On my first day at COWI, I was shown to my desk by the receptionist at 9:00 am. Before I could even sit down and log on to my new laptop, a tall, friendly gentleman stopped by to welcome me. Coffee in hand, he struck up a conversation and, standing beside my desk, we chatted for the next 50 minutes.

I eventually logged in around 9:50 am, frantically preparing for my official onboarding meeting at 10:00am. Yet, by then, I already felt wiser, more confident, and far better prepared for my new role at COWI as a Design Lead on HS2 and a Technical Director within the Ground Engineering team.

At the time, I wasn’t quite sure what to make of a 50-minute standing conversation before I’d even started work. What I did know was that this lovely man was perfectly happy to let his coffee go cold if it meant taking the time to support someone else.

That was Willie. Generous with his time, selfless in his support, and always willing to share from his enormous wealth of knowledge and experience. From day one, he made people feel welcome, valued, and capable.

Willie, we will miss you dearly. Thank you for the wisdom, kindness, and encouragement you so freely gave to others.

Rest in perfect peace.

Muze