At Wold Architects & Engineers, every project is an opportunity to solve a new challenge. For Matt Verdun, that mindset has shaped a career defined by curiosity, adaptability and a commitment to helping clients navigate complex decisions with clarity and confidence.
With more than two decades at Wold, Matt has built a broad foundation of experience across K-12, higher education, government and healthcare projects. Today, he carries that perspective into his work as both an engineer and a trusted advisor, helping clients think beyond how systems function to how they can support long-term community goals.
Matt’s path into engineering wasn’t entirely linear. Early on, he considered a future in teaching and coaching, drawn to the idea of working with people and making an impact. At the same time, he had a strong interest in understanding how things work and solving problems.
That combination led him to engineering – and to Wold, where he found a career that allowed him to do both.
“The fact that we work with so many K-12 clients and have a culture of mentorship has allowed me to scratch both itches over the years,” Matt said. “Helping clients solve their challenges is easily the most rewarding part of my job.”
Across his time at Wold, Matt has taken full advantage of opportunities to grow, evolving from a member of the production team to leading engineering groups, managing projects and now working closely with clients. That progression, he says, came from a willingness to step outside his comfort zone.
“If I could go back, I’d tell myself not to be afraid to take on new opportunities,” he said. “A lot of what I’ve been able to do here has come from being willing to try something different.”
Throughout his career, Matt has worked on a wide range of project types, but certain challenges stand out. One of the most memorable is the Scott Emergency Communications Center (SECC) in Davenport, Iowa – a project that required a high level of technical precision and reliability.
“911 centers are unique from an engineering perspective,” he explained. “They need to remain operational under nearly all circumstances, so systems have to be designed with a focus on reliability and robustness.”
In addition to performance, the project also emphasized sustainability, ultimately achieving LEED Gold certification. For Matt, it represents the kind of work he finds most meaningful: projects that require thoughtful problem-solving and deliver long-term value for the communities they serve.
One of the most consistent themes in Matt’s career is the importance of listening to clients, collaborators and construction partners.
Early in his career, he spent significant time on job sites, asking contractors for feedback on his drawings and learning how designs translated into real-world construction. It was a humbling experience, but one that shaped his approach moving forward.
“I learned very quickly that most of what I drew didn’t actually get built that way,” he said. “But that process of asking questions and seeking feedback made me a better designer.”
Today, that same mindset carries into his work with clients, where understanding their goals and challenges is central to delivering successful outcomes.
Engineering projects often come with tight timelines, high expectations and inherent complexity. For Matt, navigating that environment requires staying focused, keeping perspective and approaching each challenge with a good attitude.
“It’s possible to do really good work and have a lot of fun at the same time,” he said. “This industry can be stressful, and it’s easy to get burned out or strain relationships. Finding that balance is important.”
For Matt, enjoying the process isn't limited to work. Outside the office, he recharges by spending time with family, playing golf and following his favorite team, the Chicago Cubs.
For Matt, success comes down to helping clients navigate challenges and find solutions that work for the people who use them today and for years to come.
“Every project has unique circumstances and client expectations that keep you on your toes,” he says. “Helping our clients find the best solutions to the problems they face is the most gratifying aspect of what I do each day.”
It’s a perspective shaped by more than two decades at Wold, grounded in delivering meaningful results for clients, one project at a time.
To learn more about Matt Verdun, his experience and his insights, visit here. Our Focal Point series provides a behind-the-scenes look at the talented team members who bring our work to life.
