HWA

Last year, HWA GeoSciences dropped its Minority Business Enterprise status with a consequent decrease in business and staff. However, finding talented staff posed the greatest challenge over the last year. By diversifying the service line and using innovative recruiting techniques, HWA has held its own and positioned itself for growth. Between last year and this one, HWA’s staff size remains at a total of 40. The firm’s growth in revenue is about $3.8 million, about 10 percent above that of last year.

HWA provides consulting services in geotechnical engineering, hydrogeology, geo-environmental services, construction inspection and materials testing. The firm has been traditionally strong in the public sector, particularly in the transportation and water/wastewater, with clients such as King County, Sound Transit and the Washington State Department of Transportation.

The firm recently enhanced its strength in pavement testing and management and has provided new pavement technology services to several regional cities. As a result of the Endangered Species Act, the firm has emphasized erosion and water quality control. HWA now offers professional training programs in erosion and sediment control, stormwater pollution prevention plans and other areas.

“Infrastructure requirements are continuing to fall behind in every area due to lack of funding, lack of political will and poor regulation,” said HWA president Lawrence West. “The need for infrastructure design and construction won’t go away. The work is waiting, and there is more than the engineering industry can handle when the funding becomes available.”