The success of GBA relies on the volunteer efforts of many groups and individuals. At the 2025 GBA Annual Conference in Savannah, Georgia, GBA recognized the contributions of outstanding individuals and member firms. The evening celebrated the spirit of volunteerism and leadership that fuels GBA’s mission. This year’s recipients exemplified commitment to advancing the geoprofessions and strengthening the GBA community.

Those recognized during the annual Recognition and Awards Banquet were:

CERTIFICATES OF APPRECIATION
Based on input from GBA Committee and Council leaders, GBA has awarded the following geoprofessionals with Certificates of Appreciation to recognize their contributions to the Association in the past 12 months:

• Ed Alizadeh, P.E., J.D., F.GBA (UES)
• Kent Bannister, P.Eng. (TREK)
• Christopher Bouchet, P.E. (CTL|Thompson)
• Michaela Brewster, CPG (Terracon)
• Elizabeth Brown, P.E. (Atlas)
• Rick Bruce (S&ME)
• Elizabeth Clarke (Structure Groups)
• Abi Corbett (SME)
• Vic Donald, P.E. (Terracon)
• Ryan Feist, P.E. (Terracon)
• Sal Fiorentino, P.E. (ECS Limited)
• Shawn Fitzhugh, P.E. (CTL|Thompson)
• Kurt Fraese, L.G., F.GBA (Fraese & Associates)
• Dan Gradishar, P.E. (Terracon)
• Chuck Gregory, P.E., F.GBA (Terracon)
• James Hamilton, Esq., P.E. (GAI Consultants)
• Brent Hay, M.Sc., P.Eng. (TREK)
• Charlie Head, P.E., P.G., F.GBA (Sanborn, Head, & Associates)
• Craig Hill (Kleinfelder)
• Robert Howard, P.E. (Geo-Technology Associates)
• Derek Koller, CIH, CHMM (Terracon)
• Mark Kramer, P.E., F.GBA (SME)
• Colter Lane, P.E. (Jorgensen Associates)
• James Landrum, P.E. (Olsson)
• Thomas Maher, P.G. (Civil & Environmental Consultants)
• Aaron Mann, Esq. (Terracon)
• Guy Marcozzi, P.E., D.GE, LEED AP BD+C, F.ASCE (Verdantas)
• Jay Martin, P.E., F.GBA (WSP)
• Tony Martin (BSK Associates)
• Andrew Michaud (S.W. Cole Engineering)
• Keith Mobley, P.E., G.E. (Northern Geotechnical Engineering – Terra Firma Testing)
• Bryce Moore (Blackburn Consulting)
• Matt Monteith, P.E., D.GE (Kleinfelder)
• John Murphy (GZA)
• John Norwood, P.E., CSSGB (Terracon)
• Brian Olin, P.G. (Froehling & Roberston)
• Stewart Osgood, P.E., F.GBA (DOWL)
• Fernando Pons, P.E. (Pons & Associates)
• Laura Register, P.E., F.GBA (Terracon)
• Carrie Rodriguez, P.E., G.E. (BSK Associates)
• Dori Ross, P.E. (Sanborn, Head, & Associates)
• Jennifer Sanborn, P.E. (Sanborn, Head, & Associates)
• Dan Schaefer, P.E. (Froehling & Roberston)
• Becky Stoyle, CPA (Knight Piesold)
• Michael Van Helden, Ph.D., P.Eng. (TREK)
• Tiffany Vorhies, NACE CIP-2, PMP (SME)
• Jennifer Wegner (SME)
• Steve Wendland, P.E. (Bedrock GeoConsult)
• Ryan White, P.E., G.E., F.ASCE (PBS Engineering and Environmental)
• Aaron Zdinak, P.E. (HDR)

AWARDS OF APPRECIATION
Special award was given to a volunteer who contributed to GBA in extraordinary and unique ways during the year:

Victor S. Barchers, P.E. (Kleinfelder)

PEER-REVIEWED FIRMS
One of the most valuable programs GBA offers its members is Peer Review. The following firms were recognized for being peer reviewed in the past 12 months:                                   
• BSK Associates
• DOWL
• Eustis Engineering
• Foundation Design
• GeoEngineers
• STRATA

MEMBER FIRM ENGAGEMENT AWARDS
GBA tracks the engagement of its member firms through metrics like event attendance, resource downloads, committee participation, award applications, survey completions, and other important measurement categories. The following firms were found to have the highest measured engagement in GBA during the last fiscal year (one from each category based on firm size):
• Grounded Engineering
• Geotechnical Consultants                                                                                           
• Geo-Technology Associates
• Terracon

Congratulations to these firms and their employees, who are receiving a high value from their GBA membership due to their level of engagement with GBA groups, events, and resources.

WOODWARD L. VOGT PROJECT EXCELLENCE AWARD
The Woodward L. Vogt Project Excellence Award celebrates the greatness of our members as they use GBA best practices to manage risk and optimize performance on notable projects. The 2025 winner of the prestigious award is:

ANS Geo – Pike County Battery Energy Storage System, Petersburg, Indiana.

Left to right: Vatsal Shah, Ph.D., P.E., PP, D.GE, F.NSPE, ANS Geo President & CEO; Mohamed Faizan, Ph.D., ANS Geo; and Joel Carson, GBA Executive Director

COMMITTEE LEADERSHIP
GBA Committees are the fuel that drives the GBA engine. The following committee leaders are transitioning out of their leadership roles and we celebrate them for their work thus far:

• Bruce Savage, CPG (Geotechnical Consultants, Inc.), Peer Review Committee, 2024
• Jason Stoops, P.E. (G2 Consulting Group), Business Practices Committee, 2022-2025
• Tiffany Vorhies, NACE CIP-2, PMP (SME), Multimedia Delivery Committee, 2022-2025

BOARD OF DIRECTORS SERVICE AWARD
Service on the GBA Board of Directors requires the dedication of time and resources throughout a three-year term. This award is bestowed on Directors who have completed their term of service:

• Vic Donald, P.E. (Terracon), 2022-2025

PROFESSIONAL PRACTICE ETHICS & LEADERSHIP AWARD
GBA past-President (2017-2018) Charles “Charlie” L. Head, P.E., P.G., F.GBA (Sanborn, Head, & Associates), was selected as the recipient of this year’s Professional Practice Ethics & Leadership award. Read more.

Left to right: Guy Marcozzi, Charlie Head, and Teresa Peterson, P.E., C.M.E., LEED AP O&M, ENV SP.

PRESIDENT’S AWARD
Each year, the outgoing GBA President selects one person to recognize for their contributions to GBA during the year of their presidency. Immediate past-President Guy Marcozzi, P.E., D.GE, LEED AP BD+C, F.ASCE awarded the 2024-25 honor to Kevin Hoppe, P.E., F.GBA (NTH Consultants).

Kevin Hoppe, P.E., F.GBA (NTH Consultants)

PRESIDENT’S SERVICE GAVEL AWARD
This award is bestowed on the immediate past-President after completing their term of service. GBA recognized Guy Marcozzi, P.E., D.GE, LEED AP BD+C, F.ASCE for his years of service and leadership.

From left: GBA Immediate Past-President Guy Marcozzi and GBA President Teresa Peterson

On behalf of the GBA Board of Directors, all member firms, and staff, we congratulate all the award winners for Fiscal Year 2024-2025.

The latest episode of the GBA Podcast Case History series is live—and it’s one every geoprofessional should hear.

What happens when a client prioritizes speed and low cost over sound recommendations? In this episode, hosts Elizabeth Brown, P.E. (Atlas) and Abi Corbett (SME) unpack the lessons learned in GBA Case History #55, when an environmental consultant’s warnings went unheeded—leading to bigger problems, a legal dispute, and a forfeited $40,000 fee.

Brown and Corbett explore a real-world example of how client pressure for speed and cost savings can lead to major project risks—and significant professional consequences. In this case, an auto parts manufacturer sought to sell a property contaminated by leaking underground storage tanks. After ignoring early recommendations and opting for the quickest and cheapest remediation alternative, the client later accused the consultant of breach of contract when contamination was discovered in a larger area.

Key Takeaways Include:

• The critical role of client selection in go/no-go decisions
• How unclear contracts and poor communication escalate risk
• The importance of proactive legal counsel
• Why low bids and rushed timelines rarely end well

With relatable insights and lessons that apply beyond environmental consulting, this episode serves as a cautionary tale about protecting your geoprofessional consulting firm through better planning, communication, and client management.

Download Case History #55 (Free for GBA Members)

Looking for more real-world lessons? Explore all GBA Case Histories.

The Geoprofessional Business Association (GBA) is excited to announce the theme of the 2026 GBA Annual Conference: Geoprofessional Vibrancy, Impact, and Professionalism—a powerful call to action for our industry’s leaders.

Join us in Phoenix, Arizona, from April 23-25, 2026, at the Sheraton Grand at Wild Horse Pass, where geoprofessionals from across North America will gather to share insights, drive innovation, and elevate excellence in the geoprofessions at the VIP event of the year.

It’s more than just a conference—it’s a chance to transform your business, elevate your leadership, and define what comes next for the geoprofessional industry.

Share Your Expertise –Submit an Abstract!

GBA invites engaging and insightful speakers to submit presentation abstracts that align with GBA’s Strategic Plan and the three pillars of the 2026 Annual Conference theme:

VIBRANCY – Showcase the transformative role of geoprofessionals in society. Sessions may explore how we can amplify our visibility, collaborate across disciplines, shape public perception of geoprofessionals, and influence decision-making.

IMPACT – How can geoprofessional consulting firms drive growth through technology, workforce innovation, and adaptation? Share solutions for thriving in an evolving landscape through emerging tools, business models, and resilient and competitive workforce strategies.

PROFESSIONALISM – Empower leadership and talent development. Present best practices for talent retention, mentoring, and cultivating professional growth to help firms navigate through change and lead with purpose.

Selected presenters will gain visibility and credibility, forge meaningful industry connections, and contribute to shaping the future of the geoprofessions.

Throughout the conference, we’ll examine how these three themes—Vibrancy, Impact, and Professionalism—can guide us to create meaningful change in our firms and communities.

Abstracts must be submitted by Friday, August 1, 2025. Download the Call for Abstracts form by clicking the button below.

In the latest episode of GBA’s GeoHeroes podcast series, GBA President Guy Marcozzi, P.E., D.GE, LEED AP BD+C (Verdantas), speaks with Vic Donald, P.E. (Terracon), a veteran geotechnical engineer whose 46-year career reflects both deep roots and visionary foresight.

From his early days growing up to leading the geotechnical service line at Terracon, Vic shares a journey shaped by curiosity, resilience, and steadfast commitment. Listeners will hear candid reflections on Vic’s formative mentors, offshore experiences that shaped his views on safety, and the hard-earned wisdom of building a successful consulting firm during economic uncertainty.

Now serving as a Senior Consultant at Terracon, Vic brings a unique blend of technical knowledge and strategic insight to the evolving geoprofessional landscape. In this episode, he tackles some of the industry’s most pressing issues—including commoditization, the need for innovation, and the opportunities and threats posed by new technologies and data management.

Vic’s message to emerging professionals is clear: embrace mentorship, listen deeply, and lean into change with courage. As he puts it, “Don’t sit back passively observing the changes… lean forward and lean into these changes and create a benefit to our clients that they will feel better as a result of their exposure to the geoprofessional.”

This episode of the GBA Podcast was produced by Ryan White, P.E., G.E. (PBS Engineering and Environmental LLC), Vice-Chair of GBA’s Multimedia Delivery Committee.

About GeoHeroes

In this series from the GBA Podcast, Guy Marcozzi interviews past, present, and future leaders in the geoprofessional industry to explore their personal and career journeys. The goal is to understand what motivates these individuals and what insights they have for the future of the profession. The podcast will examine the skills and qualities that have contributed to their success, as well as their perspectives on the challenges and opportunities facing the industry.

The Geoprofessional Business Association (GBA) has released an updated publication  designed to help project owners better understand the critical role of geotechnical engineering in confronting construction risk and improving project outcomes.

Subsurface problems remain one of the most significant causes of construction delays, cost overruns, change orders, and disputes. GBA’s new resource outlines five essential steps for engaging geotechnical engineering services that manage these risks and support project success.

Developed specifically for distribution to project owners, the publication highlights the risks civil and structural engineers often assume when developing geotechnical scopes and seeking proposals or bids. It offers practical guidance for reducing liability through qualifications-based selection and encourages close collaboration with qualified geotechnical professionals.

By promoting smarter decision-making early in a project, this resource empowers owners to ask: “Is what I’m going to save worth the additional risk I’ll have to bear?” In most cases, experience and litigation show the answer is a resounding “No.”

GBA’s publication reinforces a vital message: the modest investment in high-quality geotechnical services pays dividends by preventing costly problems down the road.

Whether you’re optimistic about the immediate economic future, bracing for an imminent downturn, or somewhere in-between, smart leaders know that preparation is key. Here are three essential resources (free for employees of GBA member firms) to help you strengthen your geoprofessional business now—before economic headwinds arrive.

Business Brief: Planning for the Next Recession Now
This Business Brief outlines proactive steps you can take today, including:
• Updating your strategic plan
• Strengthening client relationships and brand equity
• Increasing cash availability
• Aligning corporate culture with strategy

These strategies not only prepare you for a potential downturn but also position your firm for long-term success.

Recession Tune-Up: Preparing for a Business Downturn
Guy Marcozzi, P.E., LEED AP BD+C, F. ASCE (Verdantas) shares a toolkit for business leaders to align their teams, adapt business practices, and build an “emotional bank” to guide tough decisions. Learn how to keep your business running smoothly—before challenges arise.

Planning, Preparing, and Executing for the Looming Recession
Lee James, CPA, CBI, CMC®, F.GBA (Lee James & Associates, Inc.) breaks down the essential elements of recession planning—what needs to happen, when, where, and by whom. Drawing from past recessions, this session covers best practices for navigating economic downturns with confidence.

BONUS RESOURCE: GBA NEWSlog
Staying informed is just as ihttps://www.geoprofessional.org/newslog/mportant as planning ahead. For ongoing insights into industry trends, risk management strategies, and economic shifts, sign up for GBA’s biweekly email newsletter – free for members and non-members.

These resources provide practical strategies for planning, financial stability, and leadership during downturns. Now is the time to ensure your firm is ready for whatever comes next. Take advantage of these expert insights and set your business up for stability and success.

The latest episode of GBA’s GeoHeroes podcast is now available! Hosted by GBA President Guy Marcozzi, P.E., D.GE, LEED AP BD+C (Verdantas), this episode features an engaging conversation with Carrie (Foulk) Rodriguez, P.E., G.E., GBA Board member and Geotechnical Group Leader at BSK Associates.

Carrie shares her journey from a West Coast childhood to becoming a leader in geotechnical engineering. From early aspirations in environmental engineering to ultimately transitioning into geoprofessional consulting, her story is one of resilience, adaptability, and a willingness to take risks.

Key highlights from the episode include:

• The power of mentorship: How influential mentors shaped her approach to problem-solving and decision-making.
• Balancing career and family: Carrie’s experience stepping away from the profession to raise her children and successfully reentering the field.
• Advocating for the geoprofessions: Her passion for mentoring young engineers, speaking at schools, and encouraging others to promote the profession.

Carrie emphasizes the importance of being open to new experiences, asking questions, and embracing every challenge as a learning opportunity. Her advice to young geoprofessionals? Don’t be afraid to get your hands dirty, exude confidence, and seek the lesson in every task.

This episode of GeoHeroes is packed with wisdom for geoprofessionals at every career stage. Carrie reminds listeners that the key to success is staying curious, embracing challenges, and not being afraid to advocate for yourself and the profession.

This episode was produced by Ryan White, P.E., G.E. (PBS Engineering and Environmental LLC), Vice-Chair of GBA’s Multimedia Delivery Committee.

In the GeoHeroes series, industry leaders share what motivates them and what insights they have for the future of the profession. The series examines the skills and qualities that have contributed to their success, as well as their perspectives on the challenges and opportunities facing the industry.

Other GBA Podcast series include:
• Leadership Lounge
• Management Best Practices
• Audio Education for Field Representatives
• Case Histories
• Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

In the latest episode of GeoHeroes – a GBA Podcast series – GBA President Guy Marcozzi, P.E., D.GE, LEED AP BD+C (Verdantas) sits down with industry veteran Jay Martin, P.E., F. GBA who shares a candid look at his career. Martin recently retired after a remarkable 40+ year geoprofessional career that culminated in his role as Senior Vice President at WSP.

Jay offers invaluable lessons on leadership, adaptability, and the art of building lasting client relationships. He discusses how cultural shifts and consolidation have shaped the profession, and the transition from technical roles to leadership.

In the 37-minute episode, Martin dives into the importance of moving beyond project-based work to program management, emphasizing the value of becoming a trusted advisor rather than just a service provider. He also offers advice for young professionals looking to navigate the field and make a lasting impact.

And don’t miss the fast-paced speed round, where Jay reveals his go-to book for professional growth, his passion for history, and his optimistic outlook on the future of the geoprofessional industry. He also candidly discusses what he might have done differently in his career, offering wisdom that can help others navigate change and take calculated risks.

Tune in now to hear Jay Martin’s journey and gain a fresh perspective on leadership, risk, and resilience in the geoprofessional world.

This episode was produced by Ryan White, P.E., G.E. (PBS Engineering and Environmental LLC), Vice-Chair of GBA’s Multimedia Delivery Committee.

In the GeoHeroes series, industry leaders share what motivates them and what insights they have for the future of the profession. The series examines the skills and qualities that have contributed to their success, as well as their perspectives on the challenges and opportunities facing the industry.

Other GBA Podcast series include:
• Leadership Lounge
• Management Best Practices
• Audio Education for Field Representatives
• Case Histories
• Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

When Joe Meiburger, P.E., LEED AP (ECS) embarked on a trip to Honduras last October, he carried with him more than just a suitcase—he brought along a tool for inspiration: GBA’s GEO (Geoprofessional Education Outreach) Kit. What started as an educational outreach initiative turned into a transformative experience for both Joe and the students at the Lamb Institute’s bilingual academy in San Buenaventura.

JOY Christian Academy in San Buenaventura.

The Journey to Honduras

Joe’s trip was part of an annual effort led by his father-in-law’s church, which has supported the Lamb Institute for several years. The Institute provides critical resources to children in Honduras, including an orphanage, an after-school program, and a bilingual academy.

The group of volunteers in Honduras

With a mission to share knowledge and spark curiosity, Joe introduced the GEO Kit—a hands-on educational tool designed by GBA’s Emerging Leaders—to students in grades five through eight. His goal was to bring engineering concepts to life in a way that was engaging, interactive, and easy to understand.

Joe demonstrates the GEO Kit for students in Honduras.

What Is a GEO Kit?

GBA’s GEO Kit were developed by the Emerging Leaders Class 5. Designed to make educational outreach accessible for geoprofessionals, the kits provide a ready-to-use, hands-on activity that can be implemented with minimal preparation. Each kit includes simple materials like kinetic sand, wooden dowels, and foam blocks, making complex engineering principles tangible for young learners.

GBA Board member Carrie Rodriguez, P.E., G.E. (BSK Associates) shares a GEO Kit at a middle school presentation in November 2024.

The kits cover key topics such as:
• Soil compaction
• Zone of influence
• Bearing capacity
• Shallow vs. deep foundations
• Bridge foundation failure

By providing these materials and structured activities, GBA members aim to spark early interest in engineering and geoscience, ensuring that the next generation of geoprofessionals has the opportunity to explore these fields before making career decisions.

Chuck Shaw, P.E. (ECS) uses GEO Kits to show kids what geotechnical engineers do at the ABC Delaware Governor’s Construction Expo.

Bringing the Geoprofessions to Life

At the bilingual academy, Joe introduced the Bridge Foundation Failure GEO Kit to two groups of students. The hands-on experiment quickly turned into a friendly competition as students tested different foundation designs, exploring concepts of stability, economy of design, and soil reinforcement.

Joe speaks with young learners in Honduras about the geoprofessions.

“I was blown away by how much the students already knew,” Joe shared. “They understood igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic rocks, and they were eager to experiment with different foundation techniques.”

The GEO Kit allowed students to see engineering in action, sparking curiosity about how structures are designed and built. Teachers at the academy also took an active interest, ensuring that the kit would be used for future lessons, extending its impact beyond Joe’s visit.

Bridging the Gap

In her presentation at the 2024 GBA Annual Conference, Carrie Rodriguez, P.E., G.E. (BSK Associates) shared that the number of new geoprofessionals entering the workforce is struggling to keep pace with those retiring or eligible for retirement.

Rodriguez presents at the 2024 GBA Annual Conference.

Why is this? Carrie recounted a few reasons that you may have heard before and discovered some new factors in conversations with university staff:
• People don’t know what geoprofessionals do.
• People don’t pay attention to infrastructure – they just expect it to work.
• People especially don’t pay attention to what they can’t see (the subsurface elements of the built environment).
• Students aren’t introduced to geoprofessional disciplines until late in their college careers.
• The introduction they do get isn’t very interesting.
• There aren’t enough professors of geoprofessional disciplines.
• There isn’t enough real-world focus in the classes – students don’t get an idea of what a day in their life would look like as a geoprofessional.

So what can be done? Carrie encourages geoprofessionals firms to develop internship programs, share images of the work they do, and establish a presence at local schools. This is where the GBA GEO Kit can be a valuable tool.

How to Get a GEO Kit

GEO Kits are available for any GBA member firm looking to engage in educational outreach. The kits come with an ingredient list, simple preparation instructions, and structured lesson plans, making it easy to introduce geoprofessional concepts to students of all ages.

Jamie Bates, P.E. (not pictured) with SME used a GEO Kit in her presentation at a Nontraditional Employment for Women workshop.

Those interested in bringing a GEO Kit to their community can contact GBA’s GEO Kit Task Force to get a list of materials and instructions to build and share the kit. Whether used in local schools or international outreach efforts like Joe’s, GEO Kits offer a hands-on way to inspire the next generation of geoprofessionals.

Joe’s trip to Honduras showcased the power of these kits to ignite curiosity and learning. As GBA continues to help members expand their educational outreach, GEO Kits stand as a testament to the impact that hands-on learning can have—one foundation at a time.

The GBA Nominating Committee has announced its slate of officers and directors for the May 1, 2025-April 30, 2026 fiscal year.

GBA President-Elect and Board Chair-Elect Teresa Peterson, P.E., C.M.E., LEED AP O&M, ENV SP (Gannett Fleming TranSystems) will become President and Chair of the Board of Directors.

LISTEN TO TERESA’S GEOHEROES PODCAST INTERVIEW

READ SPOTLIGHT ARTICLE ABOUT TERESA

Those nominated for the other two officer positions are, for President-Elect and Board Chair-Elect, Daniel K. Schaefer, P.E. (Froehling & Roberston, Inc.) and for Secretary-Treasurer, Stu Thompson (CTL|Thompson).

        READ SPOTLIGHT ARTICLE ABOUT DAN       

READ SPOTLIGHT ARTICLE ABOUT STU

The other Directors-at-Large on the slate are:

• Kent Bannister, P.Eng. (TREK Geotechnical Inc.)
• Elizabeth Clarke (Structure Groups)
• Jeffrey P. Jaros (NTH Consultants, Ltd.)
• Carrie Rodriguez, P.E., G.E. (BSK Associates)
• Dori Ross, P.E. (Sanborn, Head, & Associates Inc.)
• Jason Stoops, P.E. (G2 Consulting Group)

Ballots will be sent to each Member Firm’s Ambassador to GBA next week.

Jeff Jaros, President & CEO, NTH Consultants, Ltd., GBA Peer Review Committee

If you are like most CEOs and executives, business is coming at you and your company fast. You’ve experienced growth but are concerned about your risk management practices as yougrow too fast. Perhaps your employee retention rate has declined and you continue to hire only to replace those you’ve lost.

Have you never had a GBA Peer Review but thought about it? Has it been more than five years since your last Peer Review? Are you struggling with one or more business functions and want fresh perspectives from others that have likely faced similar challenges?

If the answer to these questions is “Yes,” why not consider a Peer Review?

If you’ve been around GBA long enough, you certainly have heard Terra Insurance Company representatives promote the benefits that Terra insureds realized from Peer Reviews. Terra is the mostly highly rated professional liability insurance carrier in the U.S., according to various metrics produced by A.M Best. Terra’s losses are roughly one-sixth (1/6) of industry averages over the last 10 years.

Maybe Peer Reviewed firms really do benefit from the process. You certainly do not need to be a Terra-insured firm to benefit from a GBA Peer Review.

GBA’s foundational principle is collaboration among and between member firms for their collective benefit. While we may compete for business, assuring a strong geoprofessional brand through the success of our member firms is paramount to the mission of GBA. The Peer Review is one arrow in the quiver.

What is a Peer Review?

At its core, Peer Review is part of a continuous improvement program that aims to help firms improve their business processes, implement best practices, and receive feedback. A comprehensive Peer Review assesses nine (9) core management components of the firm through staff questionnaires, staff interviews, and a review of certain company information.

A Peer Review is meant to be minimally disruptive to your daily operations and is conducted both virtually and on-site. From start to finish, you can expect the process to take not more than three (3) months with the on-site portion not more than one (1) week. In fact, much of the Peer Review is done in the background by the Peer Review Team (PRT).

What a Peer Review is Not.

The Peer Review is not meant to review or opine on your firm’s finance performance, nor is information regarding client pricing and staff compensation shared with the team. Prior to a Peer Review engagement, the PRT enters into a confidentiality agreement with the firm to assure that any materials reviewed will remain confidential. Further, the Peer Review requires the PRT to destroy all information associated with the review within 30 days after completion.

Who is the Peer Review Team?

Each PRT consists of “peers,” who are current and past members of other GBA member firm leadership teams. All members of the PRT are active with GBA, hold or previously held leadership roles within GBA, and have completed training as a Peer Reviewer.

Additionally, each PRT is led by a captain, who has completed a minimum of three Peer Reviews and has received their own review by team captains as well as CEOs of Peer-Reviewed firms.

Testimonials

Don’t take our word for it, read some of the many testimonials from GBA Peer-Reviewed firms. The collective history of these firms spans hundreds of years, and many have successfully transitioned through multiple leadership generations.

“The Peer Review came at the right time for our firm as we were transitioning from a smaller firm to a more regional firm. The outside perspectives and insights were great at discovering potential pitfalls in this transition.”

~ Matthew Cramer, P.E., GEOMAT

“The ‘outsider’ viewpoint of our organization was invaluable. But one of the main benefits
is being able to use the Peer Review feedback to help bolster and help add justification to
changes we knew needed making throughout the organization. I am proud to say that the ALLWEST team has participated in the Peer Review program for many years and continue to recognize it as one of the most valuable resources available to us as a growing geoprofessional firm. Kudos to the Peer Reviewers for the dedication of their time and effort, and to GBA for facilitating such a great service to its member firms!”

~ James Thomasson, P.E., ALLWEST Testing & Engineering

“Having close to the three decades of experience with Peer Review as a team member, captain, and having our firm reviewed multiple times, this is perhaps the most beneficial professional experience of my career. If you want to improve your firm’s performance, you owe it to have your company Peer Reviewed.”

~ Kevin Hoppe, P.E., F.GBA, NTH Consultants

“I’ve undergone a few and been a part of a few. Each time it requires a lift of effort, but they are very rewarding in many ways. Now, five years into GPI, it is a bit of a rite of passage and a great reminder as part of a smaller firm some of the things to keep in our foresight as we march on trying to improve the business.”

~ Travis Wambeke, P.E., P.G, GPI

“It confirmed things we have already defined and raised others we have not seen, which was very important. This helps us adjust our strategic plan to improve faster and with more relevant actions. Also, this helps us get approvals from upper management.”

~ Martin LaRoche, P.Eng. and Luc Leger, AtkinsRéalis (formerly SNC-Lavalin)

“The review produced useful feedback and constructive criticism regarding loss management and company culture that we will seriously consider and implement as appropriate. Members of the review team were open to sharing experiences in dealing with similar issues. Overall, very positive and helpful process.”

~ Jeffrey Unruh, Lettis Consultants

“The review provided a catalyst to implement some issues that have fallen through the cracks.”

~ Gary Russey, RGH Consultants

“I think the Peer Review was very valuable. It allowed us to hear from our people in an open and honest manner (through a third party). It had given us guidance on what we can do better. I think the Peer Review Team was very thoughtful in their report preparation.”

~ Geotechnical Consultants

“This review had an enormous impact in our company. The most notable is that Peer Reviewers provided specific, actionable recommendations for leadership transition, which were immediately implemented. Instead of just planning for leadership transition we actually started the process.”

~ Jennifer Hirata Yamaguchi, P.E., Hirata & Associates

If you’re ready to get started on a Peer Review for your firm, fill out the short form HERE.

The 2025 GBA Annual Conference: Guardians of the Earth (April 24-26) is shaping up to be one of the most impactful yet—and we just added one more reason to join us in Savannah this April. Newly added to the program is a presentation that hits especially close to home.

The presentation on Friday, April 25, will focus on the critical infrastructural challenges caused by the bulkhead collapse of the ferry landing between the Savannah Convention Center and the Westin Hotel—where the GBA Annual Conference is being held.

On the morning of June 18, 2022, movements at the ferry landing resulted in a substantial crack in the brick-paved plaza. Guoming Lin, Ph.D, G.E., BC.GE (Terracon) was called in by the City of Savannah to assist with the emergency response. In this presentation, Dr. Lin will reconstruct the progressive failure process and emergency response, discuss findings in the investigation, and share repair design considerations.

Dr. Lin is a vice president and senior geotechnical consultant with Terracon Consultants in Savannah, Georgia. He has more than 30 years of experience and provided geotechnical consulting to thousands of projects including Georgia Ports, Kinder Morgan Elba Island LNG Terminal, and the Hyundai EV plant near Savannah.

Dr. Lin is a licensed geotechnical engineer (G.E.) in California and a professional engineer in several states. He is a board-certified geotechnical engineer (BC.GE) by the Academy of Geoprofessionals and has authored more than 20 technical papers.

In addition to the “Hutchinson Island Ferry Landing Bulkhead Collapse,” other sessions at the GBA Annual Conference include:
• Thriving in the Tech Age: The Changing Role of Consulting Engineers
• 6 Keys to Building a Championship Engineering Firm
• Field Documentation – What Really Happens in Legal Disputes
• 5 Components of Extraordinary Teams
• Business Round Tables

GBA’s Annual Conference is a unique opportunity to engage with geoprofessional industry leaders, build connections with peers and mentors, and elevate your professional profile. This event dives deep into practical insights and business acumen that you may not have learned in school. And outside the general session room, you’ll immerse yourself in a collaborative environment where competition takes a back seat and knowledge-sharing reigns.

Say Yes to Opportunity: Advice for the Next Generation of Geoprofessionals

The latest episode of GeoHeroes from the GBA Podcast features a conversation between GBA President Guy Marcozzi, P.E., D.GE, LEED AP BD+C (Verdantas) and Kent Bannister, P.Eng President and CEO of TREK Geotechnical. Bannister’s journey from his early days in Winnipeg to leading one of Canada’s growing geotechnical firms provides valuable lessons for geoprofessionals at all career stages.

Bannister’s career has spanned consulting, dam safety, and large-scale infrastructure projects, ultimately leading him to TREK, where he now focuses on strategic growth, risk management, and industry leadership.

Kent and Guy discuss the evolving demands on geoprofessionals, including the increasing need for strong technical expertise, communication skills, and adaptability. Bannister highlights the challenges of leadership, the impact of climate change and aging infrastructure on the profession, and the role of emerging technologies like big data and AI in shaping the future of geotechnical engineering.

Listeners will also gain insights into Bannister’s leadership philosophy, his experiences working in remote locations like Baffin Island, and his advice for young engineers: “Say yes when opportunity presents itself.”

Tune in to hear how one of Canada’s leading geotechnical experts navigates the complexities of the industry and what the future holds for geoprofessionals.

This episode was produced by Ryan White, P.E., G.E. (PBS Engineering and Environmental LLC), Vice-Chair of GBA’s Multimedia Delivery Committee.

In the GeoHeroes series, industry leaders share what motivates them and what insights they have for the future of the profession. The series examines the skills and qualities that have contributed to their success, as well as their perspectives on the challenges and opportunities facing the industry.

In addition to GeoHeroes, the GBA Podcast offers the following series:
• Leadership Lounge
• Management Best Practices
• Audio Education for Field Representatives
• Case Histories
• Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

What makes an ideal team player? Patrick M. Lencioni breaks it down in his book, “The Ideal Team Player”,  where he explores the key traits that define true teamwork.

The next meeting of the GBA Book Club will take place in person during the 2025 GBA Annual Conference in Savannah, Georgia on Thursday, April 24, from 4:45-5:45 p.m. Eastern Time. If you’re attending the conference, you’re welcome to join the discussion on “The Ideal Team Player”. Moderated by Tiffany Vorhies, PMP, NACE CIP-2 (SME) of GBA’s Multimedia Delivery Committee, the discussion will dive into Lencioni’s model and how it applies to geoprofessional firms, leadership, and workplace success.

Book Description: Being a team player who can work effectively with others to achieve a group goal is more important than ever in our interdependent and changing world. However, true team players are surprisingly uncommon, in part because many organizations are unclear on what being a team player means, and as a result, often end up hiring people who undermine teamwork. In “The Ideal Team Player”, Patrick Lencioni defines the model team player as a person who embodies the virtues of humility, hunger or drive, and people skills. He explains how to transform your organization by developing your current employees into team players and making sure you hire team players in the future.

Pick up your copy and start reading today so you can join other GBA readers in the discussion.

Register for the 2025 GBA Annual Conference.