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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Nick Halan Named 2025 Zweig Rising Star in the AEC Industry

By HLR • May 13, 2025

We’re excited to share that HLR’s own Nick Halan, PE, PTOE, Project Engineer, has been named a 2025 Rising Star in the AEC Industry by Zweig Group —a national recognition that celebrates emerging leaders who are making a lasting impact in the architecture, engineering, and construction industry. This award honors professionals who demonstrate exceptional technical expertise, leadership, community involvement, and a forward-thinking approach to the future of our industry—and Nick checks all those boxes and more. At HLR, Nick leads with innovation and purpose. His work spans traffic studies, signal design, and Signal Coordination and Timing (SCAT) plans, as well as advancing our Intelligent Transportation System (ITS) design capabilities. He’s also been instrumental in sustainability efforts at HLR, including the implementation of an EV charging station and solar panels at our former headquarters—now home to our survey and environmental garage/office—initiatives that helped HLR earn a 2024 Engineering Excellence Award from the American Council of Engineering Companies of Illinois. But it’s not just what Nick does—it’s how he does it. He’s a founding member of both HLR’s Young Professionals Group and the Young Professionals Group at the Elgin Area Chamber of Commerce, a mentor to interns, an advocate for STEM outreach, and a dedicated volunteer in the local community. Whether he’s mentoring scouts on their path to Eagle rank or inspiring students at a career expo with his interactive augmented reality sandbox, Nick is all in—investing in people, education, and the future of our industry. Nick also plays a strategic role in shaping the future of HLR by bringing insight and energy to key initiatives and conversations that move our company forward. Please join us in congratulating Nick on this well-deserved recognition. We’re proud to work alongside emerging leaders like him who are not only shaping infrastructure—but shaping what it means to lead. Read more about Nick in his profile on Civil + Structural Engineer Media — click here .

Serving Up Smiles: HLR Roadrunners Return for R-Games for Chair-ity

By HLR • April 11, 2025

The HLR Roadrunners were back in action on April 10, taking part in the 14th Annual R-Games for Chair-ity hosted by Rieke Interiors at their Elgin headquarters. This spirited event transforms traditional volleyball into a seated showdown, all in support of a great cause— Easterseals DuPage & Fox Valley’s Positioning and Mobility Clinic . The clinic plays a critical role in helping children with disabilities gain greater independence through customized mobility solutions and adaptive equipment. The games were filled with energy, teamwork, and more than a few impressive chair maneuvers. While the trophy slipped through our fingers this time, the real win was contributing to a mission that changes lives. We’re grateful to Rieke Interiors for bringing the community together once again for a fun-filled day of friendly competition and charitable giving. Check them out at www.rieke.com —a 100% women-owned company designing spaces that inspire connection and creativity.

Airport Road Detention Basin Retrofit Earns APWA Fox Valley Branch 2025 Public Works Project of the Year Award

By HLR • January 9, 2025

Hampton, Lenzini, and Renwick, Inc. (HLR) is proud to announce that the City of Elgin's Airport Road Detention Basin Retrofit project has been recognized with a 2025 Public Works Project of the Year Award by the American Public Works Association (APWA) Fox Valley Branch. This award celebrates excellence in the management, administration, and implementation of public works projects by recognizing the alliance between the managing agency, the engineer, and the contractor who work together to complete public works projects. The project, completed in partnership with the City of Elgin and contractor Martam Construction, Inc., transformed an outdated, concrete-lined detention basin into a naturalized stormwater facility that enhances water quality and supports ecological health. Innovative Green Infrastructure Historically, untreated stormwater runoff from the basin could carry pollutants directly into the Fox River, contributing to water quality challenges. The retrofit replaced the concrete channel with a meandering flow path and native vegetation designed to slow water flow, filter pollutants, and provide habitat for local wildlife. Additional features, such as sedimentation zones and a plunge pool, further optimize pollutant capture and water quality. Sustainability and Climate Resilience The project introduced over 60 species of drought- and flood-resistant native plants, creating a resilient ecosystem capable of withstanding extreme weather conditions and minimizing long-term maintenance. These improvements align with the City of Elgin’s Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) permit goals, demonstrating a forward-thinking approach to sustainable stormwater management. Collaboration, Success, and Community Benefits HLR worked closely with the City of Elgin and Martam Construction, Inc. to design, permit, and construct the retrofit. Rigorous planning and commitment to sustainability ensured the project’s success. The reconstructed basin has become a valuable asset for the local community, offering enhanced aesthetics, opportunities for wildlife observation, and the beauty of dynamic seasonal changes in the plant communities. Adjacent stakeholders have praised the project for its environmental stewardship, particularly with the removal of dense brush that previously limited visibility. The Airport Road Detention Basin Retrofit showcases how public works projects can address immediate environmental needs while preparing for future climate challenges. HLR is honored to have collaborated with the City of Elgin to deliver a solution that improves the detention basin, supports biodiversity, and benefits the community for years to come. The award will be officially presented during the 2025 Fox Valley Branch Awards Luncheon on Tuesday, February 11, 2025, at the Bartlett Hills Golf Club & Banquets in Bartlett, IL.