At the beginning of every year, Lamp Rynearson comes together to charter a New Year Outlook. It is a time for us to reflect on days past and lessons learned while setting our sights on the new horizon. Part of the Outlook includes a theme for the coming year – a banner statement of sorts –under which everyone within the company can assemble to continue living our mission statement of “Leaving a Legacy” with renewed energy and focus.
For many years now, the theme has been a commitment to “Stand in the Fire of Change and Agility” for our clients and company. This sentiment has kept us on the cutting-edge of thought leadership and technology in our industries, allowing us to grow into areas where we could have the most meaningful impact on our communities. It even carried us in a more real way than we could have anticipated through the challenges of 2020.
We have mastered the concept of agility, at least for the time being. We feel we have done so well in this realm that our focus has shifted to “Leading with Purpose” as we begin our journey into 2021. That is where our clients, employees, and communities need Lamp Rynearson to be – looking toward the future.
Our new, bold challenge is not just an altruistic goal. In fact, I hesitate to call it “new”. We have experienced this throughout our history: creating social value ultimately leads to increased profits.
The evidence is so compelling that it is being embraced by the Biden Administration as criteria for federally funded infrastructure projects. In a recent address to state DOT leaders, the term “shovel-worthy” was introduced by transportation advisor John Pocari. Purposeful, outcome-focused design will be prioritized for funding. The goal? Projects that effect positive change, address long-standing inequities, and mitigate the effects of climate change.
Lamp Rynearson has fostered a purpose-built approach long before a name was coined. Over the last 60 years, we’ve been a trusted partner to clients in delivering outcomes that improve quality of life, create economic development, and ultimately raise up communities to create a better future for all.
As the new year dawns, Lamp Rynearson has set a course to be at the forefront of doing what we do best. We’re going to be the partner for our clients to bring shovel-worthy projects to life. Purposeful projects that leave a legacy of respect, equality, and fairness for generations to come.
Leading with Purpose,
Nancy Pridal, PE, ENV-SP
Lamp Rynearson President and CEO
To learn more about shovel-worthy criteria, click here to access a free quick-start guide on aligning your project with shovel-worthy criteria to prepare for federal funding.