Matt Wert was named Top 25 Under 40 in Roads & Bridges for bringing a calm, solutions-focused mindset to Alabama projects.
When Matt Wert joined Goodwyn Mills Cawood (GMC) in Birmingham, Ala., he was new to roadway design engineering and still finding his footing. What set him apart early on was not just his technical curiosity, but also his work ethic and willingness to take responsibility.
Today, he manages multiple roadway projects for state departments of transportation and local municipalities, overseeing everything from hydraulic analysis and erosion control to traffic control planning, utility coordination and right-of-way documentation.
This professional engineer with a strong technical foundation who serves clients with quality work is a perfect fit on Roads & Bridges’ Top 25 Under 40.
Colleagues describe Wert as reliable and driven, someone who will put in extra hours when needed to meet deadlines and solve problems. That commitment has made him a trusted project manager and a go-to resource within the Birmingham office.
“As I’ve progressed from a new engineer to managing multiple projects, I’ve become much more organized and proactive in communication,” Wert told Roads and Bridges. “I now rely heavily on detailed project schedules and I’m much more willing to pick up the phone to quickly clarify concerns with clients, utility owners, or staff. Those conversations build trust and prevent small issues from turning into bigger problems.”
Wert emphasizes mentorship, openly passing along his knowledge and helping younger engineers build confidence. His steady demeanor is especially valuable during high-pressure situations, keeping teams focused on solutions rather than setbacks.
Charles Wright, GMC’s transportation manager, has seen that leadership firsthand.
“Matt is the most deserving person at Goodwyn Mills Cawood for this recognition,” he said. “He is technically advanced, a leader in our Birmingham office, and an asset to every project. He upholds the values of GMC and the clients we serve, and his expertise allows us to stay local while maintaining technical excellence.”
One project that best captures Wert’s impact is an industrial access roadway in Baldwin County, Ala. The job was complex from the outset, with new challenges emerging almost weekly. At one point, the team discovered that a roadway section believed to be paved was not, requiring a last-minute detour and revisions to traffic control plans. Wert stepped in immediately, coordinating with the contractor and adjusting plans to keep traffic moving and minimize disruption for residents.
You can read more of Matt’s award below.
