Sanborn Head is pleased to announce the promotion of Sam Warner to Director of Data Management & Visualization (DM&V), effective today. In this role, Sam assumes leadership of the firm’s DM&V Center of Excellence, a specialized team driving innovation in how Sanborn Head manages, analyzes, and visualizes complex project data to deliver greater value to clients.
“Sam’s promotion is a reflection of the talent and dedication we are committed to cultivating here at Sanborn Head,” said Barret S. Cole, President and CEO. “We are a firm that takes a long view, investing in our people and building for the next generation, and Sam’s career is a testament to that commitment. He has grown steadily throughout his time with us, building deep technical expertise and earning the trust of his colleagues and clients along the way. We are excited to see him step into this leadership role and confident that his experience, dedication, and vision will strengthen the DM&V team and the exceptional work we deliver to our clients.”
Sam joined Sanborn Head in 2007 and has spent nearly his entire career with the firm, advancing through a series of promotions that reflect his growing contributions and leadership. Sam has been a key member of the DM&V team, leading complex data management and visualization engagements across a wide range of environmental and infrastructure projects. His technical expertise spans 3D volumetric modeling, GIS, environmental data management system development and migration, and advanced data visualization. Sam has applied these skills on projects across the United States, and internationally as well.
Sam’s promotion also marks a significant transition for DM&V, as Vice President Rich Mechaber, PG, retires from the firm at the end of June 2026. Rich was the founding leader of the DM&V team and played an instrumental role in building the group. He defined the team’s mission, established its technical capabilities, and created the collaborative model through which the DM&V Center of Excellence partners with Sanborn Head’s client-facing project teams to add measurable value to client engagements. The firm extends its deep gratitude to Rich for his vision, leadership, and lasting contributions to Sanborn Head.
The DM&V team operates as a Center of Excellence within Sanborn Head, bringing together specialists from multiple disciplines to deliver integrated data solutions. The team’s capabilities include database development and management using EQuIS®, environmental laboratory data management, data usability assessment, environmental modeling and advanced 3D visualization using Earth Volumetric Studio®, GIS services through ArcGIS®, and CAD services through AutoCAD®. By converting large, complex datasets into high-quality graphics, 3D renderings, and actionable insights, the team helps clients and project teams make informed, data-driven decisions throughout the life of a project.
Please join us in celebrating Sam and Rich for their contributions and commitment to Sanborn Head’s future as a generational company.
