Forty Under 40: Richard Welcher

Richard Welcher is motivated by the process of meeting new clients, creating projects for them and watching those relationships grow into lasting partnerships.

He knew since attending Russellville High School that he wanted to be an engineer, following in the footsteps of an uncle.

Welcher graduated with a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering from the University of Arkansas in 1999, and two years later went back to school to earn his master’s degree, while also working full time, with a growing family at home. He and his wife now have five children.

For his graduate thesis, Welcher conducted research for the Arkansas Highway and Transportation Department that ended up altering its standards for the content of the gravel underneath asphalt or concrete on roads.

He finished his master’s at the UA in 2003, and started work at Tatum-Smith Engineers Inc. two years later.

By age 29, he was named a principal.

As a boss, he shows tremendous support and honest concern for his employees’ well-being, whether it’s through a pep talk, inspirational email, or explaining the means behind the methodology, according to a staff member.

In addition, Welcher is an adjunct professor at the UA, teaching senior-level students in civil engineering — a position he has found particularly rewarding.

“It’s helped me become a better engineer,” he said.