Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Trusted Civil Engineering Services in Wisconsin
Cooper Engineering has been a trusted civil engineering partner for over 75 years, delivering comprehensive solutions across transportation, municipal, industrial, environmental, and development projects. Founded in 1950, we combine deep technical expertise with a client-centric approach to address complex challenges while adhering to regulatory standards. Our employee-owned structure since 1997 ensures a culture of accountability and long-term commitment to quality. Our multidisciplinary team excels in planning, design, and construction oversight, prioritizing cost-effective strategies that balance immediate needs with sustainable outcomes. We maintain familiarity with federal and state regulations to minimize project delays while maximizing value for public and private clients.Our philosophy emphasizes collaboration, technical excellence, and transparent communication throughout every project phase. With offices in northwest Wisconsin, we serve diverse industries and communities through specialized services including structural engineering, water resource management, and environmental remediation. Our track record of successful infrastructure projects demonstrates our ability to meet deadlines and budget constraints without compromising quality. We invest in continuous professional development to maintain industry leadership in civil engineering innovation and best practices. This enduring commitment to excellence has established Cooper Engineering as a reliable partner for clients seeking proven expertise and measurable results.
Services
Structural Engineering
Environmental Remediation
Transportation Planning
Water Resource Management
Site Development
Material Testing
Railroad Design
Airport Development
Stormwater Management
Construction Oversight
Details
- Year established: 1950
Highlights and features
- We offer 75 years of civil engineering experience across diverse project types
- Our employee-owned structure ensures accountability and quality commitment
- In-house environmental specialists handle complex regulatory compliance needs
- Specialized teams for aviation, transportation, and municipal infrastructure projects
- Proven track record of meeting project timelines and budget constraints
Services
Structural Engineering
Our structural engineers deliver comprehensive design and inspection services for bridges, culverts, and industrial structures. We specialize in transportation infrastructure and commercial building systems, ensuring compliance with AASHTO and FHWA standards. With decades of experience, we provide solutions that balance safety, durability, and cost efficiency for both new construction and rehabilitation projects.
Environmental Remediation
We offer end-to-end environmental remediation services including site assessment, contamination cleanup, and regulatory compliance. Our team manages projects from initial investigation through agency coordination and site closure, specializing in soil and groundwater remediation. We develop practical solutions for industrial sites, landfills, and contaminated properties while ensuring adherence to environmental regulations.
Transportation Planning
Our transportation planning services cover highway design, traffic studies, and pedestrian accommodations. We work with state and local agencies to improve road safety and efficiency while meeting AASHTO standards. Our expertise includes urban street design, rural road improvements, and transportation infrastructure projects that enhance community connectivity and economic development.
Water Resource Management
We provide comprehensive water resource solutions including stormwater management, dam design, and watershed planning. Our services address both supply and wastewater needs through treatment plant design, well installation, and sustainable water management practices. We help clients navigate regulatory requirements while implementing infrastructure that ensures long-term water system reliability.
Construction Oversight
Our construction oversight team provides quality control, materials testing, and project administration services. We offer resident inspection, construction staking, and as-built documentation to ensure project compliance with design specifications. With experienced professionals on-site, we help clients manage timelines, budgets, and regulatory requirements throughout the construction process.
People
Bruce Markgren
President
Leading Cooper Engineering since 2013, Bruce brings 30+ years of civil engineering experience. He oversees strategic direction while maintaining active involvement in major infrastructure projects across Wisconsin.
Steve Poethke
Vice President Structural Engineering
With 25+ years in structural design, Steve specializes in bridge and industrial structure projects. He leads technical teams in delivering complex structural solutions that meet evolving engineering standards.
Kelley Draeger
Vice President Business and Operations
Managing financial operations since 2005, Kelley ensures operational efficiency and fiscal responsibility. Her expertise in business management supports the firm's growth while maintaining client service standards.
Brad Volker
Vice President Aviation and Municipal
Aviation infrastructure specialist with 20+ years of experience. Brad directs airport design projects including airfield development and FAA compliance, contributing to economic growth through transportation infrastructure.
Aaron Scharf
Vice President Transportation and Municipal
Transportation expert with extensive highway design experience. Aaron leads road improvement projects that enhance safety and mobility while addressing environmental considerations and regulatory requirements.
Questions
What civil engineering services does Cooper Engineering offer?
We provide structural engineering, transportation planning, environmental remediation, water resource management, and construction oversight services for public and private sector clients.
Do you handle municipal infrastructure projects?
Yes, we specialize in municipal projects including wastewater systems, street improvements, stormwater management, and public facility design with grant funding assistance.
Can you assist with environmental compliance requirements?
Our in-house environmental team provides Phase I assessments, wetland delineation, and NEPA compliance services to support regulatory approval for development projects.
How does Cooper Engineering manage construction projects?
We offer full-cycle project management including materials testing, construction staking, quality control, and as-built documentation to ensure successful project delivery.
What transportation infrastructure experience do you have?
We design highways, bridges, and pedestrian accommodations following AASHTO standards, with extensive experience in state and federal transportation grant programs.
Are your engineers qualified for complex structural projects?
Our licensed structural engineers have decades of experience designing bridges, industrial facilities, and transportation structures that meet rigorous safety requirements.
