Benton Harbor-based architecture and civil engineering/surveying firm Wightman has announced the appointment of four new associates to its ownership program.
The company said four staff members were announced at their recent board meeting as new shareholders in the firm. The newly appointed associates are Mike Lewallen, Maria Benz-Weeden, Derek Miller, and Fred Peters. Brief bios provided by the firm follow.
Mike Lewallen has over 20 years of survey experience in the industry and joined the Wightman team in 2022. He is responsible for client development, processing survey data, drafting, scheduling field crews, and solving surveying challenges.
Maria Benz-Weeden, P.E., began her career at Wightman in 2020 as an engineering intern. Since then, she has become a licensed Professional Engineer with a strong background in bridges and culvert inspection and design, roadway construction, and site management.
Derek Miller, P.E., joined the Wightman engineering team in 2019, bringing with him five years of field experience. He received his P.E. license in 2022 and is focused on creating sustainable ideas and answers for municipal clients and in site design.
Fred Peters, P.S., began his career at Wightman in 2019 as a survey field technician through an internship. He returned in 2020 and 2021 before joining the team full-time in 2023. He achieved his professional Michigan surveyor license in 2025 and is responsible for developing client relationships, scheduling field crews, and providing accurate deliverables to clients.
Wightman also recognized the advancement of four team members—Samuel Leatch, Dan Yerks, Ryan Miller, and Mike Freeman—as they step into the senior associate level.
In addition, it was announced that Phil Doorlag, formerly a senior associate, has been elevated to principal associate.
“The addition of new owners to Wightman is a reflection of our firm’s continued growth and success. Ownership is not just a title, it is a responsibility to our colleagues, our clients, and the communities we serve. Each new owner has earned the respect of their peers through their dedication, expertise, and commitment to Wightman’s values. We are confident that their contributions will have a lasting, positive impact on Wightman’s future,” said Brian Lieberg, P.S., Director of Surveying and Chairman of the Board of Directors.
