Robert K. Burkett, S.E., Founding Partner of BWE (1936 - 2024)
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Robert “Bob” Burkett, the founding member of Burkett Engineers (now BWE).
“Adequately describing Bob is challenging,” reflects Mark Batten, Principal at BWE, who worked alongside Bob for decades. “The first words that come to mind are polymath and doyen.” Bob’s contributions spanned over five decades, shaping the future of engineering and inspiring countless individuals along the way.
After graduating from UC Berkeley, Bob began his career with CALTRANS before joining A.J. Blaylock & Associates in San Diego, CA. In 1971, he established Burkett Engineers, which later became Burkett & Wong Engineers in partnership with Frank Wong, and has since evolved into BWE. Bob certainly had an eye for engineering and business talent, and surrounded himself with first-rate partners including Timothy Yeun, Steve Wong, Keith Mountain, Poy Low and others. His vision of establishing a company that would succeed in the long term included guiding principles that, at the time, were quite novel but have become standard practice in many firms, such that now BWE is operating on its fourth generation of ownership.
Bob was a respected Fellow of the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) and Structural Engineers Association of California (SEAOC). He also served as President of the Structural Engineers Association of San Diego (SEAOSD) from 1979 to 1980, and of SEAOC from 1984 to 1985.
Engineering and business did not fully capture Bob’s efforts and interests. Bob was actively committed to his three children and was not shy about bragging with regards to their accomplishments. His community involvement was equally enthusiastic, with over 20 years of service on the Board of Directors for the Boys and Girls Club of San Diego, actively participating on their Endowment and Scholarship Committees, as well as serving as past President for the Clairemont Hills Kiwanis Club, and his involvement with the San Diego Automobile Museum, the San Diego Yacht Club, and Boy Scouts of America.
Known for his unique vigor and keen intellect, Bob engaged in discussions on a wide array of topics— from politics and economics to sports and theology. Being the force that he was, Bob’s tenacious spirit and zest for life were evident in his passions for power boating and exotic cars. He was generous with his belief in the abilities of others and invested in their success and shared his blessings and experiences liberally.
“Bob was always there for me throughout my time at BWE, from my early days in the office to my transition to Presidency,” said Charlie Colvin, President of BWE. “His conversations would take you through engineering and politics to environmental concerns and finally, cars! Bob lived life to the fullest, and he truly cared about BWE and the people who work here. I will never forget him.”
As we reflect on Bob’s remarkable life and legacy, we celebrate the values he championed—integrity, innovation, and community engagement. For BWE and many others, a significant page has been turned, but one that will always be worth remembering and honoring.
For further information, please contact:
Charlie Colvin, SE, BWE, Inc.
(619) 299-5550 | ccolvin@bwesd.com
www.bwesd.com
About BWE, Inc.: For 53 years, BWE has provided Structural Engineering, Civil Engineering, and Land Surveying services on construction projects throughout San Diego, the Southwest, and beyond. The firm’s engineers have built a reputation for excellence in design and service by fulfilling our self-imposed mandate to exceed the expectations of our clients and colleagues. BWE supports the career development of its employees through mentoring, training, licensure fees, professional association dues, among other means. For more information about BWE, please visit www.bwesd.com.
