Our Team

William D. Almond, FASLA, CLARB is a licensed Landscape Architect with over 43 years’ experience on a wide range of residential, commercial, municipal, military and institutional projects. Prior to establishing the landscape architectural division at WPL, Mr. Almond was Senior Associate at the Norfolk based architectural firm of Shriver and Holland Associates for over 21 years. This combined with WPL’s extensive practice of landscape architecture has afforded Mr. Almond a broad range of knowledge in all aspects of landscape architecture including site analysis, master planning, site planning, site design and construction detailing, planting design as well as bid and award and construction administration. Mr. Almond has served all federal, state and local municipal governments inclusive of all the Tidewater Virginia cities. Mr. Almond has extensive ties to his local community serving on city council appointed boards and commissions as well as local neighborhood civic leagues.

As project manager in charge of residential and commercial land development, Eric is responsible for the design, drafting and correspondence of those surveying and engineering projects. He also assists the survey division with boundary and topographic surveys and construction layout. Since joining WPL in 1998, he has received a Bachelor of Science in Geography from Old Dominion University and became a Licensed Land Surveyor in 2007 in both Virginia and North Carolina.

Lance Large, the original founder of WPL’s land development design and engineering group, has decided to rejoin the firm’s land development team. A 1977 Virginia Tech Site Engineering graduate with over 34 years of continuous experience as a Virginia Professional Engineer, he possesses a comprehensive understanding of all aspects related to public and private land development projects. This experience includes pre-planning, budgeting, cost estimating, design, bidding, permitting, construction administration and client coordination. Lance has lead the principal site design and management of nearly 100 local K-12 educational facility projects, as well as numerous commercial, municipal and residential site development projects.

John Blake, PE, is a seasoned civil engineer with four decades of experience delivering practical, permit-ready solutions for private land development and public improvement projects across Coastal Virginia. As a project manager and principal engineer for much of his career, John has led the planning, design, and coordination of roadway and streetscape improvements, subdivision and redevelopment infrastructure, and complex utility systems, translating client goals into clear scopes, responsive designs, and successful approvals with local jurisdictions and state agencies. His technical strengths include hydrology and hydraulics, stormwater quality and compliance under Virginia’s current runoff reduction requirements, and the design of storm drainage networks, water distribution, and sewer systems, including pump stations and force mains. John’s background also includes modeling and analysis for large drainage and lake systems, utility rehabilitation and coordination, and construction administration support, with a steady focus on solving field issues efficiently and protecting long-term performance. He is proficient with tools used to develop and validate designs, including AutoCAD and stormwater modeling software such as HydroCAD and ICPR, and is known for building collaborative teams, communicating clearly with stakeholders, and bringing a “get it done” mindset to every phase of work.

Sarah Bohn grew up in a military household which gave her a firm understanding of hard work, dedication, and an appreciation of the arts. She brings 5 years of experience in site development projects, as well as some experience in planning and analysis of wastewater infrastructure, to her role as Civil Designer at WPL. She graduated from Old Dominion University with a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering Technology. During her college tenure she led her ODU ASCE Concrete Canoe Team to Nationals via wildcard selection. Sarah supports WPL with her technical expertise, specifically in site development, stormwater and utility design, and cost estimation. She is currently pursuing EIT licensure. When Sarah isn’t working, you will find her soaking up the sun at the beach, hiking, or kayaking.

Erick L. Smith is the Construction Administrator at WPL. He has 26 years of experience in both surveying and construction. Mr. Smith started at WPL in the Survey Division where he worked his way up to field crew chief and then into construction administration and project management. Over the years he has gained extensive experience in all types of land surveying, construction layout and construction administration. It is this experience that enables him to bridge the gap between the Site Engineer’s designs and the contractor carrying out the plans. It is his job to interpret construction documents and provide guidance in the field. As a Construction Administrator, Mr. Smith is essential in keeping construction costs within our client’s budget.

Brian McGuire is a CADD Technician who has been with WPL since May 2014, Brian drafts physical surveys, topographic surveys, as-built surveys, and some site plans. Brian completed his Associates of Applied Science degree in Computer-Aided Drafting at ITT Tech in 2014. He is now attending TCC Virginia Beach, pursuing an AAS in Site Engineering Technology. Brian plans on Transferring to Old Dominion to complete his BS in Site Engineering Technology. He is member of the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society. Some notable projects he has worked on, site plans in The Cavalier Residences, Hill Point at River Bluff and Johnstown Estates. He has also worked on and completed condo plats and plans throughout the area, from Virginia Beach, to Chesapeake.

Scott Wilkins, a Virginia Licensed Land Surveyor, Senior Vice President and Chief Technology Officer at WPL, brings over 27 years of experience in civil engineering and surveying, complemented by a strong background in computer science. Known for his advanced approach, Scott has a deep understanding of both the technical and practical aspects of land development. His expertise in managing every stage of land development projects from initial planning through construction services offers a unique holistic perspective for integrating technologies into the workflow. With a history of developing hardware and software systems for data collection, design and analytics, Scott is instrumental in keeping WPL at the forefront of technological advancements in the industry.

Alex Lindley serves as an AutoCAD Technician at WPL, bringing nearly a decade of field surveying experience to the drafting team. Prior to transitioning into his current role, Alex worked extensively across the Rocky Mountain region, from Idaho to Texas, performing topographic, ALTA, physical, and construction surveys. His hands-on expertise includes operating robotic total stations, GPS systems, and conducting drone flight surveys. Alex is also certified in utility location for Subsurface Utility Engineering (SUE) through Staking University in Manteno, Illinois. At WPL, he now applies his field knowledge to drafting precise topographic, as-built, and physical surveys, helping ensure accuracy and clarity across a wide range of projects.

Jay grew up in Virginia Beach and from a young age was surrounded by the world of landscape architecture with both his dad and grandfather being professionals in the industry. His grandfather taught him how to draw and sketch early on and his dad would always walk him through the architecture studios at Virginia Tech on gameday weekends. In 2016 Jay graduated from the landscape architecture program at Virginia Tech and that spring he moved to California where he worked on large scale commercial and city park projects all along the west coast. After a few years in California, Jay travelled to Bali, Indonesia for 6 months to explore southeast Asia and spent the majority of his time surfing perfect waves. After Bali, Jay relocated to Jackson Hole, Wyoming where he worked at a residential landscape architecture firm. The projects were set in the beautiful Wyoming landscape with amazing views of the Teton mountain range always in sight. In the fall of 2019, Jay moved back to his hometown of Virginia Beach to keep pursuing his career in Landscape Architecture with WPL. He is extremely excited to be back on the east coast and working on projects that will benefit his community and make Virginia Beach an even more beautiful place to live.

Will, a Virginia Beach native, has over 15 years of experience in the landscaping industry. He graduated from Virginia Tech University where his work primarily focused on community engagement aspects of the participatory design processes. From design concept through project delivery Will advocates for clients, communities, contractors, and collaborators alike to ensure that all critical, technical, and practical design details can be brought to life!

As a licensed landscape architect Will has a variety of experience including landscape design, construction, and maintenance of residential, commercial, and municipal projects.

Derek Suomi brings a unique perspective and positive energy to WPL. Originally from rural Maine, his exposure to the outdoors and love for art and science lured him onto a career path toward landscape architecture. While serving locally in the U.S. Coast Guard, he simultaneously earned Certification as a Horticulturist through Tidewater Community College. Then he moved to Philadelphia where he attended Temple University and was elected as Student Chapter President of the American Society of Landscape Architects. He acquired a Bachelor of Science in Landscape Architecture with Honors, and was presented with the Olmsted Scholar Award for his leadership and service. Derek has since interned with some of the world’s leading landscape architectural firms, and after a brief stint in Orlando, he made his way back to Tidewater. Well-traveled and stocked with diverse design office experiences, Derek now supports WPL on a wide variety of interesting design projects of all scales and multiple markets. When not cranking out design plans at the office, he is spending time with his wife and son, cooking meals, or reading up on the latest tech blogs.

Abigail Sandberg was born and raised in St. Louis, Missouri, and brings nearly a decade of experience in landscape design and construction to her work at WPL. She earned her master’s degree from the University of Virginia, where her studies centered on environmental policy and urban design, shaping the way she approaches site planning with both people and natural systems in mind. After graduate school, Abigail contributed to residential, municipal, and academic projects across Coastal Virginia, building a strong foundation in design development, coordination, and translating concepts into buildable site and landscape solutions. More recently, she spent several years on the west coast focusing on habitat restoration, deepening her experience with resilient planting strategies and ecological performance. Drawn to the profession by a genuine love for the environment, Abigail is especially passionate about introducing healthy habitats into everyday places through thoughtful grading, stormwater-aware design, and purposeful plant communities. She is currently pursuing licensure as a Landscape Architect and is a Certified Chesapeake Bay Landscape Professional, bringing a sustainability-first perspective to projects of all scales and types.

As WPL’s Marketing Director, Laura Mayo leads all strategic marketing and communications efforts for the firm. She is the creative force behind WPL’s brand identity, public presence, and business development initiatives—crafting messaging that reflects the firm’s commitment to sustainability, community, and thoughtful design. From managing proposals and digital campaigns to coordinating press, events, and client engagement, Laura ensures that WPL’s voice is clear, consistent, and impactful across every platform. Her background in design, storytelling, and client relations brings a unique perspective to the AEC industry, helping WPL connect with partners and communities in meaningful ways.

Tysha Theurer Edwards returned to WPL after 30 years and has been with the firm now since 2017. As Operations Director, she oversees much of the day-to-day organization in the office. She has been a proactive participant in helping facilitate business contracts; organize and collect accounts receivable; plan and execute inner-office activities; organize and study budgets; and support for Land Survey team as well as Landscape Architect team. She is also involved in the Firm’s development of new projects, networking with important groups and maintaining positive relationships. During her time away, she worked as a Legal Secretary for 12 years, in Norfolk and Washington D.C.; she was President of the School Board for Star of the Sea School for two years; she was the President of the Bay Colony Garden Club for two years; and she served on Steering Committees for many local charities. Tysha is still involved with her favorite charity and serves as Director of Fundraising for Surfers Healing VB (a surf camp for children with Autism).  She enjoys many outdoor activities (all year round) and is the proud Mother of two young men, Matthew (a First Mate and Boat Captain) and Andrew (a Professional Fire Fighter City of Virginia Beach).

Mary Carr, Senior Administrator at WPL, brings an impressive 24 years of experience in the Home Building Industry, where her organizational expertise and dedication shine. A proud Virginia Beach native, Mary is known for her keen attention to detail and her knack for creating efficient Excel spreadsheets that streamline workflows and support her team. Beyond the office, Mary enjoys the outdoors, often spending weekends camping with her husband, daughter, and friends. She is a dedicated family person, cherishing time with her two children and two grandchildren who live in Texas. Passionate about her community, Mary actively volunteers with organizations like Lynnhaven River Now, AIA Coastal Virginia, and the Virginia Beach Department of Human Services. Through these efforts, she contributes to various causes, from environmental conservation to holiday projects that provide gifts for foster children. Mary’s blend of professional dedication and community involvement makes her a valued member of the WPL team.

Samantha Samples joined WPL in 2021. Samantha grew up in eastern Pennsylvania and relocated to Virginia Beach in 2011. She received her Bachelor of Science in Multimedia Design and Development from DeVry University where she graduated Summa Cum Laude. After working in Marketing for 5 years, Samantha transitioned into an accounting position with her prior company and decided purse her Master of Accounting degree from Southern New Hampshire University while working full time. She has plans of joining Delta Mu Delta International Honor Society in Business which requires members to be in the top 20% of their college class. Samantha has a passion for increasing productivity and creating effective reporting. Samantha has been instrumental in creating standard reports and digging into WPL’s accounting software to create more efficient accounting procedures and policies. She enjoys volunteering with Hope for Life Rescue, which is a local no kill animal rescue for cats and dogs in Virginia Beach and also volunteers with her church, Real Life Christian Church, as a camera operator.