News

The month of March is designated as Women’s History Month and coincides with International Women’s Day on March 8. It was created to highlight the contributions of women to events in history and contemporary society.

IEI joins in the celebration of National Women’s History month to recognize the monumental impact that women have made across the globe (and at IEI) in a variety of fields, particularly related to science and engineering. The 2023 Women’s History Month theme is “Celebrating Women Who Tell Our Stories.”

In 1946, Hattie Scott Peterson was the first African American woman in the U.S. to earn a degree in civil engineering. She graduated from Howard University with a B.S. in Civil Engineering, started her career with the US Geological Survey and then succeeded on to become the first African American woman engineer in the US Army Corp of Engineers (USACE). She was a pioneer in working with flood risk reduction projects in California.

Peterson was an advocate for women pursuing engineering careers. When she passed in 1993, she left an endowment for Howard University in her and her husband’s names. She is a woman who created a legacy of inspiration and opportunity for women and people of color.

IEI looks to the example of visionaries like Peterson and creates opportunities for new generations to tell their stories through their work. We are committed to enhancing gender diversity in the AEC industry and are proud of the contributions that women make to the success of our firm!

For more information about Women’s History Month, visit womenshistorymonth.gov

Infrastructure Engineering, Inc. (IEI) is excited to announce the promotion of Sonya Jordan as the firm’s Human Resources Director.

“As a key partner in the firm’s strategic growth, our HR Director is the driving force in administering and cultivating IEI’s most critical asset, our human capital. Sonya’s qualifications and dedication coupled with her knowledge of the organization and positive working relationship with IEI’s staff made her the best choice to lead this department,” commented Kashif Khan, PE, President of IEI.

Sonya originally joined IEI March 2022 in the role of Senior HR Generalist and assumed the Deputy Human Resources Director role in August where she proved her capabilities to lead the department.

In her role as Director, she will be spearheading the Human Resources segment of the firm’s national strategy, while managing IEI’s essential HR functions, including planning and administration, recruitment, performance management, and growth and organizational development.

Ms. Jordan holds a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Social Science from Governor’s State University, she has a Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR) Certification and she completed the Professional in Human Resources Program with DePaul University.  She is based out of the firm’s Corporate Chicago Office.

 

Infrastructure Engineering Inc. and Affiliates (IEI) is pleased to share that Mr. Paul Ajegba, PE, has joined IEI as a Senior Vice President to oversee planning of the firm’s national, corporate growth strategy and lead operations and business development in our Detroit, Michigan office.

“Paul brings a level of leadership and industry experience that is an invaluable resource to our firm and our clients,” offered Michael Sutton, PE, IEI’s CEO. “His skilled management of the investments made to grow Michigan’s infrastructure, and his ideation of the barrier-shattering Chief Officer of Culture, Equity, and Inclusion position at MDOT are great examples of the vision and action Paul will bring to IEI. We are honored that he has joined the IEI team and excited for the future of our firm under his leadership.”

Paul’s illustrious engineering career started in the private sector of the infrastructure industry and was followed by more than 32 years with the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT). He has successfully managed and delivered the design and construction of complex projects pertaining to highways, bridges, transit, aviation, and marine and port activities. In January 2019, Michigan’s Governor, Gretchen Whitmer appointed Paul as Director of MDOT, where he provided leadership, strategy, and direction of the Department’s $5 billion transportation program.

“IEI’s Detroit office opened less than two years ago. In that short time, the firm has demonstrated their capacity for solving engineering challenges and their commitment to supporting the growth of Michigan’s vital infrastructure. IEI has been steadily growing their presence in Detroit and the surrounding communities by delivering infrastructure projects that align with the firm’s values and support local vibrancy. I am confident with this team that in a couple of years, we will look back and see that much has been done. We aim to be one of the leading firms in Michigan.” Paul is known for regularly sharing one of his favorite quotes – “The cynics may be the loudest voices – but I promise you, they will accomplish the least.” (Barack Obama)

Both nationally, and locally, Paul is active in many professional organizations that demonstrate his dedication to the civil engineering profession and his commitment to creating impactful infrastructure. He has served as Chair of the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) Council of Public Transportation, as well as the Civil and Environmental Engineering Friends Association with Michigan University. He is also a proud member of the Engineering Society of Detroit, National Academy of Construction, and The Conference of Minority Transportation Officials (COMTO), to name a few.

Paul’s career trajectory has been recognized throughout the industry. In 2017 he received the Conference of Minority Transportation Official Public Agency Executive of the Year Award, and in 2010 he received the Ann Arbor Transportation Authority Leadership Award (AAATA). He also received the Woodward Avenue Action Association Board Leadership Award and MDOT Director’s Award in the Professional Supervisory Category.

Paul is a Registered Professional Engineer in the state of Michigan and has received his Master of Science in Construction Engineering from the University of Michigan and his Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from Prairie View A&M University.

As a majority African American-owned firm, IEI highlights Black History Month in honor of the undeniable and influential contributions of black men and women in the history of our country. During the month of February, we reflect on our difficult history, celebrate the contributions and achievements of African Americans, and aspire to create change for a future where the ideals of freedom, liberty, and justice for all are a reality – for all.

The 2023 Black History Month theme is Black Resistance. This theme explores how African Americans have resisted historic and ongoing oppression. It calls us to resist acts of discrimination and racism and become advocates for equity.

IEI looks to be an agent of change as we create and build the vital infrastructure to generate pathways for equity and equality in the communities where we work.  We also strive to support fellow minority-owned firms through teaming and mentorship efforts. And through the philanthropy of the Infrastructure Engineering Foundation, we support the educational institutions and community/civic organizations that impact equity by creating opportunities for generational change.

For more information about Black History Month, visit www.blackhistorymonth.gov.

Dr. King’s legacy is a testament to the promise of this country, one rooted in the inalienable rights of mankind and a commitment to freedom from persecution. May his mission of justice continue to challenge us and inspire us to meet the struggles of our own time with courage and love. He gave us the map and now it’s up to all of us, as a community, to continue to transform his dream into a reality. Today, let us all reflect on what we can do to bring Dr. King’s “Beloved Community” into being.

Infrastructure Engineering, Inc. (IEI) is pleased to announce that Drew Barth, PE, has been promoted to Design Group Manager in our Indianapolis, Indiana office.

In his role as Design Group Manager, Mr. Barth will lead the efforts of Indiana’s design team, mentor the next generation of IEI engineers, and share knowledge of industry standards and best practices.

Mr. Barth brings more than 20 years of civil engineering experience, and has proven himself as a highly skilled, innovative, and knowledgeable engineer. A team player focused on client-centered delivery, Drew is known for his collaborative approach and innovative solutions, as well as commitment to IEI’s culture.

“Drew embodies our company’s core values of integrity, excellence, and ingenuity. He has consistently demonstrated his commitment to project delivery and exceeds our client’s expectations. We are proud to have him lead our Indiana Design Group as our office continues to grow and take on new business,” added Alex Kline, PE, Indiana Operations Manager.

Mr. Barth received his Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering and Bachelor of Science in Land Survey from Purdue University in West Lafayette, Indiana. He also is a graduate of the American Council of Engineering Companies (ACEC) Emerging Leadership Program, serves on the ACEC Indiana Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) committee, and is an inaugural American Society of Highway Engineers (ASHE) member.

Infrastructure Engineering Inc. welcomes Mr. John E. Adams, CPA, who joined the Finance and Accounting Department as Controller.  John is an experienced financial and administrative manager with over 40 years of success highlighting a diverse background in problem solving and team building skills. Among John’s many achievements, is his leadership role as the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) for over 15 years for the Rainbow Push Coalition.

John was recently included on Crain’s Chicago Business 2022 List of Notable Black Leaders and Executives for his important work in founding the Bronzeville Trail Task Force, which is leading the initiative to convert the old Kenwood Line elevated-train embankment into a multi-purpose recreational trail in the historic Bronzeville neighborhood.

We are excited to have John join IEI and we look forward to him applying his financial and administrative management skills in support of our continued success and growth.

Infrastructure Engineering, Inc. (IEI) is pleased to welcome Mr. Edward (Ed) Andrews, PE, MSCE, to our Peoria, IL office as Operations Manager.

With a 30-year career trajectory delivering infrastructure projects for municipal, state, and federal agencies in and around Peoria, Mr. Andrews brings an unparalleled engineering expertise in the region to IEI. His portfolio includes projects that span the planning, design, and construction of large-scale highway, water management, and sewer systems. He has served as a Resident Engineer and has acted as a liaison between municipalities, design engineers, and general contractors to provide value engineering and efficient resolution of construction issues.

“We are very excited to have a person with Ed’s experience and strong local ties lead our Peoria office.  He will help IEI strengthen our existing relationships and establish new ones allowing us to have a greater positive impact on the communities where we work and live.” added Ken Smorynski, Vice President of IEI in Illinois.

Mr. Andrews is known for his collaborative approach, which he applies when overseeing the intricacies of project-specific zoning and permitting, where he excels at creating the best possible outcomes for both the project owner and the involved communities.

“IEI is committed to serving our partners and growing our capabilities in Central Illinois. Ed’s extensive industry experience is an asset to IEI and our clients as we work towards the future.  Under Ed’s leadership, we are confident that our Peoria office will make significant contributions to the local infrastructure in ways that positively impact the surrounding communities,” commented Kashif Khan, PE, President of IEI.

Mr. Andrews received his Master of Science in Civil Engineering from Bradley University in Peoria, Illinois, and his Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from the University of Missouri in Rolla, Missouri.

IEI recognizes several of our female engineers in our workforce during this International Women in Engineering Day. IEI is committed to enhancing gender diversity in the AEC industry and is proud of the contributions that women make to the success of our firm!

Infrastructure Engineering Inc. (IEI) is excited to announce the promotion of Alexander Kline, P.E. to Operations Manager, Indianapolis. In addition to overseeing project and program management for our clients, Alex will now be responsible for leading all members of the Indianapolis team and spearheading business development efforts throughout the geographic market.

“Alex is a key contributor to the success and growth that our Indianapolis office has experienced in recent years.  He brings a wealth of experience to this role, having delivered several high-profile projects in his time at IEI.  We are excited to have him lead the Indy office in its next phase,” states IEI President, Kashif Khan.

Alex originally joined IEI’s Chicago office in June 2012 as a Design Engineer.  After transferring to our Indianapolis office, Alex progressed in his career with a promotion to Project Engineer and then to Project Manager. Throughout his tenure with IEI, Alex has excelled at meeting client expectations and has played an integral role in creating a positive workplace culture in the Indy office.

“I am thrilled to have the opportunity to lead the Indianapolis office and help this office thrive and grow to serve both the community and clients in this market. We have a great team of professionals, that are hard workers and live by IEI’s core values (Integrity, Excellence, Ingenuity),” commented Alex.

We look forward to Alex applying his leadership skills in further developing the Indianapolis team. His promotion is a testament to the talent of our incredible staff who make it possible for IEI to honor our commitment to invest in and promote people from within our organization.