W. Beau Black joined EXP with a foundation of experience across the public and private sectors. From law enforcement and government to energy and transportation, each of Black’s previous roles shaped him into the leader he is today as Louisiana Division Manager for EXP’s New Orleans office.
Black brings 25 years of experience in infrastructure and development, spanning ports, oil and gas, and transportation. Early in his career, he served in the U.S. Foreign Service, working with the Office of Overseas Building Operations. Selected to join the team building a new embassy complex in Beijing, China, he became deeply involved in the design, construction, and supply chain processes of one of the most important embassy projects outside of Baghdad, Iraq.
“Little did I know at the time, but that experience definitely planted a seed,” Black said.
That seed grew into a passion for the industry. Before joining EXP, Black thrived at the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development.
“But the opportunity to build something more than myself and to better help the state was intriguing,” he said.
Black says his drive to improve each day stems from the example of his late stepfather.
“He was an iron worker, a union man and a hero,” Black said. “He probably built more buildings in New Orleans than I’ve been in. Seeing him come home from work with burn holes in his shirt from welding or smelling like grease from the fabrication of steel — and still taking me to baseball practice — made me realize what hard work and dedication really are.”
Beyond his professional life, Black is a devoted father to his twin daughters. His greatest motivation comes from showing up for his family, as well as for his team at EXP. Like his stepfather, he believes small details create lasting impact — a principle he applies personally and professionally. EXP’s business approach reflects the same philosophy.
Inside EXP
Every project carries environmental, social, and governance considerations, both locally and globally. EXP approaches these with sustainability at the forefront, whether the project focuses on engineering, architecture, or design.
“If I can go one day without hearing the phrase, ‘Well, that’s the way we’ve always done it,’ then I will have been successful,” Black said. “Changing a mindset is difficult, but I believe the vibe in Louisiana has shifted. With good ideas, we will turn the page.”
EXP is an internationally ranked engineering and architectural services firm that regularly appears in Engineering News-Record rankings. Their projects succeed not only because of innovative design, but also because they provide jobs and opportunities in the communities they serve — including Louisiana.
“We are committed to Louisiana,” Black said. “We’ve accomplished a lot in our first year, and I expect in the next four that our business will grow and allow EXP to offer many more professional and non-technical opportunities to people who want to live, work and play here.”
Black grew up on the Westbank, but joined the Foreign Service in 2002 and began a life overseas and across the U.S. Like many New Orleanians, though, he eventually returned home. When Shell Oil Company offered him the chance to relocate a decade later, he said, “it wasn’t even a question.”
“Working on great projects and collaborating with talented people in government and business, both then and now, is what motivates me in my current role and keeps me rooted here — not to mention the culture, food, and energy this area brings,” Black said.
He’s driven the roads, crossed the bridges, and biked the levees here. His dedication to Louisiana is personal, and he takes EXP’s mission to heart.
“I’m not one to just talk about making it better; I work to make it better,” Black said. “Whether it’s transportation infrastructure, port development, oil and natural gas, or coastal protection, I truly believe Louisiana is not only open for business but on a fast track to meaningful progress.”
A Commitment
EXP fosters a workplace that goes beyond desk work. In Louisiana, the company wants team members to feel ownership in the business and pride in their role building client relationships. When every individual sees themselves as a vital part of the whole, the company grows stronger — a philosophy Black embraces and embodies.
