News & Insights

We are thrilled to announce that Michael Rolla III, son of Springfield Project Manager Michael Rolla, has been awarded this year's HLR Scholarship! Michael is currently a senior at Southern Illinois University Carbondale (SIUC), where he is pursuing a degree in civil engineering with a specialization in structural engineering. His academic journey has been marked by exceptional achievement, consistently earning him a place on the Dean's List.  Beyond his academic success, Michael is deeply committed to his community. He regularly volunteers and has gained valuable hands-on experience as an engineering intern. Balancing part-time work during the school year with full-time internships over the summer, Michael exemplifies dedication and hard work. Looking ahead, Michael plans to further his education by pursuing a master's degree in structural engineering at SIUC, solidifying his foundation in this critical field. Michael shared his thoughts prior to receiving the HLR Scholarship: "This scholarship would be an investment in my future, allowing me to, like HLR, continue to work hard, have fun, and give back. It will enable me to excel academically, enjoy my time, and make meaningful contributions to civil engineering and my community." Congratulations, Michael! We wish you continued success in all your future achievements!

We are thrilled to announce that Hampton Lenzini and Renwick, Inc. (HLR) has been recognized as one of the 2024 Best Places to Work by the Illinois Society of Professional Engineers (ISPE)! This award is a testament to our commitment to creating an exceptional employee experience for our team. The ISPE's Best Places to Work – Engineer Edition award is determined based on comprehensive employee surveys that assess key factors such as benefits, corporate culture, team effectiveness, meaningful work, and career development opportunities. Our team provided feedback through an anonymous survey, evaluating various aspects of their work experience. ISPE then ranked participating engineering employers, focusing on how well they address the needs and expectations of their employees. Awards were given to firms in various categories, including Large Firms, Small Firms, Aerospace, Education and Research, Government, Manufacturing, Technology, Telecommunications, Utilities, and Other. At HLR, we strive to maintain an environment where our employees can thrive both professionally and personally. Being named a Best Place to Work highlights our dedication to excellence and our ongoing efforts to support and develop our talented team. Thank you to our amazing employees whose hard work and dedication made this achievement possible. We look forward to continuing to build on this success and welcoming new talent to our award-winning team. For more information about the Illinois Society of Professional Engineers, visit the ISPE website .

PSMJ Resources, Inc., the global leader in business management data and guidance for architects and engineers, has named Hampton Lenzini and Renwick, Inc. (HLR) a 2024 AEC Employer of Choice®, the industry’s premier recognition of firms that have mastered workforce retention and productivity by achieving the highest level of employee engagement.

Hampton, Lenzini, and Renwick, Inc. (HLR) recently welcomed a group of twelve local high school students for a week-long internship. During this program, the students explored various departments within the company and gained practical, hands-on experience in the field. This immersive internship offered students invaluable insights into many aspects of civil engineering and provided a preview of the potential rewards of a career in this field. Topics covered included traffic engineering, materials testing, CAD/corridor modeling, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), water/wastewater engineering, design engineering, construction engineering, environmental engineering, structural engineering, and land surveying. The internships were organized through a collaboration between the Alignment Collaborative for Education and leaders from School Districts U-46, 300, and 301. Alignment is a collective impact organization comprising business and community leaders working alongside U-46 to support district priorities. One of Alignment's key initiatives, the "A-Team" committee, is dedicated to promoting college and career pathways for all U-46 high school students, aiming to create a qualified workforce that is eager to live and work in their local communities. Reflecting on his experience, intern Yandel G. said, "It was an awesome week with HLR, followed by another week at Judson, including visits to Risepointe and Anguleris. Both weeks helped align my goals with what I learned and envision for my future." Each summer, students can engage in internships provided by Alignment's business and community partners, making these valuable experiences possible. These internships are proudly sponsored by Kane County Region 110 CTE Programs, Elgin Township, and local host employers, including Judson University and WT Group. Hampton, Lenzini, and Renwick, Inc. (HLR) is honored to offer these enriching learning opportunities, helping to shape the next generation of engineers, scientists, and surveyors!

The HLR Roadrunners made an enthusiastic return to the court on June 6th, participating in the Rieke Interiors 13th Annual R-Games for Chair-ity. This unique event features chair volleyball at the Rieke Interiors headquarters in Elgin, IL, bringing teams together to support Easterseals DuPage & Fox Valley’s Positioning and Mobility Clinic . The clinic's essential work in customizing wheelchairs and adapting equipment empowers children with disabilities to live more independent lives. The competition was fierce, with numerous volleys, expert chair maneuvers, and strategic plays. Though we didn’t take home the trophy (six brand-new Eurotech office chairs), the camaraderie and joy of supporting such a meaningful cause made every moment worthwhile. A big thank you to Rieke Interiors for hosting this wonderful event! For all your office interior needs, visit www.rieke.com . Proudly 100% women-owned, Rieke Interiors is dedicated to building spaces that foster community and inspiration.

Elgin Area Leadership Academy (EALA) class of 2023-24 at the graduation ceremony held at Elgin Community College on Saturday, May 4, 2024.

Southern Illinois University Edwardsville (SIUE) addresses the critical shortage of land surveyors in Illinois and beyond with its new Surveying and Geomatics bachelor's degree program. In civil engineering and various infrastructure development industries, land surveyors play an important role in guiding projects forward. However, despite their vital contribution, there is a shortage of land surveyors across Illinois and the wider United States. Approved by the Illinois Board of Higher Education in 2023, Southern Illinois University Edwardsville (SIUE) introduced the new Surveying and Geomatics (BS) bachelor’s degree program with support from industry partners and leaders. This program is the only one of its kind within a 400-mile radius of St. Louis, MO. Driving the development of this program is the increased demand for skilled surveyors. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 5% growth trajectory through 2032, translating to a need for over 2,300 proficient professionals over the next decade. What sets SIUE’s program apart is its comprehensive approach, a cross-campus collaboration with the Department of Geography, graduating "super surveyors" adept in both 2D and 3D spaces. Graduates of the program can pursue careers as Professional Land Surveyors, Drone Pilots/Aerial Mappers, Hydrology Surveyors, Urban Planners/Business Owners, and GIS Specialists/Geospatial Analysts, or Cartographers. As a dedicated Founding Partner of this exciting new program, Hampton, Lenzini, and Renwick, Inc. looks forward to inspiring future surveyors and geospatial professionals, as well as contributing to the growth of career opportunities within this dynamic field. Becoming a supporting partner of the program unlocks a wide array of benefits, from named scholarships nurturing the next generation of talent to speaking engagements with students and year-round recognition. Interested in contributing to the growth and sustainability of the Surveying and Geomatics Program? Please contact Mrs. Lisa Smith, Director of Development, School of Engineering, at lsmitag@siue.edu or (618) 650-5186 before the participation commitment deadline of August 1, 2024.

Hampton, Lenzini and Renwick, Inc. (HLR) is proud to congratulate Nick Piekarski on being named the American Council of Engineering Companies of Illinois 2024 Emerging Professional of the Year! The Emerging Professional of the Year Award honors dedication and community impact, recognizing individuals who have contributed to the profession, the American Council of Civil Engineering Companies of Illinois, and society. This year, that honor has been bestowed upon Nick Piekarski, a shining example of dedication and passion within the industry. Nick's journey in the world of civil engineering began over a decade ago when he joined Hampton, Lenzini, and Renwick, Inc. (HLR) as an intern. Graduating from the University of Dayton with a bachelor's degree in civil engineering, he swiftly transitioned into a full-time role at HLR. Over the years, Nick's career trajectory has been nothing short of remarkable. From his early days as an intern to his current position as Project Manager and Officer at the firm, he has continually exemplified excellence. Nick boasts an impressive array of credentials, including licensures as a Professional Engineer (P.E.) across multiple states, certification as a Floodplain Manager, and Designated Erosion Control Inspector (DECI). However, it's not just his technical acumen that sets him apart; it's his involvement in shaping HLR's strategic vision, nurturing its culture, and his commitment to giving back to both the profession and the community. At HLR, Nick is a driving force behind the firm's strategic initiatives and cultural values. He actively participates in mentorship programs, both as a mentor and a mentee, nurturing the next generation of engineering talent. Beyond the office, Nick is deeply engaged in community service, volunteering his time for various projects and initiatives. His involvement with organizations like the Elgin Area Leadership Academy underscores his dedication to fostering community leadership and understanding. One of Nick's most impactful contributions is his work with School District U-46 and its Alignment Collaborative for Education. By coordinating high school internship programs and mentoring students, he is actively shaping the future of the engineering profession. His passion for his work is infectious, inspiring those around him to strive for excellence and to make a positive impact wherever they go. As a member of both the ACEC Illinois Engineering Excellence Awards and ACEC Emerging Professionals committees, Nick remains deeply invested in shaping the future of the engineering profession. The Emerging Professional of the Year Award serves as a fitting tribute to Nick's unyielding dedication and exemplary leadership. He embodies the core values of HLR, encapsulating HLR's " WORK HARD • HAVE FUN • GIVE BACK® " culture in every endeavor. As we celebrate Nick's achievements, we also celebrate the bright future of civil engineering, guided by passionate individuals like him. Congratulations to Nick and his fellow nominees for their outstanding contributions to the field.