Black & Veatch

John B. Black and William S. Veatch launched their partnership in Kansas City during 1915, starting with electrical infrastructure before expanding into water and telecommunications sectors. The firm eventually settled in Overland Park, Kansas, establishing a headquarters that has served as the central hub for over a century. Today, this engineering giant operates as a 100% employee-owned entity, ranking sixth among such organizations in the United States by late 2026.

The company manages complex projects across six continents, serving clients in more than 100 countries. Their portfolio spans power generation including nuclear and renewables, wastewater treatment, and smart city development. Financial reports from October 2025 show total revenue reaching $5.1 billion, while Engineering-News Record lists them as the 14th-largest design firm in the nation.

Mario Azar currently leads the organization as Chairman and CEO, steering strategy toward energy security and digital transformation. By August 2026, the workforce achieved a 98% adoption rate of Microsoft Copilot through targeted training programs. This integration supports their push into AI-driven engineering workflows alongside traditional construction and consulting services. [edit]