Category: News

HPM’s Brian Morris Promoted to Senior Project Manager

Posted on December 1, 2021

When it comes to our industry, being a people person is a critical component of forging connections that will last long after a project is completed. Brian Morris is the perfect embodiment of this skill and exemplifies this quality in every facet of his career. His natural talent at building strong client relationships led him and his family from Tuscaloosa to Central Texas, where he is now helping to oversee HPM’s growing presence in the region. Brian’s ability to earn and maintain the trust and respect of clients is what led to his promotion to Senior Project Manager.

Before heading to Texas, Brian worked on our University of Alabama account, where he managed numerous renovations and quickly became an admired colleague among the entire UA team and campus partners. He relocated to Austin, where he now works on one of HPM’s major K-12 program in the Texas market. Since being in the Lone Star State, Brian has established himself as the project management leader in the Round Rock ISD facilities and construction department. He is a go-to resource for the district, providing consultation on a wide range of topics and offering his problem-solving skills when challenges arise. Brian’s current projects at Round Rock ISD (RRISD) include a $51 million program for McNeil High School, an $8.1 million Support Services building and a $2.4 million addition to the Chisholm Trail Athletic Facility.

“Brian has the natural ability to become close, like family, to anyone he meets out on the field,” said Ben Henson, HPM Program Executive. “He’s exactly the kind of person you want on your team. He works hard, but always finds a way to keep people laughing and engaged every step of the way during a project.”

In addition to his work in Round Rock, Brian has built a wide network of relationships throughout Central Texas with contractors, designers, representatives from various school districts in the region and other valuable partners. On top of the success he maintains for his ongoing projects, he is also constantly looking for opportunities to improve HPM’s brand recognition in the community and to spread the firm’s name across the state.

Terry Worcester, Chief Operating Officer at RRISD, recently said the following about Brian: “In the span of my many years of architectural practice and education administration, I have not had the extraordinary honor of working and collaborating with such a talented and capable colleague as Brian Morris. He is my go-to HPM ‘associate’ of client and project management within my many departments in the school district.”

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HPM Selected as Program Manager for Manor Independent School District’s Capital Projects

Posted on October 20, 2021

We are proud to announce that Manor Independent School District (Manor ISD) has selected HPM to serve as program manager for its capital and facility-based projects. Representing $174 million in new development, these enhancements are the result of a $280 million school bond program approved by voters in Manor, Texas, in November 2019.

HPM will work alongside Manor ISD to provide project management and preconstruction services while ensuring schedule and budget compliance over the next three years. This includes several new classrooms, transportation, and multipurpose facilities.

“Manor has seen tremendous growth over the past decade, underscoring the need for improved educational infrastructure that can support a student body expected to exceed 12,000 students within the next few years,” said Greg Ellis, HPM’s Vice President of Program Development. “We look forward to seeing firsthand the positive impact that this investment will have on the community.”

The partnership is a continuation of HPM’s growth strategy in Central Texas, where it has already built an extensive program management portfolio for K-12 districts including Round Rock Independent School District, Belton Independent School District and Austin Independent School District. HPM’s success is largely attributed to the firm’s full range of services uniquely tailored to meet the demographic and socioeconomic needs of every community it serves.

“Our work is not a one-size-fits-all approach, and HPM is well known for the ability to cater our services to the specific needs of each school district we partner with,” said Derek McSween, Senior Program Development Manager at HPM. “HPM has the expertise to understand the nuances and challenges that come with working in K-12 facility planning and bond implementation, especially as the coronavirus continues to impact regulations. Our team is pleased to play a part in Manor ISD’s growth story by ensuring that its scholars are provided the highest quality academic and recreational facilities possible.”

Greater Austin is one of the fastest-growing major metropolitan areas in the U.S., having increased 34% in population size since 2010 and an impressive 3% in the last year alone. The population of Manor, located just 12 miles northeast of Austin, has grown by more than 160% since 2010, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

“We are grateful to the Manor ISD community for voting to pass the 2019 bond. As we continue to put scholars first, these new state-of-the-art educational facilities will address equity gaps, overcrowding and prepare for the continued population growth,” said Dr. Andre D. Spencer, Manor ISD Superintendent of Schools. “Most importantly, Manor ISD scholars are more than deserving of quality facilities that will enhance their learning environment. We are excited to work alongside HPM for this effort. HPM is truly a remarkable project management partner. It would be almost impossible to complete $280M worth of bond projects without their expertise and dedication to excellence in Manor ISD.”

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HPM’s Gaila Barnett Promoted to Senior Project Manager

Posted on October 20, 2021

Gaila Barnett is a passionate and strategic leader whose ability to tackle new projects with enthusiasm, thoughtfulness and urgency has led to great success for her clients and her team at HPM. Having established strong relationships in Texas, she has played an essential role in growing HPM’s business throughout the state. We are proud to promote Gaila to Senior Project Manager and appreciate her many contributions to the firm over the past two years.

Gaila joined HPM in October of 2019 with over 25 years of experience in design and program management under her belt after leading projects totaling $2 billion across 26 states. Her ability to tailor her approach to meet the needs of individual markets is what sets her apart, along with her impressive experience within the healthcare industry.

Her first project with HPM was the Hyatt Place Hotel at Texas Christian University in Fort Worth, a very challenging assignment that Gaila jumped into headfirst. She spent countless hours working to gain an understanding of the project’s history, the team dynamics and the client’s vision. Due to her expertise and commitment to providing the best possible service for the client, this project overcame challenges throughout the COVID-19 pandemic and was a tremendous success for both the owner and HPM.

Since then, Gaila has taken on 41 facility assessments around the state of Texas for one of HPM’s longtime clients in the healthcare sphere, and is working with a partner firm on municipal projects throughout Metro Dallas. Her previous portfolio of healthcare experience and numerous relationships within the sector has also led her to confidently take on the challenge of crafting a plan for HPM to pursue additional healthcare work in markets across the country.

“Gaila has far proven her ability to show extreme ownership of her projects and responsibilities and does what it takes to provide the best possible outcomes for our clients,” said HPM Program Executive Ben Henson. “She consistently showcases all of the qualities that typify strong, effective leaders and is committed to helping HPM remain the best of the best in our industry.”

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HPM’s Andrew Betts Promoted to Senior Program Manager

Posted on October 5, 2021

As HPM continues to grow and develop our teams on various accounts and throughout the US, ascribing to the company’s vision and effectively carrying it out become preeminent characteristics of those in leadership. For his willingness to see and develop the potential in our people, our business, our markets and our clients, Andrew Betts has relocated from Fairhope, Alabama, to Austin, Texas, and has been promoted from Senior Project Manager to Senior Program Manager. He will be the account leader for our most recent K-12 program at Manor ISD in Manor near Austin.

When Andrew was hired at HPM eight years ago in Mobile, AL, the company looked very different. We had just successfully landed the Airbus A320 program and were experiencing significant growth potential along the Gulf Coast of Alabama and in the aviation world. Andrew came to us from an electrical subcontractor that was working on the Gulf Quest Maritime Museum project. Andrew’s leadership skills stood out on that project and he was quickly recognized by Jared Scheeter and Mike McKenny, who were leading the HPM effort for that project. Mike and Jared recruited Andrew for several months until the appropriate time for him to make the move to HPM.

“Hired initially as a Project Engineer for the Airbus account, Andrew’s attention to detail, positive attitude, and collaborative leadership style allowed him to grow quickly, through two successful Airbus projects and a successful HAECO project, from Project Engineer to Senior Project Manager,” says James Adams, HPM Vice President of the Western Region. “While in Mobile, Andrew helped develop and implement tools and processes that now serve as the deliverables HPM provides to almost every client.”

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HPM’s Taylor Thorn Promoted to Program Executive

Posted on October 4, 2021

In our business line, the ability to build strong, impactful relationships is crucial to our success and growth at HPM. Whether these relationships are with owners, design teams or even internally, it takes a true leader to possess the ability to forge meaningful connections with everyone he or she meets. Taylor Thorn is the perfect embodiment of this quality, known for his ability to effortlessly convey that HPM can provide solutions to meet any client’s needs. He has quickly become a go-to resource for clients and colleagues looking for assistance in solving complex challenges. This dedication to maintaining strong relationships both inside and outside of our firm is the driving force behind Taylor’s promotion to Program Executive.

“Taylor lives HPM’s core values every day, through his dedication and care for his clients, his community and his teams,” said Brooks Ballentine, HPM’s Director of the East Region. “Along with his determined work ethic, infectious attitude and can-do approach, Taylor puts relationships at the forefront of all of his actions as he strives to exceed client expectations.”

In his previous role, Taylor provided oversight on more than 10 programs executed out of the Birmingham office, and was responsible for managing client partnerships, program staffing and internal controls and reporting. He joined HPM in 2012 as a project manager on the University of Alabama (UA) account team and has quickly grown in his professional career as a part of our firm. Throughout his nine years here, he has provided oversight and leadership for multiple programs in addition to UA including Regions, the Birmingham-Jefferson Convention Complex, Calhoun Community College, Buffalo Rock, Ole Miss, National Cement and Avanti Polar Lipids.

“Taylor’s passion for his work and for supporting his teammates through any and all challenges is what sets him apart from the rest,” said Frank Marsac, HPM Vice President of Operations. “This is evident through his reliability, drive to be the best in the business and his willingness to lend a hand to anyone in need. This promotion is well deserved, and I look forward to seeing what great things Taylor will accomplish for our company as he grows his impact across our industry.”

Taylor graduated from Auburn University with a B.S. in construction management and is also a graduate of the Hoar Leadership Council. He is a Certified Construction Manager (CCM).

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HPM’s Alana Abbott Promoted to Administrative Assistant

Posted on September 30, 2021

The next time you visit HPM’s headquarters office in Birmingham, you may notice a new face behind the front desk where office assistant Alana Abbott has greeted guests since she joined HPM in May 2020, but don’t worry! Alana’s dedication and team player attitude have earned her a promotion to Administrative Assistant and a new office down the hall.

“Alana’s promotion comes as no surprise,” says Jaclyn Decker, HPM Executive Assistant. “Since her first day at HPM, she has gone above and beyond for all of our employees and clients.”

Alana will now support the efforts of Program Development across HPM, as well as the Planning Services and Preconstruction Services groups.

“Alana has shown the ability to handle multiple priorities and assignments with great attention to detail,” says Greg Ellis, HPM Vice President of Program Development. “She has good interpersonal skills and works well in a fast paced and constantly changing environment.”

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HPM Names Ryan Austin President, Ushering in New Era for the Birmingham-based Firm

Posted on September 14, 2021

After 23 years at HPM, President Mike Lanier to retire this fall

HPM today announces the appointment of Ryan Austin as president of the firm, effective October 1, 2021. Austin, who currently serves as Chief Operations Officer and Executive Vice President of HPM, will succeed the current president, Mike Lanier, upon his retirement.

“It’s truly an honor to be appointed president of HPM and build upon Mike’s leadership, who has led the firm through many stages of growth,” said Austin. “Mike leaves an outstanding legacy at HPM and an indelible mark on my professional career. Mike has always lived out HPM’s core values and a passion for serving our clients.”

Having served HPM for over 17 years in positions ranging from Vice President of Finance to Chief Financial Officer and, most recently, Chief Operations Officer, Austin possesses more than 20 years of experience in the construction and accounting industries. He is a graduate of Auburn University, where he earned a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree.

“Over the past nine years as president of HPM, I have worked to establish a strong foundation for growth and continued success on behalf of our clients,” said Lanier. “I have worked closely with Ryan, and I’m at ease in knowing I’m passing the baton to a leader with unwavering commitment to our people, our clients and our core values. In its next evolution, I’m confident HPM will thrive under Ryan’s leadership, as the firm continues to innovate and expand its offerings to better serve clients.”

Rob Burton, CEO of Hoar Holdings and co-founder of HPM with Lanier, said, “I’m grateful for Mike’s service and commitment over the years. I now look forward to Ryan continuing to improve and build on that foundation.”

Lanier began his career at HPM in 1994 and became president in 2012. During his time as president, Lanier helped establish and strengthen HPM’s commitment to servant leadership and adding value to our clients and the communities we work in. Under Lanier’s leadership, HPM has emerged as a leader in program management on a national scale, and Lanier will serve as an advisor and consultant until the end of the year to HPM and some of its clients.

HPM’s David Jones Promoted to Senior Project Manager

Posted on September 2, 2021

HPM has assisted in the execution of an ongoing capital development program at the University of Alabama since 2004, working alongside the university on projects ranging from high-tech science facilities to world-class sports venues. It takes a special team to assist with such extremely demanding construction projects, and HPMers like David Jones are the reason we are so successful. For his dedication to the client and tenacity in the face of any challenge, David is being promoted to senior project manager.

“During his time with HPM, David has acted in a very high capacity as a project manager who manages a wide variety of projects on campus,” said Trent Hall, HPM senior project manager. “David is always willing to accept new projects of varying complexity and scope and never shies away from a challenge.”

Over the past six months, David has grown in his responsibilities and, in addition to managing his project workload, provides leadership to several team members. David also serves as a valued member of the Senior Leadership Team for HPM’s UA team.

“David has never been afraid to roll up his sleeves and put in long hours to get the job done,” Hall said. “He spent many hours on site during the completion of the Tutwiler Triangle Lot and Capstone Parking Deck projects to ensure their successful completion. He has continually pushed projects across the finish line to ensure they are completed by deadlines set by the University of Alabama.”

Before coming to HPM in 2018, David worked as a construction manager for Gray Construction and a project coordinator and estimator for KBR. He has over 17 years of total construction experience and a degree in construction engineering technology from the University of Southern Mississippi.

“David always goes above and beyond to serve his clients at the University of Alabama,” said Brad Cook, HPM senior program manager. “David has a very strong work ethic and a relentless pursuit for improvement. He truly embodies our core values as a company, which is exemplified in the way he approaches his job every day. I am proud to call David a member of the HPM family.”

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HPM Ranks Among Top 30 on ENR’S Program Management Firm List

Posted on August 18, 2021

HPM was named one of the top 30 program management firms in the U.S. by Engineering News-Record (ENR), ranking No. 27 on the annual list. This is the 6th year in a row we have landed among the top 50.

“We have continued to strengthen our capabilities while growing our reach and our team over the past year, enabling us to better serve the clients who entrust us to lead their capital projects,” said Ryan Austin, HPM chief operations officer.

HPM attributes this success to its clients and the recent expansion of staff and service offerings. Our planning services division is led by facilities planning expert Tracy Richter and is focused on providing a comprehensive approach to capital and operational building programs. Joining HPM as vice president of planning services, Richter launched the division in July 2020 to expand HPM’s business lines to better serve clients at every stage of development. This move strengthened client engagements through a variety of new offerings, including demographic analysis, standards and specifications development, GIS services, strategic planning, stakeholder engagement, client facilitation, and facility master planning.

This year, HPM bolstered its planning services division with the hiring of Gary Rademacher as director of planning services and Tim Kelleher as GIS analyst. Rademacher is a 30-year veteran of architectural planning and design, with specialized expertise in K-12 education. His deep relationships throughout North and Central Texas also strengthen our Texas footprint, as we continue to strategically grow our presence throughout the south. Kelleher has worked to incorporate the GIS framework into HPM’s planning efforts through geographic data analysis, 3D mapping, and GPS development, helping more of HPM’s clients leverage technology and data to make smarter business decisions.

“This recognition by ENR demonstrates our relentless pursuit of improvement and excellence, despite the challenges our industry has faced throughout the pandemic,” Austin said. “We’re proud to rank among the top program management providers in the country and celebrate the exceptional performance of all of our team members.”

HPM’s Medora Gaddes Promoted to Project Manager

Posted on August 11, 2021

Team members who inspire those around them are vital to the success of any organization. Their positivity encourages others to step up and shine. Medora Gaddes is undeniably one of those people. She is not only passionate about leading our clients to success through project management but also serves as HPM’s Talent Development Coordinator, recruiting the next generation of HPM leaders. For her unwavering enthusiasm and leadership, Medora is being promoted from Assistant Project Manager to Project Manager.

“Medora is being promoted due to her hard work and dedication to all things HPM,” said Brennan Bell, HPM Senior Program Manager. “She was put on the Calhoun Community College Sparkman Building project as an Assistant Project Manager (APM) with all of the responsibilities of a Project Manager. Over the course of the project, she has proven to be capable of managing the project with little oversight and has fully gained the trust and respect of the client. She has also been working on building relationships and seeking opportunities with North Alabama-based clients and architects, all while balancing being a new mom.”

Medora first began showing her value at HPM as a Co-Op from 2014 to 2016, assisting with assignments including Walker County High School, Birmingham Intermodal, and even the high-visibility Auburn Pharmacy and Nursing buildings. After her graduation from Auburn with a degree in civil engineering (and a minor in dance), she joined HPM as a Project Engineer in 2017. She immediately began demonstrating leadership qualities, attending events in Huntsville to integrate herself into the local market, and becoming involved with the Chamber of Commerce and the Southern Automotive Women’s Forum. Her project highlights include Calhoun Community College, Abaco, FedEx, Aerojet Rocketdyne Headquarters and Advanced Manufacturing Facility, and the Sand Mountain Park and Amphitheater.

In addition to her project management duties, Medora does a tremendous job leading our recruiting efforts for the company. She spends considerable time making sure that the needs for co-ops, interns, and full-time hires are being met. Medora has expanded our recruiting network and can be counted on to put forward qualified candidates who are great fits for HPM.

“Medora is an enthusiastic team player,” said Brooks Ballentine, HPM Director of the East Region. “Not only does she handle her project management duties, she is active in helping with business development, client entertainment, recruiting, and coordinating our Emerging Leaders Program. She goes above and beyond in everything she does.”

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Category: News

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