First Reserve and WGI Team Up for a Visionary Growth Partnership in Infrastructure Solutions

First Reserve Partners with WGI for Strategic Growth

In a significant move set to transform the landscape of infrastructure solutions, First Reserve, a preeminent private equity firm, has announced a strategic growth partnership with WGI, Inc. This collaboration, disclosed on January 29, 2026, underscores the ambition to enhance WGI's capabilities through organic growth initiatives and a series of strategic acquisitions, as highlighted by financial representatives from both firms, although specific financial details remain confidential.

About First Reserve and WGI

First Reserve is a key player in private equity investments, specializing in a spectrum of Infrastructure Solutions, Value-Added Infrastructure, and Resources strategies. It boasts an impressive history, having raised over $35 billion since its inception in 1983. With a pedigree of over 40 years of industry experience and more than 750 transactions, First Reserve is well-positioned to support WGI in expanding its reach and expertise.

On the other hand, WGI has nearly a 50-year legacy and is headquartered in West Palm Beach, Florida. The company is renowned for its technology-driven design and professional services across various sectors, including transportation, public infrastructure, and water resources. With 23 offices concentrated across key high-growth areas in the Southeastern United States, WGI caters to a diverse clientele from public entities to private sector innovators.

Expanding Horizons Through Strategic Partnership

The partnership is set to empower WGI to broaden its technical prowess, facilitate entry into new markets, and pursue strategic acquisitions that complement its core offerings. This initiative is crucial as U.S. infrastructure faces challenges from aging assets, population growth, and an increasing need for resilience in the face of climate challenges. WGI's multidisciplinary expertise positions it as a vital player in addressing these pressing issues.

“This collaboration represents not just a financial boost but a strategic alliance that emphasizes our commitment to excellence in infrastructure management,” remarked Jeff Quake, Managing Partner at First Reserve. He noted that the partnership's aim is to leverage shared commitments to innovation and delivering long-term value to not just WGI, but all stakeholders involved.

Leadership Continues with a Vision for the Future

Under the current leadership of Chief Executive Officer David S. Wantman, who has been at the helm for over 20 years, WGI's existing management team will remain intact. Wantman expressed excitement over the partnership, indicating that First Reserve's deep domain experience in architecture and engineering aligns perfectly with WGI's goals of growth and innovation.

This strategic relationship is expected to enhance value delivery to clients and the communities that WGI serves, while also creating opportunities for career advancement for its talented workforce.

Focused on Innovation and Technology

A notable facet of WGI’s portfolio is its subsidiary, WGI Ventures, which operates the software company Streamline Technologies. Streamline is recognized for its advanced solutions in stormwater management and flood forecasting, further augmenting WGI’s capabilities in addressing critical environmental challenges. With tools like FloodWise and StormWise that aid municipalities and engineering professionals, the emphasis on technological innovation in this partnership will be pivotal.

Conclusion

As the partnership between First Reserve and WGI unfolds, industry watchers will be keenly observing the developments that arise from this collaboration. By aligning their strengths, both companies aim to foster an era of innovation that not only enhances their service offerings but also paves the way for a smarter, more resilient infrastructure framework in the United States. This growth partnership represents a significant step in modernizing the infrastructure landscape and setting new benchmarks for the industry at large.