News

DRMP’s Rachel Schmidt, PWS, Elected to Tampa Environmental Professionals Board

Wed, 13 May 2026 04:00:00 +0000

TAMPA, Fla. – DRMP Environmental Services Florida Leader Rachel Schmidt, PWS, has been elected to the Tampa Bay Association of Environmental Professionals (TBAEP) Board of Directors.

Schmidt was nominated and elected to the board by fellow TBAEP members and peers in the environmental community. She was sworn in on May 12 during her first board meeting.

“Being appointed to the board is an exciting opportunity to further serve the environmental community and stay engaged with the continually evolving regulations, policies, and best practices that shape our industry,” she said.

As a board member, Schmidt looks forward to contributing to TBAEP’s long-range planning efforts and supporting educational programming, networking events, and volunteer opportunities.

“I also hope to serve on committees that help strengthen professional development opportunities and continue growing TBAEP membership engagement,” she said.

Schmidt has been a member of the Florida Association of Environmental Professionals (FAEP) since 2015. She served as an active member and then board member of the organization’s Central Florida Chapter (CFAEP) from 2022 to 2024 before joining TBAEP in 2024.

Schmidt said her involvement with professional organizations has played an important role in her career development.

“My involvement with professional organizations has helped me stay current with industry trends, expand my professional network, and grow as an environmental professional,” she said. “The relationships and knowledge gained through these organizations have been invaluable throughout my career and to DRMP.”

DRMP Vice President and Environmental Services Division Manager George McLatchey, PWS, CEP, said Schmidt has quickly emerged as a leader within DRMP, taking on increased responsibility and demonstrating strong professional leadership in a short period of time and noted that her natural leadership ability aligns well with her appointment to the TBAEP board.

“Since joining DRMP, Rachel has rapidly established herself as a trusted leader within our Environmental Services team,” he said. “Her expertise, professionalism, and commitment to the environmental industry have stood out, and it’s been impressive to see how she has grown into a key role within the organization while also contributing to the wider environmental community.”

About DRMP
Since 1977, DRMP has earned a reputation as a trusted multidisciplinary engineering firm that approaches challenges differently. What began as a small Florida-based firm has grown into a Southeastern powerhouse with over 700 employees across 23 offices. We partner with clients to deliver smart, sustainable infrastructure that helps communities thrive.

Ranked among Engineering News-Record’s Top 500 Design Firms in the United States, DRMP is known for solving complex challenges through technical expertise, innovative thinking, and collaboration.

We value connection, creativity, and a welcoming, engaging culture that empowers employees to grow their careers. As we continue to expand, we remain committed to the principles that have guided us from the start.

Wekiva Parkway Section 8 Interchange in Central Florida Earns ACEC National Recognition Award

Wed, 06 May 2026 04:00:00 +0000

ORLANDO, Fla. – DRMP’s design of the Wekiva Parkway Section 8 Interchange Design-Build project has earned a National Recognition Award in the American Council of Engineering Companies (ACEC) 2026 Engineering Excellence Awards (EEA), marking the project’s seventh award.

The National Recognition Award represents exceptional merit and national-level excellence. The honor was celebrated May 5 at the 2026 EEA Gala Dinner & Award Program in Washington, D.C.

“This recognition from ACEC reflects the dedication and collaboration of our entire team and partners,” said DRMP Senior Vice President of Alternative Delivery TJ Lallathin, PE, DBIA. “Delivering the final connection of the Wekiva Parkway required innovative design solutions and a strong commitment to safety, mobility, and long-term performance for Central Florida’s transportation network. We’re honored to see the project recognized at the national level.”

The ACEC 2026 National Recognition Award adds to a list of accolades for the project, including:

ACEC Florida Grand Winner in the Transportation Category (2026)
National Award of Merit from the Design-Build Institute of America (DBIA) in Transportation (Other than Aviation) Category (2025)
Project of the Year from the DBIA Florida Region in the Transportation - Structures Category (2025)
Engineering News-Record (ENR) Southeast Highway/Bridge Award of Merit in the Best Projects Competition (2025)
Florida Transportation Builders’ Association (FTBA) Best in Construction Award for Design-Build (2025)
Outstanding Design-Build or Construction Manager at Risk Project Award from ACEC Florida and FDOT (2025)

About the Project

The Wekiva Parkway Section 8 Interchange Design-Build project delivered the final, critical connection needed to complete Central Florida’s beltway, linking I-4, SR 417, and SR 429 into a fully integrated regional transportation system. This complex infrastructure effort closed the missing link in the network and significantly improved mobility, safety, and operational efficiency for the Orlando region.

Now complete, the 25-mile, $274.5 million Wekiva Parkway Section 8 Interchange serves tens of thousands of daily motorists by eliminating bottlenecks, improving travel reliability, and enhancing regional connectivity across Central Florida.

DRMP served as the lead designer and partnered with The Lane Construction Corporation (prime contractor) and subconsultants Ardaman & Associates, Inc.; Ardurra Group, Inc.; BCC Engineering, Inc.; Bentley Group, Inc.; Brindley Pieters & Associates, Inc. (BPA); Florida Bridge & Transportation (FBT); Osiris 9 Consultant, LLC; and Terracon Consultants, Inc.

Located within one of Florida’s most constrained transportation corridors, the project required construction of 2.63 miles of new limited-access toll road and 20 new bridges while maintaining traffic on I-4, one of the state’s busiest interstates. Additional challenges included limited right-of-way, high groundwater, weak soils, extensive utility infrastructure, and a major Duke Energy transmission line.

The Wekiva Parkway Section 8 Interchange also included reconstruction of 2 miles of I-4 to accommodate future I-4 Beyond the Ultimate express lanes, as well as two bridge widenings, 25 stormwater management facilities, advanced intelligent transportation systems, all-electronic tolling, lighting, signage, and complex traffic control plans. A strategic realignment of I-4 shifted the corridor west, eliminating the need to relocate the Duke Energy transmission line. This single decision avoided years of delay and saved millions of dollars, while allowing all lanes to be built offline to reduce congestion and improve work-zone safety.

Through innovative design and construction practices, the project achieved approximately $75 million in cost savings, reduced bridge deck area by 200,000 square feet, preserved four existing bridges, and reused 70,000 square

yards of pavement and existing drainage infrastructure in good condition. These measures lowered long-term maintenance needs and minimized environmental impacts. Sustainability was further advanced by reducing impervious surface area, protecting wetlands, and maintaining conservation easements wherever possible.

Delivered on time through close coordination with multiple agencies and proactive engagement with local stakeholders, the project stands as a model of cost-effective, community-focused transportation infrastructure that delivers measurable benefits to the region it serves.

Ranked among Engineering News-Record’s Top 500 Design Firms in the United States, DRMP is known for solving complex challenges through technical expertise, innovative thinking, and collaboration.

DRMP Adds Key Transportation Planning Role in South Florida

Tue, 05 May 2026 04:00:00 +0000

BOCA RATON, Fla. – Amid rapid growth in South Florida and rising demand for infrastructure, DRMP has expanded its presence in the region with the addition of Conroy Jacobs, AICP, PMP, as principal transportation planner in its Boca Raton office.

In this role, Jacobs will focus on delivering high-quality transportation planning services, supporting project delivery, and strengthening client relationships throughout Florida. His priorities include leading corridor and subarea studies, advancing multimodal and safety initiatives, supporting Project Development & Environment (PD&E) and pre-PD&E efforts, and ensuring DRMP’s work is technically sound and responsive to community needs. He will also support strategic growth by identifying new opportunities, contributing to pursuits, and helping further strengthen DRMP’s position as a trusted partner in transportation planning.

“Florida’s rapid growth is driving demand for corridor planning, multimodal solutions, and safety focused studies,” Jacobs said. “My approach is relationship driven and focused on aligning stakeholder needs with funding, safety priorities, and implementation pathways to move projects forward.”

Jacobs brings more than 15 years of experience leading multimodal corridor studies, safety projects, land development, and PD&E efforts across Florida. His work has helped the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT), metropolitan planning organizations (MPOs), transportation planning organizations (TPOs), and local governments deliver fundable transportation solutions that improve safety, mobility, and quality of life. Throughout his career, he has worked closely with these agencies as an internal staff member and consultant, advancing projects from visioning through implementation, including securing funding and guiding them through planning, environmental, and design phases.

“I will help to strengthen the connection between planning and implementation by delivering studies that lead directly to fundable and constructible projects,” Jacobs said. “I also plan to leverage my relationships across Florida to expand DRMP’s presence, while mentoring staff and supporting a scalable, high-performing planning team.”

Jacobs said DRMP’s strong reputation in transportation and its ability to connect planning, engineering, and implementation aligns with the kind of work he looks forward to contributing to.

“I am excited about the opportunity to be part of growing a transportation planning practice and PD&E within a firm that already has strong engineering and surveying capabilities,” he said. “That alignment creates real potential to deliver projects that move efficiently through the different project phases efficiently.”

DRMP Planning Group Leader Alia Awwad, PE, said Jacobs will be a strong addition to the team.

“Conroy brings a unique ability to connect big-picture planning with the realities of implementation,” Awwad said. “He understands how to navigate complexity, whether that’s aligning stakeholders, identifying funding pathways, or moving projects forward. That perspective will be a real asset to our clients and our team.”

About DRMP
Since 1977, DRMP has earned a reputation as a trusted multidiscipline engineering firm that approaches challenges differently. What began as a small Florida-based firm has grown into a Southeastern powerhouse with over 700 employees across 23 offices. We partner with clients to deliver smart, sustainable infrastructure that helps communities thrive.

Ranked among Engineering News-Record’s Top 500 Design Firms in the United States, DRMP is known for solving complex challenges through technical expertise, innovative thinking, and collaboration.

DRMP Recognized Among Top Workplaces in Engineering.com 2026 Rankings

Wed, 29 Apr 2026 04:00:00 +0000

ORLANDO, Fla. – DRMP continues to earn national recognition as a leading engineering firm, ranking No. 13 on Engineering.com’s 2026 Top Workplaces for Engineers list in the large-company category.

The annual list highlights organizations where engineers report the strongest workplace experience, based entirely on employee feedback.

Engineering.com partnered with Energage to survey engineers across the United States, identifying companies that foster supportive environments, encourage professional growth, and enable employees to perform effectively in their roles.

The 2026 Top Workplaces for Engineers list recognizes 93 organizations across three categories, including large (500+ employees), midsize (150–499 employees), and small (35–149 employees). To qualify, companies must employ at least 35 engineers or have engineers represent at least 10 percent of their workforce. Participation in the survey is free and confidential.

Ranked among Engineering News-Record’s Top 500 Design Firms in the United States, DRMP is known for solving complex challenges through technical expertise, innovative thinking, and collaboration.

DRMP Maintains Strong Standing on ENR Top 500 Design Firms List

Mon, 27 Apr 2026 04:00:00 +0000

ORLANDO, Fla. – DRMP maintains its position at No. 181 on Engineering News-Record’s (ENR) 2026 Top 500 Design Firms list, marking its second consecutive year at its highest ranking to date. This year’s placement reflects the firm’s stability and strength in an increasingly competitive architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry.

Compiled annually, ENR’s Top 500 list ranks firms based on revenue generated from design services in the previous year. Widely respected within the AEC industry, the list serves as a key benchmark for performance and market presence.

DRMP’s sustained ranking amplifies its commitment to delivering innovative, client-focused solutions while maintaining high standards of quality across all services. As the firm continues to build on its momentum, it remains focused on strategic growth, strong client partnerships, and expanding its impact in the communities it serves.

Ranked among Engineering News-Record’s Top 500 Design Firms in the United States, DRMP is known for solving complex challenges through technical expertise, innovative thinking, and collaboration.

DRMP Reinforces Safety Commitment with New Environmental Health and Safety Manager

Wed, 22 Apr 2026 04:00:00 +0000

ORLANDO, Fla. – DRMP has hired David Couch as environmental health and safety manager, a newly created role that reflects the firm’s investment in and commitment to workplace safety.

In this role, Couch will enhance policies and procedures to align with Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standards and industry best practices; support project teams through risk assessments, field engagement, and proactive hazard identification; and expand training programs to ensure employees have the knowledge and tools to work safely. He will also use data and trends to drive improvements, reduce risk, and bring greater consistency across offices and job sites.

Couch brings more than 25 years of experience in environmental, health, safety, and risk management. He has led safety programs across complex construction, infrastructure, and industrial environments, supported multi-billion-dollar projects, and developed high-performing safety teams.

At DRMP, Couch will emphasize employee ownership of safety, including stop-work authority and accountability at all levels. His approach will focus on integrating safety into daily operations, equipping supervisors to lead by example, and turning insights from incidents and inspections into practical improvements.

“When employees feel involved, heard and supported, safety becomes part of how they work, not something they’re told to do,” he said. “Safety culture is built through presence, consistency, and trust. My approach is to be visible in the field, engage directly with teams, and ensure expectations are clear and supported.”

Couch said joining DRMP was an opportunity to further build on that approach in a growing organization.

“What led me to DRMP was the organization’s strong reputation, its commitment to quality and integrity, and the opportunity to help elevate and standardize safety across a growing and diverse operation,” he added.

Couch will also focus on delivering hands-on training that reflects real jobsite conditions, communicating expectations clearly, recognizing positive behaviors, and giving supervisors the tools to lead effective safety conversations.

“I’m excited to be part of the DRMP team and look forward to working closely with employees across all levels of the organization,” he said. “My goal is to build a program that not only meets regulatory requirements but sets a higher standard, one that reflects DRMP’s commitment to its people, its clients, and the communities it serves.”

DRMP President and CEO Glenn Lusink, PSM, said safety is a top priority for the firm and one he takes seriously.

“This role is about taking care of our people in the field and in our offices and making sure they have what they need to work safely and confidently,” Lusink said. “That’s something we care deeply about, and David brings the right experience to help us do that.”

Ranked among Engineering News-Record’s Top 500 Design Firms in the United States, DRMP is known for solving complex challenges through technical expertise, innovative thinking, and collaboration.

DRMP Employees Turn AdventHealth Corporate 5K Into Friendly Competition with “Beat the COO Challenge”

Tue, 21 Apr 2026 04:00:00 +0000

ORLANDO, Fla. – Employees from DRMP will join thousands of local professionals April 30 at 6:45 p.m. for the AdventHealth Corporate 5K at Lake Eola, introducing a new internal initiative this year: the “Beat the COO Challenge.”

The friendly competition encourages employees to outperform the firm’s chief operations officer on race day. The challenge was created to support employee engagement, promote health and wellness, and add an additional layer of excitement to DRMP’s participation in the annual event organized by Track Shack. The event benefits the Track Shack Youth Foundation and Second Harvest Food Bank, supporting youth health and fitness programs and providing meals to Central Florida families in need.

The “Beat the COO Challenge” has become a centerpiece of DRMP’s participation. Employees who finish with a faster time than DRMP Chief Operations Officer Mike Albano, PE, will compete for a commemorative trophy, a team lunch with firm leadership, and additional prizes for top finishers.

“This will be my first Corporate 5K, so I’m going into it as a bit of an underdog,” Albano said. “I’m not a runner, but I’m a big believer in showing up, being a good sport, and participating with our team. The Beat the COO Challenge is all in good fun, and I’m proud of our employees for turning this into something that brings people together and supports our community.”

As employees consistently list work-life balance and wellness as top priorities in what they are looking for in a company, DRMP continues to invest in health and wellness programs to meet this need through employee and community engagement initiatives. Training for the Corporate 5K, and now the Beat the COO Challenge, are engaging ways to do that.

This year marks DRMP’s largest participation in the event to date, with nearly 50 employees signed up.

“This started as a simple way to get people moving and having fun together,” said DRMP Transportation Noise Group Leader Robyn Hartz, INCE, the team’s Corporate 5K captain. “It’s grown into something that brings our teams together throughout our various departments and regional offices while supporting a great cause in our community.”

Through the DRMPCares program, the firm covers all employee registration costs to encourage participation, teamwork, and giving back to the community. DRMPCares supports community initiatives in STEM education, health, and children’s programs. For the Corporate 5K, employees train together after work, building camaraderie while preparing for the race.

The Corporate 5K is one of the region’s largest workplace fitness events, drawing major participation from leading Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) firms in Central Florida. DRMP will participate alongside its sister firm, CPH Consulting, LLC, at the event, with both companies sharing neighboring tent space at Lake Eola.

Take a look at our photo gallery below featuring DRMP employees participating in past Corporate 5K events.

Ranked among Engineering News-Record’s Top 500 Design Firms in the United States, DRMP is known for solving complex challenges through technical expertise, innovative thinking, and collaboration.

DRMP Adds Tampa Structures Group Leader to Advance Growth and Innovation

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 04:00:00 +0000

TAMPA, Fla. – DRMP has hired Hida Hilferding, PE, as Tampa structures group leader, enhancing its structural engineering capabilities throughout Florida.

In this role, Hilferding will lead the Tampa Structures Group, overseeing project delivery, supporting staff development, building and maintaining strong client relationships, and ensuring efficient operations and consistent, high-quality technical performance.

Hilferding brings extensive structural engineering experience in transportation infrastructure and strong ties to the Tampa area. She earned her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in civil engineering, with a structural focus, from the University of South Florida.

Florida’s continued population growth and ongoing investment in transportation infrastructure present strong opportunities in bridges, roadway improvements, and rehabilitation projects, Hilferding said. She aims to help the firm capitalize on those trends.

“I plan to support business development by building strong relationships with clients, collaborating closely with other disciplines, and positioning our team as a reliable, high-quality technical resource,” she said. “Delivering consistent, high-quality work will be key to strengthening DRMP’s reputation and expanding future opportunities.”

Hilferding said she is focused on advancing technical excellence through collaboration, knowledge sharing, and the integration of emerging technologies in civil engineering. She is committed to supporting continuous learning and mentoring staff to strengthen overall team performance and consistency in project delivery.

DRMP Vice President and Structures Division Leader Megan Mott, PE, said the addition of Hilferding supports the firm’s focus on building depth within its Tampa Structures Group.

“Hida brings strong technical expertise and leadership experience to the Tampa Structures Group,” Mott said. “Her commitment to collaboration, quality, and innovation will be a great asset as we continue to strengthen our structural engineering practice in Florida.”

Ranked among Engineering News-Record’s Top 500 Design Firms in the United States, DRMP is known for solving complex challenges through technical expertise, innovative thinking, and collaboration.

Manny Perez, PE, Joins DRMP’s Fort Myers Office as General Civil Senior Project Manager

Thu, 16 Apr 2026 04:00:00 +0000

FORT MYERS, Fla. – DRMP has hired Manny Perez, PE, as General Civil senior project manager, further strengthening its Civil Services team in Southwest Florida. In this role, Perez will lead business development efforts and support the firm’s continued growth in the region.

Perez brings a well-rounded background in general civil engineering and transportation with experience in private- and public-sector infrastructure projects. On the public sector side, he served as assistant director for the Department of Capital Projects and Economic Development for the Town of Medley. In the private sector, he served as vice president of engineering for a regional engineering and surveying firm. His expertise includes project management, quality control, and the successful delivery of complex infrastructure initiatives.

At DRMP, Perez will focus on supporting his team’s efforts to grow the Fort Myers office while helping identify and pursue new business opportunities. He will contribute to the General Civil Department by upholding project delivery standards, optimizing resources, and positioning the team to successfully secure and execute projects throughout Southwest Florida.

“I’m excited to join the Fort Myers team and be part of its continued growth,” Perez said. “There is already a strong foundation in place, and I look forward to working together to build on that success.”

Perez points to strong potential in the region’s public infrastructure market, particularly as funding continues to support critical investments in stormwater systems, utilities, and transportation networks to accommodate ongoing growth. He plans to approach business development by strengthening DRMP’s presence in key markets and building relationships that lead to new opportunities.

Known for his collaborative approach, Perez is committed to being a dependable team player and a resource for colleagues and clients.

“We’re excited to welcome Manny to the team,” Fort Myers Office Leader Paul Benvie, PE, said. “His perspective and experience will complement our existing strengths and help us continue delivering high-quality solutions to our clients.”

Ranked among Engineering News-Record’s Top 500 Design Firms in the United States, DRMP is known for solving complex challenges through technical expertise, innovative thinking, and collaboration.

DRMP’s Design Wins APWA Florida Award for Hillsborough County’s Temple Park Flooding Relief Project

Thu, 09 Apr 2026 04:00:00 +0000

TAMPA, Fla. – DRMP’s Chinaberry Drive at Baywood Drive Drainage Improvement Project design received the American Public Works Association (APWA) Florida Project of the Year Award in the Environment Category. The project was formally recognized during the APWA Florida Public Works Expo on April 8.

This marks the project’s second APWA honor. Last month, it received the APWA West Coast Branch Award in the Environment Category. The latest recognition represents a statewide achievement.

“The APWA Florida state awards are highly competitive each year, and we are extremely proud that our project stood out among so many exceptional entries,” said DRMP Vice President Scott Garth, PE, LEED AP, ND, who served as the project manager. “This award reflects the expertise of the entire DRMP project team and the difference our work makes for the residents who have endured flooding in this area for decades.”

For more than 60 years, residents of Temple Park in Temple Terrace, Fla., have endured chronic flooding caused by inadequate drainage. Since the neighborhood was first built in the 1960s, rainstorms frequently transformed streets into ponds. Chinaberry Drive would routinely flood, making access to homes difficult and creating stagnant water that led to mosquito breeding. Additionally, the intersection of Temple Park Drive and Baywood Drive would often flood, creating hazardous conditions for drivers and pedestrians.

That changed with the Chinaberry Drive at Baywood Drive Drainage Improvements project, completed in December 2025. Hillsborough County tasked DRMP with solving the decades-old drainage issues through engineering analysis, modern stormwater management techniques, and infrastructure upgrades. The system was designed to meet appropriate service-level criteria and ensure reliable performance during extreme rainfall.

The project included designing and installing enhanced storm drains, regrading roadways, and upgrading underground infrastructure, including replacing aging asbestos concrete water mains with durable PVC. These improvements reduced flooding, improved access for residents and emergency services, and provided a resilient, environmentally responsible solution for the neighborhood. By incorporating erosion controls and attention to water quality, the project also minimized standing water and supported the surrounding watershed.

Through smart planning, phased construction, and clear communication with residents, DRMP maintained access to homes throughout the project and delivered a long-term solution that addresses decades of flooding while prioritizing safety, environmental protection, and community well-being.

Ranked among Engineering News-Record’s Top 500 Design Firms in the United States, DRMP is known for solving complex challenges through technical expertise, innovative thinking, and collaboration.