Today, Volkert officially turns 101, marking the culmination of a Centennial Celebration honoring a century of service, innovation, and integrity. As Volkert’s Centennial Celebration comes to a close, it leaves behind more than memories of milestones and moments. It reaffirms who we are as a company and what we stand for: a shared legacy built by generations of employee-owners, a commitment to serving our communities with purpose, and a culture rooted in integrity, collaboration, and excellence.
“It’s no small feat for a company to survive and thrive for a hundred years. It’s estimated that only one-half of one percent of all businesses last that long,” says Thomas A. Hand, PE, Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer. “It is a testament to all those who built this company and sustained it, and to their values, that our company has become what it is today. We are grateful for their legacy. We are truly blessed to inherit the results of their hard work and dedication. And we have an obligation to honor this legacy with our own commitment, diligence and care.”
Celebrating Volkert’s history
Planning for Volkert’s Centennial began several years ago with extensive research into the company’s archives and historical records, including countless digitized newspaper clippings. This work was essential in understanding Volkert’s roots and served as the foundation for sharing our story across multiple platforms throughout the Centennial year.
Founded in 1925 in New Orleans by James P. Ewin and Paul Doullut, the firm began with shipbuilding-related work at the Port of New Orleans before expanding into aviation, flood control, and major infrastructure projects, including the Mobile Bay Causeway. Early growth led to landmark projects such as Sugar Bowl Stadium and the Louisiana State Capitol.
During World War II, Volkert shifted its focus to support the war effort, delivering projects worth hundreds of millions in today’s dollars, including floating dry docks for the U.S. Navy and expansions at the Port of Mobile. After the war, the company was acquired by Southern Industries and relocated to Mobile under the leadership of David Volkert, who later purchased the firm and guided a period of significant expansion, including new offices and work on the Interstate Highway System in the 1950s.
A defining moment came in 1975 with the adoption of an Employee Stock Ownership Plan, making Volkert one of the first 100 percent employee-owned engineering firms. From just 14 employees, Volkert has grown into a multi-state firm with nearly 1,500 employee-owners. This growth reflects a lasting commitment to quality, service, and an employee-centered culture that continues to guide Volkert into the future.
Celebrating Volkert’s employee owners
Celebrating 100 years of Volkert meant celebrating our family of families. Our employee owners’ role in Volkert’s journey has been invaluable, and we owe our success to the hard work and dedication of countless individuals throughout our history.
On February 4th last year, Volkert hosted its largest event – a 100th birthday party celebrated by employees in offices and job sites across the country. In true birthday fashion, employees enjoyed lunch, birthday cake, and centennial gifts.
Serving Volkert’s communities
Volkert has remained committed to improving the communities we serve, not just through our infrastructure solutions, but through the generosity and volunteer spirit of our employees. To mark this historic occasion, we introduced our most ambitious community service initiative yet: 100 Acts of Service.
“For 100 years, Volkert has taken pride in serving our communities. But this year, as part of our centennial celebration, we wanted to make it extra special,” shared Holly Gibney, Senior Vice President of Administration. “We challenged our employees to accomplish 100 Acts of Service, and they were up for the challenge. It has been fun to watch the progress and see the pictures from each event. Just one more reason to be proud of Volkert!”
Across all regions, employees stepped up in meaningful ways. Teams packed meals for children and families facing food insecurity, built homes with Habitat for Humanity, cleaned beaches and green spaces, mentored students exploring engineering and transportation careers, supported holiday giving programs, and volunteered countless hours with local nonprofits. Each act made a real and lasting difference.
What’s next?
As Volkert moves beyond its Centennial year, the focus shifts from reflection to momentum. The past 100 years have told a powerful story of resilience, innovation, and shared ownership—but they also set the standard for what comes next. Guided by the values established by generations of leaders and employee-owners, Volkert enters its second century prepared to grow, evolve, and continue delivering meaningful impact.
“In my mind, there is no better way to honor our founders, Mr. Volkert, and all those who have come before us than to succeed as Volkert,” says Thomas A. Hand. “And that’s what have done and will do, last year, this year, and God willing, for another hundred years to come,”
With a strong foundation, a united workforce, and a clear vision for the future, Volkert moves forward with confidence because as of today, Volkert is 101 and counting.
