After an extraordinary 53-year career in land surveying, Henry Kuehlem, RPLS, is retiring, leaving behind a legacy of excellence, leadership, and mentorship that spans both H.A. Kuehlem and Baseline | DCCM.
Henry’s journey began in 1972, when he joined Adams Land Survey Company in San Antonio, Texas, as a draftsman. He remained associated with the firm for years, gaining deep experience in boundary and rural land surveys across central and south Texas. Adams Land Survey Company, founded in 1921 by James C. Adams, was known for its extensive historical records and surveys dating back to the “horse and buggy days.”
In 1982, Henry founded the H.A. Kuehlem Survey Company, also based in San Antonio. From 1982 to 1989, the firm focused primarily on boundary surveys and right-of-way (ROW) widening surveys for the Bexar County Public Works Department. Over time, the company completed ROW surveys and Digital Terrain Models for more than 120 miles of roadways.
In February 1989, Henry acquired Adams Land Survey Company, continuing its legacy while expanding its capabilities. That same year, H.A. Kuehlem Survey Company secured a Professional Surveying Services Contract with TxDOT, leading to significant projects involving ROW surveys and GPS surveys for Photogrammetric Control across District 15.
Throughout his career, Henry demonstrated expertise in boundary, topographic, easement, and construction surveys, and he managed complex projects for both public and private clients. His leadership was instrumental in delivering high-impact projects such as:
- The SH 123 Bypass in Seguin
- The Slick Creek Drainage Improvements in San Antonio
- Numerous roadway and infrastructure surveys throughout the Austin-San Antonio corridor
Henry’s dedication to professional standards and education has been unwavering. He served as President of the Texas Society of Professional Surveyors (TSPS) and as Texas Director of the National Society of Professional Surveyors (NSPS) since 2013. He contributed to the 2020 TSPS Manual of Practice and taught for over 20 years as an instructor and Adjunct Professor for the Texas A&M Corpus Christi Field Camp II. In recognition of his commitment to mentoring future surveyors, Henry received the TSPS Eminent Educator of the Year Award.
When H.A. Kuehlem joined Baseline | DCCM in 2018, Henry continued to lead as Executive Vice President, guiding the integration of teams and the adoption of new technologies. His leadership helped Baseline | DCCM maintain its high standards and expand its reach across Texas.
Many of his family members have followed in his footsteps at Baseline | DCCM. Henry’s son, Brian, his grandson, Gaige, and Gaige’s wife, Erin, are all part of the Baseline | DCCM family. Today, three generations of Kuehlems are proudly carrying forward what Henry started back in 1981—a legacy that means a great deal to all of them, and one that Henry is deeply proud to see endure.
“Working for my dad has been one of the greatest privileges of my life,” said Brian Kuehlem, sUAS, Crew Chief at Baseline | DCCM. “He didn’t just teach me how to survey land—he taught me integrity, respect, and the importance of doing things the right way. Today, three generations of Kuehlems proudly carry forward what he started.”
Henry’s legacy is defined by his technical skill, ethical practice, and passion for teaching. He has shaped the careers of countless surveyors and elevated the profession through his work and mentorship.
As he retires, we celebrate Henry’s remarkable contributions and thank him for laying a strong foundation for future success at Baseline | DCCM.