Weisser Engineering & Surveying Principal, Walter Sass, RPLS, Awarded Honorary Doctorate Alfred State College, State University of New York

HOUSTON, Texas – May 27, 2026 - Weisser Engineering & Surveying (WES) is proud to announce that Walter Sass, RPLS, Principal of WES, was awarded an Honorary Doctor of Humane Letters by his Alma Mater, Alfred State College State University of New York (SUNY), during the University’s 115th Commencement Ceremony on May 9, 2026 in Alfred, New York. 

Mr. Sass began classes at Alfred State College SUNY in the fall of 1976, pursuing a degree in Surveying Technology. After becoming a first-generation graduate in 1978, he relocated to Texas to begin his career in Land Surveying. In 1979, Mr. Sass joined Weisser Engineering Company, Inc. under the leadership of Fredrick C. Weisser, and in 1987, Walter purchased ownership of the company. For nearly 40 years, Mr. Sass has successfully guided WES through economic fluctuations, significant technological advancements, and evolving market demands, helping shape the firm into a respected leader in the Engineering & Land Surveying professions. 

Since graduating in 1978, Mr. Sass has maintained a strong and lasting relationship with Alfred State College SUNY through his distinguished career in Land Surveying, ongoing contributions to the University, and continued investment in the next generation of Land Surveyors. In 2024, Mr. Sass & WES contributed a major gift toward the Walter Sass Surveying Lab and more than $120,000 of Surveying equipment upgrades. Reflecting on the impact of the program, Mr. Sass stated, “the instruction level (at Alfred State College) is unmatched and I hope that this benefits all students that come through this curriculum.” His commitment extends beyond financial support, as he frequently returns to campus to mentor students, share industry insight, and help create career opportunities for future Land Surveying professionals. 

In 2023, Taylor Sass Brasier and Ramsey Sass purchased majority ownership of WES, two longtime and devoted employees, dedicated to continuing the family-led legacy of the firm into its next generation of leadership. While stepping into an advisory role, Mr. Sass remains actively involved within the firm and profession, serving as a trusted mentor and invaluable resource to the WES Team. His leadership, dedication, and work ethic continue to leave a lasting impact on both the profession and those entering it. 

In remarks shared with the 2026 graduating class, Mr. Sass encouraged students to embrace perseverance and leadership throughout their careers, stating, “The advice that I give you all today is give back, collaborate, work hard, embrace your fears and challenges, and always tell yourselves that failure is not an option. Success is a ladder that cannot be climbed with your hands in your pockets.” 

Please join the Weisser Engineering & Surveying Team in congratulating Walter Sass, RPLS, D.H.L., on this distinguished recognition and his lasting contributions to the Land Surveying profession, Alfred State College SUNY, and the future of the industry. 

WES is a comprehensive and multi-disciplined professional services resource to a diversified range of clientele throughout the South-Central Region of the United States. With over half a century of knowledge and expertise within the Civil Engineering, Land Surveying and associated professions, our Team supports our client partners within the Public Infrastructure, Private Development, Energy, and Industrial industries. For over 59 years, WES has provided full service Civil Engineering, Land Surveying, Platting, Mapping, Digital Scanning and Permitting services for development, investigative, recovery and research needs. WES is comprised of skilled, loyal, and dedicated Team Members, with our headquarters located within the Energy Corridor of West Houston, Texas. WES instills over half a century of wisdom and insight into each of our client’s projects by uniting our Team’s expertise with the constant advancement of technology. 

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