HLR's Native Area Management Work Featured in APWA Magazine

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.

On February 19, employees from HLR's Elgin, Crystal Lake, Springfield, and Mt. Carmel offices gathered at the I Hotel and Illinois Conference Center in Champaign, IL for a day of learning, fun, giving back, and celebration. Since 2018, Hampton, Lenzini, and Renwick, Inc. (HLR) has hosted its annual All-Employee Meeting, bringing together employees from all its offices to celebrate the previous year’s achievements, plan for future success, have fun, and give back. "While our entire team works together across all offices, it’s rare that we are all together in the same place at the same time. It’s nice to put names to faces and enjoy each other's company," said one employee. After morning remarks from President and CEO Jeni Lyon, and presentations from employees and guests, the team completed a service project benefiting an organization called Enchanted Makeovers, specifically the Capes for Kids program. Enchanted Makeovers transforms long-term shelters for women and children into places of peace and possibility through their six core programs. According to Enchanted Makeovers, Capes for Kids is a simple yet life-changing program that has gone viral and is now being replicated worldwide. All capes created by the HLR team will be donated to Enchanted Makeovers to distribute to kids in shelters that they support. For more information on Enchanted Makeovers and their wonderful programs, please visit enchantedmakeovers.org . The team wrapped up the afternoon with games and camaraderie to celebrate a successful year, our new Elgin office, and being recognized as the number one 2023 A/E/C Employer of Choice® by PSMJ Resources, Inc., the leading business management consultancy in the architecture and engineering industry worldwide. This award recognizes firms that have mastered workforce retention and productivity by achieving the highest level of employee engagement.