Nick Piekarski Named ACEC-IL 2024 Emerging Professional of the Year

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.

Nick Piekarski, PE, accepts the 2024 Emerging Professional of the Year award at the ACEC-IL Engineering Excellence Awards Gala on Thursday, February 22, 2024 at the Hyatt Regency O'Hare Chicago.

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Sparking Curiosity: HLR Inspires Future Engineers at the U-46 Explore Event

By HLR • October 7, 2025

Hampton, Lenzini and Renwick, Inc. (HLR) was proud to once again take part in the School District U-46 Explore event at NOW Arena in Hoffman Estates on October 1–2. This annual career and curriculum expo gives students an early look at a wide range of professions—from engineering and manufacturing to healthcare, information technology, business, and more—and our team was thrilled to help bring those possibilities to life. Hosted by School District U-46 in partnership with the Alignment Collaborative for Education , the Explore event welcomes more than 2,500 eighth-grade students from eight local middle schools. Through interactive exhibits and demonstrations, students get hands-on exposure to career pathways that match their interests and skills. The Alignment Collaborative, a local nonprofit, plays a key role in connecting community partners and supporting the district’s educational initiatives. Before attending, students use SchooLinks—a digital college and career planning platform—to identify the pathways that align with their personal strengths. With guidance from counselors, they select specific areas to focus on during the event, ensuring each student’s experience is both intentional and engaging. Representing the Manufacturing, Engineering, Technology, and Trades pathway, HLR joined more than 60 local businesses, industries, government agencies, and nonprofits. Our booth featured a crowd favorite—the augmented reality (AR) sandbox. This interactive 3D tool lets students shape and mold the sand to create their own topographic maps, which are instantly projected in vivid color. When they simulate rainfall, they can watch how water flows through the elevations they’ve built—making concepts like mapping, topography, and watershed behavior come alive. The HLR team had a great time sharing our passion for engineering and connecting with students, parents, and U-46 staff throughout the event. We’re grateful for opportunities like Explore that help young minds see how creativity, technology, and problem-solving come together in engineering—and we look forward to inspiring even more future engineers in the years to come.

Congratulations Addison Ridgely - HLR's 2025 Scholarship Recipient

By HLR • August 19, 2025

We are proud to recognize Addison Ridgely , daughter of Vice President Austin Ridgely , as the recipient of this year’s HLR Scholarship! Addison recently graduate d from Richland County High School with outstanding achievements. She earned the distinction of valedictorian, was named an Illinois State Scholar, and received the College Board National Rural & Small Town Award. Throughout all four years, she maintained the highest academic honors, a testament to her dedication and hard work. In addition to her academic excellence, Addison was deeply involved in extracurricular activities. She participated in ILMEA, Tri-M, Scholar Bowl, and student council, while also sharing her musical talents through marching band, pep band, jazz band, and honors wind ensemble. Outside of school, she demonstrated her versatility by competing in taekwondo and on the swim team. Her wide range of hobbies includes 3D modeling and printing, sewing, reading, cooking, botany, and snow skiing. This fall, Addison will take the next step in her academic journey by pursuing a degree in biomedical engineering at Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology in Terre Haute, Indiana. Reflecting on this milestone, Addison shared: “I am very thankful for the role modeling I have received and feel blessed that my family has encouraged me to work hard, have fun, and give back. There is no doubt these words will live within me for the rest of my life and for that I am thankful.” Please join us in congratulating Addison on her many accomplishments. We are excited to see all that she will achieve in the years ahead!

HLR Named #1 AEC Employer of Choice® for 2025 by PSMJ Resources, Inc.

By HLR • July 22, 2025

PSMJ Resources, Inc., the global leader in business management data and guidance for architects and engineers, has named Hampton Lenzini and Renwick, Inc. (HLR) 2025 AEC Employer of Choice®, the industry’s premier recognition of firms that have mastered workforce retention and productivity by achieving the highest le