ANNUAL REPORT
Building momentum
Table of contents
After 16 years, Todd Kenner steps down as CEO, passing on a culture shaped by thoughtful leadership and shared purpose.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
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,
Philip A. Welling,
Meagan L. Chaddick,
Karen A. Brady
Mario L. DiPasquale
Rick R. Moser
Denise J. Quick
Daniel T. Rauchenstein
Lee D. Rosen
Tabetha A. Stirrett**
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
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
Embracing the next era
A Year of Growth & Investments
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.
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.
An Intentional Transition
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.
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 challenged us to think bigger, lead boldly, and stay true to our values.
Todd J. Kenner FORMER CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
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.
Building on a Strong Foundation
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.
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.
To the entire RESPEC team—thank you. Your trust, talent, and dedication are what make this company great.
Looking Ahead
With Vision 2030 as our guide, we are ready to accelerate growth, drive industry innovation, and create new opportunities for our people and clients.
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.
With a focus on people and culture, Jason is guiding RESPEC into its next era of growth.
Jason T. Love CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER & PRESIDENT
Jason’s Vision
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.
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
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.
Developing the Next Generation INTERNS
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.
INTERNS RETAINED 47%
39
STAGEN LEADERSHIP GRADUATES
10
RESPEC LEADERSHIP PROGRAM GRADUATES
99 THROUGH 3 ACQUISITIONS 199 new hires
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 C HIEF ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER
MIKE RABE
SVP OF TRANSPORTATION
JOHN WOJDAK
SVP OF LAND DEVELOPMENT
Raising the Bar in Our Industry
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.
-
JAN HUTWELKER
SV P OF EARTHRES, A DIVISION OF RESPEC
DANNY RAUCHENSTEIN
SVP OF FACILITIES
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
ALASKA 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 NELSON, PE
SOUTH DAKOTA YOUNG ENGINEER OF THE YEAR
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.
MARIO DIPASQUALE V P OF WATER
LEE ROSEN VP OF WATER
Jason Miller, Chief Administrative Officer Rapid City, SD
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.
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. OF PRE-TAX REVENUE returned to employees
$11.5 MILLION SHARE VALUE AS OF DEC. 31, 2024: $179.45
Employer contributions to retirement, health insurance, and bonuses:
Investing in Clients
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.
with revenue over $100k
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.
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.
$15 MILLION invested
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.
Headquarters Expansion Ribbon Cutting, Rapid City, SD
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.
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
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.
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
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.
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.
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 for waste-to-energy transitions.
Looking Ahead
We’re already seeing what strategic growth 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Every mile reinforced helps avoid costly closures and keeps essential services on the move.
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
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.
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.
Strengthening Flood Resilience in Montana
Upgrading Infrastructure to Protect Neighborhoods and Roads
Converting Landfill Gas Into Renewable Energy 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.
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.
170,000 tons of co 2 emissions
reduced through beneficial use and recovery of landfill-derived biogas
Crews install new culverts as part of Helena Valley’s ongoing flood mitigation efforts, improving drainage and protecting infrastructure from future storms.
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
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
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
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 Employee contributions Company donations
Seven students received scholarship funding from RESPEC
$15k RESPEC STEM Scholarships
$3k University of Alaska Building Alaska Scholarship
$8k SD Mines Undergraduate Research Grant
$26k Total Awarded
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.
Five offices
volunteered for Habitat for Humanity Build Days nationwide
$13.8k RESPEC STEM Fund
$2.6k Gnirk Memorial Scholarship contributions
$11k University of Alaska initiatives $27k Total Contributed
One thousand meals
$6k Meals on Wheels
$13.7k Corporate contributions for University of Alaska initiatives
$7.5k Corporate contributions to STEM initiatives $27k Total Donated donated to US and Canada Meals on Wheels
Looking Ahead
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.
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.