National design firm WGI has acquired Big Red Dog Inc. (BRD), an Austin, Texas-based provider of civil, MEP, structural, traffic, and transportation engineering for public and private clients.

The deal closed Jan. 1, according to Michael L. Davis, senior vice president and chief strategy officer, WGI.

With nearly 600 professionals in 18 offices spread across Florida, Michigan, Illinois, Indiana, North Carolina, and Texas, WGI is recognized for investing in the cutting-edge efficiencies and solutions that forward-thinking clients demand.

Founded in 2009, Big Red Dog is a deliberately unconventional group, led by Will Schnier, CEO. Its leadership team – Schnier; Matt Stewart, COO; and Brad Lingvai, civil market leader – and all key principals, executives, and associates, will continue in their current roles. BRD made a name for itself with a strong set of values (passion, quality, service, accountability, fun) and a reputation for being innovative, aggressive, and driven by a unique level of energy and enthusiasm, resulting in 100 percent revenue growth over the past five years. The firm’s diverse portfolio includes civic, municipal, commercial, community, education, health care, hospitality, industrial, infrastructure, mixed-use, and multifamily projects. BRD’s range of expertise and experience, disruptive stance, and enthusiastic corporate culture drew WGI’s attention several years ago.

“We were first introduced to the BRD team several years ago, carefully watching the growth and development of a hot firm in hot markets,” said David Wantman, CEO, WGI. “Combining two great firms with such a broad range of services is certain to result in an exciting future.”

Schnier said BRD has been watching WGI from afar with great admiration for several years as well.

“For the past five years, we’ve both been among the fastest-growing firms in the industry,” he said. “By combining forces and creating a national footprint, we expect to create a lot of opportunities for our clients, team members, and ultimately for our communities.”

Together, their combined talents enhance both firms’ market leadership and progressive status – delivering revolutionary, resilient, and sustainable infrastructure in smart, connected communities, stated a press release announcing the news.

For more information, visit www.wginc.com.