Wightman welcomed five new shareholders and announced the reappointment of its Board of Directors leadership at the firm’s annual shareholder meeting in April. These two milestones reflect the firm’s continued focus on employee ownership and long-term, strategic growth.
New shareholders include Ashley Hilder, Dan Isbrecht, Christine Kennedy, Crystal Snow, and Anna Van Strien.
- Ashley Hilder is a project manager in the South Haven survey department with 21 years of experience. She began her career as a field technician and crew chief before moving into production and project management.
- Dan Isbrecht, a Construction Field Services Technician in the Benton Harbor office, joined the firm in 2022. He supports testing and inspection services on MDOT and municipal projects.
- Christine Kennedy, an architect based in Wightman’s Royal Oak office, joined the firm in 2019 and serves as the Education Sector Specialist. With 35 years of experience in architectural and interior design, she focuses on creating thoughtful, functional learning environments.
- Crystal Snow, Senior Human Resources Business Partner, joined Wightman in 2021. A Gallup Strengths Certified professional, she focuses on employee engagement and building a strong, people-first culture.
- Anna Van Strien started at Wightman as an engineering intern in 2015 and joined full-time in 2019. Now based in the Allegan office, she leads road design projects as a licensed Professional Engineer.
As an employee-owned firm, Wightman gives team members the opportunity to become shareholders. This approach directly connects individual contributions to the company’s overall success while helping drive quality work and lasting relationships with clients and communities across the Great Lakes region.
Wightman also announced several staff promotions. Pete Siglow, P.E., and Kevin Marks, P.E., have advanced to Principal Associate from Senior Associate. Paul Schram, P.E., Stefany Holland, Assoc. AIA, Joel East, P.S., Melanie Stanage, P.E., Suzannah Deneau, and Patrick Schwyn, P.E., have been promoted to Senior Associate from Associate.
“Becoming a shareholder at Wightman represents more than a professional milestone. It reflects a long-term commitment to our firm and the communities we serve,” said Brian Lieberg, Director of Survey and Board Chair. “Our employee-owners take pride in their work because they share in the success we’re building together.”
The firm also confirmed the following Board of Directors reappointments:
- Brian Lieberg, Chair
- Philip A. Doorlag, Secretary
- Lee Petcu, Jr., Treasurer
- Greg Monberg, Trustee
Together, these leaders provide continuity and guidance as Wightman continues to grow. Employee ownership remains a key part of Wightman’s culture. Expanding the shareholder group strengthens collaboration, accountability, and shared purpose, which benefits both employees and the clients they serve.
For more information about Wightman’s new shareholders and reappointments, visit https://gowightman.com.
