TOP 100 MAGAZINE

Mark Salsberg 

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Mark Salsberg has spent over 15 years immersed in the world of transportation and infrastructure, pushing boundaries to create safer, smarter, and more efficient transit systems across Canada. As CEO of WGD Consulting, he is redefining how public transit and rail projects are conceived and executed, offering a unique systems engineering approach that tackles challenges before they become costly setbacks.

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Mark’s career is built on a foundation of technical expertise and a deep commitment to urban development. A natural problem solver with an eye for innovation, he has successfully led complex infrastructure projects, ensuring that cities evolve in ways that are both sustainable and forward-thinking. His ability to communicate and work collaboratively with individuals and large teams has allowed him to develop solutions that consistently exceed expectations. Further, his expertise in business growth, client engagement, and strategic expansion stems from a solid academic foundation—an MBA in sustainability and strategic consulting from Schulich School of Business at York University and a B.Eng in electrical engineering and management from McMaster University. A certified Professional Engineer (PE), he brings technical acumen and a strategic mindset to every challenge he tackles.

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Founded in 2018, WGD has grown from a two-person operation to a powerhouse of more than 40 experts stationed across Canada, from Halifax to Vancouver. The firm specializes in operational technology (OT) systems for public infrastructure, ensuring seamless integration of complex transit solutions. With decades of underinvestment now giving way to unprecedented funding for modernization, transit projects are more ambitious than ever, requiring sophisticated technical solutions for communication, connectivity, and data management. That’s where WGD comes in.

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Many large-scale projects in the past have been plagued by delays and cost overruns, often due to overlooked or mishandled systems integration. Mark is changing that narrative by mitigating risk early, reducing rework, and accelerating project completion—ultimately saving clients significant costs in the long run. The firm isn’t just about solving problems; it’s about reshaping the industry, bringing fresh, strategic thinking to a space that has long been in need of innovation.

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Mark’s vision extends beyond WGD. He is also the co-founder and chairperson of TRACCS Transit and Rail, a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing passenger rail projects in Canada. Under his leadership, TRACCS has grown into a thriving network of professionals, hosting Canada’s largest passenger rail show and working alongside the Canadian Standards Association (CSA) Group to develop industry benchmarks. The organization’s mission is clear: reduce costs, improve efficiency, and enhance safety across the sector.

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For Mark, it’s about more than just transit; it’s about city-building. His passion lies in shaping communities through infrastructure that serves people efficiently and sustainably. The work he leads at WGD and TRACCS is not just about delivering projects—it’s about transforming the way transit and rail systems function for future generations. With a keen ability to rally teams, navigate complex technical landscapes, and drive real-world change, Mark is leaving an indelible mark on Canada’s transit evolution.

 

 

Mark Salsberg 
CEO: WGD Consulting
Co-Founder/Chairperson: TRACCS Transit and Rail
Websites: www.wgdconsulting.com  and  www.traccs.ca
LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/mark-salsberg