Member News 12.16.24

KL is humbled to announce the retirement of founder Kim Lobdell. Read the full press release below:

'KL Engineering, Inc. humbly announces the upcoming retirement of its founder and Chief Executive Officer, Kim M. Lobdell, PE, effective December 27, 2024. Kim’s career spans more than four decades of leadership, innovation, and service in the civil engineering industry, culminating in the successful growth of KL Engineering into one of Wisconsin’s most respected engineering firms.

Since founding the company in 1991, Kim has led KL Engineering with commitment to integrity, excellence, and community service. Under her leadership, the company has expanded to over 100 employees across four Wisconsin offices in Madison, Green Bay, Menomonie, and Germantown. Throughout her career, Kim has broken barriers in the traditionally male-dominated engineering field, advocating for importance of work-life balance, and mentoring future engineers.

Reflecting on her journey, Kim shared, “I am incredibly proud of what we’ve built together at KL Engineering. The strength of this company lies in its people—their expertise, creativity, and dedication to doing the right thing for our clients, our communities, and our employees. I leave knowing KL Engineering is in good hands, ready to thrive for generations to come.”

For the past several years, Kim has partnered with Ryan Schanhofer and Scott Cramer in the executive leadership of KL Engineering.  With Kim’s retirement, the company is pleased to announce the promotions of Ryan and Scott. “Working together with Ryan and Scott has been a great experience,” Kim says. “They understand the engineering and people aspects of the business, and my vision to emphasize enjoying your work while maintaining the unwavering ethic of providing high quality services.  They represent the next level of leadership that KL needs to grow and move forward.  I’m confident in their skills and am excited to see where they take KL in the future.”

In addition to his current role as President, Ryan will also become the Chief Executive Officer. In addition to his current role as Chief Operating Officer, Scott will become the Chief Leadership Officer. Together, they will carry forward the company’s mission of delivering exceptional civil engineering solutions while nurturing a supportive, growth-oriented work environment.

Scott Cramer said, “Kim’s influence on all of us here at KL extends far beyond work.  She showed us how to do the right thing, work hard, and to have fun all the while.”

“Kim’s impact on the civil engineering profession and our company is immeasurable,” said Ryan Schanhofer. “Her visionary leadership and passion for helping others have shaped KL Engineering into the company it is today.”

“We are committed to honoring her legacy by continuing to serve our clients, support our communities, and inspire the next generation of KL employees,” the two agreed.

KL Engineering extends its heartfelt gratitude to Kim M. Lobdell for her outstanding leadership, dedication, and service. Her legacy will endure through the firm’s continued success, commitment to excellence, and its [A] Better Experience promise.

About KL Engineering, Inc.

KL Engineering, Inc., founded in 1991, is a Wisconsin-based civil engineering firm specializing in infrastructure engineering, design, and consulting services. With a client-focused approach, KL Engineering offers a full range of engineering, survey, and site design services for public and private clients across the Upper Midwest. For more information, visit www.klengineering.com.'