Culture

News and Insights

A marathon of a career: Rod Petschauer reflects on 16 years at Atwell

 

After nearly 16 years with Atwell and 32 years as a Chief Financial Officer (CFO), Rod Petschauer is preparing for his next chapter: retirement. During his time at Atwell, Rod helped guide our company through the aftermath of the 2008 recession, tremendous growth, and nearly 30 acquisitions. As he gets ready to say goodbye, we sat down with Rod to reflect on the journey, the people who made it meaningful, and what comes next.

What first brought you to Atwell nearly 16 years ago?

I was at a point in my career where I needed to do something different. I had spent most of my career in the New York City area, and at the time, I was Chief Financial Officer for an architecture and interior design firm headquartered in the Empire State Building. The architecture and engineering industry was still struggling to emerge from the 2008 recession.

As I searched for opportunities, I felt that there was something different about the people I met at Atwell. Something about the leadership team, including Brian Wenzel, Dan McNulty, Tim Augustine, and Matt Bissett, caught my attention. I saw something in them, and I decided, “I’m going to take a shot and go with them.”

Moving from New Jersey to southeast Michigan, where I didn’t know a soul, was an adventure. But from the beginning, we were aligned on our strategy and what we needed to accomplish.

What do you remember about those early days at Atwell?

They were challenging. As with many businesses at the time, the aftermath of the 2008 recession had taken a toll. We had a lot of work ahead of us.

What stands out to me is how well our leadership team worked together. We trusted each other, stayed focused on our responsibilities, and stuck together through an incredibly difficult financial period. Month by month, we got back on track.

How did your role change as Atwell grew?

Every year as CFO brought something new.

As Atwell became financially stronger, we were able to shift from relying primarily on organic growth to making acquisitions an important part of our growth strategy. We’ve completed nearly 30 acquisitions since 2014, ranging from smaller firms to much larger additions. My role had to continually evolve to support that growth and the increasing scale and complexity of Atwell.

There were also moments no one could have anticipated. When COVID-19 arrived in 2020, for example, we met with our leaders virtually every week to navigate what was happening and determine what the company needed. When I look at Atwell today and consider how much larger and stronger we’ve become, the scale of that change is remarkable.

What accomplishments from your time at Atwell make you especially proud?

There are many, but strengthening Atwell financially and helping create a foundation for growth is certainly one of them.

In 2024, we secured a senior credit facility with a four-bank team led by Bank of America. That gave Atwell additional financial capacity to accelerate our acquisition strategy and continue investing in growth.

But I’m equally proud of the people I’ve had an opportunity to mentor along the way. I’ve encouraged younger members of our team to continue their education, pursue a master’s degree in accounting when it made sense for them, and sit for the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) exam. Seeing people take those steps and grow professionally has been extremely rewarding.

What has been the most rewarding part of serving as Atwell’s Chief Financial Officer?

The people. I’ve had the opportunity to work with a best-in-class team, from our senior leaders to employees throughout the Atwell family of companies.

When I think about where we were in 2010 and where Atwell is today, I’m incredibly proud of what our team accomplished together. You don’t go through an experience like that without developing very strong professional and emotional ties to a company and its people. I certainly have those ties to Atwell.

Is there one Atwell memory that stands out?

There are too many to choose just one, but seeing everyone together at our company celebration in Las Vegas in 2024 was extremely rewarding.

To be able to invite our employees to celebrate what we had accomplished together—and to have a private Carrie Underwood concert as part of it—was pretty incredible. For me, seeing all of our people there was the most meaningful part. It represented how far Atwell had come.

There are plenty of other memories, too, including annual trips and time spent outside the office with colleagues who became good friends along the way. Those relationships are a big reason why it’s hard to say goodbye.

How does it feel to be retiring after everything you’ve experienced with Atwell?

It’s hard to say goodbye, but I know it’s time for someone else to take over. I couldn’t have written a better script for my time here.

I moved from New Jersey to Michigan without knowing a soul, took a chance on a company and a group of people I believed in, and had the opportunity to be part of an incredible transformation. I’m very grateful for that.

What are you looking forward to most in retirement?

Time with my family. I’m looking forward to spending more time with my wife, my children, and my grandchildren. That’s a part of my life I want more of.

I met a lovely woman just three months after moving to Michigan. After 16 years of due diligence, we recently got married, and I feel very blessed. We’re looking forward to traveling, including a trip to Barcelona, seeing more of the United States, and simply enjoying our time together.

After a career that has always felt like a marathon, I’m ready for that next adventure.

News and Insights

Atwell through an intern’s eyes


By Natalie Friis, Intern, Atwell

As a recent college graduate, I wasn’t sure what to expect from my marketing internship at Atwell. I prepared myself for the possibility of days spent fetching coffee or updating spreadsheets, the stereotypical tasks that often come to mind when you picture an intern. But by the end of my first day, those assumptions quickly disappeared.  I wasn’t observing from the sidelines; I was contributing. I was trusted with meaningful projects that supported real business initiatives, and I felt like a valued member of the Marketing team.

Throughout the summer, I had the opportunity to work on a wide range of projects, including graphics design, social media content creation, presentation design, and even helping to develop an illustration identity. Whether I was updating cutsheet templates or researching brand strategy, I was challenged creatively in ways I had never been before.

Because Marketing partners with nearly every part of the business, I was able to gain a unique perspective on Atwell’s culture and the people behind the work. I’m finishing this internship with three main takeaways:

Takeaway #1: Relationships matter most. 

With so many major projects happening across the country, I worried that I would feel like a tiny fish in a big pond. However, that worry disappeared during my very first team meeting. The Marketing team was welcoming, personable, and genuinely interested in what I had to offer as an intern. They wanted to know my strengths, my interests, and the skills I hoped to develop. They gave me meaningful projects that challenged me and were always available whenever I had questions.

Before my start date, I met with my supervisor. She asked me what I enjoyed working on most and what skills I wanted to grow throughout my internship. Since then, my projects have reflected exactly what I shared in that conversation. My ideas felt heard, and I truly felt valued.

Working in the Atwell Tampa office also allowed me to experience Atwell’s team-driven culture firsthand. Employees genuinely work as a team. Everyone knows what everyone else is working on. They’ll gather around a desk to solve a problem, celebrate each other’s successes, and never hesitate to offer a helping hand. Beyond their relationships with one another, they build strong connections with contractors that create trust and long-term partnerships.

Simply put, Atwell loves its people…and it shows. Its greatest strength lies in the meaningful relationships it builds, creating an environment of trust and support that encourages everyone to do their best work.

Takeaway #2: You are not expected to know everything.

You are not expected to know everything. In fact, curiosity is encouraged.

Believe me, I came into this role with a lot of questions. At first, I was embarrassed that I didn’t know all the (many) acronyms or how to navigate a request for proposal (RFP). But the more questions I asked, the more I realized that my supervisors welcomed them with enthusiasm. They expected me to want to learn, clarify, and understand. I learned from watching my supervisors and colleagues that being attentive and inquisitive isn’t a weakness, it’s professionalism. In an industry where there is always more to learn, curiosity is a strength.

I also had the opportunity to watch this mindset in action. Two fellow interns worked in the Tampa office with me this summer, and from day one they were given challenging assignments involving new software, new projects, and unfamiliar expectations. Every day seemed to bring something new to learn. Sometimes they asked quick questions that only needed a one-word answer. Other times, several engineers would gather around their computer, talking through the best solution together.

No matter the question, someone was always willing to help. The Tampa office genuinely wanted us interns to learn and grow, and they created an environment where asking questions was encouraged. Atwell creates an environment where people want to keep learning. Curiosity-driven people are a big part of what makes the company successful, and that’s something I’ll carry with me throughout my career.

Takeaway #3: These people love what they do. 

In June, I had the incredible opportunity to travel to Atwell’s headquarters in Michigan for a Marketing Summit. During this trip, I met the team in person, learned more about Marketing’s role within Atwell, heard about the successes and goals for 2026, participated in fun team-building activities, and met some amazing leaders across the company. I left this trip with one overwhelming impression: everyone genuinely cares.

Every presentation I saw was filled with excitement and pride. Every discussion reflected a passion for both the industry and the company. Every handshake came with genuine enthusiasm to welcome new people into the Atwell family. People at Atwell love what they do, and I that has been evident in every conversation I’ve had throughout this internship.

Going above and beyond isn’t the exception at Atwell, it’s the standard. People want the best for their projects, their colleagues, their clients, and the company. There is nothing more motivating than witnessing that firsthand.

My internship at Atwell was far more than insightful. When I started this internship, I hoped to gain experience. I left with something much more valuable: a clearer picture of the kind of professional I want to become and the kind of company I hope to be a part of. As a fresh college graduate, I’ve found it difficult to define exactly what my dream job looks like. But I’ve always known one thing: I want to be surrounded by passionate people who genuinely want to make a difference. Atwell has shown me exactly what that looks like and just how inspiring it can be.

I am grateful for the opportunity to contribute to the AEC industry, and I hope to carry the values I’ve experienced at Atwell into every role I pursue in the future.

News and Insights

Atwell adds Chris Blaze as Director in Survey

Atwell is pleased to welcome Chris Blaze, MS, LLS, PLS, RPLS, as a Director in our Survey group, further strengthening our survey capabilities and strategic growth across the Eastern Great Lakes, Mid-Atlantic, and Northeast regions.

Blaze brings more than two decades of experience leading multidisciplinary surveying teams and delivering complex projects across land and infrastructure development with top engineering consultant firms. In his new role at Atwell, he will help drive our continued expansion, providing operational leadership, supporting project execution, and fostering strong client relationships. Blaze will also play a key role in developing talent and growing teams in strategic markets aligned with Atwell’s long-term growth strategy.

A veteran of the United States Marine Corps, Blaze combines technical expertise with a disciplined, mission-driven approach to project delivery. His experience spans project types ranging from Government to environmental and major land development, boundary, topographic, and easement mapping, as well as bathymetric, and aerial surveying, leveraging technologies such as LiDAR, SLAM, and indoor mobile mapping.

Blaze holds a Master of Science in Survey Engineering Technology and a Bachelor of Science with a minor in Cadastral Land Surveying. He is a Licensed Land Surveyor (LLS) in Connecticut, a Professional Land Surveyor (PLS) in Maine, and Rhode Island, and a Registered Professional Land Surveyor (RPLS) in Pennsylvania.

With Blaze joining the team, Atwell is well positioned to continue expanding its survey presence in key markets, supporting clients with innovative solutions while investing in the people and partnerships that drive long-term success.

Please join us in welcoming Chris Blaze, MS, LLS, PLS, RPLS, to Atwell.

News and Insights

Ken Schramm on leadership, innovation, and the future of surveying in the power and energy sector

From retracing the footsteps of historic surveyors in the American West to leading teams supporting critical energy infrastructure nationwide, Ken Schramm has built a career defined by technical expertise, leadership, and a passion for the surveying profession. In his new role as Senior Director of Power and Energy Surveying Operations at Atwell, Ken is helping to expand our national surveying capabilities and continuously improve the services we deliver to power and energy clients. We recently sat down with Ken to learn more about his career path as a surveyor, industry insights, and what excites him most about the future.

What inspired you to pursue a career in land surveying, and how has that evolved into supporting large-scale power and energy projects across the country?

My father was a professional land surveyor, and growing up around the profession gave me an early appreciation for the role surveyors play in shaping the built environment. As I got older, I realized surveying was a natural fit for my interests and strengths. I enjoyed mathematics, geodetic concepts, and problem solving, but I also loved being outdoors and working in different environments.

What really captured my imagination was the blend of science, history, and investigation. Particularly in cadastral surveying throughout the western United States, there is an element of archaeology and detective work involved. You’re retracing the footsteps of the original surveyors, interpreting historical records, recovering monuments, and piecing together evidence that may be over a century old.

My career evolved from solving technical challenges into leading teams and supporting large-scale power and energy projects all across the country. Today I’m motivated by developing people, advancing our profession, and helping build our nation’s critical energy infrastructure.

Tell us about what brought you to Atwell. What has stood out to you about the company’s culture and approach to solving client challenges?

I was drawn to the quality of people and opportunity for growth. Early on, I sat down with Matt Bissett (President and CEO) to discuss his vision for the future, centered on growth, innovation, and investing in people. It was clear that Atwell’s future would be people-driven, and that resonated with me. I’ve always believed that great companies are founded on great teams.

I’ve also been impressed with Atwell’s willingness to think creatively when solving client challenges. There is a strong entrepreneurial spirit throughout the company, combined with a collaborative culture across disciplines and geographies.

This is a new role at Atwell. What excites you most about the opportunity?

What excites me most is the opportunity to help build and scale a national surveying platform. As we continue to grow, there’s an opportunity to strengthen collaboration across regions, create consistency in service delivery, and ensure we continue providing an exceptional client experience.

What challenges come with serving clients and building teams on a national scale, and how do you navigate them?

One of the biggest challenges is maintaining consistency across multiple regions while still recognizing that every market and project has unique needs. Success depends on clear communication, strong quality standards, and a culture where teams openly share knowledge and support one another. Building that culture requires ongoing mentorship and investment in people.

How have emerging technologies changed the surveying industry during your career, and how has your role evolved alongside those changes?

The surveying industry has changed dramatically over the course of my career. These advancements have improved efficiency and expanded the amount of information we can deliver to clients. However, technology hasn’t replaced the need for experienced professionals. While collecting data is easier than ever, ensuring that data is accurate, reliable, and defensible still requires a strong understanding of surveying principles, geodetic concepts, coordinate systems, and sound professional judgment.

My role has evolved alongside those changes. Today, I work with leaders and teams across the country to establish standards, improve processes, and promote consistent execution across projects. As power, energy, and infrastructure projects become larger and more complex, I take pride in helping ensure our clients can rely on the survey data that serves as the foundation for critical decisions.

Looking ahead, where do you see the biggest opportunities for growth and innovation in the power and energy sector?

Demand for infrastructure, renewable energy, transmission, and grid modernization continues to grow, and surveyors will play a critical role in supporting those projects. As the complexity and scale of projects increase, the need for highly skilled survey professionals and reliable geospatial data will only become more important. One of my goals is to help develop programs and talent that make Atwell the unquestionable choice for land surveying services.

I also believe emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence (AI), present exciting opportunities for our profession. With the potential to improve efficiency, assist with data management, identify patterns, and help automate repetitive tasks, I view AI as a tool that should enhance our work and empower the critical thinking, judgment, and technical knowledge of our professionals. Organizations that combine strong fundamentals with thoughtful innovation will lead the future of our industry.

What is a career moment you’re particularly proud of, and why does it stand out?

While I’ve been fortunate to lead and support some very challenging and rewarding projects, I’m most proud of the impact I’ve had on people. The surveying profession has faced ongoing challenges in attracting and developing the next generation of surveyors, particularly younger professionals, women, and future licensed surveyors. I’ve had the opportunity to mentor and work alongside many talented professionals as they developed their technical skills and leadership abilities.

There is nothing more rewarding to me than seeing someone grow from an entry-level professional into a trusted leader, project manager, or licensed surveyor.

What do enjoy outside of work?

Family is my first priority. Spending time with family is incredibly important to me, and living in Wyoming gives us plenty of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors together through hunting, fishing, camping, and other outdoor activities. My daughter was just married, and I couldn’t be prouder of her.

During the winter months, my wife and I enjoy spending quality time together working on home improvement projects. She has a real talent for interior design, and I enjoy helping bring her ideas to life. It’s something we enjoy doing together and a great way to stay busy during the colder months.

And lastly, golf is probably my biggest personal passion. Golf is a game that constantly challenges you to improve, no matter how long you’ve been playing, and I think that’s one of the reasons I enjoy it so much.

News and Insights

How Atwell is deepening its roots in Nashville

 

There’s a reason that leading corporations (and engineering and infrastructure firms) are paying close attention to Nashville. The city, long known for its music scene and Southern charm, has quietly become one of the most dynamic and strategically important markets in the country. And Atwell is leaning in.

Over the past year, Atwell has been steadily enhancing its Nashville presence, building a team that now numbers close to a dozen professionals. That growth hasn’t happened by accident. It reflects a distinct recognition that Nashville sits at the intersection of several of the most active sectors in land development and civil engineering: mixed-use urban, healthcare infrastructure, and fast-moving private development. For a firm with national reach and local talent, the timing couldn’t be better.

Nashville’s appeal starts with its economics. The city has emerged as a major healthcare hub serving as home to HCA Healthcare, the largest for-profit hospital operator in the country, along with other significant operators, including Community Health Systems and Acadia Healthcare. These companies don’t just bring hospitals; they bring corporate operations and project pipelines that stretch across dozens of states.

For a national engineering firm with leading professionals that know and love Nashville, it creates a powerful dynamic: local relationships with decision-makers, combined with the ability to leverage experience across dozens of cities. It’s an efficient model that turns local presence into national productivity.

Beyond healthcare, Nashville’s core has experienced a sustained wave of mixed-use and multi-family development. Infill projects combining residential density with retail components have reshaped entire neighborhoods, attracting developers who value teams that can move quickly, communicate clearly, and manage multiple active projects simultaneously. This complex, fast-paced, client-service-oriented work is precisely the kind of market where Atwell’s culture and capabilities shine.

The foundation for Atwell’s Nashville operation was laid through years of relationship-building and market development, with team members already active in the region before the recent growth in staffing. That groundwork, which included establishing credibility, connecting with local developers, and building familiarity with the local landscape has positioned the office for accelerated growth.

One recent addition to the team reflects both the office’s momentum and the caliber of talent it is attracting. Matthew Hamby, a Nashville native and Tennessee Tech University graduate, joined Atwell as Senior Director with nearly a decade of experience in the AEC industry, along with additional consulting leadership experience. Hamby’s background spans some of the sectors with the greatest opportunity in the region. He has built deep client relationships across the Nashville development community and brings firsthand knowledge of the local market’s rhythms, players, and opportunities.

What drew Hamby to Atwell, he says, wasn’t just the work, but the culture. He was drawn to a privately owned company that prioritizes its people, its clients, and long-term relationship-building over short-term projects. “I’m a true believer that a rising tide raises all ships,” Hamby said. “Being part of a firm where the focus is on process improvement, training, and genuine client service is exactly where I wanted to be for the long haul.”

That entrepreneurial mindset and client-first philosophy aligns naturally with how Atwell operates, and it’s the kind of perspective the Nashville office will emphasize as it continues to grow. Hamby’s arrival adds senior-level depth to a team already gaining traction in the market and signals that the office is entering a new phase of development. The combination of a thriving healthcare economy, an active private development community, strong population growth, and an increasingly sophisticated urban core makes Tennessee one of the most compelling regions in the Southeast.

With an expanding local team, a growing project portfolio, and leadership that knows the market from the ground up, Atwell’s Nashville office is positioned to grow with the city and to help shape what it becomes.

News and Insights

Atwell adds Mike Bruen and Matt Lawrence to drive strategic growth in the Mid-Atlantic region

Atwell is pleased to welcome Mike Bruen and Matt Lawrence to the team, with Bruen joining as a strategic advisor and Lawrence taking on a key leadership role in our Northern Virginia market. In their respective roles, they will work closely with our executive leadership team to expand our presence in the Mid-Atlantic region, strengthen client relationships, and support long-term strategic growth.

Mike Bruen brings more than 30 years of experience in the built environment and engineering services industry, along with deep expertise in leadership, business development, and operations. He will focus on driving strategic growth across the broader Mid-Atlantic region, leveraging his experience to identify new market opportunities and guide regional expansion efforts. Throughout his career, he has held senior executive roles focused on growth strategy, market expansion, and leading cross-disciplinary teams. He previously served as President and Chief Operating Officer at a national consulting and engineering firm, where he helped guide significant growth and organizational transformation.

Matt Lawrence brings over 25 years of experience in the built environment and engineering services industry and will lead Atwell’s Northern Virginia operations. He previously served as Associate Vice President and Principal Engineer at a leading design and consulting firm, where he directed teams to deliver large-scale, data center and community development projects throughout Northern Virginia. His work spans some of the region’s most demanding hyperscale and mixed-use developments, requiring deep expertise in entitlements, infrastructure design, and multi-stakeholder coordination. At Atwell, he will play a critical role in accelerating regional growth, strengthening key client partnerships, and advancing our position as a leader in delivering complex land development solutions.

News and Insights

Tim Miller invited to the Colorado School of Mines to help shape the next generation of natural gas leaders

 

We sat down with Tim Miller, Associate Director, Oil and Gas, to talk about what it means to teach at the prestigious Colorado School of Mines Natural Gas Processing Course and why the opportunity is meaningful to him. He shared his perspective on the industry, the importance of mentorship, and how he’s helping prepare the next generation of natural gas professionals.

What does it mean to you personally to be invited to teach in a program with nearly five decades of history? 

It’s a huge honor to be invited, and honestly, not something I ever expected would happen for me. This course has been a starting point for so many people in the Denver area, so being trusted to help introduce a new generation to the natural gas industry really means a lot.

How did this opportunity come about? Can you share some of your experience? 

Like most opportunities, this one came through staying connected and building on existing relationships. Tim Rollenhagen actually recruited me for my first role at URS, so we’ve known each other for quite a while. We reconnected at the National GPA midstream convention, where he brought up the course and asked if I’d be interested. From there, it all came together.

 Why is this short course so highly regarded in the gas processing industry? 

The course offers a really solid overview of the industry for a wide range of people. You’ll see a lot of executives or folks with nontechnical backgrounds who need to understand how the industry works, and it gives them that foundation without requiring engineering coursework. It also has a long history. The people who started it 50 years ago were true pioneers, and over time the instructors have continued that legacy. They’re leaders in their fields and often at the forefront of new technologies, which is a big part of what makes the course so well respected.

Which parts of the curriculum are you most excited to teach? 

I’m still figuring out exactly which sections I’ll be teaching, but it will likely focus on areas like compression, gas dehydration, and field operations.

From wellhead to market, where do you see the most innovation happening today? 

I’m seeing a lot of innovation around optimization and making better use of the technology we already have. It’s really about how we can put the right pieces together to deliver the same quality facilities in a more streamlined way, so they can get to market faster, more efficiently, and at a lower cost.

How does participating in a program like this strengthen relationships with clients and industry peers?

 It helps strengthen relationships in a lot of ways. Many of our clients take this course, so it’s a chance to show both my capabilities and Atwell’s technical expertise. But just as important is the time spent together. Whether it’s in the classroom, at dinners, or working through projects, those shared experiences go a long way in building stronger connections.

What has been the most influential mentorship moment in your own career, and how does that shape how you approach teaching? 

One of the most influential mentorship moments for me came early in my career with another process engineer. He really pushed me to look beyond what I was doing on paper and think about how it actually applies in the real world. Not just getting gas from point A to point B, but how it all comes together. What does it look like when it’s built? How will it be operated and maintained?
He encouraged me to spend time in the field, visit facilities, and talk with operations and other engineers to really understand how things work and how we can make projects better. It shifted my mindset to always ask how something will be implemented and whether it truly makes sense in practice.

That’s something I carry into how I teach as well. I encourage people to get out into the field and, once they’ve worked through a problem, take a step back and ask, “Does this actually make sense in the real world?” We have great tools and software that can give us answers, but if it doesn’t pass that gut check, then it’s worth digging deeper and figuring out how to make it work.

News and Insights

Midwest roots, national reach: Jim D’Alexander on growth, teams, and what’s ahead

 

Having joined the team as part of the Manhard integration, Jim brings deep roots in the Midwest market, a career shaped by economic cycles, and a passion for building the right teams. In this Q&A, he shares what drew him to civil engineering, the lessons that have stayed with him throughout his career, and what he sees ahead for Atwell.

What inspired you to pursue civil engineering and land development?

Growing up, I always liked Legos and taking things apart to figure out how they worked. I had a couple of uncles who were civil engineers, so the field was always somewhere in the back of my mind. The real clarity came in a freshman engineering class in college, where a civil engineer and a mechanical engineer each came in to talk about what their careers looked like. The mechanical engineer described everything from designing roller coaster components to refrigerator bolts. That didn’t appeal to me. What I liked about the civil side was that you can actually see the work: you can drive past it, point it out to your family, and say, “I worked on that.” That connection to the real world, to the places that people live and work, is ultimately what drew me to land development.

Tell us about your career journey leading to Atwell.

I started full-time in 2005 with a local firm of about 100 people. Those early years were a great foundation. When the recession hit after 2008, the firm went through some significant downsizing, but staying through that period made me a more well-rounded engineer. With lean teams, I had the opportunity to manage, design, and draft all at once. You learned everything. In 2011, our group merged with Manhard, and I spent the next 14 years there growing from project manager to Managing Director and Vice President, overseeing the Midwest region, and eventually helping lead operations in Texas . Now, as a VP at Atwell focused on the central region, I’m excited to bring that experience into a bigger, more nationally-scaled platform.

What excites you most about what’s ahead at Atwell and where do you see market opportunities?

A few things stand out. The strength of our teams has created a really strong, combined talent base, and we’re still in the process of getting to know each other and figuring out who can help where and how to build the best teams. That’s actually the fun part to me, connecting the dots between the relationships we have and the expanded services we can now offer. Capabilities like Atwell’s Power and Energy group and our national footprint open doors with existing clients that simply weren’t there before we joined forces.

On the market side, I see strong demand continuing in residential and industrial both in the Midwest and Texas. It seems like the industrial markets have definitely picked up. I would say Chicago has always been a big hub for industrial work and we do an excellent job in that space throughout the country. There’s always a need for industrial buildings and the distribution and distinct types of work that’s been out there which continues to be a strength for us.

Data centers and mission-critical facilities are certainly a significant growth area, and I think the Atwell team has a truly impressive resume there that we’re just beginning to leverage. We’re also working to build out our solar and renewable capabilities in a more focused way, which has real runway. The goal across all of it is to be a full service go-to firm and we have the talent to do that.

What is a career moment or project you’re most proud of?

My very first project out of college was D.R. Horton’s Carillon Club in Naperville. It’s a 220-acre active adult community with a golf course. I jumped in on day one and stayed with it for many years, from early design through completion. It was one plan set after another and an incredible learning opportunity. I still occasionally drive past it. I think about how formative it was to design a large project from start to finish so early in my career. It was also instrumental in learning how to build valuable relationships with our clients. A key component of our job that I tried to replicate with each new client.

More recently, wrapping up a 530-acre adult community for Pulte in Aurora was another highlight. It’s a great reminder of the scale and impact this work can have in the community with the residential and commercial components.

What are the biggest challenges in your work, and how do you navigate them?

In my experience, the hardest parts of the job are rarely the technical ones. They’re the people dynamics. The most rewarding relationships are with clients who treat you like a partner and trusted advisor and genuinely want you as part of their team. When a client calls you first about their next project, that means something. Those are the partnerships where you want to go the extra mile.

What do you enjoy outside of work?

I’ve been married since 2014, and we have two kids. I have an 8-year-old son and 6-year-old daughter. Between his soccer schedule and her gymnastics, our weekends are pretty well organized for us. I try to get out and golf in the summers when I can, though that gets harder as we get busier.

We’ve also made family travel a priority. Disney has become a regular destination over the last couple of years, and we’re trying to keep adding new experiences and locations each year. At this stage in life, most of the best moments happen around what the kids are doing, and that’s a good thing!

News and Insights

“Always something new”: Jesse Conrad on building teams, chasing deals, and what the Atwell-Manhard integration means for Texas

 

Jesse Conrad brings nearly two decades of experience in land development and civil engineering to Atwell. Jesse now helps guide Atwell’s expanding Texas team while leveraging the firm’s broader national platform to pursue new opportunities. We sat down with Jesse to learn more about what drew him to the industry, what it takes to thrive in it, and what the integration of Manhard and Atwell means for the future.

What drew you to a career in real estate and land development?

It really comes down to family. My father worked in real estate, land development, and acquisition, and I had a lot of respect for what he did. Growing up, I spent time driving around half-built subdivisions on the way to and from sporting events. He was always working on something. I was always stronger in math and science and as I got older and learned more about what he did, I seriously considered pursuing it professionally.

I leaned into engineering for my degree, and while I always thought I’d eventually go back for an MBA or a law degree, I got into the industry and just kept learning. There was always something new to understand, something that challenged me. I never felt the pull to step away.

Tell us about your current role and what you’re focused on right now. 

My focus is really supporting our folks in Texas. A big part of that is leveraging the broader Atwell brand and expanded service offerings and geographic footprint alongside relationships I’ve built over nearly 20 years in the industry. On the local side, I’m often supporting team members day-to-day: reviewing proposals, assisting with client conversations, and helping kick off projects on the right foot. In terms of national efforts, I’m pursuing opportunities we simply couldn’t have gone after previously at Manhard, because we didn’t have the right personnel or service offering at the time. That’s been one of the most exciting parts of this chapter.

Share more about your experience with the integration of Manhard and Atwell.

It’s gone as well as it has because of alignment from the top down. Philosophically, both companies were aligned in terms of growth philosophy, on the type of associates we want, and on the type of clients we want to serve. The things Atwell has that Manhard didn’t are so genuinely complementary. It provides more robust opportunity for all our associates to grow within a bigger organization and reach milestones faster than we could have previously.

What are some of the most common challenges in land development, and how do you approach them?

On the client and project side, I always encourage coming in with an open mind and a genuine interest in win-win solutions. You need to understand what the end goal is for the client and for the community. Every community has its own drivers and own definition of success. Before you walk in with a project, especially one that will go through zoning, entitlements, or neighborhood meetings, you need to do your homework. You need to give people a real seat at the table, listen to their concerns, and understand their perspective. That groundwork is what sets up a project for long-term success.

Do you have a favorite phase of a project?

I’m a bit of a deal junkie, honestly. I love the initial stages. It’s creative problem-solving, finding solutions that work for the client and fit the community. But that creative energy shows up throughout a project, not just at the beginning. The ability to adapt on the fly, come up with solutions under pressure, and find those win-win moments, that’s what gets me out of bed.

What accomplishments are you most proud of in your career so far?

Without question, it’s the team we built in Texas over the last eight years. A lot went into that. It was a true team approach. Everyone played to their strengths and checked their egos at the door. Reflecting on it now, being able to support the team and their career journeys, watching the organization grow throughout the state of Texas, that’s the most rewarding thing. Even more than the great client work and exciting projects, it’s the people.

What skills do you think are most critical to success in this industry?

Continuous learning is at the top of the list. This industry evolves at a pace that keeps accelerating, and you have to be willing to constantly reassess your approach while staying grounded in the principles you learned early in your career.

Beyond that, communication is paramount. You simply cannot over-communicate in this industry. There are always opportunities to do it better and more frequently, both internally and externally.

And finally, self-awareness. Being able to honestly assess your own strengths and weaknesses, lean into your strengths, and be willing to be a little vulnerable about where you need to grow separates the people who plateau from the ones who keep developing.

What do the next three to five years look like for the team in Texas?

I think we’re just getting started. We’ve seen significant growth but there’s still enormous runway ahead. We have a strong footprint across North Texas, Austin, and Houston, and real opportunity to deepen our presence in Houston and San Antonio.

I think we could realistically double what we’re doing in Texas with the right people joining the team and giving the people we already have the chance to step into bigger roles. That’s the fun part: building it together.

Outside of work, how do you spend your time?

My kids are 13, seven, and five, so wherever they are, that’s where I am. Right now, the youngest is into monster trucks, so we just went to Monster Jam. The oldest plays baseball and does a lot of theater. We travel as a family as much as we can and really prioritize creating memories together.

Beyond family, I’m a huge sports fan. Born and raised in Chicago, so I’m still a loyal Chicago sports fan through and through. I’ve warmed up to the Rangers since Cubs fans and Rangers fans can coexist fine since they’re in different leagues  and I’ll cheer for the Stars while the Blackhawks rebuild. But I’m not quite ready to cheer for the Cowboys. That’s a line I haven’t crossed yet.

News and Insights

Voices of impact: Black History Month employee spotlight

 

In honor of Black History Month, we sat down with some of our Black employees to discuss their backgrounds, how they pursued their current career paths, and what Black History Month means to them:

  • Derrek Yates is a Senior Technology Specialist at Atwell
  • Deshon Fox is a Director of Engineering at Atwell
  • Maya Puller is a Senior Design Associate at RVi
  • Kiara Warburton is a Civil Engineer at Atwell
  • Merissa Martin is a Marketing Manager at RVi

What inspired you to pursue this career path? 

Derrek: I have always been passionate about technology and seeing things being built. Even from a young age, I enjoyed playing with Legos and game systems, and I think those interests have led me down this path.

Deshon: I enjoyed Physics in high school, and I loved the idea of designing things. This led me to pursue a career in Engineering. My second choice in college was architecture.

Maya: I have always had a passion for plants and thoughtfully designed outdoor spaces. I earned a degree in Plant Science with a focus on Horticulture and Design, which provided me with a solid foundation in plant science and landscape design fundamentals. Throughout college, I explored various career paths, but it wasn’t until my senior year—when I took a Landscape Design course—that everything clicked. This experience taught me how to merge my love for plants, creativity, and design into a meaningful career, ultimately inspiring me to pursue landscape architecture.

Kiara: From as early as fourth grade, I knew I wanted to be a civil engineer. In elementary school, I was selected for a special program for fourth and fifth graders that allowed us to attend classes at Northwestern University every Saturday for about two months. We explored various career paths through art, music, writing, and science classes. While I enjoyed several of these subjects, the computer and civil engineering classes stood out to me. As I continued to grow, my interest deepened by joining the National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE) and taking civil engineering classes in high school. This confirmed that civil engineering was the career I truly wanted to pursue.

Merissa: My favorite cousin, whom I have always admired, played a significant role in my decision to switch from civil engineering to marketing within the AEC industry. Through her, I realized that the marketing and business fields offer limitless career paths, allowing me to create the future I’ve always dreamed of.

What challenges have you faced along the way, and how did you overcome them? 

Derrek: One of the most difficult challenges I have faced in my career involved repeated encounters with racial profiling while commuting to work in Southern Maryland. A particular police officer regularly stopped me while I was riding my motorcycle or driving my car, often in the mornings on my way to the office. These stops became so frequent that I began leaving earlier than necessary, anticipating being pulled over and delayed. Each time, the explanation was simply, “Just checking to make sure everything is clean.”

Eventually, local police temporarily moved into our building, and the officer came to understand my role and why I was there each day. After that, the stops stopped entirely. Years later, the officer was promoted to a senior position within Maryland law enforcement and sent me a letter apologizing for his behavior. He acknowledged that the way I handled myself throughout those encounters helped him recognize and correct his own racial profiling.

Deshon: As a father of four, there were times when my children were younger that it was a challenge to balance work with parental obligations. Thanks to my wife, who has been an extraordinary mother, I was able to pursue new ventures while remaining grounded and connected to my household.

Maya: Coming into landscape architecture without a formal education in the field was initially challenging, as I often felt the need to work harder to bridge knowledge gaps. I overcame this by actively seeking opportunities to learn. I asked questions, welcomed feedback, and learned directly from highly experienced coworkers who were generous with their time and knowledge. Through collaboration, mentorship, and hands-on experience, I’ve slowly gained confidence in my abilities and developed a stronger sense of belonging within the profession.

Kiara: School was one of the most challenging parts of my journey to where I am today. To truly learn, you need teachers who are invested in your success, and for me, that support was not always there. Attending college during the COVID pandemic made things even more challenging, as many of my professors were not accustomed to teaching online. This set me back academically and required me to add two extra years to my college experience. Despite these challenges, I pushed through and got all the help I could get from outside resources, friends, and teaching assistants. I am proud of how far I have come and am deeply grateful to be where I am today.

Merissa: Unlike many of my colleagues and other young professionals, I did not have a formal mentor. As a result, I had to navigate challenges independently and make decisions with limited guidance. To overcome this, I became highly self-directed, seeking out available resources, asking questions, and learning by observing other leaders.

What has been one of the proudest moments in your career so far? 

Derrek: I’m proud of the work I do to improve myself and grow; this allows me to support and uplift my coworkers. I see our team as one big family that reaches almost every part of the globe. Witnessing the relief that comes from resolving issues is the greatest reward I could ask for.

Deshon: One of my proudest moments was opening my own firm in the Bahamas in 2010. The experience was deeply rewarding, and I valued every part of the journey, including the challenges that helped shape me as a professional.

Maya: One of my proudest moments was being recruited by Hitchcock Design Group prior to the RVi merger. While it may seem like a small milestone, being recognized by a respected firm was incredibly meaningful to me. It affirmed that my skills, background, and dedication were valued, and it gave me renewed confidence in my ability to grow and succeed in the landscape architecture industry.

Kiara: I am still at the beginning of my career, so I do not have many professional accomplishments yet. However, graduating from college is something I am extremely proud of, as it represents the hard work and perseverance it took to get me to this point.

Merissa: One of my proudest moments was in a previous role, when a long-standing client asked us to conduct staff surveys, followed by team workshops and a retreat informed by the findings. This type of engagement was a first for both the firm and me. As the marketing lead, I developed and compiled the proposal, and due to my background in HR, the Director of Learning and Organizational Development invited me to join the project team. Winning the project was especially meaningful, as it validated both my strategic leadership in securing the work and my ability to contribute beyond my core marketing role.

What does Black History Month mean to you personally or professionally? 

Derrek: For me, it is about awareness and creating space for others to see themselves reflected in these stories. When people hear these experiences from someone who looks like them, it can be a powerful reminder that they are not alone. Even if they are struggling in silence, our presence, resilience, and success show that we are here and thriving, regardless of our backgrounds or the narratives we carry.

Deshon: I see real value in taking time to reflect on the accomplishments, contributions, and progress of Black Americans. While I do not personally define myself by my skin color, I believe learning from this history is meaningful and important.

Maya: Black History Month reminds me of both the challenges and responsibilities that come with being a Black professional in landscape architecture, a field where representation remains limited. With only 2–3% of licensed landscape architects identifying as Black, I am motivated to take up space, contribute meaningfully, and help shape a profession that is more inclusive and reflective of diverse voices. This month is an opportunity to honor the progress made while actively working toward greater equity and representation in the future.

Kiara: Black History Month is both personal and professional for me. It is a time to reflect on the strength and resilience of those who came before me and created the opportunities that allow me to be where I am today. I have a fond memory of attending a conference and walking into an NSBE event. It was the first time I had seen so many members of the Black community represented within the industry. In that moment, I felt truly seen, represented, and welcomed, with an immediate and powerful sense of belonging. As a Black civil engineer early in my career, it reinforces that my journey matters and that representation truly makes a difference. It encouraged me to take pride in how far I have come and to be intentional in how I show up, contribute, and lead each day at work.

Merissa: It’s a time to reflect and honor Black pioneers who played a critical role in shaping the foundation of the world we live in today. Personally, it is important to me to acknowledge Black contributors and forefathers who laid the groundwork, ensuring their stories, sacrifices, and achievements are recognized and carried forward! My connection to Black History Month goes beyond reflection. It lives in my family. My aunt, Leah Sears Ward, is the first Black Supreme Court Justice in Georgia, and my great-uncle, Dabney Montgomery, served as a bodyguard for Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and was a Tuskegee Airman. I am incredibly proud to carry their legacy, to have their blood running through my veins, and to be connected to the history they helped shape.