2024 Annual Report

ANNUAL REPORT

Building momentum

Table of contents

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After 16 years, Todd Kenner steps down as CEO, passing on a culture shaped by thoughtful leadership and shared purpose.

01

O u r S t o ry

03

CEO message

05

People

07

financials

09

Investments

13

Projects

19

R E S P E C F o u n d at i o n

R E S P EC L e a d e r s h i p A c t i v e i n 2 0 2 4 BOARD OF DIRECTORS

CORPORATE OFFICERS

SENIOR VICE PRESIDENTS

VICE PRESIDENTS

Stephen T. O’Rourke, Lead Director* Laura J. Donaldson* Matt R. Emerson Pamela L. Feuerstein* Brian G. Iverson* Todd J. Kenner Jason T. Love Steve L. Steinheimer (through July 2024) Jay R. VanOrden* Philip A. Welling *External Director

Todd J. Kenner, Chief Executive Officer Jason T. Love, President Philip A. Welling, Chief Financial Officer & Treasurer Jason D. Miller, Chief Information Officer Karla R. Lipp, Corporate Secretary Robyn K. Beaird, Corporate Controller

Meagan L. Chaddick, Data & Technology Matt R. Emerson, Infrastructure Jay R. Nopola, Mining & Energy Russell A. Persyn, Water & Natural Resources

Karen A. Brady Mario L. DiPasquale Rick R. Moser Denise J. Quick Daniel T. Rauchenstein Lee D. Rosen Tabetha A. Stirrett** **Also President of RESPEC Canada

OUR STORY

Celebrating a legacy

Fifty-five years ago, six visionaries saw an opportunity: what if science, technology, and engineering could be combined to solve industry challenges in new ways?

They built RESPEC with that vision, starting as a small team with big ideas. Today, over 600 employee-owners carry that same spirit, working across industries and communities to shape the future.

In 2024, we honored the legacy of innovation, resilience, and stewardship that has defined RESPEC since day one. The progress we’ve made is reflected in the problems solved, the partnerships built, and the impact created.

We marked the anniversary with companywide celebrations, reflections on our history, and recognition of the people who helped shape RESPEC into what it is today.

For 55 years, we’ve never stood still. We’ve pushed boundaries, solved complex challenges, and grown into a company

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known for delivering results. But our greatest achievement isn’t a single project, acquisition, or number—it’s the culture of Passion, Accountability, Caring, and Teamwork (PACT) that drives everything we do.

As we move into the future, we remain committed to the same principles that built RESPEC: innovation that makes a difference, stewardship that sustains industries and environments, and a shared purpose that turns employee-owners into change-makers.

But our story is far from over. We see that we are not merely reflecting on a legacy— we are building on it. Every project completed, every challenge overcome, and every milestone reached fuels our momentum. And with the strength of our people, RESPEC is ready to take on what’s next.

What’s made RESPEC successful for over 5 decades is simple: technical excellence, delivering on its word, and treating clients and employees with the same respect and care.

- Steve O’Rourke, Lead Director of the Board

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CEO MESSAGE

Embracing the next era A Year of Growth & Investments

An Intentional Transition

The energy that has sustained RESPEC for 55 years surged in 2024. We invested in our people, grew our capabilities through strategic acquisitions, and improved how we manage our resources with a new financial system that enhances efficiency and transparency.

Since stepping into the CEO role in 2009, I’ve seen RESPEC grow in many ways. We’ve expanded our services, grown our revenues sevenfold, and strengthened our employee-ownership model. But my greatest source of pride isn’t just our business growth; it’s the culture of trust, collaboration, and innovation that defines us. I leave knowing that our values are in capable hands.

Our success stems from an incredible team whose passion and dedication fuel our progress, ensuring we not only adapt but lead in an evolving industry. Thanks to their efforts, we continue to build a strong foundation for the future.

2024 saw exceptional growth across all aspects of our business: »

Strengthening our workforce through significant investments in talent development and retention

»

Expanding our market presence with acquisition investments

»

Modernizing financial management

»

Far exceeding our 2025 revenue goal by reaching $142 million

The progress we’ve built positions us to seize new opportunities and create lasting value for our clients, employees, and communities.

As I step down, the transition of leadership was a deliberate step toward the future, aligned with our 2018 strategic goal of establishing RESPEC’s fourth generation of leadership by 2025.

With only five Presidents in RESPEC’s 55-year history, thoughtful leadership transitions have always been part of our DNA. Now, that legacy of stability and long-term vision continues with Jason Love, whose strategic mindset and commitment to our people will drive RESPEC’s next chapter. I have no doubt he is the right person to lead RESPEC forward and am excited about watching our continued evolution as a North American company.

Todd J. Kenner

FORMER CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER 3 |

Todd challenged us to think

bigger, lead boldly, and stay true to our values.

Todd’s Legacy Revenue Growth:

Grew RESPEC’s revenue sevenfold, driving long-term growth.

ESOP Transition:

Led RESPEC’s transition to a

100% S-Corp ESOP, strengthening employee ownership.

Leadership Development:

Built the next generation of leaders, launching key leadership programs and laying the groundwork for the RESPEC Foundation.

With a focus on people and culture, Jason is guiding RESPEC into

its next era of growth.

Jason’s Vision Building on a Strong Foundation

Looking Ahead

Stepping into this role is both exciting and humbling. RESPEC’s legacy is one I’ve been proud to be part of for the past 20 years, and I’m grateful for Todd’s leadership and the foundation he’s built.

His guidance has positioned RESPEC for continued success, and I’m honored to carry that vision forward.

With Vision 2030 as our guide, we are ready to accelerate growth, drive industry innovation, and create new opportunities for our people and clients.

As CEO and President, my focus is on making sure every member of our team has the support they need to do their best work. We’ll continue to strengthen our relationships with clients, explore new opportunities, and stay true to what makes RESPEC special: our culture and our people.

I’m excited for what’s ahead because I know the strength of our people. As CEO, I will continue to champion our employee-ownership model so every member of our team benefits from the success we create together.

RESPEC’s legacy is strong, and our future is brighter than ever.

Talent Development:

Ensuring every employee has the tools and opportunities to thrive and grow.

Market Expansion:

Leveraging RESPEC’s strengths to

enter new markets while reinforcing our leadership in existing ones.

Culture of Collaboration: Deepening our commitment to accountability, teamwork, and employee ownership across all offices.

To the entire RESPEC team—thank you.

Your trust, talent, and dedication are what make this company great.

Jason T. Love

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER & PRESIDENT

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PEOPLE

Developing talent, elevating leaders Employee-ownership at RESPEC means having a stake in the company’s future, shaping its success, and growing together. In 2024, employee-owners took on new challenges, grew into leadership roles, and expanded RESPEC’s expertise. From hiring and acquisitions to promotions and industry recognition, their impact was felt across every milestone.

Welcoming New Talent

Developing the Next Generation

This year, RESPEC welcomed new talent through hiring, acquisitions, and internal career development.

Employees stepped into new opportunities, expanded their skill sets, and contributed to the company’s long-term vision.

Ownership means having the tools, support, and opportunities to grow.

In 2024, the company continued investing in leadership training, mentorship, and career development to help employees advance their careers and take on greater responsibility.

The 2024 Leadership Class led initiatives to elevate client

care and sharpen project governance companywide.

621 TOTAL EMPLOYEES

19 INTERNS

47% INTERNS RETAINED

39

STAGEN LEADERSHIP GRADUATES

10

RESPEC LEADERSHIP PROGRAM GRADUATES

199

new hires 99 THROUGH 3 ACQUISITIONS

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Employee-Owners Taking the Lead With growth comes new leadership. This year, RESPEC strengthened its leadership team by promoting experienced employee-owners into key positions that will help shape the company’s future.

Jason Miller was named Chief Administrative Officer, transitioning from his role as Chief Information Officer. In addition, four Senior Vice Presidents (SVPs) and two Vice Presidents (VPs) were appointed to lead our market sectors.

JASON MILLER CHIEF ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER

As RESPEC moves forward with Vision 2030, my new role reflects the focus we need to keep growing intentionally by investing in our people, refining processes, and living the PACT. - Jason Miller, Chief Administrative Officer Rapid City, SD

MIKE RABE

JAN HUTWELKER

MARIO DIPASQUALE

SVP OF TRANSPORTATION

SVP OF EARTHRES, A DIVISION OF RESPEC

VP OF WATER

JOHN WOJDAK

DANNY RAUCHENSTEIN

LEE ROSEN

SVP OF LAND DEVELOPMENT

SVP OF FACILITIES

VP OF WATER

Raising the Bar in Our Industry

RESPEC’s investment in employee-owners doesn’t just impact the company—it’s recognized across the industry. This year, two employees earned top honors for their technical expertise and leadership.

DANNY RAUCHENSTEIN, PE

ANNA NELSON, PE

ALASKA ENGINEER OF THE YEAR

SOUTH DAKOTA YOUNG ENGINEER OF THE YEAR

Danny’s work in Alaska has pushed infrastructure projects forward in some of the state’s toughest conditions. His leadership has helped teams deliver smarter, more efficient solutions while strengthening partnerships along the way.

Anna has tackled complex projects with fresh ideas and a sharp technical mindset.

From introducing new engineering solutions to mentoring junior colleagues, she represents the next generation of employee-owners making an impact.

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FINANCIALS

Fueling a resilient financial future In 2018, we set a bold target: to reach $125 million in revenue by 2025. By the end of 2024, we didn’t just reach that goal—we surpassed it, closing the year at $142 million in revenue, 1 year ahead of schedule. RESPEC’s sustained growth in the marketplace is proof of strategic investments, strong client relationships, and the collective drive of our employee-owners.

RESPEC remained focused on operational excellence with an outstanding record of client retention and repeat-client business. RESPEC’s continued investment in new geographies and diversified client and service offerings build a resilient foundation for future growth and financial success.

$142 MILLION in gross revenue, exceeding our Vision 2025 goal of $125M 1 year early

As an employee-owned company (ESOP), our success is shared.

Every project, milestone, and challenge directly benefit our team.

That sense of ownership fuels momentum, driving growth,

leadership, and innovation.

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59%

Investing in Our People RESPEC’s employee-ownership model ensures that success is shared. In 2024, 59% of Pre-Tax, Pre-Bonus, Pre-Goodwill amortization (PTBR) was returned to employee-owners through benefits and compensation.

SHARE VALUE AS OF DEC. 31, 2024:

$179.45 to ESOP shareholders over the last 4 years

$11.5 MILLION Health Insurance

$179.45 $152.40

Performance Bonuses

$3M

ESOP + 401(k)

When clients see RESPEC as a long-term partner, it creates a cycle of momentum—consistent work leads to strong performance, and strong performance leads to future opportunities. That’s how loyalty grows and how a strong backlog takes shape.

90%

$123.65

CLIENT RETENTION 2020

$3M

Investing in Clients

$169.90 $147.55

returned to employees

Employer contributions to retirement, health insurance, and bonuses:

$5.5M

45% INCREASE

OF PRE-TAX REVENUE

2021

2022

2023

2024

5-Year Trend in Share Value

with revenue over $100k

$152M BACKLOG

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INVESTMENTS

Headquarters Expansion Ribbon Cutting, Rapid City, SD

Strengthening our core, expanding our reach With financial strength comes the responsibility to invest in the future. Surpassing our Vision 2025 revenue goal ahead of schedule reinforced the need to scale our operations, modernize our systems, and prepare for continued growth. To ensure this success translates into long-term benefits for our employeeowners and clients, RESPEC made strategic investments in 2024, committing $15 million to strengthen the infrastructure that supports our people and projects.

$15 MILLION invested

Investing in Growth and Impact These investments included a major headquarters expansion— adding 70,000 square feet to accommodate up to 200 employeeowners—as well as an upgraded financial system to improve how we manage resources, support teams, and deliver value. We focused on creating the systems, tools, and connections needed to serve clients more efficiently and scale our impact across all RESPEC locations.

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By building smarter systems and creating room for connections, we’ve positioned RESPEC to move with greater agility, pursue larger opportunities, and deliver even more value to our partners.

These improvements lay the foundation for sustainable growth, benefiting every office, every client, and every community we serve.

What This Growth Means CONNECTING TEAMS ACROSS RESPEC The headquarters expansion gives us more resources and coordination power to support project teams across RESPEC. With more centralized staff and upgraded systems, it’s easier to connect, share knowledge, and work together across disciplines, strengthening how we deliver as One Company, no matter where we are.

SCALING OUR IMPACT The expanded headquarters and upgraded financial infrastructure give us the capacity to grow, not just in one location but across all RESPEC. With more project support, stronger systems, and increased agility, we can pursue bigger opportunities and share the benefits companywide.

IMPROVING HOW WE WORK Innovation doesn’t happen in one place—it happens when teams across RESPEC can focus less on busywork and more on solving problems. With modern systems and stronger support from headquarters, our offices have better access to resources, clearer project data, and faster coordination, making it easier to improve how we work, wherever we are.

STREAMLINING TASKS The new financial system streamlines how we plan, budget, and track work, cutting down on admin time and boosting transparency across the company. As a result, every office has better tools and faster access to the resources they need to deliver high-value work with less hassle.

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INVESTMENTS

Strategic Growth Through Acquisitions RESPEC’s impact is growing. With over 1,200 clients and a 90 percent repeat business rate, our work speaks for itself. Companies turn to us because they need solutions that keep up with a changing world. The demand for renewable energy, sustainable mining, and environmental solutions is rising, and the challenges are getting more complex.

To stay ahead, we’ve strengthened our expertise where it’s needed most. In 2024, we welcomed three companies that expand our capabilities in mining, renewable energy, and environmental solutions. With new teams in California, Montana, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia, these acquisitions extend our presence coast to coast, helping us take on more advanced projects, integrate new technology, and deliver local expertise to clients no matter where they operate.

Why we grow EXPANDING WHERE IT MATTERS

Joining RESPEC opened new doors with more resources, fresh perspectives, and room to grow. It’s incredible to see collaboration and innovation thrive in this new chapter.

- Rachel Spietz, Scientist Enviromin, a Division of RESPEC Bozeman, MT

Industries are changing fast, and we’re expanding into key regions where our expertise can make the biggest impact in renewable energy, sustainable mining, and environmental solutions.

BRINGING IN NEW EXPERTISE Complex problems need specialized skills. We’re adding experts in geothermal energy, environmental science, and resource management to help clients tackle new challenges.

PUSHING INNOVATION FORWARD Better technology leads to better results. We’re using real-time data, environmental modeling, and advanced drilling techniques to develop solutions that drive industry changes.

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In May, Enviromin, Inc. joined RESPEC, adding industry-leading expertise in environmental geochemistry and microbiology. Their work

in biogeochemical solutions improves mine water management and

reclamation to ensure responsible resource development. With Enviromin,

RESPEC strengthens our ability to support critical mineral extraction while maintaining a firm commitment to water quality, sustainability, and regulatory compliance.

In August, RESPEC partnered with Geothermal Resource Group, Inc. (GRG), a leader in geothermal energy development across 18 countries.

Their deep knowledge of cost-effective drilling techniques enhances our ability to provide full-service geothermal solutions. This partnership accelerates our contributions to renewable energy development,

supporting a sustainable energy future and helping clients transition to cleaner, more efficient power sources.

Looking Ahead We’re already seeing what strategic growth

In September, EARTHRES, Inc. joined RESPEC, bringing award-winning

expertise in environmental engineering, solid waste, energy, and

mining solutions. Their work in landfill gas-to-energy and renewable

natural gas systems aligns with RESPEC’s long-term vision of responsible resource management. By integrating EARTHRES, we expand our role in

sustainable energy projects and provide clients with innovative solutions

can do. With these acquisitions, we’re landing new solid waste projects in new geographies

like Alaska, growing our teams with key hires,

and expanding our ability to deliver full-service geothermal solutions to an international client base. It’s a strong start toward the kind of impact we’ve set out to achieve by 2030.

for waste-to-energy transitions.

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Building the future one project at a time

Safeguarding North Carolina’s Neuse River Watershed

Advancing Environmental Planning Through Smart Modeling Excess nutrients in North Carolina’s Neuse River Watershed fuel algal blooms, degrade water quality, and threaten aquatic life. To tackle this challenge, RESPEC built a cutting-edge watershed model using decades of data. The Scenario Application Manager (SAM) simplifies complex analysis, helping decision-makers pinpoint pollution hot spots and test solutions. Findings confirm that agricultural runoff and outdated wastewater treatment plants drive nutrient pollution. Now, the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality applies the model to implement smarter nutrient reduction strategies. By transforming data into action, this project strengthens environmental and economic sustainability, ensuring a healthier future for the Neuse River estuary.

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By combining decades of data and innovative tools like SAM, we’re providing decision-makers with the clarity they need to protect this watershed.

RESPEC partnered with local leaders to create an infrastructure plan that supports long-term growth, cultural preservation, and self-reliance in rural Alaska.

Guiding Growth in Rural Alaska

Planning a Sustainable Future for a Cultural Landmark Tucked in Alaska’s Bering Strait region, Unaatuq Hot Springs is a place of quiet power—home to healing waters, historical mission buildings, and deep cultural roots for Alaska Native communities. But despite its potential for agriculture, tourism, and clean energy, the site lacked the infrastructure to support long-term growth.

RESPEC partnered with Kawerak, Inc. and Unaatuq, LLC to lead a master plan that could unlock the future while preserving what makes the place sacred. The team designed infrastructure concepts for staff housing, trails, utilities, farm expansion, and geothermal integration— coordinating closely with a parallel energy project.

Community voices guided every step, from board workshops to a public meeting in Nome.

The result is a clear, community-informed road map that supports long-term stewardship, economic opportunity, and Indigenous-led development in rural Alaska.

Building for Rapid Response in Texas

Preparing an Undeveloped Site for a Life-Saving Facility Emergency response starts long before the first call. It begins with the right infrastructure. In La Coste, Texas, Medina County Emergency Services District #1 needed a modern fire station, but the undeveloped 2-acre site lacked water, wastewater, and stormwater solutions.

Bridging the Digital Divide in Western Wisconsin

Strengthening Digital Equity Across Four Rural Communities Rural Wisconsin faces internet connectivity challenges. In the rolling hills of Pierce, Pepin, Buffalo, and Trempealeau Counties, terrain, sparse populations, and aging infrastructure have left thousands underserved. In 2024, RESPEC led a regional effort to close that gap. Our team worked with local governments, internet service providers, and cooperatives to build a clear, fundable road map for expanding internet access across these rural communities. Using GIS tools and speed test data, we mapped internet performance by location and identified viable technology solutions, from fiber to fixed wireless. Our analysis revealed that 4,490 locations—representing nearly 10 percent of the population—qualified for Broadband Equity, Access and Deployment (BEAD) funding, highlighting both the scale of need and the opportunity for impact. Now, local partners have a clear path to pursue BEAD funding and implement broadband improvements that support economic growth, education, healthcare, agriculture, and everyday life in the region.

The 10,000-square-foot fire station is an essential hub for emergency response and a symbol of

forward-thinking land development that saves lives.

RESPEC turned potential into preparedness. Our team conducted site feasibility analysis, designed grading and drainage systems, and extended off-site water mains to equip the site with essential utilities. To mitigate flooding, we engineered stormwater detention within green spaces, by using driveway culverts to guide runoff to the existing low point, maximizing efficiency while meeting 100-year storm standards. With smart engineering and strategic planning, this station equips first responders with the infrastructure needed to protect the community.

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PROJECTS

Powering Nova Scotia’s Net-Zero Future Harnessing the Earth for Clean Energy Storage

RESPEC’s Nova Scotia Net-Zero Subsurface Energy Storage Assessment is paving the way for a more resilient, low-carbon future.

Commissioned by the provincial government, this study identifies the best underground storage options for hydrogen, natural gas, and carbon sequestration—key components in achieving net-zero emissions.

By evaluating four geological storage mediums—porous rock, hard rock, abandoned mines, and salt caverns—our team pinpointed highpotential sites for large-scale energy storage. The findings provide Nova Scotia with a road map for sustainable energy infrastructure that supports industrial decarbonization and grid stability.

This project doesn’t just assess feasibility—it fuels momentum for future development. With RESPEC’s expertise, Nova Scotia now has the data and insight to move from concept to action, positioning the province as a leader in clean energy storage.

We love helping clients take that first big step. This project gives Nova Scotia a clear path forward and lays the groundwork for real progress on clean energy and carbon storage.

- Evan Renaud, Geoscientist Edmonton, Alberta

Every mile reinforced helps avoid costly closures and

keeps essential services on the move.

Reinforcing the Dalton Highway in Alaska Keeping Goods—and Progress—Moving

The Dalton Highway is one of the most unforgiving roads in North America, yet it remains essential for delivering fuel, equipment, and supplies to the North Slope oil fields. When deep snowdrifts and thawing permafrost threaten to shut the highway down, every delay has real consequences. RESPEC has reinforced a 16-mile stretch of the highway by raising the embankment to prevent snow buildup and engineering drainage solutions to stabilize the road. With each construction season, the improvements are making a difference—reducing closures, improving safety, and keeping trucks moving, no matter the conditions.

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Converting Landfill Gas Into Renewable Energy Helping our client hit this deadline means hundreds of jobs, a major economic boost, and a future

for the site.

Breaking Ground; Building Opportunity in Florida Engineering a Hub for Efficiency and Economic Impact

Suncoast Beverage’s new 300,000-square-foot distribution facility in Fort Myers is more than a warehouse—it’s a regional hub built on speed, strategy, and resilience. Tasked with consolidating three locations under a tight 3-year deadline, RESPEC led civil engineering efforts, tackling rezoning, complex permitting, and environmental remediation. From designing critical infrastructure to coordinating with state agencies, our team kept the project moving. With its grand opening on the horizon, the facility secures hundreds of jobs and strengthens the local economy—proof that momentum, when expertly managed, creates lasting impact.

Designing a $90M Facility That Supports a Cleaner Future

In 2024, our team proudly completed a 3-year effort supporting the development of a new $90 million Renewable Natural Gas (RNG) plant that processes 12,000 cubic feet per minute of landfill gas from two landfills. The state-ofthe-art facility will produce 3 million MMBtu of RNG annually, feeding directly into a nearby natural gas pipeline. RESPEC’s multidisciplinary team—spanning Solid Waste, Energy, and Environmental sectors—delivered comprehensive services, including landfill gas conveyance design; process controls and SCADA; civil and environmental permitting; and civil, structural, and mechanical design, along with construction quality assurance. The project significantly reduces emissions, advancing Waste Management's Greenhouse Gas Reduction and Sustainable Circular Economy goals and reinforcing our commitment to delivering impactful, sustainable solutions.

170,000

tons of co2 emissions reduced through beneficial use and recovery of landfill-derived biogas

Strengthening Flood Resilience in Montana

Upgrading Infrastructure to Protect Neighborhoods and Roads When floodwaters tore through Helena Valley, Lewis and Clark County recognized the need for long-term solutions. Much of the area was developed before modern floodplain regulations, leaving neighborhoods vulnerable and in need of reliable flood conveyance. In response, the County launched a multiphase mitigation strategy and selected RESPEC as its Master Service Provider.

The first project transformed a borrow pit into a detention basin and installed 13 box culverts, relieving pressure on nearby neighborhoods during storms.

Most recently, RESPEC completed the Lower D2 project, upsizing five culvert crossings to reduce the risk of road washouts and maintain critical access during flood events.

What began as a response to disaster is now a model for long-term resilience. As the work continues, these projects are reshaping Helena Valley’s future, one crossing, culvert, and community at a time.

Crews install new culverts as part of Helena Valley’s ongoing flood mitigation efforts, improving drainage and protecting infrastructure from future storms.

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PROJECTS

Reclaiming Rattlesnake Hills Quarry

Transforming Abandoned Lands Into Sustainable Spaces Wyoming’s Abandoned Mine Lands program faced the challenge of mitigating safety risks and restoring the abandoned Rattlesnake Hills Quarry to its natural state.

RESPEC stepped in to regrade over 250,000 cubic yards of rock, including 60,000 cubic yards blasted to meet precise design slopes. Using Carlson Natural Regrade software, we engineered erosion-resistant channels that blend seamlessly into the surrounding landscape. By addressing hazards like steep high walls and loose rock, this project improved public safety and set the stage for sustainable revegetation, showcasing RESPEC’s expertise in environmentally responsible mine reclamation.

RESPEC stepped in to regrade over 250,000 cubic yards of rock, including 60,000 cubic yards blasted to meet precise design slopes.

Powering Smarter Water Decisions in New Mexico

Modernizing Data Access for Long-Term Resource Management

In a state where water is everything, we’re making it easier for people to access the data they need to plan, protect, and manage this important resource.

- Jessica DuVerneay, Principal Consultant Albuquerque, New Mexico

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New Mexico’s water future relies on accessible, high-quality data.

RESPEC partnered with the New Mexico Water Data Initiative, part of the New Mexico Bureau of Geology and Mineral Resources, to enhance the state’s Water Data Catalog. This publicly available digital catalog consolidates information from multiple agencies and voluntary partners, as required by the New Mexico Water Data Act, ensuring scientists, legislators, and communities can make informed decisions.

Through user research, stakeholder interviews, and system analysis, RESPEC identified barriers to data access and proposed strategic improvements. The resulting road map streamlines data contributions and retrieval to support proactive water management in a drought-prone state. This project reinforces RESPEC’s leadership in digital solutions for environmental stewardship and strengthens partnerships that drive continued progress in water resource management.

A Hidden Giant: This underground water tank, spanning three-quarters of a football field, will quietly strengthen water reliability for a growing region.

Expanding Water Capacity for a Growing Colorado Community Where Growth Meets Resilience

Water fuels growth, and Fort Collins and Loveland are expanding fast. As demand rises, the Fort Collins-Loveland Water District partnered with RESPEC to increase water storage capacity. The result: the 6.0-million-gallon, fully buried Trilby Water Tank, designed to strengthen water reliability while preserving the landscape.

Engineering a high-capacity water tank is one challenge—delivering long-term value for the District’s ratepayers while protecting the environment is another.

RESPEC met both challenges by designing a unique circular post-tensioned concrete structure that maximizes durability, minimizes maintenance, and remains fully buried to blend into the landscape. Strengthening water reliability for tens of thousands of residents and businesses, the project also required extensive stakeholder coordination and navigated a first-of-its-kind permitting process in Fort Collins. RESPEC’s teams from Denver, Colorado Springs, and Loveland collaborated to tackle environmental challenges, including prairie dog and burrowing owl habitat studies. Once complete, the Trilby Water Tank project will provide long-term resilience for a booming region.

6-milliongallon

underground water tank will support

tens of thousands of residents and businesses

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RESPEC FOUNDATION

Creating a lasting impact In 2024, the RESPEC Foundation turned plans into progress, creating a lasting impact through purposeful action. What started as groundwork in 2023 gained unstoppable momentum this year, with programs coming to life, communities benefiting, and employees embracing the spirit of stewardship.

With the launch of two scholarships, the Foundation opened doors for future leaders.

The first five RESPEC STEM Scholarship recipients were selected, and one student’s

journey came full circle—starting as an intern, becoming a scholarship recipient, and ultimately accepting a full-time position with RESPEC. These are the ripple effects of investment in people.

The RESPEC STEM scholarship was a gift of encouragement—not just financially, but in believing in my ability to succeed. It showed me how much this company invests in helping others.”

- Jesiah Wight, Intern Turned Full-Time Hire Rapid City, SD

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1,000 hours of volunteer time

Habitat for Humanity Build Day, Albuquerque, NM

Service became a driving force across RESPEC, with employees contributing almost

1,000 hours of volunteer time. Offices championed local causes, from river cleanups to Habitat for Humanity build days. The Foundation also partnered with the South Dakota Space Grant Consortium to complete its Mining for Opportunities in Earth Sciences program, bringing RESPEC into classrooms to lead 14 sessions that reached nearly 100 students. Meanwhile, the Foundation established a structured approach to

charitable giving, ensuring every dollar and every hour served a greater purpose.

Just as RESPEC invests in innovation and market expansion, the Foundation invests in the people and places that shape our future. And we’re just getting started.

Scholarships awarded

Seven students received scholarship funding from RESPEC

Employee contributions

C o m pa n y d o n at i o n s

Five offices

One thousand meals

volunteered for Habitat for Humanity Build Days nationwide

donated to US and Canada Meals on Wheels

$15k

RESPEC STEM Scholarships

$13.8k

RESPEC STEM Fund

$3k

University of Alaska Building Alaska Scholarship

$2.6k

Gnirk Memorial Scholarship contributions

University of Alaska $13.7k for initiatives

$8k

SD Mines Undergraduate Research Grant

$11k

University of Alaska initiatives

contributions $7.5k Corporate to STEM initiatives

$26k

Total Awarded

$27k

Total Contributed

$6k Meals on Wheels Corporate contributions

$27k

Total Donated

Looking Ahead In memory of RESPEC Founder Dr. Paul Gnirk, who passed away in 2024, we made a special contribution to the SD Mines scholarship fund, honoring

his lasting impact on RESPEC and future engineers.

The Foundation is laying the groundwork for nonprofit status, expanding its reach

and creating more meaningful ways to give

back. With every scholarship awarded, every hour volunteered, and every community strengthened, the Foundation is turning

momentum into lasting impact. It’s a clear

reminder that when people come together with purpose, they create change that truly lasts.

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RESPEC.COM 21 |

Jason Fritch examines a newly developed heading in a limestone mine. Exposed geologic features guide RESPEC’s Hard Rock Geotechnical team in refining ground support, reflecting our hands-on approach to safer, smarter mining.