In the early 1950s, three Vanderbilt engineering graduates set out with a clear vision: to deliver authentic, service-focused solutions that strengthened the communities they served. Their technical expertise spanned multiple markets, yet what truly distinguished them was their belief that great work starts with great people.
From the outset, our founders made a defining choice: to build a company that would thrive long after their tenure. They believed that sustaining success generation after generation meant developing strong leaders and empowering employees. They often said,
“It isn’t about you; it’s about the company.”
That mindset ultimately led to the employee-ownership model that still anchors Barge today and has been central to the firm’s stability and longevity.
As the firm grew, Barge maintained its focus on serving as a trusted partner to clients and communities, helping to turn bold ideas into reality and contributing to infrastructure that impacts everyday life. And while the markets, services, and technologies have evolved over seven decades, the foundation remains unchanged: a company intentionally built on ownership and a commitment to its people.
1955
Founded by Bill Waggoner, Dan Barge Jr., and Billy Sumner, the firm earned its first major commission at Fort Campbell Army Base in its inaugural year. Originally established as Barge-Waggoner, Inc., the company’s name evolved a few times as it grew before becoming Barge Design Solutions in 2017.
1968
Barge established an employee profit-sharing plan, reinforcing a long-standing commitment to investing in its people and sharing in the company’s success. That philosophy continues to shape Barge’s culture today.
2000
The founding of ResourceTek, a Barge subsidiary, expanded the company’s capabilities to include technical staffing and workforce solutions, strengthening how Barge serves clients while creating new opportunities for growth.
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2015
Barge introduced a renewed purpose, vision, and values that continue to shape the company’s culture and guide how employees serve clients, support one another, and strengthen communities.
2022
Barge expanded its portfolio with the launch of Thrivence, a management consulting subsidiary focused on helping organizations improve performance through leadership, strategy, and technology.
2025
As Barge celebrated seven decades of service, the Office of the Mayor of Nashville proclaimed April 21st Barge Design Solutions Day. The year also marked a new chapter as Carrie Stokes, who began her Barge career as a student intern 30 years earlier, became the company’s Chief Executive Officer.
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“We represented the biggest fields of engineering work available. I had railroad and transportation and industrial parks covered, while Bill Waggoner had the structural side, and Billy Sumner had the water treatment and sanitary area covered, which was a big deal then.”
Dan Barge Jr. Co-founder, Barge Design Solutions
More than 70 years after its founding, Barge continues to grow, evolve, and invest in its people while remaining committed to improving the lives of its employees, clients, and communities.
Barge Design Solutions™, Inc.