News

With the Winter Olympics recently wrapping up, March Madness heating up, and excitement building for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, it’s safe to say the sports world hasn’t taken a day off. But athletics isn’t just about the headline events or packed stadiums— sports come...

Last year, we celebrated 40 years. This year, we updated our look to match the future we’re building. The logo may be new, but the people and promise behind it haven’t changed. Long story short, we’re still the same trusted team of AEC pros with a lot to celebrate in...

As winter approaches and fleets prepare for colder starts, icy roads, and longer repair lists, the importance of well-designed maintenance garages and shops comes into sharp focus. In this issue, we’re exploring the critical role of MEP systems in keeping these...

West Plains Engineering is pleased to announce the promotion of Ben Sonichsen to BIM Director. Ben joined the firm in 2020 as a CAD Technician in Sioux Falls and has spent the past few years helping to shape and refine corporate processes in that department. In this...

If you don't like the weather, just wait 5 minutes! In four-season climates like ours, that old saying isn't just a punchline - it's a design challenge. Outdoor parks and pavilions may look simple, but keeping them functional and comfortable year-round takes smart,...

The construction industry is at a crossroads, faced with a critical decision: replace or renew, demolish or restore. On one hand, new construction can bring exciting opportunities for innovation and growth. On the other hand, preserving and maintaining existing...

As the built environment continues to evolve, one thing is clear: buildings are no longer just passive spaces - they're active contributors to our well-being. As MEP engineers, we consider ourselves the 'pulse' of the building and hold ourselves responsible for...

More than a week-long event, Engineers Week is a year-round commitment to making a difference. The only event of its kind—it is a time for the engineering industry to: Celebrate how engineers make a difference in our world Add our voice to the conversation about the...

West Plains Engineering is excited to welcome Tessa Robinson as our new Human Resources Director. Tessa is a Black Hills State University graduate and a Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) Senior Certified Professional (SCP). She will be heavily involved in...

Plains Talk began as a single-sheet quarterly printed publication we handed out to our clients back in 1999. More than 25 years later, we're blown away that we get to send our e-newsletter to more than 2,000 subscribers every other month. It's one of many nostalgic...

The United States is embarking on an unprecedented infrastructure overhaul, rivaling FDR's New Deal in both scope and ambition. As U.S. citizens and AEC industry professionals, we're excited to witness the transformative impact on our communities firsthand. The...

In the midst of the back-to-school chaos this month, we’re reminded just how fortunate we are to welcome students back to their school buildings at all. The COVID-19 pandemic resulted in countless shifts in our world, and leaving the classroom was one of them. But a...

Manufacturing is making a big comeback in the U.S., fueled by government investments and a move toward bringing production back home. This shift is changing the game, with a focus on modernizing facilities, embracing new tech, and going green. As the industry...