After nearly three decades of service, leadership, and unwavering dedication, we’re excited to celebrate the retirement of one of Maurer-Stutz’s finest—Steve Arahood. As he prepares to turn the page to a new chapter, we invite you to join us in recognizing the incredible impact Steve has made on our company, our clients, and our industry.
🎉 You’re Invited to Steve’s Retirement Party! 🎉
📅 Friday, May 2nd
🕒 3:00 – 6:00 PM
📍 Maurer-Stutz Office (3116 N. Dries Ln Suite 100, Peoria, IL 61604)
Stop by for refreshments, stories, and well wishes as we recognize Steve’s contributions and celebrate the next chapter ahead. We’d love to see you there!
Nearly 30 Years of Dedication
Steve joined Maurer-Stutz in August 1996, and it didn’t take long for him to become a cornerstone of the company. Over the years, Steve led some of our most complex civil engineering projects and served as company President, guiding MSI through challenges and triumphs alike.
From pumping stations and treatment plants to sewer system rehabilitation and CSO design, Steve was the go-to expert for tackling tough technical issues with confidence and clarity. His work wasn’t just about projects—it was about people. His steady leadership and problem-solving mindset built trust with clients and colleagues alike.
A Trusted Face in the Industry
Steve played a pivotal role in client relationships that helped shape our business, partnering with municipalities and organizations across Illinois, including:
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City of Peoria
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City of Canton
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Farmer City
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City of Bloomington
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Village of Creve Coeur
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Liberty Steel (Keystone)
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Illinois American Water
His ability to build trust and deliver results made Steve a key figure both inside our office and throughout the industry.
A Scholar, Engineer, and Advocate
Steve’s academic journey began with a B.S. in Civil Engineering from the University of Illinois (1988), where he graduated with High Honors and Bronze Tablet recognition. He later earned an M.S. in Civil Engineering and an M.B.A. in Strategy and Finance in 1992—credentials that helped him approach engineering problems with analytical precision and business insight.
He also used his voice to reflect on the industry, including a 2006 opinion piece where he mused on the evolving expectations in engineering. His closing words—“I’m still a civil engineer…for now…still underpaid and underappreciated by the market.”—became a bit of a legend around the office. We’re all grateful that his “for now” stretched all the way to 2025.
Stories, Surfing, and Steve-Style wisdom
Outside the office, Steve has always embraced life with energy and curiosity. From golf and hiking to basketball and surfing waves in Costa Rica, he brought the same drive and joy to his personal life that he brought to his work.
But maybe what we’ll miss most are the stories. If you ever stopped by Steve’s office, chances are you walked away with a laugh, a little wisdom, or both—often through a tale rooted in his Peoria upbringing.
Thank You, Steve
As Steve moves into retirement, we celebrate a remarkable career and an even more remarkable person. His engineering expertise, leadership, mentorship, and humor have shaped who we are as a company.
We hope you’ll join us on May 2nd to celebrate Steve’s incredible legacy and send him off with the appreciation and good company he deserves.
