About PBS
OUR HISTORY IN THE NORTHWEST
PBS began more than 40 years ago with the goal of bridging the built and natural environment in a way that protects our precious resources, improves safety, and allows communities to thrive.
Over four decades, we’ve grown from a three-person operation in the heart of Portland, Oregon, to nearly 300 dedicated staff in offices across the Northwest.
In March of 2024, PBS became part of Apex Companies, LLC. This partnership created a combined team of more than 1,400 staff with the resources to serve all 50 states.
First Environmental Contracts
Ned Peck, Principal Architect of Peck Grady & Associates (the “P” of PBS), wins an Asbestos Program Development project for USPS.
Dave Butts, also an architect (and the “B” in PBS), performs asbestos assessments for the USPS and Portland Public Schools.
PBS Is Formed
Steve Smiley, architect (and the “S” in PBS), joins in, forming a separate corporation. PBS acquires marquee clients such as Multnomah County, Port of Portland, and the U.S. Public Health Service.
PBS grows as a result of AHERA and expands into environmental services.
Two New Offices
PBS expands to Seattle, Washington, and Eugene, Oregon.
Vancouver Expansion
The firm establishes an office north of Portland in Vancouver, Washington, to serve Clark County and the surrounding area.
Natural Resources Added
PBS acquires Enviroscience, adding natural resource consulting to its growing capabilities.
Office Established in Bend
PBS expands to Bend, Oregon, to better serve clients in the central regions of the state.
Tri-Cities Office & Geotechnical Services Added
PBS expands into geotechnical services after acquiring Wright-Deacon Associates, Inc. and expands into the Tri-Cities region of Washington.
20-Year Anniversary and Office Move
PBS moves into a renovated office on Corbett Avenue in Portland. The company celebrates its 20-year anniversary and grows to over 80 employees.
30-Year Anniversary
PBS grows to more than 120 employees and PBS celebrates 30 years of success in 2012.
Joining Forces & Issaquah Expansion
PBS acquires HDJ, adding robust engineering and surveying capabilities with additional support in Vancouver, Walla Walla, and Richland. The firm opens a new office in Issaquah, Washington to further support engineering in the Puget Sound region.
Taking to the Skies
PBS unveils a new UAS program for drone surveying, and expands Tri-Cities operations to combine teams in Richland and Pasco.
Structural Engineering Added
PBS completes key hires to establish a structural engineering group to support the firm’s transportation division.
Public Involvement & Planning Services
To assist our clients in the process of connecting with communities on key infrastructure projects, PBS cultivates additional talent in the area of public involvement, as well as expansion of existing planning and landscape architecture capabilities.
40-Year Anniversary
PBS celebrates 40 years in the Pacific Northwest, with eight offices and more than 280 staff across Oregon and Washington.
PBS Joins the Apex Team
In March of 2024, PBS became part of Apex Companies, LLC. This partnership results in a combined team of more than 1,400 staff with the resources to serve all 50 states.
[Learn more.]