January 31, 2025

By Lane Kimble

WISCONSIN DELLS, Wis. — Moments before announcing the next WisDOT Golden Shovel award winner in a Wisconsin Dells ballroom, Tondra Davis caught herself.

“You don’t want to show preference, so I won’t,” Davis told the crowd with a laugh.

Still, it was obvious Davis has a lot of appreciation and respect for WTBA Director of Engineering Matt Grove.

Grove was one of seven people or companies to receive a Golden Shovel at the 2025 Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) Workshop and Networking Summit on Thursday.

“Matt, I’d like to thank you for your collaboration and support of the DBE program.  And for casting its value to your WTBA members,” Davis said.  “This has contributed greatly to our success. I’m so proud of the relationship we are building.”The awards recognize people, companies, and organizations who have gone above and beyond to make a difference for DBE firms in Wisconsin.

Other WTBA-member winners included Century Traffic and KL Engineering founder Kim Lobdell.

“Matt has consistently demonstrated strong support for the DBE program, effectively collaborating with prime contractors to explore additional opportunities for program enhancement,” Davis said.  “He communicates updates and changes to the program in a timely and efficient manner, serving as a valuable resource for contractors and DBE firms alike.”

WTBA extends a hearty congratulations to Matt and the other award winners.  It’s an honor and privilege to work with Matt and learn from his decades of experience and relationship-building.