Our History

Discover the story behind CDM Smith — from our humble beginnings in 1947 to a global leader in engineering and construction. Explore the milestones, innovations, and people that have shaped our journey and continue to drive our commitment to solving the world’s toughest challenges.

Years CDM Smith

How It All Began

The founders of CDM, Thomas Camp, Herman Dresser and Jack McKee dedicated their knowledge in the post-war years to promote public health protection and the development of a sustainable infrastructure. In the 1950s, when the automobile trade expanded and the traffic infrastructure developed explosively, the road construction engineer Wilbur Smith founded the company of the same name. In the following decades, both companies grew into globally operating companies through a combination of organic growth and acquisitions. In 2011, CDM and Wilbur Smith Associates merged to form CDM Smith. With around 5,000 employees, we are one of the leading companies in our industry today.

Our Milestones

Explore the key milestones that have shaped CDM Smith’s journey and continue to define who we are today.

1947

Thomas Camp provides studies and designs for water treatment plant improvements for the city of Cambridge. In the same year, Camp forms together with Dresser and McKee a partnership ("CDM").

1953

First founding year of an associated company in Europe (VEB Baugrund Berlin).

1997

German Engineering firm joins CDM group.

2007

CDM starts business in Poland.

2011

CDM and Wilbur Smith Associates join forces.

2012

CDM Smith - new global company name.

2022

Foundation CDM Smith SE.

2023

Merger CDM Smith Consult GmbH into CDM Smith SE.

CDM Smith Documentary

CDM Smith has been changing the world for the better since 1947. Hear from the people who shaped pivotal moments in our history - from the powerhouse addition of Wilbur Smith to innovations that tackled critical challenges in our built and natural environment. This documentary highlights how our founding principles continue to drive pioneering solutions, from advancing water treatment after the Milwaukee outbreak to leading Superfund cleanups and protecting drinking water in cities like Newark, NJ.

1947 water treatment plant interior with large machinery and a worker in white uniform.

Drei Männer in Anzügen im Büro, mit Blick auf die Kamera.

Zwei Herren in Anzug schneiden feierlich einen Kuchen an.

Three men in suits, two seated and one standing, in front of a landscape painting.

Our Roots. Our Vision. Our Pioneers.

The people, projects, and ideas that define our story.