Wallace Group Promotes Principal Kari Wagner to COO
Wallace Group proudly announces the promotion of Principal Kari Wagner to Chief Operating Officer. Having originally joined Wallace Group in 2000, Wagner’s vast experience, and her progression from Intern to Director of Water Resources to COO, shapes her leadership philosophy and blends strategic insight with a people‑first approach. Known for her ability to anticipate challenges and execute with clarity, she is recognized for translating long‑term vision into effective action.
A Civil Engineering graduate of California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo, Kari brings more than 25 years of experience in water and wastewater engineering, civil design, project management, and strategic planning. Throughout her career, Kari has been recognized for her leadership and dedication to improving local communities. She has led and contributed to numerous notable projects, including the City of Pismo Beach Pismo Heights Tank and Booster Station, the City of Pacific Grove Urban Diversion Project, Cal Poly’s Water Infrastructure Improvement Project, and the Sunnyslope County Water District Consolidation. Her work supporting public agencies throughout Santa Barbara, San Luis Obispo, Monterey, San Benito, and Santa Cruz counties has helped secure more than $30 million in grant funding to advance vital infrastructure, enabling her clients to meet the needs of the communities they serve.
Kari has also remained closely connected to Cal Poly, giving back by supporting the place where it all began. She currently serves as Chairperson of the Industrial Advisory Board for the Civil and Environmental Engineering Department. She also spent six years co‑teaching at the university, helping mentor the next generation of engineers.
“Kari’s appointment as Chief Operating Officer reflects her deep understanding of how Wallace Group works and what we need to succeed,” said CEO Brad Brechwald. “Having risen through the ranks, she sees challenges from every perspective. Kari continuously proves her ability to streamline operations and provide meaningful support to our entire team, and I could not be more pleased to welcome her to this expanded role.”
With this appointment, Kari will join Brad Brechwald, Chief Executive Officer; Tom Zehnder, Chief Financial Officer; and Jorge Aguilar, Sr. Vice President, as a member of the Wallace Group executive leadership team.
