Expertise That Drives Innovation
With over 200 years of combined professional experience, the Gradient, PLLC (Professional Limited Liability Company) team delivers unmatched expertise in land development, stormwater management, and water resources engineering. From small-scale projects to large, complex endeavors, our engineers bring creativity, precision, and dedication to every task.
Key Team Members
Gordon Rose, PE, LEED AP
Senior Principal
Gordon Rose is a seasoned engineer and entrepreneur with over 47 years of professional experience. In his role as a Senior Principal, Gordon provides visionary leadership and guidance to the organization, drawing on his extensive background in both engineering and organizational management. More than just an engineer or project manager, Gordon is a passionate problem solver dedicated to transforming client visions into reality. He specializes in developing creative, cost-effective design solutions that meet project requirements while exceeding expectations. Gordon is known for his collaborative approach, working closely with engineers and design professionals to foster open communication and achieve innovative, cooperative results. As a licensed Engineer and LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Accredited Professional, Gordon upholds the highest standards of industry excellence and sustainable design. His commitment to quality and integrity continues to shape the organization’s projects and inspire those around him.
Heath Wadsworth, PE
President/CEO
Heath Wadsworth brings over 28 years of civil engineering expertise and proven leadership to his role at the helm of the organization. With a strong foundation in stormwater management, flood and watershed studies, and stream restoration, Heath has built a reputation for delivering sustainable and innovative water management solutions across the state. As President & CEO, Heath sets the strategic vision and leads the company’s efforts to deliver exceptional results for clients and communities. Drawing on his extensive project management experience, he guides multidisciplinary teams from project planning through to installation, ensuring each initiative meets the highest standards of quality and sustainability. A licensed Civil Engineer, Heath is known for his technical excellence, and commitment to advancing best practices in water resource management. His leadership continues to drive the organization’s growth, inspire innovation, and reinforce its reputation as a leader in the industry.
Sujit Ekka, PE, Ph.D.
Vice President and Chief Operating Officer
Sujit Ekka is a dynamic leader with over two decades of progressive experience in both consulting engineering and municipal government, holding key technical and leadership roles throughout his career. As the Chief Operating Officer, Sujit is committed to operational excellence and champions quality, efficiency, and continuous improvement in all aspects of business. Known for his collaborative style and strategic approach, Sujit leads cross-functional, multi-disciplinary teams to deliver innovative, high-impact solutions for complex land and stormwater engineering projects. He fosters a culture of open communication and continuous learning, helping organizations stay agile and future-ready in an evolving industry landscape. Sujit’s credentials as a licensed Professional Engineer, certified Professional Hydrologist (Water Quality), and IAM certified asset management professional exemplifies technical rigor and dedication to sustainable, community-centered engineering. His leadership continues to shape forward-thinking strategies to deliver innovative solutions for our clients and communities alike.
Jim Reed, PE
Director of Land Development
Jim Reed has worked on and managed various projects in his 25-year career, including site layout design and parking lots, roadway and intersection improvements, airfields (civilian and military), storm drain conveyance, and wet utility design. Jim brings attention to detail to every project he works on. He is thorough in his research of requirements and development of construction documents. Jim consistently turns out a product that is accurate, detailed, and meets requirements…both regulatory and his requirements. This attention to detail helps him identify issues before they arise and adapt his designs to address them early. Jim is a licensed Civil Engineer.
Alex Nice, PE, Ph.D.
Director of Water Resources
Alex Nice has over 30 years of diverse and extensive experience in civil infrastructure planning, analysis, permitting, design, construction, inspection, and maintenance, with a proven track record of delivering high-quality engineering services to municipal, transportation, and industrial organizations. He is a licensed Professional Engineer and LEED Accredited Professional, and his experience rolls out extensive knowledge in H&H (Hydrologic and Hydraulic analysis) analysis, modeling, and watershed management. Alex is a valuable resource in designing new infrastructure projects and existing systems for regulatory compliance or potential improvements.
Hayden Strickling
Water Resources Specialist
Hayden Strickling provides water resources modeling and planning support to our municipal, transportation, and federal clients. With over six years of experience in H&H (Hydrologic and Hydraulic) analysis, watershed modeling and management, TMDL (Total Maximum Daily Loads) action plans, and data analysis, Hayden is an excellent resource in our Water practice.
Karen Ross, PE
Stormwater Engineer
Karen Ross has experience in both hydraulics and stormwater design, experience gained through her work with NCDOT (North Carolina Department of Transportation) and local municipal governments. She is focused on hydraulic design, stormwater management, and plan production.
Why Gradient, PLLC?
Our team is defined by a commitment to innovation, sustainability, and delivering results that exceed client expectations. Whether you’re tackling land development or stormwater challenges, our skilled professionals bring the expertise you need.
Ready to collaborate? Contact us today to learn how Gradient, PLLC can help transform your vision into reality.