Water & Environmental Services Practice Area Leadership Transition
Brent Farr is stepping down from his role as Practice Area Leader (PAL) and Amy Essig will take the helm of DOWL’s Water & Environmental Services Practice Area.
After many years of service and impact, Brent will be moving to part-time status and stepping away from leadership at the end of June. Brent’s history with DOWL is remarkable, beginning in 1992 as an intern testing concrete and soils on the Aleutian Islands, progressing into project management and engineering, and eventually founding Farr West Engineering in 2001. Since the 2022 Farr West/DOWL merger, Brent has played a significant role as a PAL, served on DOWL’s Board of Directors, and helped guide the firm through business growth, leadership transitions, and important work around ethics and workplace integrity.
Brent will continue contributing through at least the midpoint of this year, focusing on growth efforts across the Pacific Northwest and Southwest. His leadership, experience, and calm, principled approach have shaped the Practice Area in meaningful ways, and we are deeply grateful for his ongoing partnership.
With Brent stepping back from this role, we are pleased to announce that Amy will be stepping in as the new Water & Environmental Services Practice Area Leader.
Amy brings an exceptional blend of technical and strategic leadership experience. Prior to joining DOWL, she served as CEO of a 100+ employee‑owned environmental and engineering firm on the West Coast. Her career is rooted in environmental science, strengthened by her business education, and shaped by high‑impact project work, including Washington state’s most prominent environmental cleanup project. Amy is a meticulous planner, a strategic thinker, and a leader who believes deeply in mentorship. She is known for fostering growth in others, and for championing collaboration and thoughtful investment in people.
When asked about the transition, Amy expressed excitement for the role and transition. “I’m honored and plan to build on the tremendous work already underway. Our Water & Environmental Services team is full of talented, thoughtful people who care deeply about the work we do and the clients we serve,” Amy said. “I’m committed to fostering an environment where people feel empowered, challenged, and valued as we take on the opportunities ahead.”
This leadership transition represents both continuity and opportunity, building on Brent’s legacy while positioning our team for future expansion and innovation.
We celebrate Brent’s lasting impact and welcome the energy Amy brings as we look forward to an exciting next chapter for the team.