Infrastructure Engineering Inc. is excited to announce the appointment of Mr. David Robbins, M.S., as Vice President, Aviation Business Practice Lead. Based in IEI’s Houston office, Robbins will lead the firm’s growth in the aviation sector, building on IEI’s legacy of innovation and excellence in landside and airside infrastructure.
Michael Sutton, PE, Founder and CEO of IEI, offered, “David is an outstanding addition to our team. His years of experience with developing and managing infrastructure projects related to runways, terminals and resiliency align perfectly with our vision for growth. His leadership will be pivotal in transforming the aviation landscape and driving continued innovation at IEI.”
Robbins joins IEI with an extensive portfolio of work in aviation infrastructure, resiliency, sustainability, and energy management, contributing to major landside and airside projects across Texas, Illinois, and Michigan. Robbins holds a Master of Science in Interdisciplinary Technology with dual concentrations in Aviation Management and Emergency Management from Eastern Michigan University.
Most recently, Robbins served as the Director of Infrastructure/Resiliency for the Houston Airport System (HAS), where he led the First Airport Resilience Master Plan in the National Airspace System (NAS), addressing the alignment of Bush Intercontinental and Hobby International Airports and Ellington Spaceport with 100 Resilient Cities and C40 Protocol. While at HAS, Robbins secured the first and only FAA grant for a master plan effort of this nature.
Over his 16-year tenure with the Chicago Department of Aviation, Robbins ascended to the role of Assistant Commissioner, where he led several key initiatives of the O’Hare (ORD) Modernization Program to enhance the critical infrastructure at ORD. Notably, he served as Senior Project Manager for the $1.3B North Airfield Project, which involved the design and construction of Runway 9L/27R and Runway 9C/27C East and the North Airfield Bridge Program. Robbins also played key roles in successfully delivering the design of the Runway 9R extension, the FBO Relocation, the 144” System E Storm Sewer design/construction, the Willow Higgins Creek Relocation, and the North Basin Reservoir expansion.
In his new role, Robbins will focus on expanding IEI’s involvement in aviation infrastructure, strengthening partnerships with existing clients and pursuing new opportunities in the sector. His goal is to position IEI as a trusted partner for solving the most critical engineering challenges in aviation, while growing the division’s capabilities and team.
“I was drawn to IEI’s strategic leadership and strong growth track record,” Robbins said. “I’m excited to help lead the expansion of IEI’s aviation division, providing exceptional service to existing and new clients and growing the team into an industry leader.”