86 - Kimberlee DeBosier, VP, Transportation

WGI Unleashed

It's that time again - Welcome back to yet another episode of the WGI Unleashed Podcast!

Join us for episode 86 as we sit down with Kimberlee DeBosier, WGI's VP of Transportation in Tampa, Florida - From humble beginnings in East Lansing, Michigan, to leading major infrastructure projects across the nation, Kim's story exemplifies resilience, determination, and a deep passion for making a difference in the transportation engineering field.

A Coin Flip That Changed Everything

Kim’s early aspirations were far from civil engineering. While attending Michigan State University, her initial goal was to become a research chemist. However, her exposure to engineering through MSU’s STEM program ignited a new passion, leading her to make a life-changing decision.

In a twist of fate, Kim literally flipped a coin to decide between Civil and Chemical Engineering - The coin landed on Civil Engineering, and the rest, as they say, is history.

The Road to Success

Throughout her college years, Kim’s determination was unwavering. She worked hard to put herself through school, driven by a desire to graduate in four years with a degree that would support her long-term goals. Her grandmother, who raised her with the belief that women should always be able to take care of themselves, instilled in her a strong sense of independence and perseverance.

After earning her degree, Kim embarked on a journey that took her across the country—from Oklahoma City, where she began her career in building design, to Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where she earned her MBA from Louisiana State University and spent her time honing her skills in bridge design. It was during this time that Kim discovered her true passion for engineering consulting, and under the mentorship of a supportive leader, she grew into a well-rounded professional.

Entrepreneurial Spirit and Landmark Projects

After gaining invaluable experience under her mentor in Baton Rouge, Kim moved to Tampa, Florida, where she eventually went out on her own to found an engineering consulting firm. With a desire for greater flexibility and control over her work-life balance, Kim was motivated to become a true entrepreneur. For over two decades, she led her firm to success, working on notable projects such as the Wallaroo Station at Tampa’s Lowry Park Zoo and the Selmon Expressway project connecting St. Pete, Tampa, and Brandon.

Despite the demands of running her own business, Kim’s passion for engineering never waned, and after selling her firm, she was highly sought after by many companies.

Ultimately, she chose to join WGI, where she now leads the transportation division. Initially brought on as Director of Project Excellence, she quickly rose to the position of Vice President of Transportation and became an integral part of WGI’s Senior Leadership Team.

A Well-Rounded Life

Beyond her impressive professional achievements, Kim is an avid fitness enthusiast and a lover of the outdoors. She enjoys spending time jet skiing with her family and is always up for an adventure.

A proud mother of two grown sons and a grandmother, she balances her personal and professional life with grace, coming full circle as someone that others in the industry can look up to.

Kim’s story is one of resilience, innovation, and leadership - She has paved the way for future generations of women in engineering, demonstrating that with hard work and determination, anything is possible.

See You Next Time!

So, don't wait a moment longer - Grab those headphones and crank up the volume because it's time to get unleashed!

And don't forget to tune in next time as we unravel more captivating tales and insights on the WGI Unleashed Podcast - Until then, stay inspired and keep unleashing your potential!

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