It is with deepest sympathy and condolences that WLC recognizes the passing of former President, Don Davis. Don was a significant part of WLC contributing to so much of what the company is today. For 42 years, Don helped lead and paved the way for decades of WLC team members. His impact and contribution to both WLC and our community will never be forgotten and will forever be seen through WLC’s core values and mission, foundation, and team members.
As a Professional Land Surveyor, Don often jokingly referred to WLC as, “a land surveying firm with engineers.” We loved his sense of humor. He joined the company in 1975 as a land surveyor and remained until 2016 when he retired as president, mentor to many, and land surveying leader for WLC.
Throughout his career as a land surveyor, he completed many alignment and corridor projects, boundary and cadastral surveys, large ALTA surveys, many power line projects providing reports, center line staking, profile and crossing mapping, structure staking and all legal exhibits for right-of-way acquisition, project management services for plans of development, roads, and support of civil engineering projects. His professional impact on Natrona County and Wyoming is deep and vast.
Some notable projects Don served as Principal-in-Charge on include the Gateway West Power Line, Yates Petroleum Surveying, Pioneer Park Wind Project, Hornbuckle & Scott Field Survey & GIS, and the High Plains Wind Energy Project
Initially as he transitioned into his presidency, Don was hesitant as his new role would require him to spend more days inside. Over time, he settled in as a leader and recognized his ability to help WLC thrive. In 2012 Don lead the rebranding from Worthington, Lenhart and Carpenter, Inc to what we are known today as WLC Engineering and Surveying. This rebranding included a brand new logo and overall new look and feel of WLC. This is only one part of the legacy Don leaves at WLC. Don led WLC through some tough years as well as some of the best years WLC has ever had. Don’s leadership style was one of respect, and he led by example.
Don knew ownership transition was part of the process and he transitioned the role of President to Shane Porter in 2016. “Don took me under his wing even before the transition in 2016 and mentored me for several years before his retirement in 2017. I learned so much from Don and truly wouldn’t be in the position I am today without Don’s trust and guidance. I only hope someday I can be the leader, mentor and role model Don was to so many. Don always talked about Legacy, and there is no doubt that he leaves a legacy here at WLC. He will be greatly missed. As I have done the past several years and will continue to as long as I am President when issues arise, I will always ask myself, ‘What would Don do?’ because I know that would be the correct decision. All of us at WLC will miss his visits to the office,” said Shane Porter, President of WLC.
After his retirement, Don continued to apply his industry knowledge to his biggest retirement project planning, designing, and building a yurt at his retreat on Casper Mountain. Many days were spent by himself and enjoying his family in this special place. He filled his time hiking, snow shoeing (214 expeditions on his last count!), riding ATVs and dirt bikes, and sitting by the fire with loved ones. He treasured his times with his wife, daughters, grandkids and friends.
Our condolences go to Don’s family and friends. He played a huge role in shaping WLC and influenced so many of us throughout his 42 years at the company. He will be greatly missed.