HNTB Blog

From Command and Control to Client‑Focused Collaboration

After a distinguished career in the U.S. Air Force, Tiffany Marroquin brought her mission-driven mindset and leadership experience straight into her role at HNTB. As a former Senior Enlisted Advisor for Operations, Tiffany was responsible for the morale and welfare of over 110 personnel and oversaw critical mission areas including nuclear operations, emergency management, and communications. Her ability to lead under pressure and communicate with precision became second nature skills that now serve her well in the fast-paced world of infrastructure.

One of Tiffany’s most memorable moments in uniform involved coordinating a life-saving rescue after an aircraft distress call. Within minutes, she had gathered coordinates, activated emergency response teams, and helped save three lives at sea. “That experience reinforced the importance of precision, communication, and collaboration — qualities I continue to apply in my current role,” she says.

At HNTB, Tiffany found a familiar rhythm in the firm’s Career Professional Development (CPD) process, which mirrors the military’s structured approach to feedback and growth. “What stood out to me is that the process isn’t one-sided, it encourages open dialogue and shared responsibility for development,” she explains. “That collaborative approach reminded me of the mentorship culture I valued in the military.”

Tiffany also found alignment in HNTB’s culture of communication and teamwork. “From the very beginning, I felt welcomed and respected. There’s a genuine appreciation for the different backgrounds and experiences each person brings,” she says. “It feels very similar to the military, where everyone works toward a shared mission.”

Now over a year into her HNTB journey, Tiffany is thriving. “I found the right fit right away,” she shares. “The work is meaningful, the team is supportive, and I’m constantly learning. I like being challenged and having a voice in creating solutions.”

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Two 20-Year Careers Built on Leadership, Purpose, and People

Scott Fehnel’s journey from Army engineer officer to Central Division Delivery Officer at HNTB is a story of dedication, growth, and servant leadership. With two back-to-back 20-year careers, first in the U.S. Army and now at HNTB, Scott reflects on the privilege of leading soldiers in combat and the honor of working alongside talented professionals in infrastructure.

“I was very fortunate to have incredible Army bosses who gave me more latitude than I would have given myself, and amazing subordinates who taught me so much,” Scott shares. “We are all shaped by our experiences, and I’m one lucky guy.”

As an engineer officer, Scott rose from Second Lieutenant to Lieutenant Colonel, leading units of up to 1,000 soldiers in designing and constructing roads, bridges, airfields, and bases, often under combat conditions. “Leading soldiers in combat is an absolute privilege,” he says. “The responsibility is enormous, knowing that a single mistake could lead to casualties or mission failure.”

That sense of mission and accountability carried into his civilian career. Scott joined HNTB as a Task Leader in the Federal group and steadily advanced through roles as project manager, program manager, and leader of the Design Build Engineering Group. Today, as Central Division Delivery Officer, he continues to influence and mentor emerging leaders through Tiger Team engagements, project reviews, and daily collaboration.

“What’s kept me here for 20 years are great bosses, exciting projects, and incredibly talented people,” Scott says. “Working side-by-side with some of the best engineers, architects, and planners in the industry is inspiring and drives me to be better.”

Scott sees strong parallels between the Army and HNTB.

“Our Vision and Leadership Characteristics felt like home,” he explains. “Both organizations are mission-driven, focused on quality, timeliness, and client satisfaction. Whether it’s building a tactical runway or designing an interstate, the mindset is the same.”

His leadership philosophy, shaped by a pivotal moment early in his military career, centers on servant leadership.

“I learned that no leader is successful alone. Truly successful organizations are led by those who work for their staff, coaching, guiding, and making decisions that support the team.”

To veterans considering a civilian career, Scott offers this advice: “Understand that your new peers have been doing this from the start of their careers. You have a lot to learn, and they can learn a lot from you. Great leaders know which leadership style to use in each situation. Find an organization like HNTB that values your experience and gives you room to grow.”

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Engineering Excellence Rooted in Naval Service

John Binsse’s journey from the nuclear-powered engine room of the USS Harry S Truman to delivering infrastructure solutions at HNTB is a powerful example of how military experience translates into civilian success. As a Nuclear Machinist Mate Second Class Petty Officer, John served as Chief Machinery Operator, leading a watch team responsible for integrating nuclear-generated steam with the carrier’s propulsion and auxiliary systems. His role demanded precision, leadership, and a deep understanding of complex systems, all of which laid the foundation for his career at HNTB.

“The Navy taught me how to navigate both leadership and frontline operations,” John shares. “Understanding the chain of command and empowering people to make informed decisions are skills I use every day.”

John’s military experience instilled a systems-thinking mindset that aligns perfectly with his work in design and PMCM at HNTB. “In the nuclear power plant, every decision impacted multiple systems. That awareness helps me thrive in multi-disciplinary roles,” he explains.

What drew John to HNTB was the cultural alignment. “The Navy’s core values, Honor, Courage, Commitment, along with the Naval Nuclear Power Program’s emphasis on Knowledge, Integrity, and Excellence, seamlessly align with HNTB’s leadership characteristics,” he says. “Our sophisticated processes and commitment to continuous improvement felt familiar from day one.”

Now several years into his HNTB career, John continues to find purpose in the firm’s mission-driven work. “Our culture, people, clients, and projects keep me here,” he says. “HNTB offers structure, flexibility, and a strong support network. It’s a place where veterans can thrive.”

His advice to fellow veterans? “You may not have the exact technical skills at first, but your adaptability and initiative will carry you far. Find a mission-driven organization like HNTB, and you’ll feel right at home.”

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From Recon Marine to Infrastructure Leader

Matthew Hearn’s journey from the elite ranks of Marine Reconnaissance to leading teams at HNTB is a testament to the enduring power of purpose, resilience, and leadership. Enlisting in the Marine Corps in 1999, Matthew quickly rose through the ranks, serving in Kosovo, Afghanistan, and Iraq. His role in Recon, a unit tasked with deep reconnaissance, surveillance, and direct action, demanded not only physical endurance but also strategic thinking and unwavering teamwork.

“The most valuable experiences from my service weren’t technical,” Matthew shares. “They were psychological attributes, honor, adaptability, courage, and the ability to lead ordinary people to do extraordinary things.” These traits, forged through intense training and combat, now shape his leadership style at HNTB.

Matthew’s transition into civilian life wasn’t immediate, but he found a natural fit at HNTB. His first role as a program management project manager aligned with his military experience in solving complex organizational challenges. “Leadership and backwards planning, starting with the end in mind, are second nature to me,” he says. “Those skills translate directly into project delivery and team management.”

What stood out most to Matthew was HNTB’s culture.

“Our Vision and Leadership Characteristics feel very natural to me,” he explains. “Collaboration, accountability, and mission accomplishment resonate strongly with my military values.” He also appreciates how HNTB supports personal growth while maintaining high expectations. “The company saw my drive and gave me opportunities to make a difference.”

Now over six years into his HNTB career, Matthew continues to find purpose in building American infrastructure and serving communities. His advice to fellow veterans? “The mental transition takes time, years even. Give yourself space to decompress and learn civilian expectations. Find a mission-driven organization like HNTB, and you’ll rediscover that sense of purpose.”

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Leading with Purpose: From Army to HR Business Partner

Adrian’s 23-year career in the U.S. Army was defined by leadership, adaptability, and a deep commitment to people. Serving as a senior enlisted advisor to commanders and department chiefs, he led strategic operations across complex environments, built high-performing teams, and drove readiness with precision and empathy. Today, as an HR Business Partner (HRBP) at HNTB, Adrian continues that mission; supporting leaders, empowering teams, and fostering a culture of accountability and inclusion.

“What guided me toward the HRBP role was the strong alignment between my military responsibilities and the work I do now,” Adrian shares. “In the Army, I was responsible for developing talent, managing performance, and building unit cohesion. At HNTB, I get to do that in a new environment, with a new set of tools.”

Adrian’s leadership style was shaped early in his military career. Promoted into a leadership role without formal training, he learned the hard way that influence matters more than authority. “I directed, but I didn’t influence,” he recalls. “Once I connected the mission to what my team valued, everything changed. That experience taught me that real leadership is about understanding people and meeting them where they are.”

That lesson continues to guide Adrian’s work at HNTB. “I help leaders build trust, listen deeply, and create environments where people feel seen, supported, and empowered,” he says. “It’s not about command, it’s about connection.”

Adrian’s military background in Signal, Medical, and Human Resources gave him a unique ability to unite diverse teams around a shared purpose. “Success depended on finding common ground and motivating people toward a goal,” he explains. “That’s exactly what I do now—helping teams thrive under pressure and stay focused on long-term success.”

He also found HNTB’s structure and values familiar. “Structured planning, performance reviews, and leadership development frameworks all mirror the Army’s approach to readiness and growth,” Adrian says. “HNTB understands the power of purpose-driven work and the value of people who’ve lived it.”

His advice to fellow veterans? “Lean into your strengths. Your leadership experience is unmatched. Leave imposter syndrome behind, find a mentor, and take up space. And remember—selfless service must be balanced with self-care. You can’t pour into others if your own well-being is running dry.”

For Adrian, the transition to HNTB was more than a career move—it was a continuation of his mission. “I found a place where my values, experience, and leadership style weren’t just accepted—they’re celebrated. For any veteran considering HNTB: you belong here, and your service has prepared you more than you know.”

Ready to continue your mission in a new way?

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Career Opportunities in Nashville, Tennessee

At HNTB in Nashville, we’re helping shape the future of mobility in one of the fastest‑growing and most dynamic regions in the country. Rooted in a city known for creativity, culture and connection, our Nashville team is harnessing the power of collaboration and innovation to deliver transportation solutions that strengthen communities across Middle Tennessee and beyond. For more than a century, HNTB’s spark has connected people and places—and today, that legacy continues to grow in Nashville.

When you join HNTB, you are joining an employee-owned firm founded on the values of integrity, collaboration, personal accountability, respect for others, and the development of all employees. We encourage our employees to bring their whole and authentic selves to work, and provide them a meaningful, welcoming environment where they are valued, celebrated and respected.

With continued momentum and opportunity in the Nashville region, we’re seeking passionate individuals who want to help shape what’s next. If you’re ready to ignite your career with your spark of imagination and innovation, and be part of an expanding team in a city full of energy and opportunity, we invite you to explore a future with HNTB in Nashville.

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Career Opportunities in Utah

At HNTB, we are harnessing the power of collaboration and innovation to establish a new vision for the future of mobility across our country. For more than a century, HNTB’s spark has connected people and places, expanded opportunity, and left a lasting impact on our communities.

Right now, as we experience record growth, we’re seeking passionate individuals who want to shape the future. If you’re ready to ignite your career with your spark of imagination and innovation, then we invite you to explore a future with HNTB.

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Career Opportunities in Michigan

For more than a century, we’ve been helping connect people and places by designing and advancing transportation infrastructure. We work on some of the biggest, most complex and innovative projects in the state, from highways and bridges to transit and aviation.

HNTB is committed to delivering extraordinary value for our clients, communities and colleagues. When you join HNTB, you are joining an employee-owned firm founded on the values of integrity, collaboration, personal accountability, respect for others, and the development of all employees. We encourage our employees to bring their whole and authentic selves to work, provide them a meaningful, welcoming environment where they are valued, celebrated and respected.

Right now, as we experience record growth, we’re seeking passionate individuals who want to shape Michigan’s future. If you’re ready to ignite your career with your spark of imagination and innovation, then we invite you to explore a future with HNTB.

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Career Opportunities in Minnesota

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