Michael Wysockey, PhD, PE brings a rare blend of academic depth, field-tested experience, and forward-thinking leadership to the deep foundation industry. He been elected to the Board of Directors for the Pile Driving Contractors Association (PDCA), where he is serving as Vice President of the organization for 2026.
As president of Thatcher Foundations, Michael leads a specialty contracting firm known for tackling some of the most complex foundation and earth retention challenges out there. From high-capacity driven foundations, to demanding marine construction, as well as alternative foundation methods when required -- Thatcher has built a reputation for smart, innovative solutions since its founding in 1946.
Michael's path to the top of the industry is as impressive as it is well-rounded. He earned his bachelor's degree in civil engineering from The Citadel, followed by a master's degree from MIT, and a doctorate in geotechnical engineering from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. While there, he was recognized with both the Wilson and Peck Fellowships--no small feat. His technical expertise is reflected in a wide range of published work covering topics such as shore erosion, seismic soil response, and deep foundation capacity.
Deeply engaged in professional leadership, Michael is a past president of the Deep Foundations Institute (DFI) and has recently chaired both the Chicago Committee on High Rise Buildings and the ASCE Geo-Institute, Illinois Section. Whether advancing research, leading complex projects, or supporting industry collaboration, Michael continues to help shape the future of geotechnical and foundation engineering.
Deeply engaged in professional leadership, Michael is a past president of the Deep Foundations Institute (DFI) and has recently chaired both the Chicago Committee on High Rise Buildings and the ASCE Geo-Institute, Illinois Section. Whether advancing research, leading complex projects, or supporting industry collaboration, Michael continues to help shape the future of geotechnical and foundation engineering.
One could argue that PDCA leadership runs in the Wysockey and Thatcher Foundations family. Michael's father, Tom Wysockey, served as the organization's president in 1998 and 1999. Last November, Michael was elected to become the PDCA Vice President for 2026, a post he is excited to fill.
"Working alongside the PDCA Board, our focus will be to help advance the deep foundation industry through recognition of the inherent reliability of driven piles through their installation process. After all, a driven pile is a tested pile."
It's a time-honored phrase for a time-tested method of foundation construction.
"Working alongside the PDCA Board, our focus will be to help advance the deep foundation industry through recognition of the inherent reliability of driven piles through their installation process. After all, a driven pile is a tested pile."
It's a time-honored phrase for a time-tested method of foundation construction.
