Having been with the firm since 1994, Trace Strevey, PE, has played an active role in the growth of Baird, Hampton & Brown (BHB). As a principal, senior civil engineer, and now president of the firm, Trace is vital to developing the company and its young professionals. However, despite over 29 years in the industry, engineering was far from his original career path.
With both parents active-duty military, Trace grew up experiencing life in all corners of the United States. However, Trace knew Texas was somewhere he could call home once landing in San Antonio. While living in the Lone Star State, Trace grew a strong passion for livestock, agriculture, and bull riding. During his first year at Texas Tech University, he competed in collegiate bull riding for the National Intercollegiate Rodeo Association.
After receiving an injury that removed him from the sport, Trace transferred to Tarleton State University to continue pursuing an agricultural degree in The Cowboy Capital of the World. His career path seemed to head in a clear direction until this point. However, an unexpected internship required by his university opened the door for a new opportunity.
Trace interned for the City of Stephenville’s Public Works Department, where he spent the next few years learning the ins and outs of civil engineering and land surveying. Surprised by his interest in the work, Trace registered for drafting, AutoCAD, and MicroStation classes to attain a minor in industrial technology. By the time he graduated from Tarleton State, his attention was entirely redirected from agriculture to engineering.
Post-graduation, Trace enrolled in the University of Texas at Arlington’s civil engineering program. Hoping to work full-time to help pay for college, Trace landed a position as a drafter for the newly established engineering firm Baird, Hampton & Brown.
Although he shortly resigned from his position to focus on schoolwork, Trace knew the firm was destined for something special. Following graduation, Trace took his new degree and passion for civil service back to BHB and never looked back.
Being one of eleven employees at the time, Trace worked closely with BHB Founder Bill Baird and Senior Civil Engineer Konstantine Bakintas. Acting as early mentors, both provided Trace with unique insights into leadership, work ethic, and client relations.
Trace said, “My advice to young professionals is as they grow up through the ranks, their job is to take the best parts of every supervisor they work with and apply it to their leadership style.”
Following his own advice, Trace developed an approach to management that helped him achieve his long-term goal of being named BHB President, a role instrumental in defining and guiding the firm’s strategy and structure. Beyond the title, Trace is proud of how BHB’s team has developed and the respect from the community the firm has grown over the past 30 years.
Trace spends most of his free time outside of work supporting his six children. He prides himself on being an active and involved parent that prioritizes his kids and their passions. Trace is also an active member of Texas Motorsport Ranch, where he competes in club races with his newly owned race car.
At BHB, Trace continues to serve as a strong leader to young professionals and a driving force in the firm’s evolution. We are thankful for his service and look forward to his continued positive impact.
