Needham DBS Achieves WBENC Certification

Needham DBS, an award-winning structural engineering and design-build firm, has been certified as a Women’s Business Enterprise by WBDC-Midwest, a regional certifying partner of the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC). WBENC Certification is the gold standard for women-owned business certification in the United States.

This certification is the result of extensive effort and sustained leadership by Karen Hand, P.E., President and CEO, and Susan Fox Sherry, CPA, CGMA, CFO, whose dedication, technical accountability, and disciplined stewardship of Needham DBS were critical to achieving this milestone. The WBENC certification process requires rigorous documentation and verification of ownership, governance, financial control, and operational decision making – standards that reflect how Needham DBS has long been managed.

“For more than thirty years, Needham DBS has been built on sound engineering judgment, clear leadership, and professional integrity,” notes Karen Hand. “Over the past decade, we’ve intentionally transitioned ownership through a structured succession plan – ensuring continuity of values while strengthening governance and leadership for the next generation of leaders. WBENC certification formally recognizes the structure and leadership in place today.”

The WBENC Certification process implemented by WBDC-Midwest includes an in-depth business review and site inspection and is designed to confirm that the business is at least 51% owned, operated, and controlled by a woman or women. The certification process also verifies that the business has an appropriate structure and that strategic business planning and implementation are in place.

WBENC certification, combined with professional development and engagement in the WBENC network, provides unsurpassed opportunities for women-owned businesses to grow, expand, and innovate.