FORT WORTH, TX — Dunaway celebrates 70 years of shaping Texas communities through innovation and design. What began in 1956 as a small surveying company has grown into an independent, multidisciplinary firm serving public and private clients statewide and beyond.
The firm was founded by James R. Dunaway Sr. After earning his degree in civil engineering, Jim Dunaway joined his father in the business. The transition to Dunaway Associates in 1983 marked an expansion of service capabilities, setting the stage for sustained, strategic growth.
Over the past seven decades, Dunaway’s success has been guided by a continuum of leadership. Former CEOs James Dunaway, Jim Dunaway, Tom Huffhines, and Tom Galbreath each played critical roles in expanding the firm’s multidisciplinary capabilities and reputation throughout Texas. Their stewardship laid the groundwork for Dunaway’s independence and long-term vision.
“The formative years established a reputation for integrity and service — qualities that continue to define us today," said Chris Wilde, PE, CEO and Principal.
In 2021, Wilde assumed the role of CEO, continuing Dunaway’s commitment to innovation, client service, and employee ownership.
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"Investing in innovation is not just about staying ahead; it is about shaping the future of our company and the industry,” Wilde said.
Over the past 25 years, Dunaway has diversified and expanded service offerings while growing geographically, with eight office locations serving communities in every major market across the state. Dunaway’s growth has been fueled in part by strategic acquisitions of like-minded firms, strengthening technical expertise while preserving shared values and culture — a strategy central to its long-term success.
"We have proven we can successfully acquire and integrate other like-minded firms, and I am excited to continue growing the Dunaway team and positively impacting more lives," Wilde said.
Today, Dunaway is 100 percent employee-owned, a milestone that reflects the firm’s long-term commitment to its people and its future. Ownership transition planning and profit-sharing initiatives have positioned the firm for sustained success while aligning individual contributions with collective outcomes.
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At the core of Dunaway’s success is the firm’s One Heart culture, which emphasizes collaboration, transparency, and shared purpose — creating an environment where employees are empowered to grow, lead, and innovate.
As an employee-owned firm, Dunaway prioritizes flexible and hybrid work environments, leadership development, and long-term career pathways. This approach has become a key differentiator, driving employee engagement, retention, and service.
“At Dunaway, the value is in our people," Wilde said. "We are committed to creating an environment where every team member feels welcomed, supported, and empowered to grow with us.”
Under Wilde’s leadership, Dunaway continues to invest in innovation and prioritize technical excellence to shape the future of the firm and the industry. A dedicated innovation group actively explores new tools, automation, and emerging technologies to enhance workflows, improve efficiency, and deliver better outcomes for clients and communities.
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“From advanced GIS tools to automated workflows, technology continues to transform our industry," Wilde said. "We are excited to continue to find new ways to deliver projects faster and more efficiently for our clients.”
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, only about 12 percent of companies survive beyond 26 years — making Dunaway’s 70-year milestone a rare achievement. As the firm looks ahead, it remains focused on thoughtful growth, technological advancement, and continuing to shape communities across Texas.
