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Affinis provided base mapping, power coordination, and surveying for the design of various dynamic message signs, closed-circuit televisions, and radar-vehicle detection along approximately eight miles of I-35 and approximately 10 miles of I-70 in Kansas City. / Affinis
Not a bottom line guy Leader of Kansas-based civil engineering firm learned a lot during the recession, and has found a nice niche inspecting levies and dams.
By LIISA ANDREASSEN Correspondent
RW: These questions have provided me with a good chance to reflect – something I don’t get a chance to do often. In 2001, we grew quickly. We added a great number of staff, but got too full of ourselves too quickly. In 2004, we had to reduce staff. It was a tough situation as a new company. Since then we have learned to stay within our scope and not grow too quickly. This experience also set us up to handle the larger recession in 2008. “I keep my promises and think that’s one of the most important things you can do. Keep your word and do what you say you are going to do.”
I t’s about the client experience, not just the proj- ect. That’s the philosophy of Affinis co-founder Rick Worrel. Affinis (Best Firm Civil #15 for 2016), a 31-person firm based in Overland Park, Kansas, is named after the Latin word “affinitas,” a quali- ty that makes people or things suited to each oth- er. And that’s exactly what Worrel and his staff are focused on capturing. Affinis was founded in 2001 by Worrel and John Thomas. Thomas has since re- tired, but Worrel continues to support the mission. A CONVERSATION WITH RICK WORREL. The Zweig Letter: What did you want to be grow- ing up? Rick Worrel: A structural engineer – like my dad. TZL: What’s the firm’s service focus? RW: In the beginning, we were focused on trans- portation but have expanded into stormwater capa- bilities. Smaller projects continue to be a strength and we do a great deal of levy and dam inspections and rehabilitation and design of levies and dams. It’s a nice niche service that sets us apart as a small company. TZL: Any lessons learned along the way?
Rick Worrel, Co-founder, Affinis
TZL: What are your key leadership strengths?
RW: You should probably ask this question to my co-workers. I like to think I’m approachable, hon- est, and lead by example. I keep my promises and think that’s one of the most important things you can do. Keep your word and do what you say you are going to do. TZL: How would you describe your leadership style? See Q&A, page 4
THE ZWEIG LETTER October 24, 2016, ISSUE 1173
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