PEOPLE & COMPANY NEWS: Founding partner of RWDI dies

Colin J. Williams, P.Eng., a founding partner of Canadian consulting engineering firm Rowan Williams, Davies and Irwin (RWDI) of Guelph, Ontario has died.

Mr. Williams (66) was the first engineer hired by RWDI’s predecessor firm in 1974 and became an internationally recognized expert in the fields of ice and snow accumulations, wind effects on buildings, and issues affecting pedestrian comfort.

RWDI has been the wind engineering consultant for some of the tallest structures around the world.

Throughout his 40-year career at the firm, Williams played a key leadership role in the company’s growth and technical development as it evolved from a small regional firm to a 400-person specialist consultancy with offices in many parts of the world.

Mr. Williams was also a much published author whose research and practical experience was applied to developing criteria for wind and snow issues that are still in use today.

RWDI’s chief executive officer, Michael Soligo, says that the most noteworthy aspect of Colin’s character was his “kind, caring, and ever positive attitude,” adding that “he knew how to balance his work and family life very well.”

Dr. Williams leaves his wife of 44 years, Kathy, daughters Megan, Caitlin, and Bronwyn and son Michael.