M.E. Simpson Company, Inc.
Family, innovation flows toward success for water distribution, wastewater collection solutions firm
As the first employee, Mike Simpson has been at the core of building M.E. Simpson Company since it was started by his father, Marvin E. Simpson in 1979.
Initially, the business served as a water meter testing firm with Mike joining the team in 1983 as a field technician. As the company grew, the Simpsons decided to sell their own services to detect leaks for water utility distribution systems throughout Chicagoland and Northwest Indiana.
“I was his first employee, and a few years later my brother-in-law, Dan Hood, joined the company as its second employee,” Mike said. “Over the years, Dan and I acquired shares from my parents, completing the transition in 2015.”
Mike designed and implemented the company’s own Leak Detection Program, bringing together large meter testing with leak detection services along with water audits and validations. Today, the company offers a comprehensive Water Loss Control Program.
“For more than 45 years, we have been delivering technical solutions for water distribution and wastewater collection systems nationwide,” Mike said. “We help utilities reduce non-revenue water, recover lost revenue, and protect infrastructure through advanced leak detection, large-meter testing, AWWA-compliant water audits, valve assessment and exercising, hydrant services, pipeline condition assessment, lead service line detection, and wastewater diagnostics.”
Mike and Dan worked together to research, develop and launch Valve Assessment and Fire Hydrant Assessment programs that led to the team’s Wastewater Services Division.
“We used proven methods and cutting-edge tools, and we provide accurate, data-driven results that support proactive maintenance, operational efficiency, and long-term system reliability,” Mike said.
Family has been central to the company’s path and continued success.
“I contribute our success to the work ethic and drive imparted to me by my parents, especially my father,” Mike said. “Today, we continue the company’s focus as a family-owned and operated business focusing on the next generation and continuing our cutting-edge technical solutions for water distribution and wastewater collection systems nationwide.”
Today, the company has 85 employees with its corporate headquarters located in Valparaiso and facilities in Griffith, Waukegan, Ill., Wilmington, Del., and Laurel, Md. The team uses proven standard operating procedures along with tech, such as AI, machine learning, cloud-based platforms for data capture and GPS mapping, and work-order tracking. The end goal is reliable solutions for water and wastewater utilities to allow for water loss reduction and system optimization.
“I enjoy working with industry professionals in an area that’s critical to everyday life and health,” Mike said.
M.E. Simpson Company supports nonprofits throughout the Region, including Hilltop Neighborhood House, Opportunity Enterprises, VNA Hospice of NWI, Porter County Community Foundation, Porter-Starke Services Foundation and Valpo Parks. Mike has served on the board of the Boys and Girls Club of Greater Northwest Indiana for 23 years.
Mike believes strong relationships and from-the-ground knowledge are both key for entrepreneurs building a business.
“Focus on building genuine, long-term relationships with the people in your industry. Our success has come from the pleasure of working with professionals across the country, and those connections have been more valuable than any single contract or technology,” he said. “Learn the business thoroughly from the ground up—especially if you’re joining a family operation. Understand both the technical work and the practical realities of serving clients.
“Stay patient, deliver consistent results, and keep learning from the people you work with. The relationships and reputation you build will carry you further than any short-term strategy.”