Woolpert Soars in ENR Rankings
Woolpert, an established firm with over a century of expertise, has marked a significant milestone by being ranked as the 39th largest design firm on Engineering News-Record's prestigious Top 500 Design Firms List. This recognition showcases Woolpert's remarkable growth over the past decade, climbing nearly 100 spots in the rankings.
Record Financial Performance
Last year was particularly remarkable for Woolpert, as it experienced its strongest financial performance in its extensive 114-year history. The firm reported a substantial revenue increase, as it soared from approximately $400 million in the previous year to over $650 million. This growth reflects Woolpert's expanding capabilities and broadening footprint across five continents.
Strategic Acquisitions Fuel Expansion
Woolpert's acceleration can be attributed in part to three strategic acquisitions made in 2024. In January, the firm welcomed Bermello Ajamil & Partners, a full-service architecture and engineering firm with a specialization in cruise line and port terminals. This was followed by the acquisition of Murphy Geospatial in March, a multidisciplinary company that strengthens Woolpert's global integrated solutions.
Enhancing Global Reach
Later in the year, Woolpert further expanded its influence by acquiring Greenbox Architecture, a Sydney-based firm known for its expertise in data center design. These strategic moves underline Woolpert's commitment to enhancing its service offerings worldwide and its dedication to meeting the evolving needs of its clients.
Leadership Changes and Vision
In early 2024, Woolpert also prioritized leadership succession planning, appointing Neil Churman as the new president and subsequently as CEO in January 2025. He succeeded Scott Cattran, who had been at the helm since 2015. Cattran now holds the role of executive chairman of the board of directors, providing guidance as Woolpert embarks on its next chapter.
Commitment to Innovation and Growth
Churman expressed that Woolpert's rise in the ENR rankings is a testament to the firm’s unwavering commitment to expanding its global presence. His vision is clear: to transform Woolpert into the world’s premier architecture, engineering, and geospatial (AEG) firm. This ambitious agenda includes developing innovative solutions tailored to meet diverse client needs, from navigating low-altitude airspace for advanced air mobility to executing vital hydrographic mapping.
Team Dedication Drives Success
Highlighting the importance of teamwork, Churman credited the success of the firm to its dedicated staff. He acknowledged that no growth strategy can succeed without the expertise and commitment of talented individuals who not only meet business objectives but also uncover new opportunities.
Cultivating a Positive Workplace Culture
Woolpert takes pride in its positive work environment, having earned eight Great Place to Work certifications. This recognition underscores the firm’s focus on cultivating a supportive and empowering workplace culture. Churman believes that this commitment to employee satisfaction is fundamental to Woolpert’s continued ascent in the industry.
About Woolpert
Woolpert stands out as a leading architecture, engineering, and geospatial (AEG) firm with aspirations to be one of the best globally. With over 2,700 employees and more than 60 offices around the world, Woolpert is recognized as a Global Top 100 Geospatial Company and a Top 50 ENR Global Design Firm. Founded in 1911, Woolpert continues to innovate and expand its service offerings to meet the needs of public, private, and government clients.
Frequently Asked Questions
What recent milestone did Woolpert achieve?
Woolpert was ranked 39th on Engineering News-Record’s Top 500 Design Firms List, climbing significantly in the rankings.
What factors contributed to Woolpert's growth?
The firm expanded through strategic acquisitions, increased revenue, employee growth, and advancing its global capabilities.
Who is the new president and CEO of Woolpert?
Neil Churman was appointed president and then CEO, succeeding Scott Cattran.
What is Woolpert's vision moving forward?
The firm aims to be the world’s leading architecture, engineering, and geospatial firm, emphasizing innovation and client-specific solutions.
How does Woolpert promote a positive workplace culture?
Woolpert has received eight Great Place to Work certifications, reflecting its commitment to employee satisfaction and a supportive work environment.
