McKinnis named to Oklahoma NextGen Under 30 list

After spending nearly a decade telling stories as a journalist, Bryce McKinnis now helps communities tell a different story: one about securing reliable, sustainable water infrastructure for the future. That passion for communication, service, and community impact recently earned him recognition as an Oklahoma NextGen Under 30 award recipient.  

As a strategic writer on Garver’s Water Team, McKinnis partners with engineers and subject matter experts to develop winning strategies for pursuits that help communities address critical water and wastewater needs. Less than a year after joining the engineering industry, he has already played a key role in securing projects totaling more than $15.3 million in engineering fees.

Among the projects McKinnis helped win are design services for the Fort Smith Massard Wastewater Treatment Plant in Arkansas, an on-call services agreement for Charlotte Water in North Carolina, services for Renewable Water Resources in South Carolina, and a wastewater treatment plant improvement project in Tulsa.

“Water is our shared wealth. Our investment in it honors the work of those who came before us and fulfills the promise we make to those who follow,” McKinnis said. “Our professionals work every day to steward clean water for decades of Oklahomans to come, and I’m privileged to share their stories.”

McKinnis’ leadership extends beyond his professional accomplishments. He served for three years on the board of Folds of Honor Young Professionals, helping support military families across the region. He also volunteered as a fellow for a statewide Oklahoma political campaign and has supported organizations including the Oklahoma City Memorial Marathon and I AM STEM summer camps, which inspire Oklahoma students to explore careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

“Bryce has a unique ability to connect people to purpose,” said Water Strategic Growth Director Krysten Marshall. “His strategic thinking and storytelling skills help our teams communicate the value of infrastructure investments that improve communities’ quality of life. In a very short time, he has made a tremendous impact on our team, and this recognition is well deserved.”

Through his work at Garver and his service throughout the community, McKinnis continues to demonstrate the leadership, forward thinking, and commitment that define Oklahoma’s next generation of leaders.