Benton Harbor-based Wightman is preparing to celebrate its 80th anniversary in 2026.
Beginning in January, the firm will celebrate the milestone by launching a year-long celebration recognizing eight decades of partnership, innovation and community impact across the Great Lakes region.
Founded in November 1946, Wightman has grown from a small, local practice into a multidisciplinary architecture, civil engineering and surveying firm. Its expanded services include interior design, GIS and reality capture.
The company’s story began when G.L. Wightman, a young engineer and surveyor, opened a one-room office in the Commercial Bank building in downtown St. Joseph. Today, Wightman serves clients across the commercial, education, energy and government sectors. Over the decades, Wightman has expanded its reach and capabilities through leadership transitions, office openings across Michigan and Indiana and a series of acquisitions and consolidations.
As part of the year-long celebration, Wightman will share project highlights from its work over the last 80 years and spotlight employees who have helped shape the firm’s legacy. It will also engage with partners through events and initiatives that reflect the firm’s commitment to service and community.
“Our 80th anniversary is more than a milestone; it’s a celebration of the clients, partners, employees and communities who have trusted us for generations,” said Steve Carlisle, Wightman president, in a press release. “As we celebrate our past, we’re equally energized by the future and our continued commitment to creating lasting solutions that enhance the places where we live, learn, work and play.”
