Steady Hands When Plans Change

When Matthew Wert joined Goodwyn Mills Cawood (GMC) in Birmingham, Ala., he was new to roadway design engineering and still finding his footing. What set him apart early on was not just his technical curiosity, but also his work ethic and willingness to take responsibility.

Today, he manages multiple roadway projects for state departments of transportation and local municipalities, overseeing everything from hydraulic analysis and erosion control to traffic control planning, utility coordination and right-of-way documentation.

This professional engineer with a strong technical foundation who serves clients with quality work is a perfect fit on Roads & Bridges’ Top 25 Under 40.

Colleagues describe Wert as reliable and driven, someone who will put in extra hours when needed to meet deadlines and solve problems. That commitment has made him a trusted project manager and a go-to resource within the Birmingham office.

“As I’ve progressed from a new engineer to managing multiple projects, I’ve become much more organized and proactive in communication,” Wert told Roads and Bridges. “I now rely heavily on detailed project schedules and I’m much more willing to pick up the phone to quickly clarify concerns with clients, utility owners, or staff. Those conversations build trust and prevent small issues from turning into bigger problems.”

Technically, Wert has developed a broad skill set, but hydraulic analysis stands out as one of his greatest learning curves. Early in his career, he had limited hands-on experience with drainage design. Facing those challenges forced him to think more holistically about roadway projects.

“Working through complex hydraulic analyses changed the way I design,” he said. “I don’t just look at roadway geometry anymore. I consider how drainage interacts with utilities, grades, erosion potential, constructability and long-term maintenance.”

That calm, solutions-focused mindset has shaped his leadership style. Wert is approachable and collaborative, creating an environment where team members feel comfortable asking questions and sharing ideas.

Wert emphasizes mentorship, openly passing along his knowledge and helping younger engineers build confidence. His steady demeanor is especially valuable during high-pressure situations, keeping teams focused on solutions rather than setbacks.

Charles Wright, GMC’s transportation manager, has seen that leadership firsthand.

“Matt is the most deserving person at Goodwyn Mills Cawood for this recognition,” he said. “He is technically advanced, a leader in our Birmingham office, and an asset to every project. He upholds the values of GMC and the clients we serve, and his expertise allows us to stay local while maintaining technical excellence.”

One project that best captures Wert’s impact is an industrial access roadway in Baldwin County, Ala. The job was complex from the outset, with new challenges emerging almost weekly. At one point, the team discovered that a roadway section believed to be paved was not, requiring a last-minute detour and revisions to traffic control plans. Wert stepped in immediately, coordinating with the contractor and adjusting plans to keep traffic moving and minimize disruption for residents.

He handled similar issues throughout the project, responding quickly, adapting designs and taking responsibility when plans needed to change. His leadership helped keep the project on schedule and within budget, even when conditions in the field did not match expectations.

Beyond his project work, Wert is committed to giving back. Through GMC’s annual Day of Service, he volunteers with local organizations such as the Bush Hills Community Garden, the Humane Society, and the Community Food Bank. His service reflects the same mindset he brings to engineering: improving communities in practical, meaningful ways.

Reflecting on his recognition as a standout professional, Wert credits teamwork and leadership over individual effort.

“I’m truly humbled by this recognition,” he said. “I think it shows that when leaders roll up their sleeves and work alongside their teams, even the most difficult projects can be completed effectively.”