As we look back on 2024 at SMH, I will remember it as the year SMH took big steps forward. 2024 was filled with successes that exceeded anything I could have imagined. While many companies talk about growth - which we accomplished - what I’m most proud of is how we, as a team, matured. How we were able to step up and do good for our clients, how we were able to see employees become professionally licensed, how others, in their careers, doubled down on work and school on a path to licensure, and even how we performed when things were not going our way. In 2024 we were the company I’ve always envisioned…good for our clients, good to our employees, responsible and accountable, brimmed with accomplishment, and continuing to move forever forward.

There is no way we could have done everything we did in 2024 without great clients. I truly mean that. Having clients who care as much about our success as they do their own brings a synergy and excitement that screams achievement. That kind of collaboration makes each day so much better.We truly appreciate the clients who trust us with their projects.

There is also no way 2024 could have gone any better without the employees we have. All are truly professionals dedicated to their work. I cannot believe and am so thankful for the passion and enthusiasm each of them have. As President, I have continuously been concerned with SMH outgrowing the family culture we have. With employees in 4 different offices and others remote, I really feel we have pulled off the impossible. Our culture is intact and from what I can tell impenetrable. Thank you to all of our employees for a great 2024 and the family you are.

I am always curious what the next year will bring. Way back when, we spent considerable effort on a strategic plan for an upcoming year only to see it blown away the first month of the year. SMH is on the tip of a rocket doing our best to keep the fire in us and behind us. As we propel into 2025, I can only imagine what challenges we will overcome, what exciting projects lay before us, the new friendships we will develop with clients, how we will enjoy existing clients, the new employees who will join our family, and how the company will pull off more great feats. There is so much uncertainty and so much possibility ahead of us wrapped up in every single project, from the smallest to the largest.

Go ahead 2025...make my day!

- Jeff Hancock, President

We are thrilled to announce the promotion of Ben Burton and Lee Ryherd, PE to Associates at SMH Consultants!

Ben, who joined us in 2020 in Manhattan, has been instrumental in his role as a Land Acquisition Agent. His deep expertise in managing complex acquisition procedures, combined with his exceptional ability to build and strengthen client relationships, has been crucial in SMH’s mission of delivering high-quality, client-focused solutions. His commitment to ensuring smooth processes and fostering positive, productive relationships has contributed to the seamless execution of our projects.

Lee, who became part of our Kansas City office in 2022, has consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership and technical expertise as a Project Manager. With a strong focus on collaboration, he has successfully overseen a wide variety of engineering projects, while creating solutions to meet each project’s unique challenges and opportunities. His dedication to helping stakeholders achieve their goals, along with his innovative approach, has played a critical role in advancing SMH’s growth and reputation for success.

“Together, Ben and Lee bring a wealth of experience, vision, and leadership to the firm. Their contributions have played a key role in shaping our progress, and we are excited to have them as part of the leadership team. We look forward to the continued growth and success of SMH in the years ahead.” - Jeff Hancock, President