gives him the opportunity to leave a lasting legacy.
We also discussed Artis’ experience living and working in Juno, Alaska for two years with the Coast Guard, how he spends his free time with his daughter and his passions for cooking.
Welcome back to WGI Unleashed! In this episode, we have the opportunity to chat with Jeffrey Bergmann, P.E., a Senior Project Manager, and Structural Engineer. Jeffrey is a leader with our Structural Solutions team and is a direct impact on public and private projects across the country ranging from Bridge Design, Seawalls, Piers, Cell Towers, to Vertical Construction and more. Jeffrey spoke with us about his team's ability and passion to deliver structural expertise to projects requiring unique structural solutions.
We also discussed a bit of Jeffrey's professional history, which began in New Mexico working for the incredibly interesting government and military contracts surrounding interesting structures and technology. He eventually made his way to South Florida because of his love for the weather there, not to mention scuba diving. He spends his time in his community with his family and has aspirations to improve his music skills with each day!
Welcome back to WGI Unleashed! In this episode, we have the opportunity to chat with Jeremy Rocha, P.E., a Senior Project Manager and Parking Solutions Expert. Jeremy is a leader within our Parking Solutions team who specializes in the structural and functional design of parking facilities, master planning, feasibility and parking studies, restoration, and preservation.
Jeremy spoke to us about the impact of thoughtful parking design in an urban environment -- something that everyone experiences but often will never notice until it is poorly executed. We discuss how the planning and functional elements in projects are often delegated to design professionals that do not have experience in creating a resilient and effective parking facility. He described how working with a Parking Solutions consultant can connect the knowledge gap on the design of such a critical component of a project. We also chat with Jeremy about his personal passions and his love for all things Houston -- as a native Houstonian, Jeremy is a big fan of the Houston Texans and a proud alumnus of the University of Houston. Jeremy also is an avid runner and has participated in the Houston Marathon multiple times. If you enjoyed this podcast, be sure to listen and subscribe to us in Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Play Music, or wherever you get your podcasts!
Welcome to a special episode of WGI Unleashed -- we have the unique privilege of having a roundtable discussion with three leaders in our firm: Nancy Clements, Senior Vice President of our Transportation Division, Kimberlee DeBosier, our Director of Project Excellence, and Lisa Nisenson, our Vice President of New Mobility & Connected Communities.
Each of these leaders has a deep passion for their respective fields. Nancy brings a tremendous amount of expertise and experience as the leader of our transportation division and has led that division to significant accomplishments, in Florida especially. Kim joined the WGI team this year to help champion project management success and training as well as bolster our leadership's ability to deliver exceptional project results across all disciplines. Lisa also joined the team this year to deepen our commitment to transportation and community planning innovation and make certain that WGI remains on the cutting edge of adaptable, sustainable community design.
We chat about their experience as women in leadership, which was an important dimension as they developed their career as a leader in the engineering and planning industry. They relate some of their learned lessons for current professionals who aspire to lead this industry in the future. Lastly, we discuss what they expect from the future of their industries and why they're excited to be a part of shaping its future.
If you enjoyed this podcast, be sure to listen and subscribe in Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Play Music, or wherever you get your podcasts!
WGI Unleashed Podcast Episode 20 – Rick Harman PWS, CEP Project Manager, Environmental
Welcome back to WGI Unleashed! In this episode, we have the opportunity to chat with Rick Harman, a Project Manager, and Environmental Scientist. Rick serves as a part of our Environmental team, a division of PLACE, and creates value for public and private clients with his expertise in wetlands, endangered species, coastal impacts, and more.
Learn more about what inspires Rick by listening to the full episode!
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If you enjoyed this podcast, be sure to listen and subscribe in Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Play Music, or wherever you get your podcasts!
You can learn more about Rick and connect with him through his LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/rick-harman-cep-pws-695a9a9/
Follow WGI and our hosts online at:
Website – https://www.wginc.com
Twitter – @wantmangroup
Instagram – @wantmangroup
LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/company/wginc/
Madeline Szwed:
LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/madelineszwed/
Twitter – @madelineszwed
Shaun Theriot-Smith:
LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/shauntheriotsmith/
Twitter – @theriotsmith
Blog – Building Bayou City
WGI Unleashed Podcast Episode 20 – Tiffany May, Director, Private Landscape Architecture
Welcome back to WGI Unleashed! In this episode, we have a conversation with Tiffany May, Director of Private Landscape Architecture in West Palm Beach, Florida!
Learn more about what inspires Tiffany by listening to the full episode!
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If you enjoyed this podcast, be sure to listen and subscribe in Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Play Music, or wherever you get your podcasts!
You can learn more about Stephen and connect with her through her LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/tiffany-may-pla-asla-leed-4544b74/
Follow WGI and our hosts online at:
Website – https://www.wginc.com
Twitter – @wantmangroup
Instagram – @wantmangroup
LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/company/wginc/
Madeline Szwed:
LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/madelineszwed/
Twitter – @madelineszwed
Shaun Theriot-Smith:
LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/shauntheriotsmith/
Twitter – @theriotsmith
Blog – Building Bayou City
WGI Unleashed Podcast Episode 18 – Stephen Dees, Survey Technician
Welcome back to WGI Unleashed! In this episode, we have a conversation with Stephen Dees, a Survey Technician with our Geospatial team in Tallahassee, Florida!
While studying Geomatics at the University of Florida, Stephen was exposed to a variety of technologies and techniques in the surveying and mapping world that piqued his interest. His coursework and internship experiences led him to pursue a career as a Professional Surveyor and Mapper upon graduation.
Stephen joined WGI full time in 2016, and he gets to work on a variety of project types for public, private clients across the Southeast. Stephen shares with us that he loves using technology to work on projects that help improve his communities and the environment. He is also helping to shape the future of his profession by educating the next generation of students about the rewarding, exciting (and lucrative) career in the surveying and geospatial industry.
Like many Floridians, Stephen has a tremendous passion for the outdoors. He tells us that he spends a lot of time in the water dodging snakes and alligators, and likes to go hunting, fishing, and wakeboarding.
Learn more about what inspires Stephen by listening to the full episode!
Click Here to View All Episodes
If you enjoyed this podcast, be sure to listen and subscribe in Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Play Music, or wherever you get your podcasts!
You can learn more about Stephen and connect with him through his LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephen-dees-25a0a6108/
Follow WGI and our hosts online at:
Website – https://www.wginc.com
Twitter – @wantmangroup
Instagram – @wantmangroup
LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/company/wginc/
Madeline Szwed:
LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/madelineszwed/
Twitter – @madelineszwed
Shaun Theriot-Smith:
LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/shauntheriotsmith/
Twitter – @theriotsmith
Blog – Building Bayou City
WGI Unleashed Podcast Episode 17 – Eddie Gaytan, National SUE Field QA/Project Delivery Manager
Welcome back to WGI Unleashed! In this episode, we have the privilege of sitting with Eddie Gaytan, a Subsurface Utility Engineering (SUE) Project Delivery Manager in Chicago. Eddie serves with our Geospatial Division, bringing a special technical expertise to the pursuit of surveying underground utilities and structures.
Eddie discusses with us his passion for surveying the built environment and using all of the innovative tools of his trade to develop accurate and reliable mapping data for design. In fact, Eddie championed the introduction of a new excavation technology to improve WGI’s existing fleet, which contributed to more efficient survey trips and safer work environments for his teams.
We also visit with Eddie on his love for Chicago, its sports teams, and his family. He provides insight into his hobbies and his free time, which can be just as technically focused as his occupation.
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If you enjoyed this podcast, be sure to listen and subscribe in Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Play Music, or wherever you get your podcasts!
UNLEASHED Podcast Episode 16 – Maria Bolivar, Project Manager
Welcome back to WGI Unleashed! In this episode, we head to our corporate office in West Palm Beach, FL to get to know Maria Bolivar, a project manager in our PLACE Division. Maria joined our firm just four months ago and is already making an impact at WGI by utilizing her passion and experience for private land development projects and offering our clients WGI’s services as a “complete package.”
The discussion covers how WGI has given Maria the opportunity to do what she has always wanted, all the lessons learned, and the experience she has gained along the way.
Maria says, “I realized I needed to go back to consulting and put all of these pieces that I have together and just do what I’ve always wanted to do. Be involved in the whole project from beginning to end and offer clients and private developers the best services which will allow us to differentiate ourselves by offering a complete package to our clients. And right now, is the best time to do it!”
We also discuss Maria’s background and how she ensures her family spends quality time together and the age gap between her two older kids and her younger son.
You can learn more about Maria and connect with her through her LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/maria-bolivar-48757717/
Listen to WGI Unleashed on Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Spotify, Stitcher, or wherever you download podcasts! If you have feedback – we’d sincerely appreciate your rating and comments in those storefronts as well.
Follow WGI and our hosts online at:
Website – https://www.wginc.com
Twitter – @wantmangroup
Instagram – @wantmangroup
LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/company/wginc/
Madeline Szwed:
LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/madelineszwed/
Twitter – @madelineszwed
Shaun Theriot-Smith:
LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/shauntheriotsmith/
Twitter – @theriotsmith
Blog – Building Bayou City
Episode 015 - Introducing WGI Unleashed - Will Schnier, P.E. and Matthew Stewart, P.E
We're Back! In this episode, we speak with Will Schnier and Matthew Stewart about the recent news - BIG RED DOG and WGI have joined forces to create an engineering and professional services firm of the future!
The discussion covers the similarities between the two companies' cultures and services, and the opportunities that the additional resources will immediately provide for our team members and clients. We also discuss how WGI will help shape the future of our smart and connected cities.
Will says, "The combination is like throwing gasoline on a fire. The net effect for our clients is that they will have a wider range of services that we can offer, and we're able to provide more resources to our clients in a resource-starved market. Ultimately it creates a more stable footprint, a more stable firm, which everyone can benefit from."
Matt adds, "The opportunity for our team members is what really gets me jazzed up. This opportunity with WGI, for our team members is huge, and I can't emphasize that enough."
You can learn more about Will and Matthew and connect with them through their social media:
LinkedIn –
Listen to WGI Unleashed on Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Spotify, Stitcher, or wherever you download podcasts! If you have feedback – we’d sincerely appreciate your rating and comments in those storefronts as well.
Follow WGI and our hosts online at:
Website – https://www.wginc.com
Twitter – @wantmangroup
Instagram – @wantmangroup
LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/company/wginc/
Kelly Daacon:
LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/kellydaacon/
Twitter – @kdaacon
Shaun Theriot-Smith:
LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/shauntheriotsmith/
Twitter – @theriotsmith
Blog – Building Bayou City
Episode 014 - Dane Edwards - Project Designer
Let’s get to know Dane Edwards, a civil project designer in our Austin office! Dane joined BIG RED DOG as an intern in 2014 and started full time in 2015. He quickly combined his art background with new skills in AutoCAD and Civil 3D to become an integral part of our commercial project team.
We discuss some of the projects that Dane works on and the opportunities that BIG RED DOG has provided for Dane to excel in his career. We also discuss Dane’s plethora of hobbies and interests - including sports, gardening, motorcycles, hiking, and travel (just to name a few).
You can learn more about Dane and connect with him through his social media:
LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/dane-edwards-ab6a399b/
Listen to it on Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Spotify, Stitcher, or wherever you download podcasts! If you have feedback – we’d sincerely appreciate your rating and comments in those storefronts as well.
Follow BIG RED DOG and our hosts online at:
Blog – www.bigreddog.com/blog
Twitter – @BIG__RED__DOG
Instagram – @brd_eng
LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/company/425678/
Kelly Daacon:
LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/kellydaacon/
Twitter – @kdaacon
Shaun Theriot-Smith:
LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/shauntheriotsmith/
Twitter – @theriotsmith
Blog – Building Bayou City
Episode 013 – Bayleigh Collins, E.I.T. – Structural Graduate Engineer
This week we sit down with Bayleigh Collins, a structural engineer in our Sugar Land office. Bayleigh joined our firm in 2018 and is already making an impact and contributing to structural engineering projects in Texas and throughout the country.
We discuss Bayleigh’s upbringing in Houston and her time living overseas in Eritrea and Qatar. We also discuss her civil and structural engineering education at Southern Methodist University (SMU) in Dallas, her passion for animals (especially dogs), and her experience in recruiting and mentoring interns.
You can learn more about Bayleigh and connect with her through her social media:
LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/bayleigh-collins/
Listen to it on Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Spotify, Stitcher, or wherever you download podcasts! If you have feedback – we’d sincerely appreciate your rating and comments in those storefronts as well.
Follow BIG RED DOG and our hosts online at:
Blog – www.bigreddog.com/blog
Twitter – @BIG__RED__DOG
Instagram – @brd_eng
LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/company/425678/
Kelly Daacon:
LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/kellydaacon/
Twitter – @kdaacon
Shaun Theriot-Smith:
LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/shauntheriotsmith/
Twitter – @theriotsmith
Blog – Building Bayou City
Episode 012 - Madeleine Hirsch E.I.T. - Graduate Engineer
Welcome back! In this episode, we have the privilege of speaking with one of our Traffic and Transportation Engineering team members: Madeleine Hirsch! Maddie joined the company less than two months ago and has already found a place that feels like home. She describes what it’s like working in a field that has very tangible effects on people’s lives as they make their way from their home into the outside world. We even touch on the latest transit trend to consume Austin and San Antonio -- scooters!
Madeleine is an alumna of Texas A&M University in College Station (which is also where she happened to grow up!) where she studied Civil Engineering and participated in the Women’s Triathlon team. In her spare time, Maddie loves to run, swim, and cycle around Austin.
She recommends the book How to Make Yourself Poop: And 999 Other Tips All Runners Should Know to the BIG RED DOG library.
You can learn more about Maddie and connect with her through her social media:
LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/madeleine-hirsch-b4016068/
Listen to it on Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Spotify, Stitcher, or wherever you download podcasts! If you have feedback – we’d sincerely appreciate your rating and comments in those storefronts as well.
Follow BIG RED DOG and our hosts online at:
Blog – www.bigreddog.com/blog
Twitter – @BIG__RED__DOG
Instagram –@brd_eng
LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/company/425678/
Kelly Daacon:
LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/kellydaacon/
Twitter – @kdaacon
Shaun Theriot-Smith:
LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/shauntheriotsmith/
Twitter – @theriotsmith
Blog – Building Bayou City
Episode 011 - Kristi Johnson-Noble - Recruiting and HR Manager
Kristi Johnson-Noble is the Recruiting and Human Resources Manager at BIG RED DOG. She plays an important leadership role in the organization by building a Human Resources department, recruiting talent, and helping to shape the culture of the firm.
In this episode, we discuss some of the challenges recruiting talent in this economy, the qualities that we look for in candidates, and how BIG RED DOG’s collaborative culture permeates throughout the company regardless of job function. We also discuss Kristi’s large family and how she likes to travel, camp, and spend time outdoors.
You can learn more about Kristi and connect with her through her social media:
LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristi-johnson-noble-2b205859/
Listen to it on Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Spotify, Stitcher, or wherever you download podcasts! If you have feedback – we’d sincerely appreciate your rating and comments in those storefronts as well.
Follow BIG RED DOG and our hosts online at:
Blog – www.bigreddog.com/blog
Twitter – @BIG__RED__DOG
Instagram – @brd_eng
LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/company/425678/
Kelly Daacon:
LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/kellydaacon/
Twitter – @kdaacon
Shaun Theriot-Smith:
LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/shauntheriotsmith/
Twitter – @theriotsmith
Blog – Building Bayou City
Episode 010 – Jesus Donato P.E., Project Engineer
We return to our Houston office in this episode to speak to Jesús Donato - a Project Engineer on our Civil team who is part of the big growth of our Houston market! At the time of this recording, Jesús was on the eve of celebrating his one year anniversary with BIG RED DOG, so he gave us a great rundown of what he’s gained from his full year of experience with the company.
Jesús describes his passion for sustainability and building the communities that he lives in, whether it’s a single family subdivision, schools, or innovative commercial properties. He is an avid soccer player and passionate bicyclist who loves to explore his city with his spouse, who also happens to be an environmental consultant.
Jesús recommends the Land Development Handbook to the BIG RED DOG library, in addition to PROCESS by Jonathan Jones.
You can learn more about Jesús and connect with him through his social media:
LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/jesus-m-donato/
Listen to it on Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Spotify, Stitcher, or wherever you download podcasts! If you have feedback – we’d sincerely appreciate your rating and comments in those storefronts as well.
Follow BIG RED DOG and our hosts online at:
Blog – www.bigreddog.com/blog
Twitter – @BIG__RED__DOG
Instagram – @brd_eng
LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/company/425678/
Kelly Daacon:
LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/kellydaacon/
Twitter – @kdaacon
Shaun Theriot-Smith:
LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/shauntheriotsmith/
Twitter – @theriotsmith
Blog – Building Bayou City
Episode 009 – Russell Yeager P.E., Director of Civil Engineering
BIG RED DOG is a multi-discipline engineering firm and the majority of our work is in civil engineering services. In this episode we have the privilege of speaking with the leader of our civil team, Russell Yeager! We have the opportunity to discuss what it’s like managing such a large section of our firm and what gets him excited to serve our clients and fellow team members.
Russell is based out of our office in San Antonio -- a city for which he holds a deep passion for. He has been involved in a number of projects that have shaped the changing landscape of San Antonio; he also serves in a number of organizations, including the Real Estate Council of San Antonio and South San Antonio Chamber of Commerce.
In his free time, Russell has a passion for the outdoors and spending time with his spouse and two sons at his family’s ranch south of San Antonio. He also recommends the following book for the BRD Library: Bringing out the Best in People, by Alan Loy McGinnis
You can learn more about Russell and connect with him through his social media:
LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/russellyeager/
Twitter -- https://twitter.com/PRYeager
Listen to it on Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Spotify, Stitcher, or wherever you download podcasts! If you have feedback – we’d sincerely appreciate your rating and comments in those storefronts as well.
Follow BIG RED DOG and our hosts online at:
Blog – www.bigreddog.com/blog
Twitter – @BIG__RED__DOG
Instagram – @brd_eng
LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/company/425678/
Kelly Daacon:
LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/kellydaacon/
Twitter – @kdaacon
Shaun Theriot-Smith:
LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/shauntheriotsmith/
Twitter – @theriotsmith
Blog – Building Bayou City
Episode 008 – Ashley Weldon, Accounts Payable Administrator
Every professional services firm needs a backbone of organization and effective systems -- especially engineers! Thousands of design professional firms across the world operate and succeed because of the unsung heroes of accounting, human resources, marketing, and more. In this episode we speak to one our own heroes of accounting: Ashley Weldon!
Ashley is BIG RED DOG’s Accounts Payable Administrator. She pays our bills -- literally! She speaks to us about what it feels like working in a culture that values and elevates the folks that keep our business running each day. Ashley reveals some of her creative communication techniques to stay in touch with the production teams and leadership (which may or may not involve memes). She also describes her passion for the outdoors and music, and gives us insight into how she believes BRD is making engineering cool.
You can learn more about Ashley and connect with her through her social media:
LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashley-weldon-a8685458/
Listen to it on Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Spotify, Stitcher, or wherever you download podcasts! If you have feedback – we’d sincerely appreciate your rating and comments in those storefronts as well.
Follow BIG RED DOG and our hosts online at:
Blog – www.bigreddog.com/blog
Twitter – @BIG__RED__DOG
Instagram –@brd_eng
LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/company/425678/
Kelly Daacon:
LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/kellydaacon/
Twitter – @kdaacon
Shaun Theriot-Smith:
LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/shauntheriotsmith/
Twitter – @theriotsmith
Blog – Building Bayou City
007 - Joel Blok, P.E. - Construction Services Team Leader
Every successful design should result in a successfully constructed product. That’s what this episode’s guest is tasked with facilitating in our Austin market. Joel Blok is our construction phase manager and ensures that BIG RED DOG is proactive and responsive in the construction process of our projects. From assisting the design team with QA/QC to pre-construction kickoffs through submittals, inspections, and eventually delivery, Joel and his team help bring the BRD expertise onto the ground.
Joel came to Austin from Michigan. He describes his experience with Engineers Without Borders while in college and his numerous personal endeavors outside of work, including bird watching, photography, writing, and more -- he’s a regular Renaissance Man!
We also kickoff a new segment! Within this new segment, Joel recommends the following books: Just Mercy and Birding Without Borders.
You can learn more about Joel and connect with him through his social media:
LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/joel-blok-pe-4680b43b
Listen to it on Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Spotify, Stitcher, or wherever you download podcasts! If you have feedback – we’d sincerely appreciate your rating and comments in those storefronts as well.
Follow BIG RED DOG and our hosts online at:
Blog – www.bigreddog.com/blog
Twitter – @BIG__RED__DOG
Instagram –@brd_eng
LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/company/425678/
Kelly Daacon:
LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/kellydaacon/
Twitter – @kdaacon
Shaun Theriot-Smith:
LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/shauntheriotsmith/
Twitter – @theriotsmith
Blog – Building Bayou City
006 - Siri Soth, E.I.T. - Graduate Engineer
We’re celebrating the 9th Anniversary of BIG RED DOG Engineering on this episode! We have the pleasure of speaking with Siri Soth, one of our Graduate Engineers from our Austin Civil Commercial team. Siri started her career with BIG RED DOG as an intern while finishing her degree at the University of Texas at Austin. She speaks to her experience of getting ahead of the game by utilizing both a Spring and Summer semester to gain experience in land development before graduation. She also gives insight into her incredible study abroad opportunities that afforded her the opportunity to positively impact communities overseas.
Siri talks about her day-to-day life with her team in the Austin office and relates how the culture of the office and team produces a work environment that resonates with her professionally and personally.
You can learn more about Siri and connect with her through her social media:
LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/siri-soth-e-i-t-7430a1a4/
Listen to us on Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Spotify, Stitcher, or wherever you download podcasts! If you have feedback – we’d sincerely appreciate your rating and comments in those storefronts as well.
Follow BIG RED DOG and our hosts online at:
Blog – www.bigreddog.com/blog
Twitter – @BIG__RED__DOG
Instagram –@brd_eng
LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/company/425678/
Kelly Daacon:
LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/kellydaacon/
Twitter – @kdaacon
Shaun Theriot-Smith:
LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/shauntheriotsmith/
Twitter – @theriotsmith
Blog – Building Bayou City
005 - Walker Santiago - Senior Civil Designer
In this episode, we speak to one of the individuals who are on the front line every day helping us create accurate, expertly designed construction plans and documents. Walker Santiago is a Senior Project Designer and Shareholder with over two decades of civil design experience in the land development and public works industry.
Walker has a virtually encyclopedic knowledge of CAD, drone technology, 3D modelling, Virtual Reality/Augmented Reality (VR/AR), and nearly anything tech that can enrich the design process! Learn about his experience working in the Austin and San Antonio offices as well as what it’s like to be a shareholder with the company.
You can learn more about Walker and connect with him through his social media:
LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/walker-santiago-2984048/
Listen to us on Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Spotify, Stitcher, or wherever you download podcasts! If you have feedback – we’d sincerely appreciate your rating and comments in those storefronts as well.
Follow BIG RED DOG and our hosts online at:
Blog – www.bigreddog.com/blog
Twitter – @BIG__RED__DOG
Instagram –@brd_eng
LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/company/425678/
Kelly Daacon:
LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/kellydaacon/
Twitter – @kdaacon
Shaun Theriot-Smith:
LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/shauntheriotsmith/
Twitter – @theriotsmith
Blog – Building Bayou City
UNLEASHED 004 - Amanda Saldivar - Assistant Civil Team Leader
We’re taking the Unleashed tour to San Antonio on this episode! Amanda Saldivar started as the 5th employee in the San Antonio office just over 5 years ago. As our second largest and oldest office, San Antonio services a thriving development market and Amanda and her team are experts in making projects successful in the region. We speak to her about what makes the SATX office such a great place to work at.
Amanda discusses her path towards civil engineering and land development, coming from a family of engineers and getting her degree at the University of Texas at San Antonio. She also invests a great deal into mentorship and enjoys giving back to her alma mater at UTSA and is proud to give back to her hometown in a very real way.
You can learn more about Amanda and connect with her through her social media:
LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/amanda-saldivar-31167b51/
Listen to it on Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Spotify, Stitcher, or wherever you download podcasts! If you have feedback – we’d sincerely appreciate your rating and comments in those storefronts as well.
Follow BIG RED DOG and our hosts online at:
Blog – www.bigreddog.com/blog
Twitter – @BIG__RED__DOG
Instagram –@brd_eng
LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/company/425678/
Kelly Daacon:
LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/kellydaacon/
Twitter – @kdaacon
Shaun Theriot-Smith:
LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/shauntheriotsmith/
Twitter – @theriotsmith
Blog – Building Bayou City
UNLEASHED 003 - Marc Remmert, P.E. - Director of MEP Engineering
Many folks may typically associate us with civil engineering work, but we are a thriving multi-discipline engineering firm with service lines including MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing), Structural, Traffic, and Transportation design services. We grabbed our Director of MEP Engineering, Marc Remmert, to give us a peek into what it takes to run a successful building services service line.
Marc joined BIG RED DOG as a Graduate Engineer and worked his way up to shareholder and the leader of his department, so he has a unique perspective of how BIG RED DOG is impacting building design services in a unique way at every level. He graduated from Washington University in St. Louis with an Electrical Engineering degree and entered into the workforce with a contracting firm constructing electrical systems across the country. This gave Marc a fundamentally solid perspective of how the built environment works and pays dividends to his design expertise.
You can learn more about Marc Remmert and connect with him through his social media:
LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/marc-remmert-p-e-4616a040/
Links to content in the show:
Lean Construction Institute - Lean Project Design & Delivery
Listen to UNLEASHED on Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Spotify, Stitcher, or wherever you download podcasts! If you have feedback – we’d sincerely appreciate your rating and comments in those storefronts as well.
Follow BIG RED DOG and our hosts online at:
Blog – www.bigreddog.com/blog
Twitter – @BIG__RED__DOG
Instagram –@brd_eng
LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/company/425678/
Kelly Daacon:
LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/kellydaacon/
Twitter – @kdaacon
Shaun Theriot-Smith:
LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/shauntheriotsmith/
Twitter – @theriotsmith
Blog – Building Bayou City
UNLEASHED 002 - Sam Donnelly - Civil Graduate Engineer
We kicked off the show in the first episode with our CEO and Co-Founder, we figured it would be nice to leap over to the opposite end of the org chart, as it were, with someone who just recently joined the BIG RED DOG team full time. Sam was a Civil Intern in our Houston office during the Fall of 2017 and joined us full time as a Graduate Engineer in January 2018.
Sam recounts his experience as an intern and a junior engineer with our firm and describes what drew him to this organization and industry. Born in Australia, Sam came to the US nearly ten years ago. He completed his studies at the University of Houston where he earned his Bachelors of Science in Civil and Environmental Engineering. He describes to our unwitting hosts about the nuances of Australian Rules Football (or Footy) and boasts on the thriving expat communities in Houston and Texas in general.
You can learn more about Sam Donnelly and connect with him through his social media:
LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/samuel-donnelly-a483b080/
Listen to it on Apple Podcasts (aka iTunes)! If you have feedback – we’d sincerely appreciate your rating and comments there as well.
Follow BIG RED DOG and our hosts online at:
Blog – www.bigreddog.com/blog
Twitter – @BIG__RED__DOG
Instagram –@brd_eng
LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/company/425678/
Kelly Daacon:
LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/kellydaacon/
Twitter – @kdaacon
Shaun Theriot-Smith:
LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/shauntheriotsmith/
Twitter – @theriotsmith
Blog – Building Bayou City
UNLEASHED 001 - Will Schnier, P.E. - Chief Executive Officer
For our first episode, we launch things off from the very beginning with our CEO, Will Schnier, P.E.
Will co-founded BIG RED DOG in 2009, along with Brad Lingvai and Bob Brown, amidst the Great Recession. At one of the development industry’s most prominent nadirs, these three young engineers and design professionals saw an opportunity to turn the engineering consultant industry on its head and form an organization around their core beliefs and lessons learned at former companies.
Will discusses what key experiences and people shaped his path of entrepreneurship and the cultural touchstones that have made BIG RED DOG such a unique leader in this industry.
You can learn more about Will Schnier and connect with him through his social media:
LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/willschnier/
Twitter – @WSchnier
Listen to it on Apple Podcasts (aka iTunes)! If you have feedback – we’d sincerely appreciate your rating and comments there as well.
Follow BIG RED DOG and our hosts online at:
Blog – www.bigreddog.com/blog
Twitter – @BIG__RED__DOG
Instagram –@brd_eng
LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/company/425678/
Kelly Daacon:
LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/kellydaacon/
Twitter – @kdaacon
Shaun Theriot-Smith:
LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/shauntheriotsmith/
Twitter – @theriotsmith
Blog – Building Bayou City