FAQs

Q: What is happening?

A: Burrell Consulting Group is joining forces with MacKay Sposito, a multidisciplinary firm based in the Pacific Northwest.

Q: Who is MacKay Sposito?

A: MacKay Sposito is a 50+ year-old consulting firm with expertise in civil engineering, surveying, landscape architecture, construction management, and environmental services based in Vancouver, Washington. The firm is led by President and CEO, Derrick Smith and they currently have three locations, a subsidiary company called Riparia Environmental, and approximately 170 employees. 

Q: Why was MacKay Sposito the right choice for Burrell Consulting Group?

A: They share our values, culture, and client focus, and bring additional service capabilities.

Q: Will Jerry Aplass continue to be involved?

A: Yes, Jerry will remain active during the transition and in the coming years to support employees and clients. No retirement date is set and Jerry’s focus is on a successful integration and shared company growth. Specific titles, and org structures are yet to be determined.

Q: Is my job changing?

A: No immediate changes are planned to roles, responsibilities, or reporting structures. The leadership teams will come together to determine the organizational structure including direct reports sometime after the initial 45 days, if not longer. Keep in mind, combining these firms is aimed at expansion and growth and therefore employee retention remains a top priority throughout the integration process.

Q: Will my benefits change?

A: Yes, you’ll be transitioning to MacKay Sposito’s benefits package. More details about that will be shared with each of you during the first week of our integration.

Q: Will my pay change?

A: No changes in compensation are currently planned. 

Q: Will there be layoffs?

A: MacKay Sposito is motivated to retain and develop as many employees as possible. This transition is focused on growth and opportunity, not downsizing. 

Q: What systems or tools will we start using?

A: MacKay Sposito uses Google Workspace as its primary email and communications platform. AutoCAD and Trimble will continue to be primary drafting, design, and survey suites. All other systems will be evaluated and transition plans will be established with support from the MacKay Sposito IT team. The priority is to ensure continuity of service to our clients and a smooth transition for all employees. 

Q: What should I expect on Day 1?

A: You’ll receive a welcome packet and access to an internal site. Onsite visits from the MacKay Sposito team will begin Tuesday, April 8, 2025. 

Q: Will we still be called Burrell?

A: Burrell Consulting Group will operate using the same name, until leadership teams assess the best timing for a rebranding process. Burrell will ultimately become a branch office of MacKay Sposito.

Q: Who do I go to with questions?

A: You can direct questions to Jerry, Jim, Reggie, or Jessie or you may use the link which will be  shared during the first week, to submit questions. Derrick Smith, the President and CEO of MacKay Sposito also welcomes any questions.