Acquisition expands WSB’s services to the western U.S.
Design and consulting firm WSB today announced that they have finalized the acquisition of Peaks to Plains Design, an award-winning landscape architecture, civil engineering and planning firm based in Billings, Montana. The acquisition represents progress towards WSB’s strategic growth goals and will help to strengthen the firm’s presence in the western United States.
Peaks to Plains Design was founded in 2003 by Jolene Rieck. The firm is known for their collaborative approach with clients from ideation to implementation. Significant market areas include parks and recreation, transportation enhancements and sustainable site design. Their portfolio includes work nationally, but their primary focus is in Montana, Wyoming, South Dakota and North Dakota.
“We are thrilled to add Jolene and Peaks to Plains Design to our WSB team,” said Bret Weiss, WSB president and CEO. “Our firm has expanded operations nationally, and Jolene’s impressive portfolio and experience will be a strong addition to our firm as we continue to expand in that direction.”
Rieck joins WSB as director of landscape architecture – western region. She brings 22 years of experience practicing landscape architecture and planning. She will merge the high-quality reputations of both firms to empower clients to advance their economic competitiveness, inspire creative placemaking and implement smart infrastructure to improved quality of life. She will help build business while providing leadership to the growing landscape architecture team. In addition, Rieck will be key in collaborating across WSB’s divisions and groups.
“We have been searching for the right person to help expand and lead our growing business and couldn’t be more pleased to have Jolene on our team,” said Jason Amberg, WSB’s director of landscape architecture. “She is well-respected within the profession and brings a wealth of creative talents and experience to WSB.”
Prior to joining WSB, Rieck served as the chief of planning and programs for North Dakota’s Department of Parks and Recreation. She was responsible for strategic leadership, natural resources, motorized and non-motorized trails, grants, planning and construction. She also was an executive staff officer with the North Dakota Department of Transportation. Rieck holds a Bachelor of Landscape Architecture and a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Design from North Dakota State University.
“I chose WSB because of their alignment with my firm in values, business goals and innovative thinking,” said Rieck. “I am excited to work closely with the team to build the places, spaces and systems that support our lives.”
In addition to Rieck, Gordon Lemmel joins WSB as a landscape architect from Peaks to Plains Design. Rieck and Lemmel will operate from WSB’s Bismarck, North Dakota office.
