Fehr Graham announces retirement of owner

Freeport, Ill. — Following a distinguished career of nearly 28 years, Fehr Graham announced that Managing Member Todd Weegens is retiring. Weegens joined Fehr Graham in April 1990, as its 18th employee. He became an owner in 1992.

“We are thankful for all the years of devoted service Todd has given Fehr Graham,” said Mick Gronewold, an owner of Fehr Graham. “He has been integral growing the firm and establishing our presence in the wind energy and renewable energy sectors. He has done so much to help make the company what it is today. We wish Todd all the best in his retirement.”

Weegens helped the business grow from a single 18-person office in Freeport to 10 offices in Illinois, Iowa and Wisconsin that employ more than 170 people. Over the years, he served as branch manager of the Rockford, Ill., and Monroe, Wis., offices. He also served as the firm’s managing member for about 10 years, and he is a licensed professional engineer in nine states.

“During my time with Fehr Graham, I wanted to make sure the firm grew to be the best it could be,” Weegens said. “While I am proud of the growth, I am most proud of the relationships that were developed over the years. When you work somewhere for a long time you really develop some deep relationships, not only with the people you view as mentors, but also with those who work with you side-by-side. If I have one regret, it’s that I didn’t develop that type of relationship with even more people.”

Dedicated to the Freeport community, Weegens served as board president of the Highland Community College Foundation and as director of the Northwest Illinois Development Alliance. He is a member of many industry associations: National Society of Professional Engineers; Illinois Society of Professional Engineers; American Society of Civil Engineers; American Public Works Association; Illinois Association of Highway Engineers; National Registry of Environmental Professionals; and Association of Governing Boards.  Weegens served as president of the Illinois Society of Professional Engineers in 2002 and earned its highest individual award, The Illinois Award, in 2013.

A Lena native, Weegens graduated from Lena-Winslow High School. In 1983, he earned a degree in civil engineering from the University of Wisconsin-Platteville, where he graduated magna cum laude.

In retirement, Weegens plans to enjoy more time with his family and pursuing several hobbies. He is married to Glena and has three adult children — Jeffrey, Sarah and Breanna — and nine grandchildren. Weegens’ last day with Fehr Graham is Dec. 31, which also is his birthday.