Summer Experience Blooms Brightly for College and University Students

It was quite a summer for the more than 260 college and university interns who participated in HNTB’s paid summer internship program. The HNTB interns from 140 colleges and universities, including HBCUs, had the opportunity to have hands-on, real-world experiences with our DOT and toll agency clients. They worked side-by side with professionals as they worked in various environments, including office settings, the field, and remotely.

At HNTB we know that the future of the transportation industry lies with the smart and talented students who are studying engineering, information technology, communications, finance, and construction. We understand that to grow and have a bright future for HNTB and for the success of our DOT and toll clients, we must be laser focused on the recruitment and retention of these talented individuals.

Tom O’Grady, HNTB Corporation’s president, said “HNTB’s organic growth strategy is working. We are adding the best talent in the industry to our already strong and talented employee base. Adding 1,000 people, one at a time, requires a tremendous team effort.”

HNTB’s internship program is designed to bridge the gap between the academic setting and the future work environment. It allows HNTB to provide students with valuable work-site experience, and it allows HNTB to evaluate potential talent, and build partnerships with academic programs and institutions.

This summer we are very proud of the fact that we were able to draw students from a diverse universe of colleges and universities, including HCBUs. We also take pride that 45 percent are women and 41 percent are minorities. Striving to create greater equity and to be more inclusive in our workforce is part of our core mission.

Lilian Carr, who is entering her senior year at Hampton University in Virginia said, “I truly enjoyed my experience this summer with HNTB and their clients—the Richmond Metropolitan Transportation Authority (RMTA) and the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority (MWAA). I learned how diverse communications and public engagement can be, furthering my knowledge and allowing me to expand on opportunities within my field. Working with the RMTA to create a social media strategy and strategic communications plan to enhance their overall brand awareness was exciting. Collating public comments and purchasing ads for the MWAA to inform and include the public in the toll setting process was eye opening. I particularly enjoyed building relationships with the professionals at RMTA, MWAA and HNTB. I am thankful to HNTB for such a rewarding experience and can’t wait to see what the future has in store.” 

HNTB recognizes the hard work and dedication of the 260 plus summer interns across the country. We thank them for their commitment. We know HNTB and the greater transportation industry are the true beneficiaries. Each student brings the promise of a vibrant future for greater and more equitable mobility.