1、 2016 Annual Report Dear Fellow Stockholders:2016 was a productive year for Exponent.During the year,we continued to grow revenues,produce good margins,maintain an active share repurchase program and increase our quarterly cash dividend.Total revenues for the year grew to$315,076,000 and revenues be
2、fore reimbursements reached$299,197,000.The revenue growth was tempered by a challenging year over year comparison in the first half of the year and softness in a few industry sectors,especially in oil and gas.During the second half of 2016,we began to see an increase in demand,especially for our ex
3、pertise in the consumer products and construction industry sectors.We generated$66.9 million in cash from operating activities,repurchased$24.5 million of common stock,paid dividends of$18.8 million and closed the year with$173.7 million in cash,cash equivalents and short-term investments.Our abilit
4、y to deliver solid results and maintain a healthy balance sheet amid softer market conditions speaks to the resilience of our model.After 50 years,the Exponent brand is growing globally,as illustrated by recent high-profile engagements with companies in the automotive industry for issues related to
5、unintended acceleration and airbags;in the consumer electronics industry for battery fires;and international construction disputes related to mines,gas terminals and power plants.In 2017,we will continue to leverage our experience and reputation in reactive services to drive growth and development o
6、f our proactive services globally.Although market conditions tempered our underlying growth in 2016,we remain confident in our value proposition.Our diversified portfolio of clients,world-class team of highly skilled professionals,unique market position and expanding international profile leave us w