Company News

News and Insights

Atwell Partners with Advent International to Accelerate Next Phase of Growth

 

Investment will support the continued growth of an engineering services market leader

Southfield, MI, and Boston, MA, March 27, 2026 — Advent International (“Advent”), a leading global private equity investor, today announced that it has agreed, in partnership with management, to make a significant investment in Atwell, LLC (“Atwell” or the “Company”), a leading provider of engineering, consulting, and construction services to critical infrastructure in the United States. Advent’s investment will help accelerate the Company’s future growth ambitions, benefitting customers and creating opportunities for the Company’s 2,000 professionals.

Founded in 1905 and headquartered in Southfield, Michigan, Atwell brings a longstanding legacy of technical expertise and quality service delivery to a nationwide customer base across Power & Energy, Community Development, and Commercial & Digital Infrastructure. The Company is recognized as a leading employer in the industry with an award-winning culture.

Advent will partner with the existing Atwell management team to support the Company’s next phase of growth. Together, the parties plan to build on Atwell’s strength by investing in talent and technology, expanding geographic reach, and growing service capabilities. The investment will also support Atwell’s team members by enabling expanded investment in corporate services, digital platforms, and operational infrastructure designed to enhance collaboration, efficiency, and project delivery across the organization.

“Atwell has built a strong reputation for delivering high-quality engineering and consulting solutions to clients across the U.S.,” said Jason Karl, Managing Director at Advent International. “We believe the Company is exceptionally well positioned to benefit from long-term growth drivers such as infrastructure investment, energy transition tailwinds, and an underbuilt housing market. We look forward to partnering with the talented Atwell team to help accelerate growth and expand the platform to even more areas throughout the country.”

“Atwell’s growth has always been driven by our people and their commitment to delivering exceptional results for our clients and communities,” said Matthew Bissett, President and Chief Executive Officer of Atwell. “We believe Advent’s global resources, deep sector expertise, and track record of supporting growth-oriented businesses make them an ideal partner for Atwell. With their support, we are excited to continue investing in our people, innovation, and capabilities while delivering even greater value to our clients.”

This investment brings together Advent’s deep experience investing across the professional services and industrials sectors. Since 2020, the firm has invested over $8 billion in 22 business and financial services companies and over $12 billion in 14 industrials companies across a wide range of sub-sectors as of December 31, 2025. Prior relevant investments include Culligan International, Fisher Investments, Heidrick & Struggles, Imperial Dade, LayerZero Power Systems, and Nuvei Corporation.

The transaction is expected to close in the second quarter of 2026, subject to customary regulatory approvals and closing conditions.

Advisors

Goldman Sachs & Co. LLC is serving as exclusive financial advisor and Wachtell, Lipton, Rosen & Katz is serving as legal counsel to Atwell. Morrissey Goodale LLC is serving as a strategic advisor to the Company. Morgan Stanley & Co. LLC is serving as exclusive financial advisor and Weil, Gotshal & Manges LLP is serving as legal counsel to Advent.

About Atwell

Atwell, LLC is a full-service consulting, engineering, and construction services firm delivering innovative solutions for clients in community development, commercial, digital infrastructure, power and hydrocarbon markets. The Company provides a comprehensive range of services including planning and entitlement, land and right-of-way solutions, surveying, engineering, environmental consulting, GIS and mapping, and construction management. Founded in 1905 and headquartered in Southfield, Michigan, Atwell supports clients across the United States through a multidisciplinary platform designed to advance complex infrastructure and development projects.

About Advent International

Advent is a leading global private equity investor committed to working in partnership with management teams, entrepreneurs, and founders to help transform businesses. With 16 offices across five continents, Advent oversees more than USD $102 billion in assets under management* and have made 448 investments across 44 countries.

Since Advent’s founding in 1984, they have developed specialist market expertise across their five core sectors: business & financial services, consumer, healthcare, industrial, and technology. This approach is bolstered by their deep sub-sector knowledge, which informs every aspect of Advent’s investment strategy, from sourcing opportunities to working in partnership with management to execute value creation plans. Advent brings hands-on operational expertise to enhance and accelerate businesses.

As one of the largest privately-owned partnerships, their 655 colleagues leverage the full ecosystem of Advent’s global resources, including their Portfolio Support Group, insights provided by industry expert Operating Partners and Operations Advisors, as well as bespoke tools to support and guide portfolio companies as they seek to achieve their strategic goals.

News and Insights

Nikunj N. Dave joins Atwell as Technical Director of Transportation Services

 

Atwell is pleased to welcome Nikunj N. Dave, P.E., PMP, as Technical Director – Transportation Services, based in Orlando, Florida. At Atwell, he will help provide transportation planning services, traffic studies, and operational analysis across the region.

Nikunj brings more than 18 years of experience in transportation engineering, with expertise spanning roadway design, traffic engineering, maintenance of traffic, and large-scale public infrastructure projects. His background includes work on freeways, interstates, toll roads, arterial highways, and municipal streets across Florida and the Mid-Atlantic region.

Prior to joining Atwell, Nikunj served in senior leadership and project management roles with engineering firms and public agencies, including managing General Engineering Consultant contracts, overseeing multidisciplinary teams, and supporting capital improvement programs. He has extensive experience with design-bid-build and design-build delivery, post-design services, and coordination with state and local agencies, including FDOT and municipal jurisdictions

Nikunj holds a Master of Science in Civil Engineering and is a licensed Professional Engineer. Please join us in welcoming Nikunj N. Dave to Atwell.

News and Insights

Atwell adds Erick B. Allen, PE, as Associate Director in Land Development

Atwell is pleased to welcome Erick B. Allen, P.E., as an Associate Director, based in Ohio. Known for his practical, client-focused approach and collaborative leadership style, Allen will support Atwell’s land development practice by delivering high-quality projects and mentoring staff.

Allen brings more than 25 years of experience in civil engineering and land development, spanning residential and commercial site design, permitting, construction coordination, and project management, including experience with Atwell earlier in his career. His background includes leading projects from entitlement through construction, managing multidisciplinary teams, and working closely with municipalities and clients to deliver successful outcomes.

Prior to rejoining Atwell, Allen served in leadership roles with consulting engineering firms, developers, and construction companies, overseeing land development projects, managing budgets and schedules, coordinating bidding and subcontractor relationships, and directing horizontal construction to ensure a successful handoff to the vertical contractors.

Allen holds a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering and is a licensed Professional Engineer in Ohio and Pennsylvania. He is also a member of NAIOP, the Commercial Real Estate Development Association.

Please join us in welcoming Erick B. Allen, PE to Atwell.

News and Insights

2025 employee highlights: The people powering Atwell’s success

Throughout 2025, we continued to share the stories of the talented individuals who make Atwell exceptional. From celebrating industry recognition and professional milestones to highlighting the diverse perspectives and experiences that strengthen our organization, this year has been filled with examples of dedication and innovation by our team. As we look back on 2025, we wanted to revisit these stories and how our employees have contributed to Atwell and the communities we serve.

We began the year by spotlighting our Land & Right of Way Solutions team, which has grown to more than 120 dedicated professionals. The team’s journey from startup-like beginnings in 2007 to becoming a core service sector exemplifies Atwell’s entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to meeting client needs.

For Engineers Week, we sat down with Associate Project Manager Rachel Sutherland, Project Engineer Lindsay Galarza, and Discipline Manager Ray Holliday to discuss what it means to be an engineer. They shared their passion for problem-solving, debunked misconceptions about the field, and offered advice for aspiring engineers.

In honor of Black History Month, we celebrated the unique experiences of HBCU alumni at Atwell. Planner and Designer Shanice Ouzts, Engineer Richmond Linard Calapano, and Engineer Shelton McGlory shared how their HBCU education prepared them professionally and why aspiring STEM professionals should consider an HBCU education.

For National Surveyors Week and Women’s History Month, we highlighted three women surveyors making significant impacts in the field. Project Surveyor Tori Aper, Survey Technician Verena Lake, and Project Surveyor Julie Reincke discussed their experiences as women surveyors, the challenges they’ve overcome, and the vital role surveying plays in our communities.

Discipline Manager Preston Landry shared insights into his career in Oil & Gas, discussing what makes a strong team and how Atwell’s dynamic approach allows him to work on diverse projects ranging from natural gas and pipelines to carbon capture and facilities development.

In June, Atwell was named ENR Southeast’s 2025 Design Firm of the Year, recognizing our record-breaking revenue growth, strategic acquisitions, and community impact initiatives. This prestigious honor reflects the exceptional work of our people and their dedication to excellence.

Atwell advanced to #11 on Zweig Group’s 2025 “Best Firms to Work For” for firms with more than 200 employees, moving up five spots from 2024. This recognition, driven by employee feedback, demonstrates our commitment to cultural excellence and employee experience.

Through The Atwell Gives Foundation, we announced our partnership with Science Olympiad’s Urban Schools Initiative as National Title Sponsor. This commitment reflects our dedication to creating STEM pathways for underserved students and investing in the next generation of innovators.

Survey Professional Dillon Harp was named Young Surveyor of the Year by the Texas Society of Professional Surveyors. As one of only two people to hold both LSLS and CFEDS licenses, Dillon exemplifies dedication to the profession through his technical excellence and commitment to mentoring the next generation of surveyors.

We appreciate all our employees for their continuous dedication to delivering outstanding work, building meaningful relationships with clients and communities, and supporting each other’s growth. We look forward to celebrating the achievements and milestones our people will reach in 2026!

News and Insights

Atwell project highlights 2025: Bringing passion to every project

 

At Atwell, we bring passion to every project, and in 2025, that commitment showed up in meaningful ways across the country. Throughout the year, we strengthened client relationships, prioritized safety, and delivered thoughtful solutions that support how people live, work, and connect with their communities. From complex infrastructure to carefully planned residential developments, our work continues to elevate the quality of life nationwide. Explore our 2025 project highlights below:

The Vineyard at Crescent Ridge, a luxury residential development in Central Washington’s Crescent Bar community, was one of our January project features. The Atwell team used a real-time, design-build approach across 40 single-family homes to ensure each lot had an unobstructed view of the Columbia River. Our team was able to deliver a year-round community that incorporates luxury, thoughtful design, and breathtaking views through strategic site planning, complex grading solutions, and close client collaboration.

In February, we highlighted Atwell’s work in leading quality assurance and quality control (QA/QC) services for Etihad Park, New York City Football Club’s $780 million, privately financed soccer stadium. As the city’s first stadium built exclusively for soccer, the 25,000-seat venue will feature premium seating, a selection of dining and retail options, a 9,000-square-foot outdoor gathering space called the Supporters Porch, and a striking seven-story entrance called The Cube. The stadium is scheduled to open in 2027 and will be the first fully electric soccer stadium in Major League Soccer and in New York City.

In March, we shared how our team has helped Black Rock Coffee successfully expand across the West and Southwest by leveraging modular building designs. The Atwell team handled a full scope of services across these projects, from due diligence and permitting to engineering, construction coordination, and stakeholder outreach. This streamlined approach has allowed us to support more than 35 Black Rock Coffee projects across multiple states, playing a key role in the brand’s continued growth.

Our May feature was Serenbe, an award-winning, 1,700-acre biophilic community in Georgia, that redefines master-planned community development by prioritizing wellness, sustainability, and connecting people to nature. Involved since 2003, the Atwell team has helped create a community that conserves 70% of its land for natural and agricultural use while clustering custom-designed homes and amenities into walkable hamlets. Our team also helped pioneer new development and stormwater practices that influenced local zoning standards.

In June, we highlighted the Japanese Solderless Terminals (JST) campus in Farmington Hills, Michigan. Atwell served as a key engineering partner for the campus, incorporating cultural philosophy and environmental stewardship throughout the design. The 10-acre project was influenced by Japanese spiritual beliefs that view land and nature as sacred. Because of this, only four acres of land were actively used while the other six acres protect natural water flow and local ecosystems. Designed to work with the land rather than reshape it, the campus also features buildings elevated on stilts, geothermal energy systems, and materials sourced to minimize environmental impact, all while honoring both Japanese and Native American cultural heritage.

In July, we featured The Gulf Landing Logistics Center in Fort Myers, Florida, where an underutilized 285-acre site was transformed into one of Southwest Florida’s most significant industrial and commercial hubs. Both Atwell and RVi Planning + Landscape Architecture helped reimagine the property by expanding entitlements from 1.7 million to nearly 3 million square feet and revising the master plan to meet ambitious goals of the new owners. Even with tight timelines, the team was able to expedite permitting, resolve complex technical and regulatory challenges, and preserve 92 acres of natural land.

Scottsdale Quarter, a landmark mixed-use development in Scottsdale, Arizona, was our August feature. Atwell provided a range of services including platting, utilities, grading, drainage, and community coordination for the 28-acre development.  The area seamlessly integrates residential, office, retail, dining, entertainment, and public gathering spaces into a vibrant, walkable destination where people can live, work, and relax.

In September, we emphasized Atwell’s partnership with a major Texas natural gas distribution company to improve safety and reliability of residential gas infrastructure. Atwell supports more than 2.1 million customers across 600 communities by providing services like planning, design, permitting, construction support, and phased execution to replace outdated and low-pressure gas lines while minimizing service disruptions. Our team is helping prepare Texas communities for continued growth while enhancing the long-term safety and resilience of critical energy infrastructure.

In October, we shared how Whitaker Farms, a thoughtfully planned residential development in Midway, Utah, demonstrates how high-end community growth can coexist with land preservation and local heritage. Originally part of a 100-acre family farm, the project dedicates 80 acres to development while preserving 20 acres of open space, including a central meadow and farmland that maintain the area’s character. Our team helped integrate public amenities, improve access to the adjacent Memorial Hill park, and contribute land and infrastructure that benefit the broader community.

These projects are just a snapshot of what our team has accomplished over the course of 2025, demonstrating the difference our work makes across communities. Together, they showcase the depth of our expertise, versatility of our services, and expertise Atwell brings to every client and project. As we look ahead to 2026, we remain committed to tackling complex challenges and helping communities thrive!

News and Insights

Atwell leader insights of 2025: Thoughtfully guiding, collaborating, and delivering impact

 

Throughout 2025, Atwell leaders shared perspectives shaped by their experiences, collaborations, and a deep understanding of the markets we serve. From emerging data center strategies to renewable energy growth, program management, and community engagement, these insights reflect how our teams continue to lead with purpose while helping clients navigate change.

Below is a look back at Atwell leader insights from 2025, highlighting the ideas that helped define our year.

In January, Senior Vice President Jason Utton and Vice President Courtney Schmidt shared insights on the evolving data center market and the critical factors that influence successful site selection. Drawing on experience supporting complex developments nationwide, the discussion emphasized that identifying the right location requires more than available land. Power access, infrastructure capacity, permitting certainty, and long-term scalability all play a defining role.

In February, we honored National Engineers Week by highlighting Atwell engineers Rachel Sutherland, Lindsay Galarza, and Ray Holliday. They reflected on the deeper purpose behind their work and what it means to be an engineer in today’s built environment. They emphasized that engineering at Atwell is rooted in solving real-world problems that improve lives.

In March, during National Surveyors Week, we spotlighted the growing impact of women surveyors across the profession. The conversation highlighted Atwell’s Project Surveyor Tori Aper, Surveying Technician Verena Lake, and Project Surveyor Julie Reincke and focused on how diverse perspectives strengthen project outcomes, foster innovation, and build more resilient teams.

In April, Robert Mitchell, Construction Manager, shared insights on the value an owner’s representative brings to construction projects. Acting as an extension of the owner’s team, our professionals help align stakeholders, manage risk, and maintain momentum throughout the project lifecycle. This perspective reinforced the importance of proactive communication, accountability, and strategic oversight in delivering projects on time and on budget. Also in April, Danielle Peoples, Project Director for Communications and Stakeholder Engagement, explored why renewable energy feels right at home in rural America. Her insights focused on how solar and wind projects can coexist with agricultural land uses while delivering economic benefits to local communities. Success, Peoples noted, depends on early engagement, transparency, and long-term partnership with landowners and stakeholders, areas where Atwell’s local knowledge and national reach intersect.

In May, Courtney Schmidt and Tracey Dubuque, Vice President, addressed the differences and opportunities between project management and program management. As development portfolios expand, clients increasingly need a coordinated approach that aligns multiple projects under a unified strategy. The discussion highlighted how standardized processes, data-driven decision-making, and clear governance help organizations scale efficiently while maintaining consistency and control.

In August, Atwell leaders shared three complementary perspectives that underscored how policy, market forces, and disciplined execution are converging in today’s energy landscape. In one insight, Tracey Dubuque shared how recent federal legislation, often referred to as the One Big Beautiful Bill, is igniting new opportunities in renewable energy while raising the stakes for thorough due diligence. Also in August, Courtney Schmidt and Chase Pelletier, Senior Director, shared how aligning schedules, budgets, stakeholders, and data across portfolios helps organizations respond more effectively to regulatory shifts, supply chain pressures, and evolving client expectations. The August insights concluded with a piece by Tracey Dubuque and Jason Minock, Senior Development Manager, Renewables. They explored the forces driving new demands in energy, including electrification, data center growth, manufacturing expansion, and grid modernization.

In September, Bourke Thomas, Vice President at Atwell, provided updates on federal environmental policy and the strategic considerations developers must account for when planning projects. He identified early environmental review, regulatory awareness, and proactive coordination as key drivers of schedule certainty. Also in September, Danielle Peoples participated as a featured panelist in the Resilient Communities webinar series, offering an inside look at solar development and local community benefits. September also featured insights from James Hall, Executive Vice President of Special Projects at Atwell. In his piece, Hall expanded on the 4 Ps of data center development: power, policy, place, and partnership. Further exploring the data center topic, Courtney Schmidt examined how access to power and connectivity influences decisions about data center locations.

In October, Atwell Project Manager Michael Keith turned his focus to the foundations of exceptional client service. He identified trust, transparency, and teamwork as essential elements in building lasting relationships and delivering consistent value. By fostering collaboration across disciplines and maintaining open communication, Atwell teams are able to anticipate challenges and respond with solutions tailored to client goals.

In November, Atwell Vice Presidents Jim Lowe and Eric Lord examined the onshoring effect and its role in driving rural manufacturing growth. They focused on how access to land, infrastructure investment, and strong partnerships are enabling the expansion of domestic manufacturing. Also in November, Don Manhard shared his perspectives following the addition of Manhard Consulting to the Atwell team, marking a milestone that strengthened our capabilities while reinforcing a shared commitment to client success.

In December, Danielle Peoples explored the intersection of data centers and community engagement. Bringing communities into conversations about data centers and emerging technologies is crucial for building trust and fostering long-term alignment. We wrapped up the year with reflections from Atwell CEO Matthew C. Bissett, who shared Atwell’s 2025 achievements and outlined a forward-looking vision for 2026 grounded in innovation, collaboration, and service.

As we look ahead, these insights reflect who we are as a firm and how we lead. Through continuous innovation, thoughtful partnership, and a commitment to building better outcomes, Atwell remains focused on helping our clients and communities succeed from concept to completion.

News and Insights

Atwell company highlights of 2025: Strategic growth, expanded capabilities, and vision for the future

 

As 2025 comes to a close, we are proud to reflect on a year marked by strong growth, expanded capabilities, and continued investment in our people and clients. From strategic acquisitions to national recognition for our culture, this year positioned us for an even stronger future. Here are some of the highlights that shaped 2025.

Early in the year, we strengthened our team and expanded our capabilities.

Atwell began 2025 by welcoming new leaders and experienced team members across our fastest-growing markets. These strategic hires enhanced our expertise in energy, engineering, and land development, providing us with the depth and breadth necessary to support growing client demand nationwide.

At the same time, we completed the acquisition of SEI Engineering, strengthening our presence in Georgia and the Southeast. This addition helped us expand our engineering and development capabilities for clients navigating complex infrastructure and land development challenges.

As market needs evolved, we added Terrascape Consulting to our team, strengthening our engineering and surveying services in the Southwest. This acquisition allowed us to better support clients in high-growth regions with integrated, full-service offerings.

By spring, we continued to expand our national footprint.

We completed the acquisition of Capital Civil Engineering, broadening our engineering resources in North Carolina and the Southeast. This expansion enabled us to deliver more comprehensive solutions and strengthen our partnerships in the region.

We also continued to grow our long-term talent pipeline through targeted recruitment focused on the needs of emerging industries, including renewable energy, manufacturing, and data center development.

Midyear, we received national recognition for culture and excellence and advanced our strategic growth.

Atwell’s strong culture and commitment to employee experience were recognized industry-wide. Atwell climbed five spots on the Zweig Group’s 2025 Best Firms to Work For list, reaching #11 nationwide for firms with more than 200 employees. This ranking reflects our culture of collaboration, innovation, and focus on professional development.

We continued to prioritize strategic growth in key services with the acquisition of a majority stake in Centurion Power, a Washington-based company specializing in third-party electrical acceptance testing, inspection, certification, and commissioning. This addition expanded our capabilities in the electrical power industry and strengthened our ability to support clients through every phase of complex power and energy projects.

In the fall, we made our largest acquisition to date and continued our commitment to giving back.

We reached a major milestone with the acquisition of Manhard Consulting, the largest in our company’s history. This expansion broadened our expertise in land development, surveying, water resources, and energy while extending our presence in Illinois, Colorado, Texas, Tennessee, and Nevada. This growth positions us to support clients on an even greater scale and enhances our ability to deliver comprehensive solutions nationwide.

During this same period, we reaffirmed our commitment to supporting the communities where we live and work. We continued our investment in the future of STEM leadership and youth development through the Atwell Gives Foundation and our partnership with Science Olympiad.

As the year came to a close, we reflected on our progress and looked ahead.

In December, our Chief Executive Officer, Matthew C. Bissett, shared updates on our achievements and outlined priorities for the upcoming year. Following another year of strong revenue performance and more than a decade of double-digit growth, our focus for 2026 includes continued organic growth and deeper client partnerships. Investments in people, technology, and expanding markets will enable us to deliver innovative solutions in land development, energy, infrastructure, and beyond.

Looking ahead to 2026

As we enter 2026, we remain committed to investing in our people, partnering closely with clients, and expanding our capabilities to meet the evolving needs of the industry. We are excited to build on the momentum of 2025 and continue delivering impactful work nationwide.

News and Insights

CEO Matthew C. Bissett reflects on Atwell’s 2025 achievements and shares the firm’s vision for 2026

 

Matthew C. Bissett is our Chief Executive Officer and President of Atwell. He has been with the firm for 27 years, starting his career as an Atwell intern. During that time, he has distinguished himself as someone who is deeply committed to growth, business diversification, and driving the strategic goals of our company, while supporting our colleagues and clients.

In this interview, Matt reflects on Atwell’s growth in 2025 and the firm’s vision for 2026.

Reflecting on 2025, what moments do you feel best captured the evolution of Atwell’s business this year?

It’s been an exciting year for the Atwell Family of Companies. We’ve experienced significant growth, around a 20 to 30 percent increase in net revenue over the prior year, continuing our steady 15-year trend of double-digit growth. When we set our 2025 business plan, our focus was clear: invest in our people and strengthen our ability to grow alongside our clients. Every major decision we make ties back to two guiding principles: solving client problems and creating opportunities for our team.

One of the most transformative steps we took this year was our integration with Manhard Consulting. From the start, we saw strong alignment in culture, expertise, and client relationships. That partnership has already expanded our data center mission-critical work, deepened our relationships with clients, and enhanced our capabilities in renewable energy design.

We have also continued to prioritize organic growth while expanding our team through strategic hiring and professional development. Personally, having been with Atwell since 1998, it’s fulfilling to see so many of our people grow their careers here.

Atwell has had a monumental year in terms of growth. The Manhard Consulting acquisition was Atwell’s largest ever. What has been the biggest impact of this integration, both culturally and strategically?

The success of the Manhard integration comes down to alignment and cultural belief. Both firms share the same philosophy of supporting people, providing strong leadership, and creating opportunities for growth. That cultural connection made the partnership feel natural from day one.

Don Manhard Jr.’s approach mirrors ours: building lasting client relationships, solving complex challenges, and helping people advance. Together, our teams are expanding into new markets, strengthening technical expertise, and deepening relationships with national clients.

This integration has broadened opportunities for everyone and is a great example of what happens when two like-minded organizations come together. The result is one stronger, unified team with the ability to deliver more, grow faster, and make a greater impact.

As we look to 2026, how do you see Atwell continuing to balance organic growth and strategic acquisitions?

For me, organic growth is where I put most of my energy. It’s the part of the business I’m the most passionate about. I love bringing new talented professionals into the Atwell family. Helping people see how they can grow their careers here while being part of a supportive and innovative culture is incredibly rewarding.

Organic growth will continue to be a key focus for us. It’s simply the best way to grow: by developing people, deepening client relationships, and expanding our technical expertise. We now have more than 2,100 team members, and sustaining that momentum means staying aligned with our clients’ goals. Each year during business planning, we look closely at our clients’ growth strategies to make sure we’re adding resources and capabilities that help them succeed.

With new and expanded offices in Raleigh, Nashville, Reno, Chicago, and Southern California, what lessons have we learned about successful geographic growth?

Everything starts with our people. Our priority is to support the talented staff we already have by giving them the resources, leadership, and tools they need to succeed. We want every team member to have a clear roadmap for growth and the confidence to pursue bigger opportunities. Our focus this year has been on ensuring our teams have the proper leadership backing, technology, and operational support. When our people feel equipped and empowered, they start to think bigger about their clients, the projects they can take on, and the impact they can make. That confidence allows us to pursue larger and more complex projects than ever before.

How has Atwell’s diversification across areas like data centers, industrial onshoring, and energy helped strengthen our position in a changing market?

Major investments today are centered on technology. Companies like OpenAI, Amazon, Meta, and Google are driving data infrastructure and creating opportunities for firms like Atwell.

We’re deeply engaged in mission-critical industries that combine complexity, innovation, and scale. Projects like data centers leverage our full expertise, from land development and utilities to energy infrastructure. Our utility partnerships give us an edge in site selection, grid analysis, and power planning. Our teams also model energy solutions, from natural gas to renewables, optimizing performance and sustainability. What’s most rewarding is seeing our multidisciplinary teams collaborate seamlessly to solve client challenges. That unity and shared purpose define who we are at Atwell.

How does innovation, through tools like Power BI, Chat GPT, or digital project management, support Atwell’s growth and ability to stay ahead of client needs?

We’re using AI tools like Power BI, ChatGPT, and digital project management systems to improve how we manage projects and make real-time decisions about staffing, resources, and budgets. Strong financial management allows us to reinvest in our people and continue growing the firm. Our goal is to give every project manager the insight and tools to operate like the president of their own business, understanding costs, value, and performance at every stage.

Looking ahead, AI will play an even bigger role in bridging workforce gaps and streamlining complex work. By leveraging innovation, we can empower our teams and deliver smarter solutions for clients.

The launch of The Atwell Gives Foundation was a major milestone. What inspired its creation, and what impact do you hope it will have?

The Atwell Gives Foundation was created from our belief that success is about more than growth. It’s about giving back and creating opportunities for others.

Launched this year, the Foundation supports 501(c)(3) organizations focused on STEM education and youth development. Our partnership with Science Olympiad, where we serve as the first title sponsor of its Urban Schools Initiative, is helping expand STEM access for underrepresented students.

By inspiring young people to explore science, technology, engineering, and math, we’re helping shape the next generation of innovators, and perhaps future Atwell team members. It’s a reflection of who we are: driven by purpose, grounded in relationships, and committed to building a brighter future.

What excites you most about where Atwell is headed in 2026?

As we finalize business planning, we’ll target investments where they’ll have the greatest impact, whether that is through hiring, internships, or expanding in key markets.

We expect strong growth in data centers and energy, continued momentum in renewables, and new opportunities in high-growth regions, such as Texas. While residential markets may face some challenges, demand remains steady in the Sunbelt states.

Opportunities aren’t slowing; they’re shifting. We’re focused on deepening relationships with current clients and building relationships with emerging clients and industries that are driving investment in the years to come.

Atwell’s strength has always been in adapting and growing alongside our clients. When we build those relationships and help our partners succeed, we create new opportunities for our teams as well, and that’s what keeps this work meaningful.

News and Insights

Don Manhard shares perspective on the industry, keys to success, and the addition of Manhard to the Atwell team

 

As we welcome the outstanding staff from Manhard Consulting to the Atwell team, we sat down with Don Manhard to learn more about his experiences and vision for the future.

What inspired you to pursue a career in AEC industry?

Two things, really. First, my father was a civil engineer who started his own firm when I was 12 years old, and I grew up working alongside him. That experience gave me an early appreciation for what engineers do and the impact they have on communities.

Second, I discovered I had a natural aptitude for math, and let’s just say English wasn’t my strong suit!  Engineering quickly became my calling, and it was a path that felt both natural and rewarding.

You’ve experienced significant success in this industry, and from your perspective, what skills are critical to being successful?

I’ve always considered myself very competitive whether in sports or in business. Talent helps, but hard work and consistency always win out in the long run. In our industry, success often comes down to going above and beyond for clients and being someone they can count on. Dependability builds trust.

Equally important is thinking ahead, which means finding the right people (people you enjoy working with), anticipating client needs, understanding where the market is headed, and continually improving how services are delivered.

What were the factors that made Atwell a logical fit in bringing the companies together?

It really started with the leadership at Atwell. From the beginning, I could see that these were individuals that my colleagues and I would genuinely enjoy working with. The Atwell team shares our values, work ethic, and commitment to doing things the right way.

Beyond that, the opportunity to join a larger network of professionals with access to new markets, bigger clients, and more complex projects made perfect sense. It wasn’t just about growth; it was about aligning with a company that could elevate what we already do well while offering greater opportunities for our team and clients alike.

What additional opportunities open up now with the Atwell/Manhard integration?

The integration has already opened exciting opportunities. In speaking with many of our clients about the merger, it’s been gratifying to see their enthusiasm, not just for us, but for what this means for them. We can now offer more services in-house, expand our geographic reach, and deliver a broader range of solutions across their markets.

The combination gives our clients a trusted name and familiar faces, now with the added benefit of a larger platform and greater resources. We’re strengthening relationships while creating new avenues for growth and collaboration.

What do you see on the horizon as important industry trends that will drive continued innovation and growth?

While I’ve always been focused on growth, I’ve also learned the importance of growing wisely and making sure we don’t move so fast that we stumble. In this industry, success comes from paying close attention to where market sectors and geographic markets are expanding and where they’re starting to cool.

As an example, a few years ago, distribution centers were booming, but rising interest rates, increased construction costs, and oversaturation caused that market to slow almost overnight. We made the decision to pivot to mission critical and data center work, which continues to show strong, sustained demand. Combined with the addition of Atwell’s land, power, and electrical groups, we are building a platform that’s positioned for long-term success.

To borrow a hockey analogy: don’t skate where the puck is, skate to where it’s going. That mindset is what will continue to drive innovation and opportunity for our firm.

What is a career goal that you’ve set for yourself and what are you most proud of thus far in your journey?

Having built one business, I am now focused on using that expertise and the lessons learned to help Atwell achieve industry dominance, not through reckless expansion, but by instilling the right processes for reasonable, sustained growth that positions us as a market leader. I enjoy the intellectual challenge of the deal-making process, and I hope to spend the final phase of my career guiding and executing the strategic transactions that are vital for Atwell’s future growth.

Working with extremely supportive and talented associates, I am enormously proud to have built a company from a local, 15-person operation into a robust, national firm employing almost 400 people across 14 U.S. locations. This decades-long expansion proved that significant professional success and achieving geographic scale and market presence, is possible without sacrificing personal priorities, as I successfully navigated this growth alongside the growth (and happiness) of my own family.

Where do you look for inspiration?

I’ve been fortunate to have close friends who’ve found success in a wide range of fields –  finance, law, sports, medicine, and private equity to name a few. I often talk with them about what challenges they’re facing, what’s keeping them up at night, where their industries are headed, and what trends they see on the horizon. Those conversations give me fresh perspectives and often spark ideas that help me think differently about our own business and how we can adapt or innovate.

On a more personal level, my wife and two sons keep me inspired and grounded. They each have unique interests outside of AEC, and they’re constantly introducing me to new ideas, technologies, and ways of thinking. They remind me that creativity and curiosity don’t stop at the boundaries of our industry.

As you look forward to 2026, what excites you?

I’m excited about the opportunities that come with full integration. Together we will be able to seamlessly offer clients the complete range of our combined services and deliver even greater value to them. I’m looking forward to identifying and adding key talent, both within our existing markets and in new areas where we see strong potential for growth.

I’m also energized with the prospect of mentoring the next generation of leaders on my team by helping them step into new responsibilities which will drive our continued success into the future.

News and Insights

Atwell recognized with Excellence in Acquisitive Growth Award from Morrissey Goodale

 

Atwell is proud to share that it received a Best M&A Post-Transaction Performance Award as part of Morrissey Goodale’s Excellence in Acquisitive Growth Awards Series. Recipients of this award are recognized for achieving outstanding post-transaction performance in the areas of profits, revenues, backlog, and employee retention. The award was given for Atwell’s acquisition and integration of Waldrop Engineering.

“We are very proud of the work we’ve done to thoughtfully grow and expand the Atwell Family of Companies,” said Matthew C. Bissett, President of Atwell. “The successful integration of talented professionals as part of our team has been critical in our continued growth to better serve our clients and create staff opportunities. We are grateful for this recognition, and I appreciate all the effort from our team that goes into making our process a success.”

The award is based on Morrissey Goodale’s proprietary Acquisition Performance Indicator (API), a post-transaction performance benchmark. Drawing from extensive transaction advisory experience and direct feedback from acquirers and investors, the API evaluates performance across four key dimensions: revenue, profit, backlog, and voluntary turnover measured in the 12 months following a transaction.

Atwell has looked to continue to expand both organically and through strategic mergers and acquisitions, completing 11 deals in 2024 and 2025, including its most recent acquisition, Manhard Consulting.

Atwell, LLC is a national consulting, engineering, and construction services firm with more than 2,100 professionals located across the country. Creating innovative solutions for clients in industries such as real estate and land development, power and energy, hydrocarbons, and infrastructure, Atwell provides comprehensive turnkey services including land and right-of-way support, planning, landscape architecture, engineering, land surveying, environmental compliance and permitting, natural resources consulting and project and program management.