GBA’s Leslie Barnt Named Water Environment Principal

GBA is excited to announce the promotion of Leslie Barnt to Water Environment Principal. For over 27 years, Barnt has directed stormwater and environmental planning, design and construction improvements for clients in the public and private sector. Starting as a staff engineer at GBA in 1991, Barnt has worked on notable projects throughout his career with the firm, including work at Swope Park and the Sprint World Headquarters Campus, as well as Stormwater Master Planning for Johnson County, Kansas and KCMO Water Services Department.

In his new role as Principal, Barnt will implement many of the same strategies he used as a Senior Associate with GBA’s Stormwater and Environmental Departments across all the Water Environment Group. His years of technical knowledge and construction experience, combined with public outreach experience will position the group for continued growth in the Kansas City metro, as well as its regional locations in Nebraska, Missouri, Iowa and Texas.

“Les has a comprehensive view of the Water Environment field and is a terrific leader who understands the value of our communities’ resources,” said GBA President/CEO Tim Ross.

A North Central Kansas native with a background in agriculture, Barnt learned at a young age that water is a precious resource. This lesson has stuck with him throughout his career and fueled his passion for sustainability. Now, as a civil engineer based in an urban setting, Barnt uses this knowledge to emphasize the importance of continually enhancing and maintaining infrastructure.

“The opportunity to directly impact the community and see the results of that work fuels me every day,” said Barnt. “It’s an honor to receive this promotion after spending my career at GBA, and I’m excited to see where I can help us grow as a firm.”

Barnt is an active member of various organizations, including the American Public Works Association, American Society of Civil Engineers, Association of State Floodplain Managers, Design-Build Institute of America and Water Environment Federation. He received his Bachelor of Science in civil engineering from Kansas State University in 1991 and is a 2007 graduate of the Kansas Environment Leadership Program.