Thompson & Litton, Inc. Company Profile

Background

Thompson & Litton, Inc. (T&L) is a full-service engineering, architectural, and surveying firm established in 1956 by William A. Thompson, Jr. and John W. Litton. Headquartered in Wise, Virginia, the company has expanded to include offices in Radford, Tazewell, and Chilhowie, Virginia; Bristol, Mosheim, and Johnson City, Tennessee; and Princeton, West Virginia. With a staff of over 100 professionals and support personnel, T&L offers a comprehensive range of services, including civil engineering, transportation, structural engineering, surveying, and architectural design.

Key Strategic Focus

T&L's strategic focus encompasses:

Core Objectives: Delivering innovative and sustainable design solutions that reflect the aspirations and values of clients.

Areas of Specialization: Civil engineering, transportation, structural engineering, surveying, and architectural design.

Key Technologies Utilized: Designer-led design-build approaches, construction manager at risk methods, and advanced surveying techniques.

Primary Markets Targeted: Public and private sector clients across Virginia, Tennessee, and West Virginia.

Financials and Funding

As a privately held, employee-owned firm, T&L does not publicly disclose detailed financial information. The company has demonstrated growth through strategic acquisitions, such as the merger with Beeson Lusk & Street in 2019 and the acquisition of Tysinger, Hampton & Partners in 2024.

Pipeline Development

T&L's project pipeline includes a diverse array of infrastructure and design projects across its service regions. Specific details about individual projects, stages of development, and timelines are not publicly disclosed.

Technological Platform and Innovation

T&L distinguishes itself through:

Proprietary Technologies: Utilization of designer-led design-build approaches and construction manager at risk methods to streamline project delivery.

Significant Scientific Methods: Advanced surveying techniques tailored to diverse terrains, including mountainous regions and lower-lying areas.

AI-Driven Capabilities: While specific AI applications are not detailed, the firm's commitment to innovation suggests ongoing integration of advanced technologies in project execution.

Leadership Team

T&L's leadership comprises seasoned professionals:

Gregory H. Hurst, PE: President

Ronald G. Helton, PE: Chairman / Senior Vice President

Jack Murphy, AIA, NCARB: Senior Vice President of Project Management

Steven D. Brooks, PE: Senior Vice President of Operations

Brian G. Tew, MBA: Vice President of Business Development & Marketing

Rick A. Chitwood: Client Services Manager

Greg D. Widener, PE: Operations Support Manager

Lisa P. Horne: Director of Administration

Kevin L. Neal: Director of Finance & Accounting

Timothy A. Mullins, PE: Director of Transportation & Utilities

M. Andrew Monk, PE: Director of Site Development & Solid Waste

Jill D. Workman, PE: Director of Engineering – Tennessee

Erica F. Sunshine, AIA: Director of Architecture

Steve R. Farris, PE, CEM: Director of Building Services

Chuck H. Forbes, LS: Director of Survey

Keli J. Ratcliffe, CPSM: Vice President of Client Services

Joe M. Pack, PE: Director of Transportation – West Virginia

Leadership Changes

In June 2025, Keli Ratcliffe was promoted to Vice President of Client Service and appointed as an officer and board member. Additionally, Rick Chitwood transitioned from Vice President of Client Service to Client Service Manager, while remaining on the Board of Directors.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The architectural and engineering services market in the Mid-Atlantic region is characterized by a diverse client base, including public and private sectors, and a growing emphasis on sustainable and innovative design solutions. The market is competitive, with firms vying for projects in infrastructure development, environmental design, and urban planning.

Competitor Analysis

T&L's primary competitors include:

Moser Architects: Specializes in architectural design with a focus on sustainable and context-sensitive solutions.

Nesselrod On The New: Offers a range of architectural and engineering services, emphasizing community engagement and innovative design.

Dillman's: Provides comprehensive engineering and surveying services, known for their expertise in transportation and infrastructure projects.

These competitors, along with T&L, contribute to a dynamic and evolving market landscape, each bringing unique strengths and capabilities to the region.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

T&L has strengthened its market position through strategic acquisitions:

Beeson Lusk & Street (BLS): Acquired in 2019, BLS brought additional architectural and engineering expertise, enhancing T&L's service offerings.

Tysinger, Hampton & Partners (TH&P): Acquired in 2024, TH&P expanded T&L's civil engineering and land surveying capabilities, particularly in Tennessee.

Operational Insights

T&L's strategic considerations include:

Major Competitors: Firms like Moser Architects, Nesselrod On The New, and Dillman's.

Market Position: A leading full-service firm in the Mid-Atlantic region, offering a comprehensive suite of services.

Competitive Advantages: Employee ownership fostering a strong commitment to client success, a diverse service portfolio, and a history of strategic growth through acquisitions.