Eric Beightel Joins ESA as Federal Strategy Director to Enhance Environmental Consulting

Eric Beightel Joins Environmental Science Associates

Environmental Science Associates (ESA), a prominent name in environmental consulting, added a significant talent to its team with the announcement of Eric Beightel as the new Federal Strategy Director. Beightel, who previously served as the Executive Director of the Federal Permitting Improvement Steering Council, brings a wealth of experience and expertise in environmental policy.

A Career Spanning Over Two Decades

With a career that spans over 25 years, Beightel has established himself as a notable authority on environmental policy, particularly focusing on the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and the intricate federal permitting processes. His deep understanding of these topics has made him an asset in driving the national initiative to streamline the environmental permitting processes for major infrastructure projects.

At the Permitting Council, Beightel oversaw a staggering portfolio that included more than $75 billion in large-scale infrastructure projects. His role involved supporting federal agencies and project sponsors as they navigated the often complicated and lengthy federal environmental review and permitting procedures. This oversight has facilitated numerous critical projects, allowing them to reach completion while maximizing their economic and environmental benefits for the nation.

As Leslie Moulton-Post, President and CEO of ESA, noted, Beightel is joining the organization at a crucial time. With federal and state governments ramping up efforts to advance critical infrastructure investments, there is a pressing need to modernize and streamline the environmental regulatory process. ESA is positioned to deliver these projects while ensuring effective environmental protections are maintained at the necessary scale and speed.

Previous Influential Positions

Before his tenure at the Permitting Council, Beightel held vital roles under various federal administrations. His experience includes serving as a Senior Environmental Policy Advisor at the Department of Transportation and offering expertise to the Office of Management and Budget. Beyond his public sector leadership, Beightel has contributed to national infrastructure and environmental policy initiatives with several consulting firms where he gained hands-on experience in project implementation and delivery for complex infrastructure challenges.

In his new capacity at ESA, Beightel will act as a strategic advisor to the firm's clients, helping them navigate a myriad of regulatory challenges and keeping them informed about the ever-evolving landscape of federal policies, processes, and funding requirements. His addition will bolster ESA's comprehensive network of seasoned regulatory specialists and environmental experts, enhancing the firm’s ability to efficiently manage federal environmental regulations with a sharp focus on effective project delivery.

“I am so excited to join ESA and work with experts across environmental disciplines to create actionable advice for clients to position their projects for success in this dynamic regulatory and policy environment,” shared Beightel. His enthusiasm reflects ESA's guiding principles and commitment to improving community well-being through sustainable practices.

Academic Background

Eric Beightel holds an impressive academic background, featuring a Master of Public Policy from George Mason University and a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Studies from the University of Kansas. His educational qualifications complement his extensive practical experience, allowing him to approach challenges from both a theoretical and applied perspective.

About Environmental Science Associates

Founded to tackle complex environmental challenges, ESA is an employee-owned firm known for its leadership in environmental science, regulatory compliance, and planning. The firm is committed to enhancing the sustainability and resilience of communities while providing responsive client services.

With Beightel on board, ESA is poised to amplify its capabilities and impact in the environmental consulting sector, positively influencing the future of infrastructure projects across the nation.