Episode 85

Elevating Site Design with Seamon Whiteside

February 5, 2024

Taylor Critcher & Trey Little

Charlotte Office Of Seamon Whiteside - Directors

Elevating Site Design with Seamon Whiteside

Taylor Critcher and Trey Little are both Directors at the Charlotte office of Seamon Whiteside, a 200-person civil engineering and site design firm operating across North and South Carolina. With extensive experience in site development and urban design, they are instrumental in expanding the company’s presence in new markets while fostering strong client relationships.

Connect with Taylor Critcher on LinkedIn
Connect with Trey Little on LinkedIn
Visit Seamon Whiteside’s Website

The Journey to Growth and Market Expansion

In this episode of The Power of Design Podcast, host Jack Ossa engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Taylor and Trey about the evolution of Seamon Whiteside and their professional journeys. They discuss how to establish a presence in a new market, the intricacies of growing a successful business, and the essential strategies behind building long-term client relationships.

From navigating the challenges of market expansion to adapting to the evolving landscape of urban design and civil engineering, Taylor and Trey share valuable insights into their experiences as industry leaders in site design.

Main Takeaways from the Podcast

Building a Strong Foundation for Market Expansion

  • Entering a new market requires a strategic approach, focusing on relationships, brand positioning, and an understanding of regional dynamics.
  • Patience and persistence are key—establishing credibility takes time, and successful expansion relies on consistency and commitment.

The Importance of Client-Centered Design

  • Effective site design isn’t just about technical expertise—it’s about crafting solutions tailored to the needs of clients and the communities they serve.
  • Communication and collaboration with stakeholders ensure that projects align with long-term visions and sustainability goals.

Company Culture and Leadership in Growth

  • Empowering employees and fostering a culture of innovation leads to long-term success.
  • Leadership plays a crucial role in guiding teams, maintaining company values, and adapting to industry shifts.

Lessons Learned from the Discussion

Navigating Business Development in the Design Industry

  • Relationship-building is the foundation of success in the civil engineering and site design industry.
  • Trust and transparency with clients and partners drive sustainable business growth.

Adapting to Industry Trends and Challenges

  • The field of civil engineering is continuously evolving, and firms must stay ahead by embracing new technologies and methodologies.
  • Flexibility and adaptability are essential for staying relevant in a competitive market.

Personal and Professional Growth

  • Career advancement is driven by a willingness to learn, take risks, and embrace new opportunities.
  • Surrounding oneself with a strong team and mentors is crucial for continuous growth and development.

Final Thoughts and Conclusions

Taylor Critcher and Trey Little offer an inspiring perspective on the power of strategic growth, leadership, and design in shaping the built environment. Their insights into market expansion, client relationships, and business development highlight the importance of adaptability and strong leadership in the world of site design and civil engineering.

For professionals in the architecture, engineering, and construction industries, this episode provides valuable takeaways on how to build a thriving business while staying true to core values.