First Quarter Newsletter - 2023
We're Hiring!
Blackstone is looking for an entry-level Project Engineer in our Overland Park, Kansas, office. If you're interested, click on the link below or share with other qualified individuals!

Click here to learn more!
Big News from Blackstone
We are excited to announce Knightly Environmental has merged with Blackstone Environmental as of January 1, 2023.

For the past 30 years, Knightly Environmental, an environmental consulting firm, has specialized in the assessment and remediation of petroleum contaminated soils and groundwater sites across the Midwest.

Knightly Environmental will expand Blackstone's environmental consulting team, contributing expertise in Phase I and Phase II Environmental Site Assessments (ESAs), groundwater monitoring, site remediation supervision, asbestos inspections, storage tank closures, waste stream sampling, and site investigations.

We are excited to welcome Knightly Environmental to our team and to continue growth providing clients the best services and staff for their environmental needs!
John Knightly, LG, RG, CHMM,CGP, joins Blackstone as a Senior Project Manager. Originally from Hutchinson, Kansas, John earned his bachelor’s degree in Geology from the University of Kansas and received his master’s degree in Geology from Iowa State University. With over 36 years of experience in the industry, John has completed hundreds of projects from coast to coast including sample collection, asbestos inspections, remediation site supervision, Phase I and Phase II ESAs, storage tank closures, and site investigations. When he isn’t working, John enjoys spending time with his grandkids, going to the lake, and generally being outdoors.
Ali Vinke joins Blackstone as an Environmental Geologist. Ali is originally from Oak Grove, Missouri, and earned a bachelor's degree in General Geology from Northwest Missouri State University. Ali's experience includes groundwater monitoring, site assessments, tank closures, Phase I ESAs, and soil and water sampling. During her free time, Ali enjoys reading, spending time with her dog, and going to cycling classes.
Victoria Bruck joins Blackstone as an Environmental Geologist. Tori is originally from Atlantic, Iowa, and graduated from Northwest Missouri State University with a bachelor's degree in Environmental Geology and a minor in Geography. Tori's experience includes groundwater sampling, site assessments, and waste stream sampling. Tori enjoys walking with her dog and spending time with friends and family.
Blackstone is thrilled to offer more services to clients in the New Year. To learn more about our new service lines and how we can assist you on your next project, check out our website.
Good Times All Around
Fun Times at Career Fairs
We had a busy February attending career fairs and conferences across the Midwest. Our staff enjoyed networking with students, faculty, and other professionals on Blackstone's services and opportunities.

Eric Sonsthagen and Tyler Harrison were able to grab a quick selfie while attending the Iowa State career fair.

Looks like they had a great time!
Super Breakfast Bowl
With the Chiefs in (and WINNING) the Super Bowl we had to do breakfast on the last red Friday of the season!

We had some brave souls who tolerated the cold to make us the best breakfast on the Blackstone griddle. We can't wait for warmer weather so we can all be outside for our next cookout.
Hamm Foundation Social 2023
Blackstone staff were thrilled to attend the Hamm Foundation Social. They enjoyed a beautiful evening of food and fun. We are proud to support our clients and the contributions they are making to better our world and everyone in it.
Annual Company Meeting
Blackstone hosted our Annual Company Meeting in early March. It was two days filled with sessions on new service lines, technical topics, a review of last year's accomplishments, and goals for the future. The first day sessions ended with golfing, great food, and even greater conversation at TopGolf. The next day concluded with a tasty breakfast and lunch in honor of Employee Appreciation Day.

We look forward to these two days every year to expand our professional knowledge, define and communicate business goals, and spend time with each other. Plus, it makes a great group photo!
Eric Sonsthagen presents to Iowa Department of Natural Resources
Blackstone Senior Project Manager, Eric Sonsthagen, was invited by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources to present at their Municipal Solid Waste Landfill Roundtable last week.

It was a great opportunity to connect with clients and regulatory staff. Eric’s presentation, “Landfill Gas to Energy – State of the Industry," is briefly summarized to the right. Eric can be reached at the contact information below with any landfill gas or solid waste related questions.

402.208.2014
Visit our calendar for professional events throughout the coming year!
Connect with us!