sustainable construction

Leading the Charge for Sustainable Construction: Minnesota’s Buy Clean Initiative 

April 21, 2025
By Nicole Muske, Senior Graduate Engineer, WSB

Earth month is an opportune time to highlight the strides being made in sustainability, particularly through initiatives like the Buy Clean Buy Fair Minnesota Act, passed in 2023. This act highlights Minnesota’s efforts and commitment to responsible environmental practices.

Understanding Buy Clean

The initiative is an industry and government-focused step on carbon emissions associated with construction materials on state-funded projects. Minnesota’s Department of Transportation (MnDOT) is a key stakeholder with the Buy Clean initiative, due to the state’s commitment to lower carbon materials and responsible procurement practices. This initiative is part of a larger goal to decrease the carbon footprint of construction projects throughout the state. By laying the groundwork for the use of lower embodied carbon products, states like Minnesota are providing examples for how other states can explore these types of approaches to resilient infrastructure.

Broader Adoption and Innovation

Currently, 20 states have implemented their own Buy Clean programs. This highlights the need for broader adoption across the nation. By pushing for initiatives that prioritize sustainable materials, we can pave the way for a more resilient future.

Additionally, the initiative encourages research into products that offer lower emissions and embodied carbon, without compromising on quality, resilience, or durability. This involves thorough testing and evaluation to ensure that materials meet high standards while contributing to a reduction in carbon emissions.

WSB has relevant experience with helping clients analyze and adopt the use of lower embodied carbon materials in infrastructure, such as through pavements utilized in the Heights, a master development project developed by the St. Paul Port Authority.  At the state level, we are coordinating a DOT project in Oklahoma on Balance Mix Design.

These and other real-life examples were discussed at a transportation materials conference that WSB recently co-sponsored. By discussing cutting edge ideas with key stakeholders through these efforts, we work with other thought leaders to advance cost-effective solutions.

Environmental Product Declarations (EPD)

A crucial aspect of the Buy Clean initiative is the focus on Environmental Product Declarations (EPD). By obtaining more EPDs, stakeholders can better understand the origin and composition of materials, allowing for informed decisions that prioritize sustainability. The initiative promotes sourcing and availability within a certain radius, ensuring that concrete and asphalt used in projects are both locally sourced and environmentally responsible.

With Earth Month here, it is essential to recognize and celebrate these efforts. The Buy Clean initiative exemplifies how state-level actions can lead to significant environmental benefits, and how collective efforts can drive change. By supporting the implementation of such programs, we are not only contributing to a cleaner and more sustainable planet but also setting a standard for future generations.

How WSB Can Help

The WSB team includes subject matter experts in materials, transportation planning and design, sustainability, resiliency, and beyond, who support communities in exploring and integrating sustainable pavements and other materials into their operational and infrastructure plans. We offer comprehensive services including project assessment, strategy development, and implementation guidance to help municipalities and states align infrastructure projects with community goals. Our expertise results in efficient, resilient, sustainable, and strategic outcomes.

Nicole is a Senior Graduate Engineer in WSB’s Construction and Design-Build Division with extensive experience in contract administration, construction inspection, and material testing on large transportation projects. She has served as a Lead Inspector overseeing concrete bridge construction, bridge rehabilitation, and roadway paving. Nicole developed an app-based spreadsheet for the I-494 and TH52 Design-Build projects to track material testing and summarize results. She excels in coordinating with contractors and stakeholders to maintain project schedules and resolve issues effectively.

[email protected] | 612.210.5676

Nicole Muske
Model-Centric Design and Construction Management

Model-Centric Design and Construction Management

Breaking Down Silos and Unlocking Powerful Project Data

April 17, 2025
By Andy Kaiyala, Vice President, Digital Construction Management, WSB

In today’s fast-paced civil construction industry, the ability to make informed decisions quickly is paramount. Model-centric design and construction management is revolutionizing how complex projects are planned, designed, and delivered by bringing powerful, real-time data to the forefront for enhanced decision making. These model-based workflows go far beyond visualization. They create a shared source of truth that fuels both collaboration and data intelligence.

Digital Models are the New Meeting Room

One of the most impactful benefits of model-centric workflows is their ability to break down silos across project teams. Traditional design and construction management processes often suffer from fragmented communication and isolated data, leading to inefficiencies, rework, and missed opportunities. By adopting a model-centric approach, engineers, contractors, and owners can access a single source of truth, ensuring that everyone is on the same page and working towards the same goals. This streamlined collaboration reduces friction, closes communication gaps, and improves overall project efficiency.

From Models to Meaning

Model-centric design turns static visuals into dynamic, data-rich environments. Everything from utility crossings and drainage systems to street signs, sidewalks, and signals is modeled in one centralized, collaborative space. Real-time updates to design work in progress, schedule, cost, materials, and asset information ensure the data is always current and actionable. This level of integration allows project teams to anticipate and resolve issues early, improving decision-making and project outcomes. In addition, the ability to visualize potential conflicts in the design phase minimizes costly surprises during construction.

Enhanced Decision Making

The collaborative nature of model-centric workflows means every stakeholder can contribute to and benefit from a continuously enriched dataset. With access to accurate, up-to-date information, project managers and decision makers can respond to challenges with confidence. The result: projects that are completed on time, within budget, and to the highest quality standards. This proactive, data-driven approach not only enhances outcomes, but also builds stronger client relationships.

From Reactive to Predictive

Model-centric design and construction management is not just a trend; it is the future of the construction industry. By leveraging the power of integrated models and construction intelligence, teams move from reacting to problems to preventing them altogether. This evolution sets a benchmark for efficiency, risk management, and successful project delivery. As model-centric approaches continue to develop, partnering with teams who understand how to translate data into decisions is a valuable step forward for long-term project success.

Andy Kaiyala is the Vice President of Digital Construction Management at WSB, based in Melissa, TX. With over 25 years of industry experience, Andy specializes in large, complex infrastructure projects in the transportation, civil, and transit sectors. Before joining WSB, he was the Vice President of Bid Development at The Lane Construction Corporation, where he led teams in securing construction projects worth over $5 billion. At WSB, Andy oversees the project controls team and supports the advancement of digital delivery in the contractor market across regions and divisions.

[email protected] | 203.599.5984

Andy Kaiyala

WSB is a design and consulting firm specializing in engineering, community planning, environmental, and construction services. Our dedicated staff improves the way people engage with communities, transportation, infrastructure, energy and our environment. We offer services in a wide range of complementary areas that seamlessly integrate planning, design and implementation.

We share a vision to connect your dreams for tomorrow to the needs of today – the future is ours for the making.

Jennifer Bullard construction

WSB welcomes Jennifer Bullard as vice president of construction

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

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

Jennifer Bullard

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

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

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

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

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

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

q&a rod myrick

Q&A with Rod Myrick | VP of Strategy & Construction

April 15, 2025

Rod Myrick

Rod is the vice president of Strategy and Construction with over 26 years of experience as a professional engineer. Rod was the CEO of AE, a firm WSB acquired in February 2024. His background includes managing complex projects across federal, state and municipal levels. Rod’s extensive portfolio and close collaborations with the Florida Department of Transportation and Florida’s Turnpike Enterprise have aided WSB’s expansion and presence across the Southeast region. Rod will continue building awareness and forging relationships as WSB continues to establish its presence.

In this Q&A, Rod shares his reflections on the expansion and future of WSB in the Southeast region.

What makes WSB different than other Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) firms?

The individuals and talent within our teams nationwide. Our leadership team is deeply committed to enhancing both the professional and personal journeys of our staff every day. We believe their career growth is fundamental to our delivery of quality service and the retainment of staff.

As a solution-driven engineering firm within the AEC industry, we make impactful differences for our clients. This is made possible by our talented and qualified staff, who are central to our ability to continually provide innovative and valuable solutions.

What makes WSB suited to manage the growing needs of the Southeast region?

WSB is well suited to manage the growing Southeast region through our internal resources and innovative solutions. We bring new technology and a high-level expertise to the markets we serve. The Southeast region will benefit from WSB’s focus identifying key talent to assist with the growth of communities.

What does the future of the Southeast region look like and how can WSB continue to support it?

It is exciting to be able to cross-sell and introduce more services to the Southeast. WSB provides over 50+ services that are new to the region and will support the future of infrastructure for our current and prospective clients.

Expanding our footprint is vital for our growth. As we enter new areas and enhance our expertise, we view the Southeast as an advancing market overflowing with opportunities. This expansion will further solidify our presence and impact.

What is your vision for WSB’s growth?

My vision is centered around a steadfast commitment to hiring the best staff to support our clients. I am focused on attracting the industry’s best talent, enabling us to expand our reach and effectively meet the growing demands across new regions.

At the center of our vision is the empowerment of our team, who are essential in delivering innovative solutions and maintaining the high-quality service that defines WSB. By aligning our growth with these principles, we are dedicated to enhancing WSB’s impact on communities and industries nationwide.

Rod Myrick

What is one thing you wish people knew about wsb?

I would like for people to know all the great people we have on our teams. Across the nation we have staff who are passionate and authentic about the work they do. Additionally, WSB remains committed to leading our industry in our approach to technology.

What are the biggest challenges and opportunities for WSB?

The acquisition of AE by WSB marked a significant change from our small company feel to a larger company structure. Opportunity for WSB is preserving the close-knit company atmosphere and the camaraderie we have shown to our local communities.

An opportunity exists in continuing our national presence and becoming the go-to firm for our clients. With our expanded reach, we can identify and address the infrastructure needs across more regions, leveraging our unique brand and collaborative approach.

You’ve worked in the AEC industry for many years, how has your experience informed how you approach your role at WSB?

My approach is based on taking the time to understand and listen, rather than talk. I have learned that it is far better to listen than to talk. You gain more from listening to others than always inputting your thoughts. This was especially true when AE joined WSB. I’ve spent a lot of time identifying key team members who can help our staff in the Southeast when we need support. It’s these people who are helping us connect the dots as we grow our presence as WSB.

As vice president of strategy and construction, how do you lead the groups you work with and what advice can you give to leaders now and those who come after you?

I lead groups through strategy which is crucial in our operations. Given the number of opportunities open to WSB, it is important to understand we cannot pursue every one of them without risking burnout for our team. To avoid this, I focus on opportunities that align with our short-term and long-term goals. This approach further prevents exhaustion and focuses our efforts in impactful areas. I lead effective communication to drive our culture through transparency and learning.

Our commitment to staff is to support their goals by providing the necessary resources. To leaders after me, understand that WSB has the ability to embrace creativity an entrepreneurship.

Tribal Technical Assistance with WSB

WSB’s sustainability team has a contract with the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) to provide a cumulative total of approximately $200,000 in technical environmental and climate-related assistance to Minnesota Tribes at no cost to tribal communities, now through June 2026. In the coming weeks and months, WSB will be reaching out to your Tribe to listen, understand your goals, and explore opportunities to align our support with your community’s vision. This funding is designed to enhance capacity and offer free, expert assistance to identify, prioritize, and implement Tribal environmental and climate-related projects that may have otherwise faced barriers to completion, ensuring that the projects we support reflect your Tribe’s unique priorities and long-term goals.

What projects are eligible?

This technical assistance can include activities such as:

  • Sustainability/Climate Work
    • Climate plans and greenhouse gas inventories
    • Sustainability Plans
    • Renewables development
    • Policy development such as for solar, EVs, water conservation
    • Feasibility studies (such as EV or solar plans)
    • Community planning and economic development
    • Public engagement support on climate topics
  • Natural Resource Support
    • Water resources, water reuse, and hydrology modeling
    • Forestry services
    • Fisheries services
    • Wetland and soils services
    • Regulatory assistance
    • Limnological analysis
    • Vegetation surveys
    • GIS support
  • Transportation Support
    • Transportation or transit planning that reduce vehicle miles travelled
    • Trail planning and fundraising
    • Traffic engineering such as to support pedestrian or EV-related projects
  • Grant Support
    • Identification, writing, and administration assistance
    • Partnership development
    • Research and analysis to identify most competitive grant applications

How can WSB support my Tribe?

WSB is a trusted engineering and consulting firm with deep expertise in energy, resiliency, water, environmental stewardship, transportation, and a range of other disciplines. We have had the privilege of partnering with Tribes across the Midwest, providing tailored support in climate planning, renewable energy development, and natural resource management. Our team approaches every project with respect for Tribal sovereignty, cultural values, and traditions—prioritizing meaningful relationship building, adaptability, and genuine curiosity. Based in Minneapolis, our project team is readily available to travel to your community to engage directly and ensure our work reflects your Tribe’s unique needs and priorities.

Amy has nearly 25 years of experience across many industries, particularly energy and agriculture, in the public, private and nonprofit sectors. This experience has provided Amy with a broad background that enables her to meet community and business needs based on the business case for sustainability. By working across intersecting systems to simultaneously advance environmental, economic and social goals, she is able to uncover creative solutions.

[email protected] | 612.965.1489

envision framework

Embracing Sustainability with Envision® Framework

April 11, 2025
By Shawn Poe, Director of Municipal Services, WSB and Amy Fredregill, Senior Director of Sustainability, WSB

As we recognize Earth Month this April, it is imperative to emphasize sustainable and resilient practices in infrastructure projects. A comprehensive Sustainability Plan is most strategic, relevant and useful when it considers future capital projects planned within a community.

Introducing the Envision® Framework

One effective practice to incorporate is the Envision® framework — a holistic sustainability rating system designed to evaluate the resilience of various types of civil infrastructure.

Envision® serves as a tool for cities, consultants, and contractors, helping to deliver infrastructure that:

Utilizing the Envision® framework allows infrastructure projects to contribute positively to the environment by enhancing sustainability and resilience. This framework helps improve the quality of life for communities by addressing climate change, supporting public health, providing long-term economic benefits, and improving infrastructure longevity.

How WSB Can Help

The WSB team includes certified Envision Sustainability Professionals (ENV SP) who can support communities in integrating Envision® into their sustainability and resiliency plans, as well as transportation, transit, and other infrastructure projects. We offer comprehensive services including project assessment, strategy development, and implementation guidance to help municipalities align infrastructure projects with community goals. Our expertise ensures that sustainable, resilient, and equitable outcomes are achieved.

Shawn is the Director of Municipal Services at our Denver office, with nearly 30 years of experience in Colorado and Texas, he has served as a City Engineer and Director of Public Works. Shawn excels in relationship building, team leadership, and client service. He is also active in professional circles, having served as President of the APWA Texas Chapter and currently on the board of the APWA Colorado Chapter. At WSB, he focuses on expanding services to municipalities and fostering strong public agency relationships.

[email protected] | 214.773.6767

Shawn Poe

Amy has nearly 25 years of experience in the public, private, and non-profit sectors, focusing on sustainability and resiliency. She has worked extensively in energy and agriculture, providing strategic solutions for complex challenges in energy, water, and waste. Amy has held key roles, including Managing Director of the Sustainable Growth Coalition at Environmental Initiative and Manager of Resource Planning at Xcel Energy. Currently, she works on climate and sustainability projects across various states, leveraging her relationship-based approach to deliver comprehensive solutions.

[email protected] | 612.965.1489

Amy Fredregill

Emergency Management and Disaster Planning for Cities

April 14, 2025
By Allison Whittsitt, Planning Manager, WSB

In today’s world, cities must be prepared to address a wide range of emergencies and disasters that affect citizens, businesses, and critical infrastructure. This preparation begins with comprehensive emergency management and disaster planning. Comprehensive solutions help cities effectively plan, respond, and recover from emergencies. This approach includes risk assessment and mitigation strategies, response protocols, and recovery plans.

Benefits of Planning

The benefits of emergency management and disaster planning include improved coordination among response teams, enhanced public safety, and reduced economic losses. Effective plans mitigate long-term impacts and ensure quicker recovery. Without proper planning, cities face chaotic responses, increased casualties, and prolonged recovery times, resulting in unnecessary economic losses and vulnerabilities.

Developing emergency management and disaster plans is crucial for cities for several reasons:

  • It ensures the safety and well-being of residents by providing clear guidelines and procedures during emergencies. These plans enhance the resilience of cities, making them better equipped to handle and recover from disasters.
  • Having a structured plan fosters trust and confidence among citizens, who can feel assured their city is prepared for any eventuality.
  • Well-developed plans can attract businesses and investors by demonstrating a city’s commitment to stability and security.
  • Cities that implement comprehensive planning are often eligible for various grants and funding opportunities that are not otherwise accessible, which can further strengthen their emergency preparedness efforts.

The benefits of emergency management and disaster planning services include:

  • Improved coordination among response teams
  • Enhanced public safety
  • Reduced economic losses
  • Proper planning mitigates long-term impacts, ensuring quicker recovery
  • These plans improve residents’ safety, increase city resilience, and foster trust
  • Well-developed plans attract businesses and investors and make cities eligible for various grants, strengthening preparedness

How it Works

There are four pillars of emergency management – preparedness, response, recovery, and mitigation. Tackling each with a systematic approach and seamlessly combining the outcomes creates a more resilient community.

  • Starting with hazard mitigation planning, risk assessments identify potential threats unique to each city, from natural disasters to human-made incidents. A FEMA-approved hazard mitigation plan opens doors for funding to support all phases of emergency management.
  • Emergency management includes expertise in disaster deployment, public assistance, hazard mitigation, damage assessments, and debris management. Local and state experience, a certified meteorologist, and support from engineers and GIS professionals enhance planning and grant application efforts, identifying vulnerabilities and reducing risk.
  • Securing grant funding as a direct result of their hazard mitigation plan strengthens local resilience and reduces repetitive loss. Additionally, aiding in the implementation of the Community Rating System (CRS) encourages communities to implement floodplain management practices that will lower insurance rates by up to 45% and ensure enhanced flood preparedness.
  • Working with city officials to establish response protocols during natural hazard events ensures that all stakeholders are prepared to act swiftly in the event of a disaster.
  • Emergency action plans for dams and levees foster faster, more organized responses that minimize harm.
  • Exercises conducted help municipalities, private businesses, schools, and other entities evaluate their emergency operations plans through realistic scenarios, revealing weaknesses in plans and improving capability gaps and equipment readiness.

Grant Funding to Support Planning and Preparation

To support cities in their emergency management efforts, numerous grants are available. These funds help implement preparedness initiatives, purchase equipment, and train personnel. Engaging with experienced services helps cities apply for and manage these grants, ensuring compliance and effective fund use.

Conclusion

Emergency management and disaster planning expertise helps cities build resilience and ensure the safety of their residents. City officials and stakeholders are invited to learn more about how services can be tailored to meet the unique needs of their urban environments. Together, a safer, more resilient future can be created for cities.

Allison Whittsitt has served as the Northeast Regional Coordinator for the Oklahoma Department of Emergency Management and Homeland Security. As WSB’s Planning and Grants Department Manager, she oversees projects including Hazard Mitigation Plan updates, new and existing Emergency Operations Plans, and application/submission of state and federal grants along with various other work.

[email protected] | 918.728.5617

Preparing for MS4 Changes

April 14, 2025
By Treasure Agbonkhese, Environmental Compliance Specialist, WSB

Expert insights on adapting to upcoming program updates

The Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) program is a critical initiative aimed at reducing the pollutants that enter our water bodies through stormwater runoff. Managed under the Clean Water Act, the MS4 program requires regulated entities, such as cities, counties, universities, and even highway departments, to develop and implement a Stormwater Pollution Prevention Program (SWPPP). This ensures that the quality of water discharged from their systems meets the requirements set forth by the local agencies and the EPA.  Organizations need to prepare for MS4 changes and reauthorizations which necessitate both awareness and preparedness from involved stakeholders.  Each state reauthorizes their own permits, for example Minnesota’s expire in 2025 and Oklahoma’s are set to expire in 2026.

MS4 programs will likely see several pivotal updates designed to enhance its effectiveness and expand their scope. Those changes may include:

  • Reauthorization of NPDES MS4 permits
  • New rules and requirements
  • More audits conducted by the MPCA to ensure compliance with the current MS4 permit
  • Annual Reporting
  • Increased emphasis on TSS, TMDL, and Waste Load Allocation 
  • Increased emphasis on the education and incorporation of green infrastructure solutions, such as rain gardens and permeable pavements, which help mitigate stormwater impacts.

These changes underscore the program’s commitment to leveraging sustainable practices to protect our water resources better.

To prepare for these impending changes, municipalities and other regulated entities must take proactive steps. Firstly, reviewing and updating current Stormwater Pollution Prevention Programs to align with the current requirements is crucial. This may involve investing in new technologies for inspection, monitoring and data collection of stormwater infrastructure, as well as training staff to handle more complex reporting and documenting tasks in illicit discharge, construction, and post-construction stormwater management. Secondly, exploring green infrastructure options and integrating them into existing frameworks can provide long-term benefits and compliance with the 2025 updates. Engagement with community stakeholders and public education campaigns will also be essential to ensure widespread understanding and support for these initiatives.

WSB stands ready to assist entities in navigating these changes, offering comprehensive services ranging from full management of MS4 programs to targeted support for specific components. With our expertise in stormwater management and green infrastructure, we can help you assess your current systems, identify areas for improvement, implement solutions that meet the current and future requirements, and help perform self-audits of current MS4 programs. Our team is equipped to handle everything from initial development and management to ongoing construction sites, illicit discharge, facility inspections, and maintenance and reporting, ensuring a seamless transition to the new NPDES MS4 Permit.

In conclusion, changes to the MS4 program represent a significant step forward in protecting our water resources. By preparing now and leveraging the expertise of partners like WSB, municipalities, counties, state departments and other stakeholders can successfully adapt and thrive under the new requirements. Together, we can ensure the continued health and sustainability of our water bodies for future generations.

Treasure is an environmental compliance specialist at WSB. Her background includes water resources engineering, construction site and MS4 permitting, SWPPP design and inspection, and MS4 program development and implementation. Her passion for MS4 coupled with her background in engineering brings a level of engagement, creativity, training, and unique skills to MS4 program development and management.

[email protected] | 612.258.3129

Josh Hudspeth Texas

John Hudspeth joins WSB as vice president of Texas operations

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

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

John Hudspeth

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

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

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

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

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

Web Mapping

Asset Management to Enhance Tribal Communities

April 10, 2025
By Shannon McGrath, Director of Asset Management Planning & Bryan Pittman. GIS Lead, WSB

Empowering Tribal Leaders with GIS Technology

Geographic Information Systems (GIS) have revolutionized asset management across various sectors, providing intuitive, data-driven solutions to manage and optimize resources efficiently. For tribal leaders committed to enhancing their communities, embracing GIS to support tribal asset management can be transformative. This article explores the role of GIS in asset management, the benefits it offers, and how to initiate its use within tribal communities.

Understanding GIS in Asset Management

GIS integrates spatial (location-based) and traditional asset data, creating an interactive map of resources. This comprehensive approach involves collecting, storing, analyzing, and visualizing data related to infrastructure, land parcels, planning, utilities, and environmental resources.
By geographically displaying asset data, GIS facilitates informed decision-making and efficient resource allocation. By leveraging geospatial technology, tribal leaders gain unique insights into asset location and other available attributes such as type, description, condition, and age, fostering a data-driven approach to capital and maintenance planning.

Benefits of GIS in Asset Management

Enhanced Decision-Making
GIS empowers tribal leaders with critical data to make informed decisions. By visualizing assets and their status on maps, leaders can identify areas needing attention, prioritize investments, and plan for future developments. This data-driven approach ensures resources are allocated efficiently and effectively, leading to improved outcomes for the community.

Improved Resource Allocation
One of the significant advantages of GIS is its ability to optimize resource allocation. Whether managing land use, infrastructure maintenance, or environmental conservation, GIS-based spatial analysis helps in pinpointing precisely where interventions are needed. This precision reduces waste, minimizes costs, and ensures that resources are directed where they will have the most significant impact.

Effective Monitoring and Maintenance
Regular monitoring and maintenance of assets are crucial for sustainability. GIS-based asset management systems enable automated tracking and reporting, ensuring that assets are maintained in optimal condition. Tribal leaders can set up alerts for maintenance schedules, create work orders, monitor asset conditions in real-time, and efficiently manage repairs and upgrades.

Community Engagement and Transparency
Transparency is vital for building trust within the community. GIS platforms and interactive web maps can be used to share information with community members, fostering engagement and collaboration. By providing access to data and maps, leaders can involve the community in decision-making processes, enhancing participation and fostering a sense of ownership.

Disaster Management and Response
In the face of natural disasters, GIS proves to be a valuable resource. By mapping assets and identifying vulnerable areas, leaders can develop comprehensive emergency response plans. Flood and slope vulnerability models can be overlayed with asset locations. GIS facilitates quick response times, efficient resource deployment, and effective coordination during crises, safeguarding community well-being.

Getting Started with Managing Assets in GIS

Implementing GIS to manage assets in tribal communities requires strategic planning and investment. Here are steps to get started:

Assess Current Needs and Capabilities
Begin by evaluating the current state of asset management within the community. Identify the assets that need to be managed, the data available, and the technology infrastructure in place. Understanding your starting point is crucial for a successful GIS implementation and to determine if a more robust asset management system with GIS integration is necessary.

Data Collection and Integration
Accurate and comprehensive data is essential for effective GIS asset inventories. This requires collecting both spatial and non-spatial data, collaborating with stakeholders across departments to ensure completeness. Integrating historical records, real-time updates, and detailed attributes creates a unified and reliable dataset.

Training and Capacity Building
Invest in training for your team to ensure they can effectively use the GIS platform and data collection tools. Providing comprehensive training programs and capacity-building initiatives will empower staff with the skills needed to leverage GIS technology. Partnering with experts like WSB for training can facilitate a smoother transition and enhance proficiency.

Developing a Data Maintenance and Update Plan
Managing asset data in GIS is an ongoing process. Establish a plan for regular data updates and system maintenance to keep the platform functional and accurate. Set up protocols for data collection, monitoring, and reporting to ensure continuous improvement of the system.

Asset Management Planning
Once data is available in GIS or a GIS-integrated asset management system, an asset management plan can be developed that incorporates risk, performance monitoring, financial planning, and life cycle planning. This utilizes asset location and information to create a proactive approach to managing assets over a long period of time, ensuring the right fix and the location at the right time.

WSB: Your Partner in GIS-Based Asset Management

Embarking on the journey of GIS-based asset management can be complex, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. WSB has a team of experts specializing in GIS technology and asset management solutions tailored to tribal communities. Our professionals can help you assess your current needs, implement the right GIS platform, and provide ongoing support to maintain and optimize your system.

At WSB, we understand the unique challenges and opportunities within tribal communities. Our approach is customized to ensure that GIS asset management aligns with your specific goals and enhances community well-being. We offer comprehensive training, data integration services, and continuous support to ensure your GIS system is robust and effective.

By partnering with WSB, tribal leaders can leverage the power of GIS and asset management to drive informed decision-making, improve resource allocation, and foster community engagement. Together, we can build a sustainable and prosperous future for your community.

Embrace the potential of GIS and asset management and let WSB guide you every step of the way.

Shannon has spent over a decade advancing asset management at local, state, and national levels by serving on asset management committees, advisory panels, and project management teams. While working at MnDOT, Shannon directed the agency-wide asset management planning including projects, research, policy, innovation, strategic planning, and implementation in collaboration with internal and external stakeholders.

[email protected] | 651.492.9291

Shannon McGrath

Bryan has worked with data models and schema for roadway assets, database design and management, data manipulation and aggregation, ESRI’s Field Maps and Experience Builder Application, Lidar data, and spatial/3D analysis. He works with clients to address their GIS needs and make sure they have the tools and training needed to be successful with GIS.

[email protected] | 763.287.8539

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