Amplifying Leadership by Advancing Accessibility in Engineering and Engagement

December 3, 2024
By Chhavi Dhingra, Senior Manager of Public Engagement, WSB

On this International Day of Persons with Disabilities, let us reflect on progress toward accessibility and the work ahead. 

Accessibility—ensuring everyone can participate fully in society—is not just a legal mandate but a moral imperative. People with disabilities contribute far beyond being users of infrastructure. They serve as leaders, trainers, reviewers, service providers and vendors, bringing expertise that enhances project outcomes. This year’s theme emphasizes the leadership of persons with disabilities for an inclusive and sustainable future. 

WSB strives to advance accessibility in every facet of our work. A landmark project with Minneapolis Public Works involved designing the city’s first—and the nation’s second—shared-use street with Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)-compliant features. 

Recognizing that accessibility goes beyond structural changes to include digital tools, equitable communication, and inclusive urban planning, our Public Engagement team at WSB helps develop materials that address barriers such as low vision, hearing impairments, motor skill challenges, and neurodiverse conditions. Collaborating with digital technologists, we use tools like ArcGIS StoryMaps, Survey123, and Collector for ArcGIS to develop accessible websites, story maps, and web applications compliant with Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG). 

The ADA’s recent mandate to expand the scope for digital accessibility improvements for state and local governments highlights the importance of rethinking accessibility in a digital-first world. Additional information on ADA requirements for digital communications is available here. 

Accessibility is about creating a world where everyone can thrive, and WSB is committed to this vision by championing accessibility in both design and communication. 

Chhavi is a transportation engineer and public engagement professional with nearly two decades of experience. She excels in developing sustainable policies, practices, and communication strategies, and has a proven track record in leading stakeholder management for transportation and transit projects. Chhavi has contributed to numerous road transportation planning projects worldwide, focusing on engagement, multi-stakeholder partnerships, and strategic communications to address the mobility and accessibility needs of disadvantaged communities.

[email protected] | 917.328.3588

Chhavi Dhingra
solar

The MN Solar on Public Buildings Program for a Sustainable Future

November 11, 2024
By Ameer Kian, Sr Project Manager, WSB

The Minnesota Legislature established the Solar on Public Buildings (SPB) Grant Program in 2023, allocating $4.3 million in grants to local governments within Xcel Energy’s service territory. Administered by the Department of Commerce, this program aims to promote solar energy systems on public buildings, supplementing Federal Tax Credits.

Eligibility and Application Process

Eligible applicants include counties, cities, towns, and federally recognized Indian Tribes in Minnesota, excluding school districts within Xcel Energy’s service territory. The grants cover up to 70% of project costs for solar arrays on public buildings, with a capacity of up to 40kW or 120% of the building’s annual energy consumption. The application deadline is Monday, December 2, 2024.

For more information on this program, you can visit the MN Department of Commerce website here: Solar on Public Buildings / Minnesota Department of Commerce – Energy.

Strategic Benefits of the SPB Program

The Solar on Public Buildings Grant Program enables cities to reduce energy costs, lower carbon footprints, and demonstrate commitment to renewable energy. Economic efficiency is achieved through financial incentives and long-term energy savings. Solar energy’s environmental impact includes reducing greenhouse gas emissions and fossil fuel reliance. Adopting solar positions local governments as sustainability leaders, enhancing community pride and fostering innovation.

How WSB Can Help

WSB has successfully applied for and received funding for our clients from the first round of this program earlier this year. We can assist in the following areas:

  • Streamlining the RFP process and completing the Readiness Application, ensuring compliance with the grant application requirements
  • Prioritizing locations for grant consideration based on energy usage data and solar feasibility
  • Identifying system and City eligibility for additional funding via Federal Clean Energy Tax Credit Elective Pay system
  • Navigating through complexities with Community Solar Garden subscriptions and eligibility requirements
  • Estimating PV system size, annual production and assessing utility grid capacity based on publicly available tools
  • Providing guidance on solar best practices and setting up a successful RFP process for contractor selection

In addition to the Solar for Public Buildings RFP, WSB has experience in and can support local municipalities and governments in their energy and sustainability goals by:

  • Writing zoning ordinance updates to align city code with EV and Solar infrastructure
  • Drafting and implementing Climate Plans to secure funding for solar and renewable energy and helping design EV Charging infrastructure
  • Writing grants to obtain energy efficiency funds and conduct equitable community outreach to drive future climate focused investments

For more information on WSB’s experience and services in Sustainability, please visit our website: Sustainability – WSB Seeking more sustainable solutions.

Conclusion

The SPB Program empowers local governments to lead in sustainability. With WSB’s expertise, cities can navigate the grant process, maximize funding, and implement impactful solar projects. This program not only reduces energy costs and environmental impact but also positions cities as leaders in innovation and sustainability. Embracing this program is a significant step towards a cleaner, greener future. Contact us today to get help starting the application process.

Ameer leads and executes complex renewable energy projects, with a demonstrated expertise in managing teams, optimizing project lifecycles, and delivering innovative solutions. His project management experience includes planning, scheduling, budgeting, risk assessment and stakeholder management. He is passionate about renewable energy technologies, such as solar, battery storage and EV charging.

[email protected] | 763.388.3493

Professional Engineers Protect Public Health, Safety and Welfare

October 15, 2024
By Jim Stremel, Sr Professional Engineer, WSB

In today’s rapidly evolving world, the pressure on public infrastructure to meet the increasing demands of population growth, environmental changes, and technology has never been greater. As we navigate these challenges, the role of professional engineers in the public sector has become indispensable. These engineers are at the forefront of designing, constructing, and maintaining the essential systems and structures that serve our communities, from roads and bridges to water treatment facilities and sewer collections systems.

Employing a professional engineer for modernizing infrastructure seems like a logical requirement, but few people understand how licensure is related to the profession. Similar to how doctors view the Hippocratic oath, professional engineers are not only dedicated but required to protect public health, safety, and welfare. Professional engineers bring a blend of technical expertise, innovative thinking, and strategic planning to the table. They are not just problem solvers but also visionaries who foresee needs and challenges in the future. For instance, the integration of smart technologies into infrastructure projects can enhance efficiency and sustainability. Imagine roads that charge electric cars as they drive, or bridges equipped with sensors to monitor health and safety in real time. These are no longer figments of imagination but real possibilities with modern engineering.

However, the path to modernizing public infrastructure is fraught with complexities. Engineers must navigate regulatory environments, budget constraints, and the need for public consensus. Moreover, the ethical implications of large-scale engineering projects require careful consideration to ensure sustainable and equitable solutions. This balance between innovation, practicality, and ethics is where professional engineers truly excel.

Collaboration is another crucial element. By working closely with government officials, community leaders, and the public, engineers help to ensure that projects not only meet technical specifications but also serve the broader community interests. This collaborative approach fosters transparency and trust, which are essential for the successful implementation of any public project.

At WSB, we understand the critical role that professional engineers play in public infrastructure. Our team of experts is dedicated to partnering with government agencies to deliver innovative, sustainable, and cost-effective solutions. Whether it’s revitalizing aging infrastructure or pioneering new projects, WSB is equipped to help navigate the complexities of modern engineering challenges. With our comprehensive services and commitment to excellence, we are here to support our partners in building a safer, more efficient, and sustainable future.

By leveraging our expertise, WSB not only contributes to the physical landscape but also to the well-being and progress of the communities we serve. Let us help you turn visionary plans into reality, ensuring that today’s infrastructure can meet tomorrow’s demands.

Jim is a registered Professional Engineer with over 20 years of experience in civil engineering, design development, and project management. As a civil site design engineer, Jim has worked in all phases of the design and construction process from schematic design, design development, permitting, to administering the bidding process, and construction administration.

[email protected] | 612.419.1549

Benefits of Industrial Parks for Communities

October 15, 2024
By Kim Lindquist, Director of Community Planning & Economic Development, WSB

Industrial parks serve as vital engines for economic growth and development within local communities. By concentrating manufacturing and industrial activities within a designated area, cities and towns can better manage resources, isolate transportation impacts, and promote innovation. These industrial zones facilitate the clustering of businesses, which can lead to increased utility efficiency, reduced transportation costs, and the fostering of symbiotic relationships among companies. Moreover, industrial parks can attract additional investments, create employment opportunities, and stimulate local economies through increased demand for retail commercial services and housing.

Effective planning of industrial parks is crucial to maximize their benefits. City planners should conduct comprehensive feasibility studies to identify suitable locations, considering factors such as proximity to transportation hubs, availability of utilities, infrastructure capacity, and potential environmental impact. Zoning regulations need to be tailored to accommodate the specific requirements of industrial activities while ensuring the surrounding communities are protected from potential nuisances. Additionally, incorporating green spaces and sustainable practices can enhance the environmental and social appeal of these areas, making them more attractive to businesses, workers, and nearby neighbors.

Initiation and development of successful industrial parks requires a multi-faceted approach. Cities may consider offering incentives such as tax increment financing, abatements, or streamlined permitting processes to attract businesses. Collaborating with universities and vocational institutions can also drive innovation, attract start-up business prospects and provide a skilled workforce tailored to the needs of the industrial sector. Public-private partnerships can play a crucial role in financing and managing these projects, ensuring that both public interests and private sector expertise are leveraged effectively. Moreover, community engagement is essential to address any concerns and ensure that the development aligns with the broader goals of the city’s residents.

WSB staff can provide valuable assistance in the planning and development of industrial parks. Our team of experts brings a wealth of experience in community planning, economic development, and environmental sustainability. We offer comprehensive services, from initial feasibility studies and site selection to master planning and project management. By partnering with WSB, cities can ensure that their industrial park projects are executed efficiently, sustainably, and in alignment with their long-term economic and community goals. Our commitment to innovation and excellence ensures that we deliver tailored solutions that meet the unique needs of each city we work with.

Kim is a planning professional with over 30 years of experience overseeing a variety of complex planning projects. She has worked in high growth communities with developers and the public on entitlements for residential development and attracting business to the city.

[email protected] | 763.287.8303

Kim Lindquist

Becoming a Water Positive City

October 15, 2024
By Bill Alms, Sr Project Manager, WSB

As the world grapples with the challenges of climate change and urbanization, the concept of water positivity has emerged as a crucial goal for cities striving for sustainability. Water positivity means a city gives back more water than it consumes, creating a net positive impact on the local water cycle. Achieving this status is not only environmentally responsible but also enhances the resilience and livability of urban areas. Here are some essential tips for city staff on how to transform your city into a water-positive organization.

Implement Efficient Water Management Practices

The first step towards water positivity is to adopt efficient water management practices. This includes the installation of smart water meters and leak detection systems to monitor and reduce water wastage. Cities should invest in upgrading their infrastructure to minimize losses from aging pipelines and optimize water distribution. Additionally, promoting water-saving technologies and practices among residents and businesses can significantly reduce overall consumption.

Invest in Green Infrastructure and Regenerative Landscapes

Green infrastructure, such as rain gardens, green roofs, and permeable pavements, plays a vital role in enhancing water infiltration and reducing runoff. These systems help to recharge groundwater, mitigate flooding, and improve water quality by filtering pollutants. By integrating green infrastructure into urban planning, cities can create more resilient and sustainable environments that support water positivity.

Promote Water Recycling and Reuse

Encouraging water recycling and reuse is another key strategy for achieving water positivity. Cities can implement greywater systems to reuse water from sinks, showers, and laundries for irrigation and other non-potable purposes. Additionally, investing in advanced wastewater treatment technologies can enable the safe reuse of treated effluent for industrial processes, landscape irrigation, and even potable water supply. Educating the public about the benefits and safety of water reuse is crucial for gaining community support.

Enhance Community Engagement and Education

Building a water-positive city requires the active participation of the community. City staff should develop comprehensive education and outreach programs to raise awareness about water conservation and the importance of sustainable water practices. Engaging with local schools, businesses, and community organizations can foster a culture of water stewardship and encourage collective action towards water positivity. Transparency in sharing data and progress can also build trust and motivate residents to contribute to the city’s water goals.

Placing an emphasis on telling the water positive story through engaging dashboards and communication strategies is essential. Effective communication needs to tell the story of why it’s important and allow the community to track their progress towards achieving its water-positive goals. This may be on a 20-50 year timeline, as this transformational shift will not happen in short-term planning horizons.

Collaborate with Experts and Stakeholders

Achieving water positivity is a complex and multidisciplinary task that requires collaboration with experts and stakeholders. Partnering with environmental organizations, academic institutions, and technology providers can provide cities with the knowledge, tools, and resources needed to implement effective water management strategies. Additionally, fostering partnerships with neighboring municipalities and regional authorities can enhance the impact of water-positive initiatives on a larger scale.

In conclusion, transitioning to a water-positive city is a multifaceted endeavor that demands commitment, innovation, and collaboration. At WSB, we have the expertise and resources to support cities in their journey towards water positivity. Our team of experienced professionals can provide tailored solutions and guidance to help you implement efficient water management practices, invest in green infrastructure, promote water recycling, and engage your community. Together, we can create sustainable and resilient urban environments that thrive for generations to come.

Bill is a project manager in WSB’s Water Resources Group with over 10 years of experience serving clients with their water resources engineering needs. Bill’s experience includes planning, design, and construction management for a wide range of water resource projects including water quality treatment BMPS and erosion stabilization.

[email protected] | 952.388.4188

Bill Alms
AEC industry marketing strategies

It’s time to let this marketing relic die

By moving beyond outdated tools, we can foster more meaningful connections, better demonstrate our capabilities, and evolve with the needs of our clients.

October 3, 2024
By Val Brennan, Director of Marketing, WSB

Published by Zweig in the September issue of The Zweig Letter. TZL 1552 (web) (flippingbook.com)

In the dynamic realm of the architecture, engineering, and construction industry, marketing strategies are pivotal for securing client trust and business sustainability. However, traditional methods such as the one-pager are rapidly losing their effectiveness. The one pager, once a staple in marketing toolkits, now represents an outdated approach that can potentially limit a firm’s market perception and success.

The service-first conundrum. For decades, one-pagers have been the go-to marketing material, typically leading with a detailed list of services. This method, while straightforward, inherently restricts a firm’s narrative to a narrow scope. Clients, especially in the AEC sector, look for partners, not just service providers. When we lead with services, we risk being pigeonholed, recognized only for specific capabilities rather than as a comprehensive solution provider. This not only diminishes our appeal but also caps our potential engagements.

A crutch for the sales-averse. Sales is an art, particularly in technical fields where the nuances of services are complex and varied. The reliance on one-pagers has inadvertently become a security blanket for those uncomfortable with direct selling. This trend is counterproductive. While a one-pager can neatly summarize a service, it cannot replace the human element crucial in sales – empathy, adaptability, and the ability to engage. By over-relying on these documents, we prevent our staff from fully developing these essential skills, ultimately impacting our firm’s ability to connect and resonate with potential clients.

Misaligned meeting approaches. The most strategic error with one-pagers is their tendency to dictate the flow of client meetings. Successful client interactions are not about inundating prospects with prepackaged information but about listening – understanding their challenges and tailoring our dialogue to address these issues. A one-pager encourages a monologue when the need of the hour is a dialogue. It is imperative that we shift our approach to one that prioritizes listening, thus fostering a more consultative and client-centric relationship.

A strategic shift in approach. Transitioning from the one-pager mentality involves a strategic overhaul. We start by setting clear goals and identifying our target audiences. From there, we develop key messages that resonate deeply with these groups. Only then do we select the appropriate tactics. This comprehensive strategy allows us to utilize the full spectrum of marketing and sales tools at our disposal, effectively moving our clients and prospects to action. By adopting this holistic approach, we ensure that all communications are purpose-driven and tailored, maximizing impact and engagement.

Let the one-pager die. The death of the one-pager is not an end but a beginning – an opportunity to innovate our approach to marketing and client engagement in the AEC industry. By moving beyond these outdated tools, we can foster more meaningful connections, demonstrate our full spectrum of capabilities, and, most importantly, evolve alongside the needs of our clients.

“For decades, one-pagers have been the go-to marketing material, typically leading with a detailed list of services. This method, while straightforward, inherently restricts a firm’s narrative to a narrow scope. Clients, especially in the AEC sector, look for partners, not just service providers.”

In the era of holistic service and partnership, listening and personalized engagement are the keys to unlocking true business potential.

Val, Director of Marketing at WSB, brings over 15 years of experience in shaping and executing comprehensive marketing and communications strategies. Her expertise lies in her ability to develop strategic plans that resonate across the company. Renowned for her authentic and user-centric approach, Val collaborates effectively with clients to elevate brand experiences and boost service performance. She consistently sets benchmarks in strategic communications, with a meticulous attention to detail that ensures every initiative connects deeply with its intended audience.

Val Brennan
transportation Texas

Q&A with Kelly Selman | VP of Transportation

September 26, 2024

Kelly Selman

Kelly is Vice President of Transportation and supports efforts in the Texas region. Kelly has over 37 years of innovative transportation experience and has completed a successful 32-year career with the Texas Department of Transportation. Before retiring from TxDOT, he was the Dallas District Engineer responsible for a $32 billion portfolio of transportation projects.

Q: What makes you excited about joining WSB?

I am thrilled to join WSB and be part of a growing business. It is an exciting and challenging journey to be a part of. Starting from scratch and growing into a national business is a rewarding experience. It means more to see us at the national level, and I look forward to facing the many challenges that come with it. Part of being curious is taking everything in, the good and the bad and in business, that is what you see. Through adversity we learn and can take that knowledge and expand to new markets. Through a steadfast commitment to quality, our team of experts work with many communities across the U.S. to bring their projects to life.  It’s a rewarding experience.

Q: What makes WSB different than other Architecture, Engineering, Construction (AEC) companies?

WSB’s curiosity and commitment to continuously improving the way we do things is what makes WSB different from other AEC firms. WSB could do the same thing day-in and day-out, but we are always looking for opportunities to improve upon and expand our service offerings to best serve our clients, both today and in the future.

Q: What are the benefits of being a consultant engineer?

I joined WSB’s leadership team when our former firm, EST, joined WSB. WSB is structured to support growth and when you are expanding across the nation, that is one of the most important factors in a business. We have a lot more work and the teams we have in place will sustain us and allows us to meet necessary infrastructure needs for many communities.

WSB has good systems in place to support the many partner services we have. We can collaborate and rely on one another. These systems emphasize training and technology to help track projects and succeed in project delivery. Sometimes companies don’t have those opportunities, and it can make it challenging to complete work.

We have positioned WSB as an industry leader through our abilities and commitment to technology expertise.

Q: What makes WSB the best fit to manage Texas’ growing transportation needs?

WSB is the best fit to manage Texas’ growing transportation needs because of our experience. We bring the best talent to WSB. In addition, we often recruit engineers that have DOT experience. Prior to my current role, I was the district engineer at the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT). Several of my other partners had similar roles at DOTs, and now serve in a leadership roles at WSB. This allows us to have a strong understanding of how the DOT works and the structure they use which puts us at an advantage because we know how to manage potential problems. The experience we bring from our design team and the technology we use sets us apart and allows us to manage the growing transportation needs.

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

Although I have been retired from TxDOT for six years, I have had almost every job at TxDOT. I worked my way through the organization from the ground up and now when I am approaching a set of plans to produce, having that engineer and design experience helps me mentor our younger staff. We have great talent on our team, that is always a plus, but sometimes they don’t have the hands-on experience, and I can help with that. My background and perspective help me explain the importance of putting a project together and showing how it will work not just using computers and technology but at the construction site.

Being able to pass down this knowledge to our younger staff and letting them learn how serious a change order can be to our clients and a set of plans will help our business rise above our competitors. I always tell my staff you don’t want to pretend to know what you are doing, you want to know what you are doing and if you don’t, ask for help.

Q: What do you wish clients knew about WSB and/or your role?

Clients should know that WSB has a tremendous number of resources at a national level, we can assist more communities and face adversity head on. For example, we have a strong survey team which differentiates us from other companies. We will continue establishing WSB both locally and nationally, and clients will see the quality we are producing in each community we work in.

Q: Where do you see the future of North Texas transportation?

There is an unbelievable amount of growth in the future of North Texas transportation. It doesn’t seem to be slowing down anytime soon.

WSB’s curiosity and commitment to continuously improving the way we do things is what makes WSB different from other AEC firms.

We are in a great place with the surrounding counties, and they are all experiencing growth.

When there is growth there are going to be infrastructure projects.

When you look at TxDOT and the $10 billion portfolio projects over a ten-year timeline, the opportunities are substantial. There is an incredible amount of work and there will be opportunities for design projects and construction oversight to assist with.

Cities are growing and we have opportunities to support their infrastructure needs as well. We are well positioned in our communities, and we continue to grow along with them.

Q: What is your favorite part about leading the North Texas transportation team?

My favorite part is teaching young staff and passing along lessons learned. When you see the staff, you are working alongside develop and grow, you feel good about what you are passing down. They are continuing the legacy of supporting counties and the communities we serve. We have partnerships win the community, the state and the county and we want to make an impact. I like the fact that I can look back on what I have done and what I have taught as a leader and know that I was a part of something bigger. Passing down knowledge to the younger generation and knowing that they will only improve on it from when you were in charge is what is most important.

solving water issues

From the Great Lakes to the Gulf of Mexico: Solving Water Issues

September 19, 2024
By Karla Lopez, Senior Graduate Engineer, WSB

Creating Sustainable solutions for diverse environmental conditions.

From daily life to supply chains and beyond, water plays a key role in our world, especially in Texas. In the Lone Star State scarcity like droughts is a common issue in some areas, and more regular rainfall is quite common in others. Comparatively, states like Minnesota far more regularly experience flooding from heavy rains or snowfall which require different ideas and solutions for water management.

Water Allocation and Project Resiliency

Water resource management is critical for every city, especially in arid climates like Texas. Ensuring infrastructure can withstand inclement weather while following natural drainage paths is key. As engineers, we strive to design and implement drainage systems to collect and convey stormwater runoff to minimize the likelihood and impact of floods on communities, infrastructure and properties. Initial project planning includes improvising and adjusting the land around the site while attempting to mimic the existing natural drainage pattern using storm drains and other techniques However, a lack of proper infrastructure can inhibit proper drainage systems.

When infrastructure development begins it requires copious amounts of planning. First, surveying is required to ensure the infrastructure is not being built in a floodplain zone. Maps from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and other agencies are used to model existing water levels as a metric for the new project to prevent an increase in flooding. One of the primary goals in using these maps is to ensure that the project does not increase the previous amounts of water discharge. Caution must be taken to prevent increases in water quantities at any construction site. Additionally, in areas like Texas, the infrastructure needs to withstand natural disasters like hurricanes, tornadoes and coastal flooding.

Improving Water Quality

Infrastructure is only one facet of the issues different communities face. Water purification is a key component of water management, especially when dealing with dirty water. Before collected water is discharged into a river or lake, it goes through different cleaning processes, like filtration ponds, rain gardens and more. Some communities may have proper drainage systems but may not have up-to-date purification systems. This can lead to disparities in the quality of water between different communities.

Differing Climates from State to State

In making state to state comparisons, projects in Texas and Minnesota must work with regulations in both states. Texas is under near-constant threat of a lengthy dry season due to the heat and rare rains. Texas relies heavily on groundwater resources, but due to water scarcity and drought problems the state is facing, the groundwater is depleting. Thus, the regulations in Texas are not as strict as Minnesota’s rules, but that is a double-edged sword. Less regulations can lead to more pollution of water or greater deterioration while more regulation in Minnesota requires far more planning and permitting which slows down projects.

Minnesota, meanwhile, manages the threat of flooding, requiring a thoughtful approach to drainage. There is heavy reliance on watershed assessments which are taken incredibly seriously, especially with the massive number of lakes in the state. Exceptional care is taken to prevent the Land of 10,000 Lakes from becoming polluted due to old or malfunctioning infrastructure.

Tackling Water Issues from Rains to Droughts

Engineering and water management is both an art and a science that requires a careful approach to account for a variety of factors. This is true whether a project is being built to withstand a hurricane or ensuring a project does not cause heavy snowfall to flood neighboring homes. The United States makes up a wide variety of climates with an equally wide variety of potential water related issues that need to be navigated. Like with the varying communities in Texas, all construction projects need to be treated with care whether facing droughts or heavy rains or somewhere else in between.

Karla brings a wealth of experience in environmental engineering and climate resilience to her role as a Senior Graduate Engineer at WSB. Prior to joining the team, she was a research fellow at the NOAA Center for Earth System Sciences and Remote Sensing Technologies (CESSRST) and an intern at Duke Energy focusing on environmental compliance. Her work has consistently centered around supporting community resilience, particularly for underserved communities, through advanced hydrology, hydraulics, and water quality modeling. Karla’s unique approach combines social sciences with engineering to enhance the quality of life in local communities, reflecting her deep commitment to integrating technical expertise with community needs.

North Dakota

From Coast to Plains: WSB’s Commitment to North Dakota’s Future

September 12, 2024
By Anthony Sommerfeld, PE, Project Manager, WSB

In a nation as vast as ours, understanding and addressing the unique needs of every community is a formidable challenge. In North Dakota we face challenges with aging infrastructure and managing urban growth while preserving our rural landscape. It requires a blend of broad national experience with a deep, personal appreciation of local nuances. As WSB invests in our municipal service offerings in North Dakota, we bring with us a commitment that is twofold – leveraging our national knowledge to empower local communities, while rooting our efforts deeply in the local culture and needs.

Embracing our Local Roots

We understand that the heart of North Dakota isn’t just found in its expansive plains or the rugged badlands, but in the spirit of the people who call it home. As we continue to grow our presence in Fargo and Bismarck, our goal is to intertwine WSB’s comprehensive expertise with North Dakota’s local ethos. Our investment is not just about growing our firm, but about nurturing the communities we serve with tailored solutions that respect their heritage and ambitions.

A Personal Connection with Professional Depth

Choosing WSB means opting for a partner who not only offers a wide array of services but understands why each project matters on a personal level. Our decision to deepen our roots in North Dakota stems from a recognition of the state’s burgeoning potential and the unique challenges faced by its communities. Our engineers and professionals, many of whom hail from the region, bring with them not just technical expertise, but a personal investment in the community’s growth and well-being.

Understanding and Integrating into North Dakota’s Social Fabric

WSB’s approach is heavily anchored in the understanding that local insights lead to more sustainable and accepted solutions. Our team members, many of whom grew up in the very communities they now serve, bring a nuanced understanding of what it means to live and work in North Dakota. This intrinsic knowledge guides our projects, ensuring they not only address infrastructural needs but also enhance the community’s way of life.

The WSB Advantage

With WSB, communities across North Dakota can access a spectrum of services tailored to their unique environmental, economic, and social landscapes. From infrastructure engineering to environmental consulting, our offerings are designed to advance local priorities with national-level expertise. Now is an opportune time for local leaders to explore what a partnership with WSB could mean for their community’s future.

As we invest in North Dakota, our commitment is clear: to deliver not just projects, but progress. To not just work in North Dakota, but to work with North Dakota, understanding its heart, and enhancing its communities with every project we undertake.

Connect with Us at the North Dakota League of Cities Conference

We’re thrilled to announce that WSB will be participating in the upcoming North Dakota League of Cities Conference. Come find us at booth #44, where we’re eager to engage with you. I’m looking forward to exploring the unique challenges your community faces and discussing how we can tailor our support to meet your future needs.

Anthony Sommerfeld is a Professional Engineer specializing in municipal engineering, with over a decade of experience in design and construction. Throughout his career, Anthony has played a pivotal role in master planning and leading design teams for both new developments and reconstruction projects. His approach to each project combines innovation with goal-oriented perspective, and consistently seeking effective solutions. Anthony’s dedication and skill in managing complex projects have made him a valuable leader in the engineering community.

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