Springfield Standard

Springfield Public Works has appointed Brett Foster as the new assistant director over engineering, effective November 17. Foster steps into the role previously held by Martin Gugel, who moved to become the building and development services director earlier this fall.

Foster brings extensive experience from his 23-year career in the transportation industry. His background includes thirteen years with the Missouri Department of Transportation’s Southwest District and a decade with Springfield Public Works. During his tenure at Springfield, he has held positions such as principal engineer of construction inspection and most recently served as City traffic engineer.

In his new position, Foster will manage several divisions within Public Works, including Transportation, Stormwater and Traffic Engineering, and Construction Inspection.

Public Works Director Dan Smith commented on Foster's appointment: “As the City's traffic engineer, Brett has consistently demonstrated outstanding leadership and a deep commitment to improving the safety and efficiency of our city’s transportation network. In this new role as assistant director of Public Works, Brett will bring that same dedication to leading our engineering, construction inspection, and signing and striping teams, enhancing the quality of life for our residents and ensuring that Springfield continues to grow as a safe, vibrant, and connected community.”

Foster is a lifelong resident of Southwest Missouri and holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Civil Engineering from Missouri S&T. He is also a registered professional engineer.

Expressing his enthusiasm for his new role, Foster stated: “I’m extremely grateful to have the opportunity to help facilitate a great group of problem-solvers who have the community’s best interest at heart. It’s exciting to think about the opportunities for our engineering team to provide innovative solutions that improve quality of life for all who live and visit our City.”