2025 Engineering Excellence Awards FIRM OF THE YEAR
Why Us
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
For over 25 years, WBK Engineering, LLC (WBK) has built a reputation as a leading medium-sized engineering firm that consistently delivers high quality engineering consulting services, generates innovative project solutions, and builds strong client relationships, all while mediating the built and natural environments. We are a part of Bodwé, the Professional Services Group of Mno-Bmadsen, the non-gaming investment enterprise and a wholly owned instrumentality of the Pokagon Band of Potawatomi.
Due to our tribal ownership, WBK has received several certifications that have enabled us to expand our business beyond our local and regional markets, undertaking projects across the country with federal agencies such as the Bureau of Indian Affairs and Education, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and the Veterans Administration. With nearly three decades of experience in civil engineering and related consulting services - including transportation, bridge and structural, municipal, environmental and water resources, planning and development, and construction oversight services – we have established ourselves as rising leaders in the field.
Despite the hiring and employee retention challenges faced in the engineering industry amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, WBK has managed to maintain and grow our workforce by 30%. As a consulting engineering firm with 35 employees (including 18 licensed professional engineers in multiple states), we are committed to advancing the consulting design profession while contributing to the growth and success of ACEC Illinois and our local communities. As a leading medium-sized engineering firm that consistently demonstrates technical expertise and a deep commitment to community engagement, WBK is a prime candidate for the ACEC Firm of the Year award.
Our diverse team excels in transportation, bridge and structural, municipal, environmental and water resources, planning and development, and construction oversight services. We have a proven track record of delivering complex projects on time, within budget, and exceeding client expectations. This is particularly evident in our recent success with our first prime contract with the Tollway Systemwide Design Upon Request (DUR) project, where we overcame challenging technical obstacles and delivered significant social impact across multiple task orders while managing seven subconsultants.
Our Story
YEAR ESTABLISHED 1998 OWNERSHIP
Wholly owned by the Pokagon Band of Potawatomi
BUSINESS TYPE
Limited Liability Corporation, Tribally Owned, Small Disadvantaged Business, Minority Business Enterprise, 8(a) Indian Small Business Economic Enterprise STAFFING 35+ Employees
DOLLARS RETURNED TO THE POKAGON BAND
$9 Million
WBK is founded in St. Charles, IL with a goal to capture work from the development and government initiatives generating in the Kane County area.
with providing technical
in
WBK acquires another St. Charles civil engineering firm, growing their team and their client base to include municipal and transportation markets, including work with the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT).
First Milestone Project: WBK was tasked
assistance
writing the first Kane County Stormwater Management Ordinance.
WBK begins discussions with Mno-Bmadsen to become one of the only tribally owned civil engineering firms based in Illinois.
WBK becomes 8(a) certified, strengthening our capabilities in the federal market.
Mno-Bmadsen acquires 100% of WBK Engineering, further exposing our company to federal and Indigenous market sectors.
2019
WBK celebrates the opening of their expanded office space in Battle Creek, MI
2017 2022
WBK receives DBE certification from the state of Illinois and celebrates 25 years of service.
WBK receives DBE certification from the state of Michigan and begins pursuing work with the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT).
WBK Engineering, LLC (WBK) is part of Bodwé, the Professional Services Group of Mno-Bmadsen, the non-gaming investment enterprise and a wholly owned instrumentality of the Pokagon Band of Potawatomi. Mno-Bmadsen was established to diversity the Pokagon Band’s business interests and revenue streams, ensuring growth and sustainability.
Bodwé Group is comprised of WBK Engineering, Seven Generations Architecture + Engineering, The Steelhead Engineering Company, Blue Star Integrative Studio, Bodwé Federal Services, Bodwé Technology Solutions and Bodwé Infrastructure Services. Bodwé teams provide architecture, interior design, master planning, environmental consulting, and structural, civil, and MEP engineering design, as well as federal consulting services. We partner with Indigenous, healthcare, federal and municipal government, community and private clients across the country.
The Potawatomi, or Bodéwadmi people, are known as the keepers of the fire, a legacy reflected in our name, Bodwé, which means “to light a fire for him/her” or “to serve another meaningfully.” This spirit of service defines our approach as we partner with diverse clients, ensuring Indigenous traditions are interwoven into both our brand and our values. We design, build, problem-solve, preserve, and enhance spaces with a deep respect for Indigenous culture and community.
Our People
Our people are truly exceptional because of their unwavering dedication to our clients, each other, and Mother Earth. We foster a culture rooted in collaboration and inclusivity, where every voice is heard, valued and encouraged to thrive as its authentic self. This unique environment attracts individuals who are driven by a sense of service to the global community rather than individual gain.
Guided by the values of our Pokagon Band ownership—Wisdom, Love, Respect, Truth, Honesty, Humility and Bravery—our team
“I enjoy working at WBK because our tribal ownership and DBE certification provide access to a broad range of potential projects and markets, while our quality of work and exceptional service have shaped our identity as a trusted engineering firm.”
embodies a passion for designing spaces that honor the heritage and desires of our clients while remaining steadfast in their commitment to the mission of growing the economy and legacy of the Pokagon Band of Potawatomi. Their creativity, curiosity and dedication to bringing clients’ visions to life distinguish them from others, and their deep sense of purpose and commitment to making a meaningful impact is at the core of everything they do.
Yemi Oyewole Transportation Practice Lead
Our Strengths
LONGSTANDING PARTNERSHIPS WITH MUNICIPALITIES AND COUNTIES
For decades, WBK has served as a true partner to many municipal clients. We take the time to understand the objectives and regulations and how they relate to development within the community. Our work spans planning and design of primary infrastructure, development of multi-year roadway improvement programs, bridge design and inspections, and resolution of local wetland and drainage concerns. Our team facilitates all aspects of the land development review and approval process, oftentimes serving as an extension of the client team from planning to engineering review to construction oversight. from planning and engineering review to construction oversight.
By maintaining proactive communication and efficient project management, WBK consistently exceeds client expectations, delivering successful outcomes on key projects such as:
• PSB 20-1 Tollway Systemwide Design Upon Request (DUR) (see page 14)
• Harley Road over UPRR Bridge Rehabilitation, Blackberry Township
• IL 137 over Bull Creek
Culvert Replacement, Beach Park
• Various-Various Phase I and II Projects in Districts 1, 2 and 8
Riveredge Park Bridge
COMMITMENT TO COMMUNITY BUILDING
We encourage our employees to be active in community service, participating in programs that promote the engineering profession and support local communities. Our outreach initiatives include educational programs in local schools, where our staff introduces students to engineering concepts and career opportunities.
As a tribally owned firm guided by the mantra of following “the good path” for the next seven generations and empowering others (lighting a fire for others), we have sponsored and actively participated in various community programs including, but not limited to the following:
• Aurora Interfaith Food Pantry
• Fox Valley Park Foundation / Golf for Kids
• Feed My Starving Children
• St. Charles Kiwanis Foundation
• Women of Self Love Inc.
• Naperville Area Humane Society
• CASA Kane County
• St. Charles Park District
• Fox Valley Park Foundation / Annual Golf for Kids Benefit Golf Outing
• St. Charles Police Union Chapter 27
• Fox Valley Branch APWA
These activities not only benefit the community but also reinforce our firm’s values of service and engagement.
ADVANCING THE ENGINEERING PROFESSION
WBK, in conjunction with Mno-Bmadsen, is dedicated to inspiring the next generation of engineers through a variety of initiatives. We offer internships, mentoring programs, and job shadowing opportunities designed to encourage young people to pursue careers in engineering.
Mno-Bmadsen promotes the Pathways Program, which connects tribal youth and adults with career opportunities within the MnoBmadsen family of companies and our network of business partners.
For youth, the Pathways Program provides exposure to careers in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) within our organizations. For adults, the program helps coordinate and refer individuals to employment opportunities associated with ongoing construction projects and other roles within the Mno-Bmadsen network.
These efforts not only benefit the participants but also contribute to developing a stronger, more diverse engineering workforce.
At WBK Engineering, we place a strong emphasis on continued professional development, empowering our team members to expand their expertise and grow within their careers.
We encourage active involvement in professional organizations like ACEC Illinois and other industry associations, helping our staff build valuable networks and learn from peers across the field. Throughout the year, we also host lunch-andlearn sessions, providing opportunities for our team to stay updated on the latest advancements in technology, materials, and processes that shape our work.
This commitment to lifelong learning ensures that our team remains at the forefront of industry breakthroughs, delivering the best possible solutions for our clients.
PROJECT HIGHLIGHTS
PSB 20-1 Tollway Systemwide Design Upon Request
The Tollway’s Systemwide Design Upon Request (DUR) contract involves providing comprehensive engineering design services across multiple locations within the Tollway system This includes tasks related to roadway design, drainage improvements, environmental assessments, structural analysis, and Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) integration. The scope requires WBK to respond to various needs promptly and efficiently, managing a diverse range of projects that support the Tollway’s ongoing infrastructure improvements and maintenance efforts.
Unique Project Challenges
Varied Project Scope: WBK tackled diverse design tasks, from minor repairs to major reconstructions, requiring adaptable solutions for each unique site condition and technical need.
Complex Stakeholder Coordination: Managing seven subconsultants and multiple shareholders required seamless communication to meet project goals and maintain timelines.
Accelerated Project Timelines: Quick turnarounds on task orders challenged WBK to efficiently manage resources and streamline workflows, while maintaining the Tollway’s rigorous design standards.
Balancing Innovation and Cost Efficiency: WBK balanced cuttingedge solutions, like ITS and sustainable pavement design, with budget constraints, ensuring cost efficiency without sacrificing safety or quality.
KEY PROJECT STRENGTHS
PSB 20-1 Tollway Systemwide Design Upon Request
METHODOLOGY
Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) Integration
Adaptive Traffic Management and Phasing
INNOVATIVE SOLUTION
To improve traffic management and safety, WBK integrated ITS into the design, using real-time data and predictive analytics to optimize traffic flow. Adaptive signal controls, dynamic message signs, and monitoring sensors allow the Tollway to respond to changing conditions in real-time, reducing congestion and enhancing driver safety with upto-date traffic, weather, and road condition information.
WBK developed adaptive traffic management plans using real-time data and simulation modeling to minimize disruptions during construction. Temporary ITS components, such as portable message signs and temporary signals, helped maintain traffic flow and safety for both motorists and workers throughout the project phases.
3D Modeling and Visualization
Sustainable Pavement Design
Geotechnical Innovation and Ground Stabilization
WBK utilized advanced Open Roads Designer (ORD) 3D modeling to create detailed digital site models, enabling precise design adjustments and better client communication. The 3D visualizations helped identify potential conflicts, optimize design placement, and improve project constructability, while providing shareholders with clear visuals to enhance decision-making.
Exploring sustainable pavement design methods, we incorporated recycled materials like reclaimed asphalt pavement (RAP) and warm-mix asphalt to reduce the carbon footprint and extend roadway lifespan. By using advanced pavement preservation techniques and performance modeling, WBK optimized maintenance schedules and ensured long-term durability.
WBK used advanced geotechnical analysis and soil stabilization techniques to ensure stable foundations for roadways and structures. By incorporating geosynthetics like geogrids and geotextiles, WBK improved subgrade load capacity, reducing excavation needs, saving costs, and minimizing environmental impact.
Contributions to the Success and Growth of ACEC Illinois
WBK has actively supported ACEC Illinois through various initiatives and leadership roles over the past two years, including:
BOARD AND COMMITTEE INVOLVEMENT
Our team members have participated on ACEC Illinois committees, contributing valuable insights and fostering collaboration within the engineering community. Our active participation on key committees, such as the Tollway, IDOT, IDOT Bridge, DEI, DBE, CCDOTH, City of Chicago and CDB, has contributed to the development of policies and initiatives that benefit the consulting engineering industry and support the overall mission of ACEC Illinois.
MENTORSHIP AND LIAISON ROLES
As a recently certified DBE firm in 2023, WBK has taken a proactive approach in mentoring new member firms, offering guidance and support to help them navigate the complexities of the consulting engineering industry. Additionally, our firm has acted as a liaison between ACEC Illinois and other organizations, strengthening relationships and promoting shared goals.
RECRUITMENT EFFORTS
Our firm recognizes the importance of a strong network and has successfully
supported the recruitment of new member firms to ACEC Illinois, enhancing the organization’s network and reinforcing its position as a leading voice in the engineering consulting community.
EVENT SPONSORSHIP
WBK has actively sponsored several ACEC Illinois events, including IDOT and Tollway Luncheons, contributing to the professional development and networking opportunities available to members. These sponsorships have helped ACEC Illinois host impactful events that benefit the wider engineering community, providing networking and learning opportunities for members.
POLITICAL ENGAGEMENT
WBK has participated in state and federal political processes, advocating for policies that support the consulting design profession. Through contributions to ACEC Illinois’s Political Action Committees, we have supported legislative efforts that align with the interests of our industry and helped advance key legislative objectives.
WBK has demonstrated a strong commitment to advancing the consulting design profession through various initiatives over the past two years:
SPEAKING ENGAGEMENTS
We’ve made it a priority to share our insights and expertise through various speaking engagements, including the Emerging Professionals Webinar Series. By participating in both technical and non-professional forums, we raise awareness about the consulting design profession and advocate for its growth. These opportunities not only allow us to showcase our knowledge but also emphasize WBK’s dedication to advancing the industry.
ENGINEERING EXCELLENCE AWARDS
WBK has proudly participated in the ACEC Illinois Engineering Excellence Awards Competition, highlighting our commitment to innovative design solutions and technical excellence. Our team’s 2022 entry for the ATC Enhancements and Pedestrian Bridge over the Fox River was honored with the Lincoln’s Grand Conceptor award. This project was recognized for its innovative approach, high-quality execution, and significant positive impact on the community. Additionally, our team’s 2022 entry in the Special Projects Category for the Fox River Trail at Raymond Street showcased our expertise as the Engineer of Record for the Forest Preserve of Kane County. This project further demonstrated our innovative design solutions and technical prowess.
CERTIFICATIONS AND QUALITY DESIGNATIONS
WBK’s certifications, including its U.S. Small Business section 8(a) status and qualification as an Indian Small Business Economic Enterprise, demonstrate our commitment to maintaining the highest standards of quality and service. These certifications have enabled us to expand our reach and take on significant projects nationwide.
EMPLOYEE DEVELOPMENT
WBK places a strong emphasis on employee development, enrolling staff in ACEC Illinois programs such as the Emerging Professionals Committee and Leadership Series Program. By investing in our team, we ensure that our firm remains at the forefront of industry practices and leadership development. This not only strengthens our firm’s management capabilities but also prepares the next generation of leaders in the engineering industry.
Motorola Schaumburg Campus
WBK Engineering, LLC exemplifies the qualities of a leading consulting engineering firm through its unwavering commitment to the consulting design profession, active support of ACEC Illinois, and dedication to community involvement.
Our diverse certifications, national reach, and 25-year legacy of excellence make us a distinguished candidate for the “Medium Firm of the Year” award. We are honored to continue our partnership with ACEC Illinois, advancing the profession and making a lasting positive impact on the communities we serve.
BIA School Assessments
St. Charles Riverwalk
