EEA Consulting Engineers is proud to announce that the firm has officially transitioned to 100% employee ownership, marking a major milestone in its 48-year history and reinforcing its long-standing commitment to shared success and people-focused culture.
Founded in 1977 by Mike Hart, EEA began its employee ownership journey in 2005 with the establishment of its Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP). Over the past two decades, the firm has steadily increased its ESOP percentage each year. With the final ownership transfer completed in 2025, EEA joins a distinguished group of engineering firms fully owned by their employees.
“Achieving 100% employee ownership is the realization of a vision I set nearly 49 years ago—to build a great place to work where everyone shares in the value they help create,” said Founder, Mike Hart. “I’m grateful for the many employee-owners who have taken initiative, served our clients with excellence, and strengthened EEA’s value. This milestone reflects the resilience of our people and ensures EEA’s ability to serve clients and employees for decades to come.”
Todd Schmitt, CEO/President, highlighted how the milestone sets the tone for the firm’s future.“This is an incredible moment for EEA and our Employee Owners. Over the years, I’ve seen our teams fully embrace the mindset of ownership. It’s not just about understanding the personal benefits, but also how it strengthens our culture and deepens our commitment to one another. We’re grateful to Mike Hart for envisioning this path and honored to carry that vision forward.”
Becoming 100% employee-owned reinforces EEA’s long-held values of accountability, collaboration, and long-term stewardship. Employee ownership supports strong client service, enhances retention, and encourages every team member to contribute in shaping the firm’s future. We look forward to the decades ahead as we continue to grow, innovate, and lead as 100% Employee Owners!
