Celebrating 100 Years of Integrity in Infrastructure

February 4, 2025

Volkert, Inc., one of the nation’s leading engineering and professional services firms, is celebrating its centennial anniversary, marking a century of integrity in infrastructure. From its founding in New Orleans in 1925 to its current position as a national firm with over 1,500 employees across 60 offices in 25 states, Volkert’s history has been marked by its responses to the nation’s infrastructure needs.

Founded in 1925 as Doullut & Ewin, the firm quickly established itself as one of the largest construction and engineering firms in the South, playing a crucial role in significant projects including the Mississippi River and Tributaries flood control project, the Alabama State Docks during World War II, the Louisiana State Capitol and the Sugar Bowl stadium.

In 1954 when World War II test pilot and visionary engineer David Volkert acquired the firm, then known as Ewin Engineering, and relocated it to Mobile, Alabama. Under Volkert’s leadership, the company expanded its capabilities and reach, establishing itself as a multidisciplinary powerhouse, and playing an integral role in the development of the Interstate Highway System. Perhaps most notably, the firm designed the Lake Pontchartrain Causeway, which still holds the world record as the longest continuous bridge over water, in addition to Mobile I-10 Bayway and the I-10 Bonnet Carre Spillway Bridge, both among the ten longest bridges in the United States. In 1975, the firm adopted an Employee Stock Ownership Plan and is now 100% employee-owned

“As we celebrate our centennial, we’re celebrating a legacy of innovation, excellence, and unwavering commitment to our clients, partners, and communities,” said Thomas A. Hand, PE, Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of Volkert. “Our story is intertwined with the development of American infrastructure needs, from our early involvement in ports and flood control to our current role in some of the largest transportation and energy projects in the nation.”

Today, Volkert stands as a testament to sustainable growth and excellence in engineering. The firm has earned over 100 major engineering awards and multiple inductions into the Engineering Hall of Fame. Its comprehensive services now encompass both the natural and built environments, with a strong focus on delivering sustainable solutions that balance environmental, mobility, safety, and economic considerations.

Looking toward its second century, Volkert remains committed to its core values of quality, service, ethics, and safety. The firm continues to expand its expertise in infrastructure development while maintaining a strong commitment to community service through employee volunteerism and corporate support.

“Our centennial celebration is both a moment to honor our past and a launching point for our future,” added Hand. “With over 1,500 professionals across the country, we’re well-positioned to continue our legacy of integrity in infrastructure for generations to come.”

About Volkert:

Volkert is a leading provider of engineering and professional services, consistently ranked among Engineering News-Record’s Top 100 engineering firms. With expertise spanning transportation, infrastructure, and environmental solutions, Volkert delivers innovative and sustainable solutions to clients across the United States. For more information, visit https://volkert.com/centennial/