COLUMBIA, S.C. (Oct. 15, 2026) – Neel-Schaffer is pleased to announce that Ladd Gibson, PE, has joined the firm as South Carolina Area Manager. Ladd brings more than 34 years of engineering and transportation experience, with a background in organizational leadership, strategic planning, project delivery, and business development.

Ladd assumes leadership of the firm’s South Carolina operations from Philip Sandel, PE, who has been serving as the company’s Transportation (Roadway) Discipline Lead since January 2026. Matt Lifsey, PE, DBIA, will continue serving as East Region Pursuit Manager after stepping in to provide valuable leadership and support during the transition.

Working closely with Matt and Philip, Ladd will support employees, strengthen client relationships, and guide continued growth across the state.

“Ladd understands South Carolina and what it takes to deliver projects here,” said Chris Sellers, PE, Neel-Schaffer Executive Vice President for the East Region. “His experience leading teams in both the public and private sectors will be a tremendous asset to our employees and clients. We’re excited to have him help guide our growth in South Carolina while maintaining the service and quality our clients expect. Most importantly, Ladd fits us and our culture. He fully embodies our values of Care, Service, and Excellence, and I can’t wait to see that in action with our people and our clients!”

Ladd previously held several senior leadership positions with the South Carolina Department of Transportation, including Program Director for Mega Projects, Director of Preconstruction, Design-Build Engineer, and Program Manager. His responsibilities included overseeing complex transportation projects, directing statewide roadway and bridge project development, and coordinating with governmental and regulatory agencies on project delivery, funding, and procurement.

His private-sector leadership experience includes managing South Carolina operations, developing strategic plans, supporting employee development, and providing senior-level oversight for major pursuits and projects. Earlier in his career, he worked in engineering design, construction administration, and project management.

“I’m excited to join Neel-Schaffer as South Carolina Area Manager and have the opportunity to lead and support operations across the state,” said Ladd. “From day one, I’ve been impressed by how welcoming everyone has been. The team’s genuine enthusiasm and leadership’s accessibility speak volumes about the culture at Neel-Schaffer. I’m looking forward to working with this talented team, building on the company’s strong foundation, and contributing to its continued growth and success.”

Ladd earned a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from Clemson University and is a licensed Professional Engineer in South Carolina. In 2016, he received an Engineering Excellence Award for leading SCDOT’s Preconstruction team during recovery efforts following the historic October 2015 flooding.