It’s with genuine pride and appreciation that we announce Doug Feterl is stepping down to retire from his position as President of West Plains Engineering. The company has planned for Marty Christensen, P.E. to step into the role as Doug’s replacement effective January 26th, 2024.
Doug has been a fixture at WPE for the past 32 years, the last 10 of which have been at the helm. He was one of the first employees hired by our firm’s founders and has helped guide us through more than 30 years of growth and expansion. His contributions to this industry as both an engineer and a leader cannot be overstated. While we regret seeing him go, we are thrilled for him to reach this milestone and move into the next important stage of life – spending time with his family.
“It has been a privilege to serve and support our organization, clients, and facility owners,” Feterl said. “I’ve worked with a talented group at WPE and am proud of the many accomplishments we’ve made. This isn’t an end for me, just a new chapter; and I know this leadership transition will maintain the confidence of our clients and owners.”
Already a familiar face, Marty has 29 years of experience at WPE and spent the past 6 years traveling around the region in support of our operations firmwide. He joined our team as a Mechanical Designer in 1994, and has grown into leadership roles as a Principal, Office Manager, and Building Services Division Manager. We look forward to his continued leadership and vision guiding our business operations and strategy as we enter this new chapter in our firm’s 40-year history.
“I am honored and humbled to accept the responsibility of leading West Plains Engineering into its next chapter,” Christensen said. “I’m aware these are some big shoes to step into and am committed to continue fostering an environment for collaboration, innovation, and unwavering dedication to our staff and clients. Together, we will continue to build on the legacy of success that defines our company.”
Marty will primarily continue to work out of our Sioux Falls office. Other management functions such as accounting will remain in Rapid City.