Archives: News

Tune in to the “12 Days of GBA” Podcast Series

As the year draws to a close, GBA is excited to present a brand-new take on a favorite holiday tradition: the “12 Days of GBA”! In this special series from the GBA Podcast, hosts, producers, and GBA Multimedia Committee members Tiffany Vorhies, PMP, NACE CIP-2 (SME) and Ryan White, P.E., G.E., F. ASCE (Apex Companies) showcase the very best resources, stories, and learning opportunities that GBA has to offer—one day at a time.

The series kicked off with three fan favorites: Case Histories, GBA Committees, and NEWSlog. From there, the countdown will continue with fresh topics daily—covering everything from leadership training and risk management to best practices, peer review, and more. But here’s the twist: you’ll have to tune in each day to discover what’s next!

New episodes will be released every day through January 1, 2026. Follow GBA on LinkedIn for daily posts, join the conversation, and share your thoughts or favorite moments. Visit gbapodcast.com for all episodes and subscribe on your preferred platform so you never miss a release.

Case History Challenge!
Along with the 12 Days of GBA series, the Multimedia Committee also launched a fun challenge: the Case History that gets the most downloads between December 21, 2025 and February 1, 2026 will be turned into a full podcast episode – complete with a deep dive and actionable takeaways. If you want to influence what the GBA Podcast covers next, download a case history (and encourage your coworkers to do the same!). Case Histories are free to employees of GBA member firms.

About the GBA Podcast
GBA podcasts were created by GBA’s Emerging Leaders Class and contain information and expertise from geoprofessionals around the globe. Series include GeoHeroes, Management Best Practices, Case Histories, Diversity, Equity & Inclusion, Leadership Lounge, and The 1st Word.

 

Three New Case History Podcasts for Your Holiday Travels

As the holiday season arrives and many of us hit the road or take to the skies, GBA is excited to share three new episodes in the GBA Podcast Case History series—perfect listening for your travels! These episodes offer valuable lessons, practical insights, and engaging storytelling from the field.

Each episode features Elizabeth Brown, P.E., Principal Geotechnical Engineer at JLT Consultants, and Abi Corbett, Project Consultant at SME. With decades of combined experience across geotechnical investigations, project management, and construction quality assurance, Elizabeth and Abi bring expertise, candor, and a touch of humor to every Case History discussion.

Case History #65 – Treat a Big Deal Like a Big Deal
A city’s “showcase” brownfields project takes an unexpected turn when a contract’s boilerplate language radically expands a member firm’s responsibilities—from simple bay-water sampling to serving as the city’s environmental inspector. Unaware of the change, the firm faces major challenges during construction, leading to a lawsuit and costly mediation. Key lessons include the importance of reading every word of a contract, being professionally proactive, and treating big issues with the urgency they deserve.

Case History #75 – OSHA Violations: The Risk of Sharing Equipment
A member firm overseeing drilled shaft construction for a shopping center faces surprise OSHA citations for site safety practices. Despite following industry standards, the firm is cited for equipment use and training issues. With the help of an experienced attorney, most fines are rescinded, but the experience underscores the authority of safety inspectors and the need for proactive legal and safety strategies. Lessons include discussing procedures with OSHA, training field personnel, and always being proactive about safety.

Case History #116 – Went Fishing…Caught a Whale
A GBA member firm is hired to repair a sheet pile dock at a remote food processing plant. When the dock collapses on the first day of mobilization, the project shifts from repair to full replacement—under intense time pressure before the fishing season. Through teamwork, creativity, and trust, the project is completed in just six weeks, saving the owner millions and forging lasting professional relationships. This episode highlights the power of communication, intuition, and collaboration in overcoming unexpected challenges.

About GBA Case Histories and the Podcast Series
GBA Case Histories are real-world accounts of challenges, solutions, and lessons learned in geoprofessional practice. The podcast series brings these stories to life, offering practical takeaways for professionals at every level. Each episode is designed to help you make better risk-based decisions, avoid common pitfalls, and strengthen your approach to contracts, safety, and client relationships.

The GBA Podcast also features interviews, risk management discussions, and business resources to support your professional growth. New episodes are released regularly.

Listen, Learn, and Subscribe!
Subscribe to the GBA Podcast today and stay up to date with the latest Case Histories, expert insights, and practical advice for geoprofessionals.

 

GBA Celebrates the Graduation of Third Early Professional Class

GBA is proud to announce the graduation of the third cohort of the Early Professional Class (EPC)—a milestone that marks not only the achievements of these early-career professionals but also the continued growth and impact of GBA’s commitment to developing the next generation of leaders in our industry.

The December 2025 GBA Early Professional Class Graduates are:

• Farouk Benmammar (Geotechnical Consultants, Inc.)
• Justin Clarke (Kleinfelder)
• Tolleman Gorham, P.E. (BSK Associates)
• Damien Hernandez (Strata)
• Grace Hetrick, G.I.T. (Geo-Technology Associates)
• Kally Knutson (American Engineering Testing)
• Michael Kunitskiy, P.E. (Geotechnical Consultants, Inc.)
• Steven Litalien, E.I. (Strata)
• Matthew McCauley, E.I. (Geotechnical Consultants, Inc.)
• Mehrab Ibne Moid, MSCE (Kleinfelder)
• Dave Morse, M.S., E.I. (Froehling & Roberston)
• Travis Morton, G.I.T. (Strata)
• Chase Ogle (Strata)
• Nick O’Neill (Terracon)
• Ben Sershen (Geotechnical Consultants, Inc.)
• Javad Shahmorad, P.E. (Earth Systems)
• Sydney Shockley, G.I.T. (Atlas Technical Consultants)
• Andrew Sweet, E.I. (Strata)
• Ted Tague, CWI, NDT II (Froehling & Roberston)
• Anais Tate (GFT)
• Lou Vigeant, E.I.T (Verdantas)
• Lucas Vonderbank, M.Sc., E.I.T. (TREK Engineering)
• Keith Wildman (Strata)
• Kou Yang (BSK Associates)
• Thomas Young (S&ME)

The EPC is designed for early-career geoprofessionals who show high potential as future consultants and business leaders. Over 10 weeks, participants engage in interactive sessions led by industry experts, focusing on the essential skills that bridge the gap between technical expertise and the human side of consulting.

Graduates leave the program with:
• Enhanced communication and active listening skills—the foundation for building trust with clients and colleagues.
• A deeper understanding of business development and client relationships.
• Practical tools for managing scope, risk, and documentation.
• Greater self-awareness and confidence as consultants.

“Your technical skills will get you a seat at the table, but it’s not what’s going to keep clients engaged. They want a project manager who is honest, trustworthy, reliable. And so I find myself when interacting with clients now, working on creating that interpersonal connection with them so that they feel that they can keep coming back to our firm.”— Kally Knutson

“EPC reinforced that trust drives business relationships, communication helps prevent problems before they arise, and ethical decision-making is what builds long-term careers. These lessons apply equally to us as individuals, to our firm, and to the clients we serve now.” — Thomas Young

“After EPC, I’ve started to realize that every conversation, even the ones outside of my areas of interest, are opportunities for growth. I started staying more engaged in meetings. I’ve been actively listening and asking clarifying questions.” — Ben Sershen

“In the EPC, I learned that good documentation in the form of well-written contracts, proposals, emails, change orders, etc., creates an accurate record of decisions, assumptions, and changes through a project, which protects the professional and the firm in the event that disputes arise. Good communication is a huge part of being a good project manager.” —Sydney Shockley, G.I.T.

For GBA member firms, the EPC is an investment in staff growth, retention, and performance—helping to elevate the next generation of leaders and optimize business outcomes.

Now Enrolling for 2026 EPC Classes
Enrollment is now open for the 2026 Early Professional Classes:
• April 2-June 18
• October 1-December 17

Seats are limited and fill quickly—nominate an early-career professional from your firm soon to secure their place in the next cohort!

Top 10 Most-Downloaded GBA Case Histories of 2025

Case Histories are among the most popular resources in the GBA library, offering real-world lessons in risk management, technical practice, and professional responsibility. Here are the top 10 most-downloaded case histories of 2025—each one a must-read for geoprofessional consultants seeking to learn from the experiences of their peers.

1. Case History #1: Beware! A Friend’s Small Project Can Be Hazardous to Your Firm’s Health
A cautionary tale about the risks of preliminary geotechnical studies and the importance of clearly communicating limitations—especially when reports may be relied upon by third parties. This case highlights the need for clear labeling, effective communication, and prudent claims management.

2. Case History #110: Suspiciously Variable Test Results? Take a Closer Look….The Sooner the Better
A school construction project where inconsistent fill materials and unclear specifications led to disputes, arbitration, and lessons in contract language. This case highlights the importance of clear communication, documentation, and vigilance during construction.

3. Case History #5: If the Bus Driver Doesn’t Have a License, Get Off the Bus
A residential care facility project reveals the pitfalls of accepting low-fee assignments, using inexperienced staff, and failing to communicate risks. The case emphasizes the need for professional oversight, clear deliverables, and the dangers of cutting corners.

4. Case History #10: It Can Be a Costly Dam, Shame if Clients Won’t Take Your Advice
A large recreational facility project illustrates how poor communication, ignored recommendations, and unclear responsibilities can lead to technical failures, litigation, and significant financial loss. The case highlights the value of documentation and proactive risk management.

5. Case History #2: Clients Who Don’t Follow Advice Should Be Someone Else’s Client
This case explores the high risks associated with residential projects, the dangers of proceeding without a written agreement, and the consequences when clients ignore professional recommendations. Key lessons include the value of documentation and the importance of “confirmation-dependent” recommendations.

6. Case History #41: Don’t Worry. We Don’t Plan to Build There
This case details how assumptions, lack of documentation, and insufficient insurance can turn a small residential project into a costly legal battle. Key takeaways include the importance of contracts, experienced oversight, and risk awareness.

7. Case History #4: Compromise Must Be Part of Your Business Strategy
A drilled-shaft foundation project where cost-saving measures led to unexpected risks and costly repairs. This case underscores the importance of thorough observation, risk allocation, and compromise when high-risk procedures are proposed.

8. Case History #107: Engage Human Professionals Early On!
A real-world example of how HR missteps regarding the Family and Medical Leave Act and Americans with Disabilities Act can lead to legal claims and costly settlements. The case offers practical lessons for managers and firm leaders.

9. Case History #13: Litigation for Collections…A Lose-Lose Scenario
This case examines the impact of client relationships, communication breakdowns, and billing disputes on long-term business. Learn how technical missteps and missed opportunities for dialogue can result in lost revenue and reputational harm.

10. Case History #22: Documentation Can Prevent Frivolous Lawsuits
A hillside condominium project where deviations from recommendations and lack of communication led to slope failures and legal threats. The case demonstrates the importance of documentation, follow-up, and proactive client engagement.

GBA Case Histories are free for members and available for purchase by non-members. To view the top 10 downloads from the GBA resource library other than Case Histories, click here.

To unlock the full library and enjoy additional benefits, join GBA today!

 

GBA and AGS Forge Historic Partnership

On December 16, 2025, the Geoprofessional Business Association (GBA) and the Association of Geotechnical and Geoenvironmental Specialists (AGS) celebrated a milestone moment: the signing of a formal Terms of Reference (ToR) that launches a new partnership between two leading organizations in the global geoprofessional sector.

GBA and AGS: Shared Purpose, Distinct Reach

GBA, headquartered in the United States, empowers geoprofessionals to identify and mitigate business risks, elevating standards and professionalism across the industry. AGS, headquartered in the United Kingdom, leads and encourages best practices in geotechnical and geoenvironmental work, with a strong emphasis on contractual clarity and technical excellence.

Both GBA and AGS have member firms with offices and professionals around the world, and both share a commitment to technology, innovation, and bringing together firms—who are typically competitors—for the greater good of the profession.

Reaching across times zones and borders, GBA and AGS join in a formal international partnership agreement to elevate geoprofessional value.

Commitment to Collaboration

The partnership signing was attended by leaders and members from both organizations, including:

• Teresa Peterson, P.E., C.M.E., LEED AP O&M, ENV SP (President, GBA)
• Dan Schaefer, P.E. (President-Elect, GBA)
• Stu Thompson (Secretary-Treasurer, GBA)
• Aaron Zdinak, P.E., BC.GE (Geotechnical Business Committee, GBA)
• Joel Carson (Executive Director, GBA)
• Alex Lee, PhD, MSc, BSc (Hons), CGeol, CSci, EuGeol, ASoBRA, APAEWE, SiLC SQP, FGS (Chair, AGS)
• Geraint Williams, BSc, MIEnvSc, FGS (Chair-Elect, AGS)
• Alex Dent, BSc (Dunelm) MSc, EurGeol, C.Geol, FGS (Geotechnical Working Group Leader, AGS; GBA Member), and
• Vivien Dent, BSc, MSc, FGS, Cgeol, ASoBRA (Past-Chair, AGS), who was one of the main driving forces behind launching and formalizing this historic partnership.

“This is a historic moment. Things like this don’t happen every day. Both organizations bring together firms who may otherwise be competitors, but who put aside their differences for the betterment of the whole geotechnical, geoenvironmental, and geoprofessional community. We look forward to working closely with representatives from both organizations to find common interests and continue our mission to elevate the profession and celebrate our successes.” – Teresa Peterson and Dan Schaefer in a joint statement.

“Our gathering today marks an exciting new chapter in our shared commitment to collaborating to advance the geoprofessional industry,” – Joel Carson

“It’s the commitment to collaboration that’s different about this agreement. This is an opportunity for a new journey, a new beginning.” – Alex Lee

“There are areas where we have industry problems that are common to both of us. I’m really looking forward to the collaboration.” – Vivien Dent

How We’ll Work Together

The agreement sets out a framework for collaboration to advance mutual interests, including:

• Elevating the profession: Joint efforts to raise standards and celebrate successes.
• Geotechnical data & technology: Collaboration on coding, sharing, GIS, and AI.
• Sharing industry insights: Exchanging examples of industry successes and failures.
• Active dialogue & engagement: Regular meetings, shared committees, and working groups.

A Commitment to Collaboration

A highlight of the partnership signing was the verbal commitment for AGS and GBA leaders to attend each other’s annual conferences in 2026:

• GBA at the AGS Annual Conference: March 2026, UK
• AGS at the GBA Annual Conference: April 2026, USA

This mutual participation underscores the organizations’ dedication to learning from each other and strengthening global ties.

Elevating Geoprofessional Value through Partnership

For geoprofessional consultants, this partnership means greater access to shared resources, expertise, and networking opportunities across borders. Expect new initiatives, joint events, and a renewed focus on elevating the value and impact of geoprofessional services.

As Alex Dent noted, “Relationships are about people.” This partnership is built on that principle, aiming to unite professionals for the advancement of the entire industry.

Now Enrolling! 2026 Early Professional Classes

GBA’s Early Professional Class (EPC) is the first offering in our Career Continuum—a sequenced set of development experiences that grow geoprofessionals from early career through leadership. EPC addresses the professional competencies that often lag behind technical expertise in the first few years: how to communicate clearly, document rigorously, think ethically, manage scope, build relationships, and run projects effectively.

 

There are seats remaining for 2026 EPCs, which take place:

• Cohort #4: January 8-March 12
• Cohort #5: April 2-June 18
• Cohort #6: October 1-December 17

Each live, virtual session of an EPC cohort is 75 minutes long and held weekly for 10 weeks. Sessions are led by subject matter experts and facilitated using participant-centered methods, including breakouts, “ticket for entry” prompts, and practice/review cycles that drive retention and behavior change.

Ideal candidates to nominate for the EPC are individuals with less than four years of geoprofessional experience; college grads or professional staff early in career; field staff transitioning to professional staff career path.

What Participants Learn

EPC covers the essentials that newer professionals need to embark on a successful consulting career, including:
• Professional communication & documentation
• Soft skills & tough conversations
• Ethics & professionalism
• Proposals & business development
• Contracts, risk & scope management
• Project management fundamentals

The lessons are designed for immediate on-the-job application. Graduates earn a Certificate of Completion and report immediate performance gains in meetings, client communication, and decision-making.

Why Nominate

By nominating your early-career professionals, you:
• Accelerate their readiness for client-facing work.
• Reduce risk through stronger documentation and ethical decision-making.
• Build confidence and leadership potential early.

Seats are limited—secure spots for your rising talent today!

Strategies to Alleviate Project Manager Overload

End-of-year burnout is real. Geoprofessional project managers (PMs) face mounting pressures as they balance technical responsibilities with non-technical tasks. These can quickly consume valuable time and energy, risking burnout and undermining project success.

Leaders from across the industry at this year’s GBA Business Round Tables agreed: the most significant time drains for PMs are tasks such as:

• Invoice review and distribution
• Distributing Daily Field Reports
• Project setup and documentation
• Accounts receivable tracking and collections
• Certifications and compliance monitoring
• Financial tracking and reporting

While essential, these tasks rarely require the technical expertise of a PM. As you look ahead to new project cycles, several factors amplify the challenges—and opportunities—of managing PM workloads:

Year-End Reporting and Financial Closeouts

December is a critical period for financial tracking, invoicing, and compliance certifications. PMs are often tasked with wrapping up projects, finalizing budgets, and preparing reports for clients and internal stakeholders.

Take it off your PM’s plate: One GBA member firm delegated invoice processing and accounts receivable tracking to trained administrative staff, freeing up PMs to focus on technical project wrap-ups and client deliverables. This shift not only improved accuracy in financial reporting but also reduced stress during the busiest time of year.

New Project Launches and Strategic Planning

The start of a new year brings contract renewals and project kick-offs. By alleviating PM overload now, organizations can ensure their teams are ready for the surge in activity that typically accompanies Q1.

Take it off your PM’s plate: One member firm preparing for multiple project kick-offs in January implemented Standard Operating Procedures for project setup and documentation. By training non-technical staff to handle these tasks, PMs were able to dedicate more time to strategic planning and technical oversight, resulting in smoother project launches and better client satisfaction.

Holiday Season and Employee Well-Being

The holiday season can strain resources as staff take time off and project deadlines loom. Proactively delegating tasks and fostering a culture of support helps maintain productivity while respecting employees’ need for rest and balance. Protecting PMs from burnout during this busy season is not just good for morale—it’s essential for long-term team sustainability.

Take it off your PM’s plate: One member firm proactively cross-trains administrative assistants to cover essential PM tasks. This ensures continuity in project documentation and compliance tracking, while allowing PMs to take needed breaks. The approach was credited with maintaining productivity and morale during a period that typically sees high stress and burnout.

Alleviating PM overload is not just about reducing stress—it’s about optimizing your firm’s resources, enhancing productivity, and supporting the next generation of leaders. By delegating wisely, standardizing processes, and fostering a culture of trust and communication, geoprofessional firms can thrive in today’s demanding environment.

Click on the image below to view a full-size infographic:

New Keynote Speaker Announced for 2026 Annual Conference

GBA is pleased to announce that Rebecca Zofnass, Managing Partner at the Environmental Financial Consulting Group (EFCG), will deliver a keynote address on Friday, April 24 at the 2026 GBA Annual Conference in Phoenix, Arizona.

Rebecca brings unmatched expertise in financial and strategic trends shaping the AEC industry, and her insights will help leaders position their firms for success in 2026.

State of AEC Finance: Benchmarks, Trends, and Opportunities

What will shape performance in the year ahead? This new keynote will unpack the industry‑wide findings from the 2025 GBA Annual Financial Survey, highlighting the metrics and moves that matter for 2026. Attendees will learn how growth, profitability, overhead, and pricing are shifting—and what talent, technology, M&A, and delivery models mean for their firms. They’ll leave with fresh benchmarks and effective methods to strengthen backlog, protect margin, and set priorities for the year ahead.

About Rebecca Zofnass

At EFCG, Rebecca partners with AEC firm leadership to address their most pressing priorities. Her work spans growth strategy, company valuations, ownership transitions, organizational design, and post-merger integration. Rebecca advises more than 75 firms annually, including employee-owned and private equity-backed firms.

Register to Attend

The 2026 GBA Annual Conference is packed with opportunities to learn, connect, and grow. In addition to Rebecca’s keynote, you’ll hear from two other dynamic keynote speakers, as well as geoprofessional industry veterans who will address leadership, innovation, and resilience.

Plus, enjoy interactive sessions, networking events, and the chance to engage with industry leaders on the most critical issues facing geoprofessionals today. Across all sessions, the conference emphasizes actionable frameworks, inspiring stories, and practical guidance for geoprofessionals at every career stage.

Registration is now open! Secure your spot and explore the full agenda at https://members.geoprofessional.org/events/EventDetails.aspx?id=1940325.

 

 

 

More Than a Party: Creative Retention Initiatives for Geoprofessional Firms

As the holiday season approaches, geoprofessional firms are presented with a unique opportunity to reflect on their workplace culture, show appreciation, and strengthen team bonds. While festive gatherings and year-end celebrations are traditional, the real value lies in the creative, personal touches that build lasting engagement and loyalty among employees.

Retention Through Culture and Connection

Employee retention remains a top challenge for geoprofessional organizations. In an industry where technical expertise and teamwork are critical, keeping talented professionals motivated and committed is essential for long-term success. Recent discussions among geoprofessional leaders at GBA’s 2025 Business Round Tables reveal that retention is less about grand gestures and more about fostering a culture of gratitude, recognition, and genuine connection.

What Works in Geoprofessional Firms

Leaders from GBA member firms shared a variety of creative retention initiatives that have proven effective:

• Creative Engagement Activities: Monthly lunch-and-learns, charity events (like blood drives and Habitat for Humanity builds), and virtual golf tournaments with charitable prizes. These activities build camaraderie and give employees a sense of purpose beyond their daily tasks.
• Inclusive Social Events: Holiday parties that invite family members and significant others help develop personal relationships and make employees feel valued as individuals.
• Personal Touches: Handwritten birthday cards, spot rewards, and gift cards are simple yet powerful ways to acknowledge contributions. These gestures stand out in a digital age and can have a surprising impact on morale and retention.
• Mentorship and Leadership Involvement: Senior staff mentoring junior employees and leadership actively participating in events are crucial. Culture is shaped from the top down, and full leadership buy-in is needed to create a supportive environment.
• Recognition Beyond Parties: Not all employees can attend every event, especially field staff. Flexible recognition strategies—like spot rewards and personalized notes—ensure everyone feels included.
• Measure and Adapt: Employee surveys can help assess the impact of retention initiatives and guide continuous improvement.

To help GBA member firms continue improving retention and workplace culture, we invite you to participate in GBA’s State of the Workplace survey, open through December 5. Your insights on engagement, turnover, and recognition will help shape future retention initiatives across the industry.

6 Recommendations for Geoprofessional Leaders

1. Lead by Example: Culture starts at the top. Get involved in events, show appreciation, and encourage senior staff to mentor and support junior team members.
2. Personalize Recognition: Go beyond generic rewards. Handwritten notes, tailored acknowledgments, and thoughtful gestures make employees feel seen and valued.
3. Make Events Inclusive: Consider the needs of field staff and remote employees. Offer flexible ways to participate and recognize contributions.
4. Connect Activities to Purpose: Tie engagement initiatives to charitable causes or professional development to give employees a sense of meaning.
5. Assess and Evolve: Use surveys and feedback to measure the effectiveness of your retention strategies and adapt them to your team’s needs.
6. Celebrate Gratitude Year-Round: Don’t limit appreciation to the holiday season. Regular, authentic recognition builds a resilient, loyal workforce.

The ROI of Gratitude

Investing in creative, personalized retention strategies pays off. Happy, engaged employees are more productive, more loyal, and more likely to weather difficult situations with their teams. As one leader noted, “Employees will come to you before quitting”—a testament to the power of trust and connection

This season, consider how your firm can go beyond the party. A handwritten card, a mentoring session, or a meaningful team event may be the key to building a stronger, more cohesive team for the year ahead.

 

Introducing: General Guidelines for Geotechnical Specifications

GBA’s Geotechnical Business Committee has developed a new resource, now available free to employees of GBA member firms: Some General Guidelines for Geotechnical Specifications.

This publication is designed as a starting point for GBA member firms seeking to develop or review geotechnical-related specifications. Whether you’re new to specification writing or looking to enhance your firm’s value and reduce project risk, this document offers practical, general guidance for engaging in geotechnical specification development and client discussions.

Inside, you’ll find insights on project specifications that impact geotechnical aspects across public works, private sector, and specialty projects. The guidelines emphasize the importance of involving the geotechnical engineer of record in specification preparation and review—a critical step in reducing claims and risks in underground and foundation construction.

 

Announcing the GBA Emerging Leaders Cohort #6

GBA is pleased to announce the participants of the sixth Emerging Leaders cohort – a select group of rising geoprofessionals from GBA member firms across North America who are poised to shape the future of the industry:

Andrew Bolton, P.E. (SME) Harrison Carter, P.E. (Jorgenson) Matthew Countryman (ConeTec) Miljan Draganic, P.G. (Blackburn Consulting) Bennett Dulaney, P.E. (S&ME) Ivan Garcia, P.E. (GeoCim) Pablo Gomez Bakaitis, P.E. (Terracon) Sheetal Gordon, P.E. (Terracon) Scott Graves, P.E. (LandTec) Jory Hunter (Grounded Engineering) Adam Jones, E.I.T. (Applied Geotechnical Engineering Consultants) Dustin Kern (SME)

Matt Klymochko (Trek Geotechnical) Bill Meagher, P.E. (Sanborn, Head, & Associates) Colton Morrow, P.E. (NTH Consultants) Clint Nealey (Apex Companies) Brad Nielsen, P.E. (Kleinfelder) LeAnne Page (ConeTec) Nelson Pearson, P.E. (Civil Solutions) Michael Romero, P.E., C.E.G. (BSK Associates) Leyla Safari, P.E. (CTL|Thompson) Jacob Schlador, P.E. (Atlas Technical Consultants) Jeremy Wahlstrom (G2 Consulting Group) Carver Warren, P.E. (Froehling & Roberston)

 

Class facilitators for the cohort are GBA Board member Jason Stoops, P.E. (G2 Consulting Group) and Art Hoffman, P.E., D.GE., F.GBA.

Participants met virtually in October and gathered for the first time in-person at the Fall Leadership Summit in November. Over the next 18 months, they will collaborate on a group project, attend conferences, and engage in ongoing virtual meetings.

This Emerging Leaders cohort’s journey officially culminates at the 2027 GBA Annual Conference in Vancouver, BC, Canada, where they will present their project deliverable. However, each participant’s GBA journey is only just beginning.

About the GBA Emerging Leaders Program
The GBA Emerging Leaders Program brings together outstanding professionals for an 18-month journey of leadership development, business education, and industry collaboration. Participants engage in:

• Group projects that foster leadership skills.
• Networking and mentorship with peers and industry veterans.
• Opportunities to contribute to GBA committees and task forces.

A Lasting Legacy
The Emerging Leaders Program is more than a professional development experience—it’s a launchpad for ideas that shape the geoprofessional community for years to come. Past cohorts have left a remarkable legacy, creating initiatives like GEO Kits and the GBA Podcast that have become cornerstones of GBA’s outreach and made a tangible impact.

Many of GBA’s current leaders are proud graduates of the Emerging Leaders Program. Their continued involvement is a testament to the program’s power to inspire, connect, and cultivate the next generation of geoprofessions.

We look forward to the energy, ideas, and leadership these Emerging Leaders will bring to GBA and the geoprofessions for years to come.

 

GBA Fall Leadership Summit 2025: Wrap-Up & Reflections

GBA Launches 2026 State of the Workplace Industry Survey

The workplace is rapidly evolving, and geoprofessional firms are navigating unprecedented challenges. The GBA 2026 State of the Workplace Survey, presented in partnership with The Employee Engagement Group (EEG), will help your firm anticipate trends, benchmark practices, and make informed decisions.

This year’s survey has been updated to address critical new topics, including:

• Employee mental health: How firms are supporting well-being in a changing work environment.
• Artificial Intelligence: Its impact on workforce strategies and operations.
• Economic uncertainties: How organizations are preparing for potential downturns and cost pressures.

In addition, the survey explores:

• Top organizational concerns, from recruiting to retention.
• Policies on flexibility, telecommuting, and PTO.
• Compensation, benefits, and inclusion initiatives.

Your input can help drive industry-wide practices that influence how firms approach talent management, compensation, and workplace culture. By participating, you’ll play a role in driving the changes that shape the future of geoprofessional work.

Survey results will be compiled into a comprehensive report that will be essential for staying competitive.

The survey is quick, confidential, and open now. All respondents will receive a copy of the 2026 State of the Workplace report and be invited to a webinar to dive into the insights on December 11.

The survey closes on December 5, 2025.

Government Affairs Update from the GBA Emerging Issues & Trends Committee

GBA’s Emerging Issues & Trends Committee recently received the following important updates and insights from Terracon’s Eric Wooten, J.D., Government Affairs Lead, Senior Associate, Sustainability & Resiliency Practice Lead, and Senior Environmental Manager:

U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE)
• October 3: USDOT published an Interim Final Rule that removes race and gender presumptions; all DBE firms must undergo individualized recertification.
• Until reevaluations occur, agencies cannot set or count DBE goals. This creates short-term uncertainty for federally funded projects.
• Existing contracts remain unaffected. New awards may be delayed as states apply new standards.

H-1B Visa Program
• September 19: A Presidential Proclamation imposed a new $100,000 fee on employers for each new H-1B petition approved.
o This fee applies only to new H-1B visa applicants, not to renewals or individuals seeking reentry to the United States.
o U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has published an FAQ and memorandum regarding the Proclamation.
• September 24: Department of Homeland Security published a proposed rule to replace the random H-1B lottery with a wage-weighted selection system. The new system would prioritize higher-paid positions and reduce selection odds for entry-level roles.
o Implementation could begin with the 2026 registration cycle.
• October 22: USCIS clarifies who must pay $100,000 fee for H-1B visas.
o The fee does not apply when a visa applicant files to move from one type of visa to another, such as from an F-1 visa for non-U.S. students to H-1B status.

U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Funding Cancellations/Returns
• September 24: DOE returned $13B in unobligated clean energy funds to the U.S. Treasury.
• October 2: DOE terminated ~$7.56B in clean energy awards supporting 223 projects. This materially reduces the near term clean energy project pipeline.

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Is Your Project a Standout? Enter the 2026 Woodward L. Vogt Project Excellence Award

GBA is excited to announce the 2026 Woodward L. Vogt Project Excellence Award. This annual honor celebrates member firms whose projects demonstrate the vision of GBA to great accomplishment. The award is a chance to showcase your team’s expertise, gain recognition among peers and clients, and inspire the next generation of geoprofessionals.

“This recognition is a reflection of the incredible team effort that goes into our work and the work our staff puts in every day,” said Mohamed Faizan, Ph.D., Laboratory Director at 2025 award winner ANS Geo. “We look forward to continuing to learn, grow, and give back to this awesome community.”

Why Apply?
• Highlight your company
• Spotlight your employees
• Recognize your clients

Entries are welcome from all core disciplines, including geo-environmental engineering, construction materials testing, or geotechnical engineering. Projects of all types and sizes are eligible—whether flood protection, marine/coastal, transportation, residential, commercial, brownfields, or more.

Applications will be evaluated on the use of GBA resources, creativity and innovation, quality of deliverables, and project impact. Special emphasis on the application of GBA risk management, loss prevention, innovation, creativity, quality, client management, and safety resources is recommended.

The winner will be honored at the 2026 GBA Annual Conference awards ceremony, receive a commemorative plaque, and enjoy a complimentary registration and accommodation at the 2026 Fall Leadership Summit. Winners may also present their project at a GBA program session and will be featured on GBA’s website, NEWSlog, and other channels.

Ready to share your success story? View the application for eligibility, judging criteria, and submission instructions.

The deadline to apply is January 15, 2026.

Questions? Contact Sara Menase at 301-565-2733 or sara@geoprofessional.org.