Category: Aviation & Aerospace

Meet Laura Tatem: Bringing a Wealth of Audit & Aviation Expertise to HPM

Posted on April 29, 2025

HPM’s Audit & Advisory team recently added Laura Tatem, Senior Associate Auditor to their team. With a deep background in both external and internal auditing – especially within the aviation industry – we sat down with Tatem to learn more about her career journey, standout projects, and what she’s looking forward to in this new chapter. 

Can you tell us about your career and previous experience working with airports and audits? 

“I started my career in public accounting, focusing on external audits for construction companies, government entities, and non-profits in Virginia and Florida. Eventually, I transitioned into Internal Audit and spent 11 years leading the audit department at Tampa International Airport (TPA). 

During my time at TPA, I became very involved in the aviation industry, attending and contributing to conferences and meetings with organizations such as the American Association of Airport Executives, Airports Council International, the Florida Airports Council, and the Association of Airport Internal Auditors. It was an incredible experience that really shaped my professional path.” 

What are some projects you’ve worked on that you’re most proud of? 

“My favorite projects—whether in external or internal auditing—have always been those centered around construction. I loved visiting job sites, seeing how funds were being used, and observing the construction methods firsthand. At TPA, I was fortunate to walk through many impressive sites and collaborate with contractors across various initiatives. 

Some of the standout projects for me include the construction of the Rental Car Facility, the automated train connecting it to the main terminal, and the new airport office building. These projects were not only complex and rewarding but also a lot of fun to be part of.” 

What are you most looking forward to in your new role with HPM? 

“I’m really excited about focusing solely on construction in my role at HPM. I see this as a great opportunity to continue learning, deepen my expertise, and work alongside a talented team. I’m energized by the projects ahead and the people I’ll be working with.”  

Laura’s extensive credentials include Certified Public Accountant (CPA), Certified Internal Auditor (CIA), Certified Government Auditing Professional (CGAP), Certification in Risk Management Assurance (CRMA) and AAAE Certified Member (CM). 

In addition, she is a graduate of both Tampa Connection and Leadership Tampa and was named one of the Tampa Bay Business Journal’s 40 Under 40 Award recipients. 

Outside of her work with audit and aviation, Laura is a passionate animal advocate and currently serves on the board of the Humane Society of Tampa Bay. At home, she has three dogs and a 24-year-old turtle.  

HPM is thrilled to welcome Laura to the team. Reach out to our Audit & Advisory group to learn more about our services and how our expertise can serve your next project.  

Aviation Construction: Overcoming Industry Challenges

Posted on April 24, 2025

Aviation construction in 2025 presents unique challenges that require specialized expertise, strategic planning, and proactive problem-solving. From supply chain disruptions to regulatory compliance and cost assurance, these projects demand a level of precision and adaptability. 

If your team is planning an aviation construction project in the coming year, here are some top considerations and first-hand experiences from HPM Senior Program Managers Alan Butler and Stewart Nobles. With extensive combined experience working on aviation and airport projects, the two share insights that will keep projects on track.  

Navigating Supply Chain Challenges in Aviation: Expect the Unexpected 

Supply chain disruptions are not exclusive to aviation, but the industry’s reliance on highly specialized equipment intensifies the impact. New tariffs are anticipated to pose challenges in cost and supply chain over time. When working with international suppliers, it’s important to anticipate possible delays and have a plan of action in mind if it’s clear they will affect your project deadlines. 

“Instead of assuming everything will go perfectly, we design with contingencies in mind—what are the impact/options if that equipment delivery is delayed?” Nobles said.  

The Importance of Cost Assurance: Value Quality and Long-Term Success 

Cost overruns are a common concern in construction, but in aviation projects, the stakes are even higher. Our experience has shown that meticulous cost planning and value engineering are critical to keeping budgets on track. 

Experience from past projects enable us to guide our clients toward informed decisions that balance cost savings with long-term reliability. Evaluating the trade-offs of value engineering ensures that cost-cutting measures do not compromise the overall project success. 

“Lessons learned on one project become a value add to the next client. That’s why you hire experience—we’ve already got the scar tissue,” Butler said. 

Know Your Location: Understand Regulations and Build Relationships with Local Experts 

Aviation construction projects are subject to stringent regulations that vary by location. Understanding and navigating these regulations early in the project lifecycle is essential to avoid costly delays. 

“When you build in the aviation market, it’s construction on steroids. There are more regulations, more agencies, more complexity. Having the knowledge and experience to develop and execute a plan is critical to a projects success,” Nobles said. 

Why Experience Matters in Aviation Construction 

HPM’s collective experience across multiple aviation projects has reinforced one critical truth: hiring a team with deep industry expertise is the best way to mitigate risk and ensure success. Lessons learned from one project become a valuable asset in the next. No matter what challenges arise in your aviation construction project, having seasoned leadership and expertise on your side empowers your team with foresight into potential roadblocks and proactive solutions before they affect your bottom line. 

Aviation construction is not just about building infrastructure—it’s about creating environments that support safe, efficient, and sustainable air travel. By applying our hard-earned knowledge, we help our clients overcome challenges and deliver projects that stand the test of time. 

Reach out to us to learn how our expertise can help you navigate complexities in your aviation construction projects and achieve your goals. 

A Bond Beyond Business: A Tribute to the Life and Impact of Norma Lantz

Posted on April 8, 2025

As we routinely do at HPM, we come back from conferences or tradeshows, write an internal trip report, and also provide a recap of the event to post on our blog.  For Verticon 2025, the events as well as the timing afford us the opportunity to pay respects to and shine all the light on a dear friend of HPM and an aerospace colleague who left us too early in life and only two weeks after we all gathered.

In the fast-paced, high-stakes world of aerospace, where women are still forging paths in a traditionally male-dominated industry, true female friendships can be a rare and precious thing. For Andi Sims, Vice President of Business Development at HPM and Norma Lantz, Executive Vice President of Airframer Sales and Marketing at Safran, their relationship was a testament to the power of sisterhood, mentorship and unwavering support. It was never just about business; it was personal.

Tragically, Norma passed away recently, leaving behind an indelible legacy of strength, kindness and leadership. Just days before her passing, Andi and Norma had shared a special moment at Verticon 2025 in Dallas, where Andi spoke at the Safran-sponsored IAWA Connect. Norma, ever the champion of women in aerospace, introduced Andi with deep emotion, a reflection of the profound respect and love they had for each other. That moment, filled with admiration and gratitude, now stands as a poignant memory of their remarkable friendship.

A Friendship Rooted in Connection

Andi and Norma’s story began through the International Aerospace Women’s Association (IAWA), an organization dedicated to advancing women in the industry. But their connection quickly transcended professional networking; it became a sisterhood. Norma, who once called Paris home for a couple of years, was the one who introduced Andi to the City of Light, taking her through the streets she loved, sharing her favorite spots, and ensuring Andi felt the magic of Paris through her eyes. It wasn’t just a tour—it was an invitation into her world, a gesture of the generosity that defined Norma.

Over the years, their friendship deepened. They sought opportunities to spend time together, whether for business or for personal encouragement. They were each other’s sounding boards, cheerleaders and confidantes, navigating the complexities of leadership in an industry where women often have to fight for their seat at the table. They understood the challenges, the victories, the sacrifices and the triumphs that came with being women in aerospace, and they faced them together.

When Friendship Becomes Family

For Andi and Norma, their bond extended beyond professional support—it was family. One of the most telling examples of Norma’s unwavering loyalty and generosity happened during a freak snowstorm in Texas. When Andi’s daughter was stranded at the airport, Norma and her husband didn’t hesitate. They braved treacherous conditions to pick her up, offering her a safe place to stay until the storm passed and her flight could resume. It was a selfless act, but for Norma, it was simply what you did for the people you loved.

Norma was a force—effortlessly weaving between the corporate boardrooms of Safran and the networking events of industry conferences and airshows, where she embraced life to the fullest. She had an innate ability to make everyone feel like they were her best friend, and for many, she truly was. She was the woman who lifted others up, who celebrated their victories, who shared their burdens. She was a mentor, an advocate, a beacon of positivity in an industry that can be relentless.

A Lasting Legacy

The last time Andi saw Norma, she watched her glide into a crowd at a customer event in Dallas, dancing with abandon to “Dancing Queen.” That final image—Norma, joyful and free, embracing the moment—perfectly encapsulates who she was. She lived fully, loved deeply and gave selflessly.

Her passing is a profound loss for her loving husband, her precious family and friends, her colleagues at Safran, and for many in her network around the world. But her legacy lives on in the countless lives Norma touched. For Andi and for many others at HPM, her friendship was a gift. The aerospace industry may have lost a titan, but the imprint Norma left will never fade.

In the end, the story of these two women is a reminder that the best business relationships aren’t just about deals and projects—they’re about people. It’s not business; it’s personal. And that’s exactly how Norma Lantz lived her extraordinary life!

City of Denton Holds Grand Opening for New Fire Station 9

Posted on July 31, 2024

On Friday, July 26, the City of Denton held a ceremony commemorating the official opening of Fire Station 9. The new facility was strategically placed at Denton Enterprise Airport to allow for quick response times from the city’s Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting (ARFF) sector of the fire department.

About the Facility

The Denton Airport is one of the busiest in Texas, and the 60th busiest airport in the U.S. The $14 million Fire Station 9 will help reduce risk for passengers, further enhancing the city’s commitment to safety. In addition, Fire Station 9 will open the door for even greater airport traffic as many corporate insurance policies require an ARFF to be at all airports where jets are landed.

“This is something that we’ve been talking about for over a decade since we got into the ARFF business,” said Battalion Chief, David Boots. “It’s been a dream for a long time.”

The station is a 14,000-square-foot, two-story building with four bays and two fire poles. The facility is split, with one side dedicated to air and the other dedicated to land. Included in the facility are many safety features, including a decontamination bathroom and an infrared sauna. These amenities were incorporated to reduce cancer risks for firefighters, reducing their exposure to toxins.

HPM’s Involvement

HPM served as Program Manager for the project, ensuring the city’s vision came to life on time and within the allocated budget. In addition, HPM is providing Program Management services for ongoing City of Denton projects, including Fire Station 5, Fire Station 6, Denton Fire Emergency Modular Building, Denton Service Center and Denton Solid Waste Facility. Employing an external Program Manager alleviates logistical concerns from city leadership, enabling them to prioritize other initiatives pertaining to citizen well-being. The city plans to build four additional fire stations in the next ten years.

Denton Fire Station 9

HPM to Attend 2024 Farnborough International Airshow in England

Posted on July 16, 2024

HPM will attend the 2024 Farnborough International Airshow (FIA) in Farnborough, United Kingdom, outside of London, from July 22-24. President Ryan Austin will be joined by Vice President of Business Development Jay Daily, Vice President of Business Development Andi Sims and Director of Business Development Cynthia Foteh at the event. This marks a decade of attendance for HPM at the second-largest airshow of its kind world-wide.

FIA is a biennial trade exhibition bringing together aerospace industry professionals, economic and business development recruiters, and city, state and national delegations from around the globe to demonstrate their business offerings to potential customers and investors. More than 1,200 exhibitors from 44 countries will be represented in this year’s trade show exhibition, displaying products and service capabilities to nearly 75,000 attendees from 102 countries.

HPM provides owners’ representation for large capital building projects — including airlines, aircraft manufacturers, airports, maintenance-repair-overhaul (MRO) companies and space and defense firms, as well as local and state governments interested in attracting capital investments. HPM’s portfolio of experience in aviation & aerospace projects includes managing the design and construction of the first Airbus U.S. Manufacturing Facility and the management of a variety of manufacturing and MRO facilities for national and international clients. HPM’s most recent initiatives includes projects for Airbus, Aerojet Rocketdyne, the Mobile Airport Authority, Sierra Space, ST Aerospace, Boom Supersonic, Leonardo Helicopters and AAR’s new MRO facility at Miami International Airport.

“We are thrilled to again have a presence at FIA, the most impactful place to learn and network among innovators in aviation and aerospace,” said Austin. “We always value the time spent collaborating with our peers, partners and clients in an environment with unmatched expertise. HPM’s offerings continue to expand, and our specialized expertise within the aviation and aerospace sector continues to grow, as we pursue new partnerships and add value for industry leaders. We look forward to showcasing our capabilities and strengthening our presence at Farnborough this year.”

7 Crucial Conversations for Airports Hiring a Program Manager

Posted on May 30, 2024

How do airports benefit from hiring an owner’s representative? Site selection, project team procurement, construction auditing – your needs during a capital expenditure program can be as varied as the projects are complex. When you have major investments, a need for speed-to-market, and a reputation at stake, minimizing risk and maximizing return are table stakes. That’s where an owner’s representative or a program manager thrives. A program manager offers many benefits to airports, including clear timelines, streamlined communication, and, perhaps best of all, peace of mind. With the right program manager in place, you can focus on and achieve overall project success and maintain a strategic approach for your investment without having to dig into the details. 

But how do you choose the right owner’s rep/program manager for your project? To help you navigate through the noise, we’ve compiled our list of the top seven questions to ask when hiring a firm to represent you during the planning, design, and construction process in the U.S. so you can find that right fit. 

1. Do you understand U.S. and local building codes and regulations for permitting? 

Why it’s important: national and local codes and regulations are complex. While they are designed to specify minimum requirements related to health, safety, and the welfare of building occupants, they can be challenging to comprehend fully. An experienced program manager will help you navigate these requirements through careful planning, ultimately allowing you to avoid common pitfalls.

2. Do you have a thorough understanding of the factors that will drive the budget, such as labor and materials?

Why it’s important: As the market booms, U.S. labor forces remain stretched, forcing the cost of labor to increase. The same is true with materials pricing, as across the board we are seeing a rise in the cost of materials (e.g., steel). An established program manager should know the market trends and local workforce, thereby helping you mitigate the impacts on your budget and realize success. 

Why it’s important: As we see material and labor costs rising, innovative solutions like AI/machine learning or virtual reality/augmentation are being used to offset the strain on the workforce and budget. The best program managers will know that keeping up with emerging trends and tools is important to maximizing your ROI. 

4. Do you have an advocate that can be your boots-on-the-ground resource?v

Why it’s important: There is great value in engaging an experienced partner with trained eyes and ears who understands the local design and construction community as well as the industry. A program manager who already has established relationships can more easily act as a facilitator throughout the project, providing you with the confidence you need to ensure you are safeguarding your investment. By hiring the right program manager, you can maximize your attention to other endeavors and responsibilities and remove any barriers that may come between you and success. 

5. Do you understand the various delivery models?

Why it’s important: An effective program manager will help you consider your options (Progressive Design-Build, CM-at-Risk, Design-Build, Integrated Project Delivery, etc.). Choosing the option that is best suited for how you do business is paramount to managing risk and creating a cohesive team approach. Plus, understanding the terms and conditions of your contracts helps ensure the project is delivered without an interruption in expectations. In particular, the Progressive Design-Build delivery model has become increasingly attractive to airports as it allows the owner to have more input into the overall design of the facility, manage costs in a proactive manner, and achieve substantial schedule benefits. An airport can significantly benefit by hiring a program manager that has experience not only in managing a Progressive Design-Build project but managing the construction of airport terminals utilizing the Progressive Design-Build delivery model.  

6. Do you have the capacity for this project?

Why it’s important: You need to know if the PM team has time to take on a capital project and manage the day-to-day details. This direct question gives firms an opportunity to recognize their potential distractions and request help in adopting a speed-to-market mentality. Through clear communication from the beginning, you can find a program manager who will study the way you work, help you manage decision-making through the chain of command, and put pressure at given points so you can meet your goals and mitigate your risk in the process. 

7. Do you understand what construction activities are eligible for your funding/grants, and do you know when you will need to have the funding available/on hand?

Why it’s important: To ensure that your project is maximizing the funding opportunities available, it is imperative to know what types of activities are eligible for specific funding sources/grants in order to prevent ineligible expenditures from being paid directly from the airport funds. Further, it is critical to understand the anticipated cash flow for the project in order to proactively ensure that money is on hand as invoices are received.

As a leading program management firm with a history stretching back to the 1940s, we know how to act as true advocates for our clients, helping airport owners complete their projects faster and for a better price. From coast to coast, HPM has managed more than $12 billion and audited over $30 billion in construction value during our 25-year history of program management work.

Interested in learning more? Contact Us today!

Progress Forges Ahead at Airbus Manufacturing Facility in Mobile

Posted on April 16, 2024

Construction was recently completed on two new paint shops at Airbus’ Mobile, AL campus. These facilities located on the west side of campus enable Airbus to triple their monthly paint production. The completion of these projects is only a symbol of the progress underway within the Single Aisle Ramp Up (SARU) expansion, slated to double the size of the Airbus footprint in North America. When the program is complete, Mobile will rank as the 4th largest aerospace manufacturing community in the world.

Leading the Charge

Leading HPM’s project team is Stewart Nobles. Stewart was recently promoted to Senior Program Manager after joining the account in 2019. His mechanical and technical background proved essential in providing value to the client, quickly establishing him as the “perfect fit” for a complex program such as Airbus. He is a strong team leader with a demonstrated ability to hone in on the finite details of a project, while also keeping the “big picture” end goal in mind.

Airbus

A Robust History

HPM’s relationship with Airbus began over 15 years ago with the construction of their Mobile Engineering Center. From there, the HPM project team led the development of the first Final Assembly Line campus in North America at Mobile’s Brookley Aeroplex. Following the successful completion of the first A320 FAL, Airbus called upon HPM again to lead the development of the A220 FAL project and expand the Mobile campus to produce a second line of aircraft.

Airbus

A Bright Future

In 2022, HPM was honored to be called upon once again to lead a third campus expansion increasing the production of the original A320 series aircraft line. Presently, we are deep in the construction phase, projected to reach completion in late 2025. Without question, bright days are ahead for Mobile as Airbus continues to generate unique new job opportunities for residents while fostering economic growth within the community.

AAR Breaks Ground on MRO Expansion at Miami International Airport

Posted on April 3, 2024

AAR CORP., a leading provider of aviation services, MROs and OEMs based out of Wood Dale, Ill., hosted a groundbreaking ceremony in Miami, Fla. on March 27th. The new MRO facility will be located next to AAR’s current hangar at Miami International Airport. With 114,000 square feet of additional space, AAR’s maintenance capacity is slated to increase by 33%. The three-bay facility will create more than 200 new jobs in the Miami area.

More than 400 guests attended the celebration commemorating the start of construction. Attendees included AAR’s Chairman, President and CEO, John M. Holmes, United Airlines‘ Vice President of Tech Ops- Heavy Maintenance, James Crane, Miami International Airport Director and CEO, Ralph Cutié and Miami-Dade County Mayor, Danielle Levine Cava.

“The construction of this facility is an important step in AAR’s growth strategy that enables us to best serve our valued customers.”, said Holmes. “We are enthusiastic that our expansion in Miami will create career opportunities and continue to strengthen the aviation industry in South Florida.”

HPM is providing planning services for the project, along with lease negotiation services and coordination with the Miami-Dade Aviation Department. HPM’s support enables AAR to focus on the maintenance of the 40-ton aircraft coming through its bays. With an extensive portfolio of aviation industry experience, HPM is uniquely qualified to position AAR for success in this growth endeavor, expected to be fully operational by October 2025.

AAR independently provides services to commercial and government customers worldwide. Operating worldwide for almost 70 years, AAR has established itself as a trusted global leader. The company is best known for strategic warehousing, parts supply and repair & engineering.

Built to Lead: Iriana Molusky

Posted on September 7, 2023

Meet Iriana Molusky, Assistant Project Manager!

A strategic piece of our growth strategy as a company is our robust Project Management track. Beginning with Project Engineers and scaling all the way up to Program Executives, our PM growth track was crafted to inspire motivation, work ethic and dedication to the process.

Assistant Project Manager, Iriana Molusky has enthusiastically committed to this growth track early on in her career. Iriana is based out of Jupiter, Florida and is currently providing support to a client in the aviation industry. We appreciate Iriana’s drive to develop and take on new challenges. Her leadership skills are strong, and we look forward to watching as she continues to grow and evolve. Continue reading to hear from Iriana as she shares more about her evolving career journey!

 

HPM: What does a typical day at HPM look like for you?

Similar to most of my colleagues on the Project Management track, there is really no such thing as a “typical day” for me. Each day comes with unique opportunities and challenges. On my most recent project, I was able to participate in many different aspects of project management, including change order reviews, creating and managing the master budget, GMP negotiations and pay applications. I find excitement in the constant change that comes with project management!

HPM: What is the best part of your job?

The best part of my job is the multitude of opportunities it affords me to build relationships. Thus far in my career, I have been able to work with an array of Architects and General Contractors, all while forming meaningful friendships within the company.

 

HPM: What is your most memorable HPM project so far?

My most memorable project so far has been Hewson Hall at the University of Alabama. I had the opportunity to see this job through from beginning to end as a co-op, enabling me to appreciate every milestone as the facility progressed. Hewson Hall was my first project to work on with HPM, and I learned so much about project management from the Senior Project Manager on the job, Joshua Bollinger, who served as a great mentor.

HPM: What are the characteristics of a great leader?

A great leader possesses a combination of qualities and skills, such as effective communication, empathy, adaptability, integrity and the ability to inspire and motivate others. They are forward-thinking, open to feedback and capable of making tough decisions while considering the well-being of their team. A great leader leads by example, fosters collaboration and empowers their team members to reach their full potential.

Built to Lead: Jared Taylor

Posted on August 22, 2023

HPM is unique from other program management firms in that we were born of a construction company and practical in-depth construction knowledge is part of our DNA. Our origin affords us the ability to place expert Field Coordinators on your site to protect your interests and priorities as HPM manages your project from the inside out. Today we’d like to introduce you to one of our outstanding Field Coordinators, Jared Taylor.

Jared’s home base is the Mobile office where he spends most of his time on active worksites ensuring quality, safety and timeliness. He is known for his upbeat, friendly attitude as he interacts with his clients and colleagues on a daily basis. His personality partnered with his deep industry knowledge and robust experience make him an irreplaceable member of #teamHPM. Continue reading to hear from Jared on the impact HPM has made on his career and what comprises a great leader.

HPM: What does a typical day at HPM look like for you?

My days are typically spent walking multiple jobsites and documenting project details to assure quality in the field. I also have the opportunity to review drawings and documents regularly. Communicating what I find on site is a crucial component of my job, so I spend time coordinating meetings and sharing documents with colleagues via email as well.

HPM: What is the best part of your job?

Much of this business is people-centric, so I really enjoy the opportunities I have to interact with others, both on and off site. The clients and colleagues I work with are fun, intelligent people, and I’m happiest at work when surrounded by others.

HPM: What is your most memorable HPM project so far?

This is a difficult question, so I’ll have to go with a tie! The two projects that have stood out most to me are the GulfQuest Maritime Museum and the Airbus expansion I am currently working on. Both of these unique projects are located in my hometown of Mobile, AL and have become iconic staples here in The Port City!

HPM: Tell us about someone who inspires you. What made or makes this person a great leader?

To be honest, I can’t pinpoint one particular person, because I am a constant observer of people and continually learn from them. I watch others as they make mistakes and achieve success, and utilize those lessons to my benefit. I am inspired by individuals who are firm in their path and willing to put forth the effort to reach their goals.

HPM: What are the characteristics of a great leader?

The greatest leaders are great listeners. Leaders should be decisive, transparent and fearless as they coordinate multiple people and tasks.  

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