As Gray & Osborne celebrates its 90th anniversary, we reflect on nearly a century of innovation, commitment, and service. What began as a small local engineering firm has grown into a trusted partner for communities across Washington State, delivering solutions that enhance infrastructure and improve quality of life.

A Humble Beginning

Gray & Osborne was founded in 1935 in Yakima during a time of economic uncertainty. Despite the challenges of the Great Depression, the firm’s founders were driven by a shared vision: to provide reliable, high-quality engineering services to local communities. Their dedication laid the foundation for a company that would stand the test of time. The founders’ hands-on approach and focus on client relationships set a precedent for the firm’s future.

The Founding Visionaries

Gerald Hall: Known for his meticulous attention to detail and innovative problem-solving, Gerald Hall was instrumental in developing many of the firm’s early projects. His ability to connect with clients and understand their unique needs set a standard for personalized service that remains a cornerstone of Gray & Osborne’s philosophy.

Donald Gray: As one of the co-founders, Donald Gray brought a visionary approach to municipal engineering. His forward-thinking ideas laid the groundwork for many of the firm’s long-standing partnerships with cities and counties. His dedication to improving infrastructure for underserved communities highlighted the firm’s commitment to public service.

F.T. Osborne: A pioneer in water and wastewater engineering, F.T. Osborne’s technical expertise helped establish Gray & Osborne’s reputation for excellence. His leadership in designing efficient and sustainable systems continues to influence the firm’s approach to infrastructure challenges.

Milestones Through the Decades

The Early Years In its formative years, Gray & Osborne made its mark by designing and implementing critical infrastructure projects, including water and wastewater systems in the Yakima area that remain in use today. These projects were instrumental in establishing the firm’s reputation for engineering excellence. During this time, the firm’s small but highly skilled team collaborated closely with municipalities to address pressing infrastructure needs.

Post-War Expansion The mid-20th century saw rapid growth as the firm adapted to the needs of a booming population and expanding urban areas, particularly in the Puget Sound area. Following World War II, Gray & Osborne played a pivotal role in rebuilding and modernizing infrastructure to support the post-war economic surge. During this time, the firm diversified its portfolio, undertaking projects in stormwater management, transportation, and municipal planning. This era also marked the beginning of long-term partnerships with several cities and counties in Western Washington and across Washington State.

Modern Era of Innovation As technology advanced, Gray & Osborne embraced new tools and methodologies to stay at the forefront of the industry. From cutting-edge modeling software to environmentally sustainable designs, the firm’s commitment to innovation has enabled it to tackle complex challenges with confidence. By the 1980s and 1990s, Gray & Osborne had become a recognized leader in municipal engineering, offering comprehensive services that included project design, funding assistance, and construction management.

The People Behind the Success

At the heart of Gray & Osborne’s legacy are the people who bring its projects to life. Visionary leaders, skilled engineers, and dedicated staff have all played vital roles in shaping the company’s identity. The firm’s culture has always emphasized mentorship, teamwork, and a commitment to excellence, fostering an environment where innovation and collaboration thrive.

We honor the contributions of founders like Gerald Hall, Donald Gray, and F.T. Osborne, who laid the groundwork for the firm’s enduring success, as well as subsequent generations of professionals who have continued to push the boundaries of what’s possible. Current team members remain deeply committed to upholding the firm’s values of integrity, innovation, and community partnership.

Looking to the Future

As we celebrate this milestone, we’re also looking ahead. Gray & Osborne is committed to fostering sustainable practices, embracing emerging technologies, and continuing to serve as a trusted partner for communities throughout the Pacific Northwest. With a focus on resilience and adaptability, the firm is well-positioned to address the challenges of tomorrow while building on the successes of the past.

Join the Celebration

This anniversary is more than a reflection of our history—it’s a celebration of the relationships we’ve built and the progress we’ve made together. To our clients, partners, and employees, thank you for being part of this incredible journey. Here’s to 90 years of excellence—and to many more to come!