In 1997, a new kind of design firm was launched. When Rich Wood and Mark Rodgers started Wood Rodgers, they knew there was a better way to run an engineering firm: one that focused on the work, the clients, and the dedicated employees who came through the doors each day. The result? An engineering firm that doesn’t feel like one, with an unmistakable sense of something different. It’s on-the-edge thinking anchored by proven success. Originality enhanced by experience.
Many firms chase big clients and big projects with big budgets and build themselves impressive spaces to operate in. We build deep relationships, built on trust, and make serious impacts with every exciting opportunity we pursue. It’s a formula that has given us amazing opportunities and incredible employees. We’re sticking with it.
Rich K. Wood was born on April 14, 1964 and grew up in Napa, CA. He was a truly unique person and had a great perspective on life, always poised on the “up” arrow. His charisma was off the charts with his very infectious grin. He was the real description of a work hard play hard kind of guy. In January 1997, Mark Rodgers joined Rich and they started a little company called Wood Rodgers, where Rich led the company from 1997 through 2009.
“Rich was my friend. I honestly have never met a person like him that had the drive, foresight intensity, charisma, and absolutely no fear of being different or taking chances. Those qualities still ring loud and clear through our Company today.
— Mark Rodgers
“One goal that I had when first starting the company was to create a special company. A company that was not like all the others. A company where you could wear shorts and flip flops to work, while your suit was anxiously waiting, on a hangar behind the door. A company where things were casual, yet serious. Families, kids, and dogs were at the office all the time. The kitchen was better stocked than mine at home. We would have BBQ’s at lunch. We would work hard and play hard. A COMPANY WITHOUT OFFICE POLITICS! Our office space would be comfortable, more like everyone’s home. We would offer our employees freedom. How you got the job done was not as important as getting the job done. We would allow people to work from home. We would create a company of the future, not one like from the 1950’s. A company where everyone felt a little bit like an entrepreneur. The goal was to create a truly special company, different than all the rest!”
— Rich Wood
We recognize those who have been with our company for more than 25 years and have made significant contributions to our success. These individuals are the backbone of our company and their dedication and hard work have helped us achieve our goals. We are grateful for their continued service and look forward to many more years of working together.
