&Backsights Foresights
Semiannual newsletter on company projects, news, and events.
Strengthening Our Team
Expanding HEI’s Services in the Twin Cities with HTPO
We are thrilled to announce that Hansen Thorp Pellinen Olson, Inc. (HTPO) has joined Houston Engineering, Inc. (HEI), marking a significant milestone in our journey to provide unparalleled professional services.
Featured Service Area: Ecological Services
Project Highlight: Sioux Falls 15th Street Bicycle Boulevard Improvement
Project Snapshots
Strengthening Our Team
HEI Welcomes HTPO
Since our founding in 1968, HEI has built a reputation of providing quality, reliable engineering, environmental, and technology solutions. Starting as just a two-person survey crew in Fargo, ND, HEI now operates across the country with a full range of services. As we continue to actively pursue the goals outlined in our strategic plan, HEI’s focus is on sustainable growth and expanding our capabilities to better serve clients.
On February 3rd, 2025, HTPO became part of the HEI team. HTPO specializes in civil engineering, land surveying, landscape architecture, construction management services, and municipal engineering throughout the Twin Cities market, and with this expansion, HEI can extend the range of our capabilities in the area.
HTPO’s dedication to meeting client goals with integrity, creativity, and technical prowess perfectly aligns with HEI’s values. We couldn’t be more thrilled to welcome the talented team that made up HTPO. Their passion and expertise will undoubtedly help us reach new heights together.
HTPO: Founding and Expansion
HTPO, originally named Hansen Thorp & Pellinen Inc., was founded in 1980 by Roy Hansen, Paul Thorp, and Steve Pellinen. Starting in the basement of a house, they began offering their services in civil engineering and land surveying out of Eden Prairie, MN. The founding members wanted to create a strong and stable company for both employees and clients, which is why they centered their core values around quality, client satisfaction, budget, internal cooperation, and business development.
Within three months of being founded, HTPO moved into an office space and served mostly residential and commercial development projects. After only two years, Bill Pellinen (Steve Pellinen’s brother!) joined the team as a Principal and opened an office in Hutchinson, MN.
This addition allows us to expand our offerings to 13 locations across five states, with more than 275 staff.
This allowed the firm to expand its client base and offer extensive land surveying services in the Hutchinson area for several years. The O in HTPO came in 1983 with the joining of Principal Leonard Olson, bringing with him a new business sector in municipal engineering.
Hiring Leonard and expanding service offerings allowed HTPO’s work to take off in the Twin Cities metro area. This was a tremendous benefit, as the first municipal clients that Leonard brought to the firm are still valued clients today. We deeply appreciate their ongoing support and commitment to our partnership.
Three Rivers Park Regional Trail designed by HTPO - part of the Eagle Lake Golf Course Project in Plymouth, MN.
The Work of HTPO
HTPO was renowned for its responsive and reliable services in civil engineering, land surveying, landscape architecture, municipal engineering, and construction management. This multidisciplinary team brings a wealth of resources, experience, and technical expertise to meet diverse project objectives.
Continued on pg. 4
“Having been with HTPO since graduating as a civil engineer more than 20 years ago, I’m quite excited for this next chapter as we join HEI’s stellar team. Joining HEI opens up new opportunities for all of our staff, and we look forward to providing improved and expanded services and value to our clients!"
– Aaron Carrell
Project Highlight: Pioneer Trail Construction Eden Prairie, Minnesota
In spring 2023, HTPO was contracted by the City of Eden Prairie to reconstruct a portion of Pioneer Trail (County Road 1). The existing roadway was a rural section that had no curb or gutter and limited stormwater infrastructure. This project consisted of reconstructing 1,600 lineal feet of this city roadway with curb and gutter. The new road also needed to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) standards, making it safer and more accessible for pedestrians, bicyclists, and vehicles.
To meet the local watershed district’s stormwater management requirements, an infiltration basin and underground perforated pipe storage system was designed and constructed. The team installed additional sanitary sewer and watermain services to support future developments. The improvements also included design and construction of a new bituminous trail along the reconstructed roadway. Using bituminous concrete allows for a smooth, water-resistant trail that is easy to repair and safer for pedestrians to walk on. This new trail also included pedestrian curb ramps meeting ADA requirements and creating a more accessible trail for all users. Construction was completed in fall 2023.
Completed roadway.
Construction of the bituminous trail.
HTPO designed the Pleasant Street Corridor for the University of Minnesota Twin Cities.
The Viking Drive Trail project, designed by HTPO, to connect two existing trails in Eden Prairie.
By operating as an extension of our clients’ staff, the team effectively addressed the technical and complex challenges faced by many.
HTPO fostered an environment that encouraged both professional and personal growth, continuously seeking ways to enhance their knowledge base and share innovative methods to better serve their clients and solve their problems. The firm believed in the inherent integrity and honesty of its employees and clients and was committed to delivering exceptional, personalized service through effective communication, relationship-building, and exceeding expectations.
What the Future Holds
HEI was thrilled to welcome HTPO to our team in February. We began collaborating across locations prior to February, especially those within our Maple Grove office who are the closest to our new Eden Prairie team. Our equal dedication to professional responsibilities and quality are just some of the many reasons why HTPO blends easily with HEI. Our Maple Grove and Eden Prairie teams are already working together to serve customers with a deeper bench of professionals in the Twin Cities metro area. The Eden Prairie team brings a new depth of land survey, site development, and municipal services to complement the Maple Grove’s team that is largely made up of water resources engineers, environmental scientists, and civil engineers.
HTPO’s core value of client satisfaction aligns with HEI’s goal of remaining client-focused. We understand the importance of being committed to serving clients with quality engineering and surveying services. Our staff takes every opportunity to ensure that our work demonstrates our commitment to our clients.
Our team is excited to better serve our clients with the well-rounded, in-house expertise our Eden Prairie office brings.
We are determined to be thorough in our communication, efficiency, and quality to foster lasting relationships.
Our staff are an extension of these values, which is why we are so delighted to be able to work with new members who are committed to upholding the same standards.
Across the company, our staff collaborate on many projects together, finding ways to support each other and advance HEI’s mission and goals. The Eden Prairie office staff are working cross-office with colleagues throughout HEI, sharing multidisciplinary expertise and collaborating on client deliverables.
Our team is committed to building strong relationships, being responsive, and understanding the needs of our communities and staff. Since our foundings, both HEI and HTPO have prioritized tailored, personalized, and successful approaches to projects. Through our work, we create not only excellent structures, plans, studies, and drawings but also lasting relationships. This approach, combined with our fantastic and knowledgeable staff, has driven our success in the past and will continue to do so as a unified team.
As a civil engineering firm with capabilities in land surveying and landscape architecture services, our Eden Prairie office routinely provides:
• feasibility studies
• boundary and topographic surveys
• subdivision design and plat preparation
• preparation of plans and specifications for earthwork, utilities, streets, parking lots, drainage facilities, and ponds
• environmental assessments
• reports and presentations
• construction staking
• construction observation
• preparation of record (as-built) plans and maps
HTPO designed the reconstruction of Round Lake Park for the City of Eden Prairie, MN.
HTPO designed bikeways along 10th Street and Hennepin Avenue in Minneapolis, MN.
Welcome to HEI!
Learn more about other HTPO projects on our website:
• Mendota Heights Truck Station www.houstoneng.com/MendotaHeights/
• Minnesota State Office Building Survey www.houstoneng.com/MNsurvey/
• Victoria Outdoor Pickleball Courts www.houstoneng.com/pickleball/
• Eagle Lake Golf Course www.houstoneng.com/eaglelake/
• Viking Drive Trail www.houstoneng.com/viking/
“The services that the HTPO team provide complement the work HEI is already doing in the Twin Cities market through our Maple Grove office. They are a great group of people and their firm culture and values align well with ours at HEI. We are excited to see how our growing team will continue our mission of making positive impacts to communities through collaborative partnerships and innovation.”
– Gregg Thielman, President/CEO, HEI
Paul Thorp Land Surveyor
Ryan Young Senior Technician, Civil Construction
Aaron Carrell Senior Civil Engineer, Principal
Alex Miller Land Surveyor
Daniel Corey Land Surveyor Project Manager
Bob Dabruzzi CAD Technician
Lowell Moon Sather Civil Construction Inspector
Aaron Oppenheimer Civil Engineer
Mayra Nanclares Administrative Assistant
Adam Pawelk Senior Civil Engineer, Principal
Daniel Roegiers Civil Engineer
Alan Schulte Senior Technician, Survey Crew Chief
Blake Scollard Survey Technician Drone Pilot
Laura Schleck Communications Assistant
Dan Sjordal Landscape Architect
Meet Aaron Carrell and Adam Pawelk on page 13.
All Our Clients Do is Win!
Celebrating a great awards season
The following project awards highlight the incredible achievements of HEI’s clients. These accolades celebrate our clients’ vision and commitment to excellence, showcasing the successful outcomes of their collaborative efforts with us. HEI is honored to help bring innovative and impactful projects to life, resulting in well-deserved recognition for our clients’ dedication and hard work. These awards are a testament to the power of strong partnerships and the remarkable results we can achieve together. Visit www.houstoneng.com/awards25 to learn more about all the awards, or follow the links below for each project.
of Pelican Rapids Dam Removal, River Restoration, and Pedestrian Bridge www.houstoneng.com/pelicandam/
About the Awards
ACEC EEA
Each year, the American Council of Engineering Companies (ACEC) of many states organize their Engineering Excellence Awards (EEA) competition, celebrating engineering achievements in impressive projects and studies completed. Firms throughout the participating states submit projects and studies in multiple categories to be evaluated by judges.
Featured Service Area: Ecological
Treasures in the Marsh
Unearthing Nature’s Generosity
Venture to guess the cost to pollinate crops by hand, or filter all runoff from fields and roads using only water treatment facilities, or provide flood mitigation only using structures built by people?
Nature does all these things for us, free of charge! These processes are examples of ecosystem services, which include all the benefits we get from nature. Even if we don’t always think about it, we all rely on the services provided by healthy, functioning ecosystems.
Wetlands are particularly important because they act as nature’s guardians, specializing in critical services like water purification, flood protection, diverse habitats, and offering resilience in the face of global change and biodiversity challenges.
HEI’s scientists provide the expertise to help our clients protect, restore, and maintain healthy ecosystems. We work in wetlands, lakes, rivers, prairies, and woodlands. We collect data on plants, animals, soils, and water, and then provide this technical information to our clients. Our work includes diverse projects such as ecosystem restorations, wetland mitigation banks, environmental
evaluations, and more, serving private landowners, companies, tribal nations, and government units.
Our Ecological Services
HEI’s ecological services can have a positive effect on not only a project, but a community. We are proud to have provided these kinds of services to our clients for more than 50 years. Listed below is just a snapshot of the expertise we can bring to your project, and if you’d like to partner with us, please contact us at www.houstoneng.com/ecological/.
• Aquatic resources delineation and functional assessment
• Biodiversity inventory, monitoring, and assessment
• Biogeochemical sampling and assessment
• Collate information on species of conservation concern
• Ecosystem functional analysis and quality assessment
• Ecosystem services assessment
• Floristic survey/monitoring
• Habitat identification and mapping
• Invasive species survey
• Pollinator habitat assessment and development
• Vegetation field study, experimental design, and data analysis
• Wetland and stream mitigation bank development
• Wetland hydrology monitoring
Staff Feature
Donna Jacob Senior Scientist
Donna Jacob is an accomplished botanist, ecologist, and project manager at HEI, leading several of these efforts. With more than 30 years of experience in wetland ecology research, education, and practice, she holds a PhD in Botany from University College Dublin, Ireland, and is a certified Professional Wetland Scientist and Minnesota Wetland Professional.
As a Senior Environmental Scientist, Donna and her team assist the Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa Indians (TMBCI) and their Tribal Environmental Office in developing their Tribal Wetland Program, coordinating meetings with stakeholders, mapping wetlands, and collecting data to understand wetland quality and water flow connections.
In 2024, in collaboration with the TMBCI, she collected vegetation data and documented human disturbances for use in developing a wetland monitoring plan. In 2025, she will return to collect additional water quality data. Donna develops outreach opportunities and has presented her initial results at workshops along with wetland experts she invited from regional universities. This important work is funded via US EPA Wetland Program Development Grants, and the outcomes will enable the TMBCI to improve and protect the quality of their wetlands and waters.
Project Highlight: 15th Street Bicycle Boulevard Improvement
HEI is providing civil engineering services for the development and implementation of a plan for the 15th Street Bicycle Boulevard Improvement Project in Sioux Falls, SD.
The Project
The preliminary plans follow and update the recommended improvements based on The Sioux Falls Connections Study, December 2017. The study recommends components such as on-street bicycle lanes, shared-lane markings, traffic circles, curb bump-outs, traffic signals, and proper signage.
HEI’s services included:
• Review of recommended improvements from the Connections Study and determine the feasibility/applicability of recommendations based on previous experiences and successful projects.
• Topographic survey and public involvement.
• Preliminary and final design of improvements based on actual field surveyed conditions.
• Project coordination with City staff throughout the preliminary design of the project.
• Attendance and participation in public meetings with the City and neighborhood residents’ groups as needed.
• Construction administration, observation, and staking during active construction.
• Preparation and attendance at public meetings to garner public input and engagement.
Project Highlights
• Improved accessibility for bicycles and pedestrians by providing a safe and comfortable connection to downtown Sioux Falls within the City’s bicycle infrastructure.
• New traffic signs, shared-use lanes, high visibility bicycle boulevard markings, new traffic signal, and mini traffic circles.
Leading the Project
This project was divided into several phases and is currently in Phase 3.
Phase 1 – 9th Street from Prairie Avenue to Phillips Avenue
Construction on 9th Street included the installation of neighborhood traffic circles at Prairie Avenue and Duluth Avenue, along with miscellaneous striping and signing from Phillips Avenue to Prairie Avenue. The project was completed in the summer of 2023.
Phase 2 – Prairie Avenue at 10th Street and 11th Street
Construction at both intersections included the addition of pedestrian curb bump-outs, updated ADA layout and ramps, installation of new traffic signals with pedestrian push buttons, and future bicycle and pedestrian signal phases. The project also improved intersection lighting and made minor storm drainage revisions. The construction was completed in the fall of 2024.
Phase 3 – Prairie Avenue from railroad tracks to 15th Street and 15th Street from Prairie Avenue to Kiwanis Avenue
Construction will include the installation of a neighborhood traffic circle at 15th Street and Prairie Avenue, the addition of pedestrian curb bump-outs at 15th Street and Grange Avenue, updating ADA layouts and ramps, and the installation of a new Rectangular Rapid-Flashing Beacon at Grange Avenue with pedestrian and bicycle push buttons. The project will also involve fisheye detection to existing signals at 15th and Western and 18th and Kiwanis, and miscellaneous striping and signage improvements. The construction is set to be bid in June 2025, with work scheduled for the summer and fall of 2025.
PROJECT SNAPSHOTS
We’d love to showcase all that our clients do with us, but we’d run out of pages! Here’s a quick overview of some recent efforts to partner with our clients, bringing collaborative innovation to communities across the region.
During 2024 flooding
Lake Wanahoo’s Principal Spillway Outlet
Saunders
County, NE
The Lower Platte North Natural Resources District has selected HEI for multiple phases of inspection and repair to Lake Wanahoo’s principal spillway outlet and appurtenant structures over the past 5 years. Following the 2019 flood and subsequent emergency repair work, extensive repairs were also required for the stilling basin. This work was completed prior to a 200-year frequency flood in 2024 that caused additional damage downstream. The next phase of this project will focus on repairing damages downstream of the stilling basin as well as three-dimensional modeling of the stilling basin for potential improvements. At this time, hydraulic modeling has been completed, duplicating the 2024 event, with test modeling for potential improvements underway.
The New Stickney Lake Dam plays a crucial role in mitigating potential flooding and safeguarding the surrounding area.
New Stickney Lake Dam Rehabilitation
Aurora County, SD
In 2019, a bomb cyclone tore through South Dakota, causing significant damage to infrastructure, including the New Stickney Lake Dam. This storm, combined with large snowmelt and rainfall, led to embankment failure, and the dam no longer met the safety criteria set by the South Dakota Department of Agriculture & Natural Resources (DANR). The South Dakota Department of Game, Fish, and Parks (SD GFP) received funding assistance from FEMA’s Disaster Recovery program to repair the dam and hired HEI to design a solution to bring the dam up to current safety standards. HEI began with a detailed hydraulic analysis to inform a preliminary design and evaluated alternatives to assess primary and secondary spillway capacities. Our team provided a technical memorandum documenting their findings and decisions from which final design decisions were made. HEI’s environmental team ensured effective permitting, and they coordinated closely with DANR dam safety personnel. HEI will oversee the project through bidding and construction, ensuring compliance with FEMA and DANR requirements.
3D model of the stilling basin
Restoration of Three Mile Lake
Union County, IA
HEI began work on the Three Mile Lake Restoration project in September 2020, collaborating with Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) officials to develop engineering design plans for watershed best management practices (BMPs) to retain sediment and nutrients, as well as in-lake improvements to enhance its water quality and ecosystem. Three Mile Lake, a large reservoir in southern Iowa, serves as a major recreational resource and drinking water supply for the City of Creston and the Southern Iowa Rural Water Association.
HEI performed field and topographic surveys, design, permitting, wetland and stream mitigation, and construction phase support. The project included four watershed impoundments; stream mitigation; two new in-lake forebays; and the rehabilitation of the existing sediment forebay, which was largely silted in and no longer preventing new sediment from entering the main lake. Additionally, shoreline protection and in-lake habitat structures were included to stabilize the banks and improve the fishery. Construction was performed in two phases, and the project was completed in January 2025, with the lake intended to refill for full recreation and water supply.
The project included reviewing culvert videos to identify deficiencies, developing alternatives to rehabilitate the culverts, working with local stakeholders to review alternatives, finalizing the design and permitting of the selected alternatives, and construction observation.
Little Papio Culvert Rehabilitation Project
Omaha, NE
After completing several previous culvert rehabilitation projects for the Papio-Missouri River Natural Resources District (P-MRNRD), HEI was selected for the design, permitting, and construction observation of 45 aging stormwater penetrations along the Little Papio Channel/Levee system in Omaha. This Little Papio Flood Protection Project was constructed by the US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) in 1970, so HEI first met with the USACE to define rehabilitation alternatives that could be considered for this project.
The alternatives analysis phase included a detailed review of each penetration video and a video inspection report identifying deficiencies. A site investigation and survey followed to determine existing utilities and develop a project database for evaluating rehabilitation alternatives and costs. HEI developed plan and profile sheets for review with the P-MRNRD, and alternatives were selected for final design. Rehabilitation methods included sliplining, centrifugally cast concrete pipe (CCCP), cured-in-place pipe (CIPP), and removal and replacement methods. Group A finished construction in September 2023, and Group B will begin construction in the fall of 2025. The 408 permit approval and a 404 permit were coordinated with the USACE for Group B culverts.
EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHTS
Getting to know Aaron Carrell
Aaron is a Project Manager and Senior Civil Engineer in HEI’s Eden Prairie, MN, office and was an owner of HTPO prior to them becoming part of HEI. He specializes in innovative civil engineering solutions for transportation, water resources, land development, and trail projects. Aaron often acts as project manager, leading site evaluations, feasibility studies, cost analyses, and design services. With a passion for mentoring and continuous learning, He enjoys working alongside professionals of all experience levels to tackle diverse projects.
Originally from Marion, IL, Aaron graduated from the University of Missouri – Rolla (now Missouri S&T). His career journey led him to HTPO and now HEI, where he was drawn by the company’s culture of growth, teamwork, and dedication to client service.
Outside of work, Aaron enjoys spending time with his wife, Jennifer. They have a trip to Scotland planned as they celebrate 20 years of marriage this July. Together, they have two daughters, Lyla (15) and Brielle (13), along with their beloved dog, Bruiser. Aaron also loves exploring the outdoors, traveling, and making memories with his family.
Q&A
How did you first learn about HEI and what made you interested in working here?
I became aware of HEI when Alex Schmidt left HTPO to pursue water resources and environmental projects.
Over the years, I’ve admired HEI’s collaborative culture, employee connections, and commitment to career development. It was a natural fit when we began discussing becoming part of HEI.
What has been the most rewarding project you’ve worked on thus far in your career?
Reflecting on my career, the Southwest Light Rail Transit project stands out as the most memorable. My primary focus was the Operations & Maintenance Facility (OMF), although it was eventually redesigned as a smaller Rail Support Facility (RSF), slated for completion in summer 2025.
I served as the lead civil engineer and CAD drafter collaborating with other partnering consultants, I assumed the role of Engineer of Record and Civil Project Manager for the OMF (abandoned), RSF, and demolition packages. This project is among the largest in Minnesota’s history.
In addition to our core responsibilities, I contributed to roadway layouts, trail alignments, grading plans, and utility relocation plans. Working alongside professionals across multiple disciplines and municipalities, including Metro Transit, provided invaluable lessons and broadened my expertise.
The complexity of the site development, particularly around the rail yards and facilities, made this project an incredible learning experience. From mastering CAD techniques to large-scale modeling and intricate utility design, I gained technical skills while developing project management and collaboration abilities.
Although the original OMF will not be constructed, witnessing the RSF come to life is rewarding. Having dedicated nearly 60% of my career to this project, I’m proud of my contributions and grateful for the knowledge I’ve brought back to clients and the firm. Sharing these lessons with colleagues has been a fulfilling way to pass on what I’ve learned.
What professional advice would you like to pass along to others?
Never hesitate to speak up for yourself and focus on the type of work that makes you satisfied with what you’ve done.
Aaron, with his wife Jennifer, and daughters Lyla and Brielle.
Aaron and Jennifer relaxing on Minnesota’s North Shore.
Aaron plays prince charming with a local sunfish.
Aaron navigates a rocky hill while mountain biking.
Getting to know Adam Pawelk
Adam is a Senior Civil Engineer in HEI’s Eden Prairie, MN, office and he previously served as an owner and the Treasurer of HTPO. With a reputation for meticulous attention to detail, high-quality work, and effective project management, Adam collaborates closely with clients and stakeholders to achieve successful outcomes. His expertise spans feasibility studies, roadway and utility design, park and trail design, stormwater management, permitting, and construction administration. His leadership and problem-solving abilities make him a valuable resource for both clients and colleagues.
Adam joined HTPO as a new college graduate and quickly found a professional home. He is excited about joining HEI, appreciating the shared commitment to a positive work environment that supports employee growth and enhances client service.
Originally from New Germany, MN, Adam graduated from Minnesota State University, Mankato. Outside of work, he enjoys home improvement projects, helping family members with theirs, and spending time on the lake fishing. Adam has a large family in the area and is deeply involved in his community, serving on the church council at St. John of Hollywood since 2013. His dedication to both his career and his community reflects his passion for making a positive impact.
Q&A
What has been the most rewarding project you’ve worked on thus far in your career?
One of my most rewarding projects was a street reconstruction for the City of Eden Prairie, where I served as the project manager and lead engineer. Transforming a deteriorating rural roadway into an urban corridor with curb and gutter, storm sewer drainage, and a new trail posed significant challenges. I implemented innovative stormwater management solutions, including infiltration basins and underground perforated storm pipe systems, to navigate the narrow corridor constraints. It was a great feeling to complete this multi-year project.
What has been your most memorable vacation and why?
I’m a dedicated Minnesota sports fan, and I once took a road trip to Denver with my two youngest brothers. The trip included a visit to the iconic Overlook Hotel in Estes Park — memorable for its connection to Dumb and Dumber and the classic line, “We landed on the moon!” We also encountered a herd of elk on a golf course and capped off the adventure with a Vikings-Broncos game at Mile High Stadium, where I had the opportunity to watch Peyton Manning in action.
What
fuels your passion for your career?
For me, the sense of accomplishment when construction documents are finalized is a major motivator. I take pride in seeing people enjoy the finished spaces, whether it’s a newly paved street, a scenic trail, or a community court.
Adam hooks a sizeable large mouth bass!
Adam (right) with Aaron Oppenheimer at a company-sponsored golf event.
Adam with Aaron Carrell on a company afternoon boat cruise.
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Celebrating Milestone Anniversaries in 2025!
Our employees are the core of our company, and we value their contributions. Congratulations to the following employees!
“Curt and Jeremy’s 30-year milestones with HEI speak volumes about their dedication, consistency, and the value they’ve brought to the team over the decades. Their work has helped shape the company’s growth and culture, and their presence continues to make a lasting impact.”
– Jerry Bents, Office Manager, Fargo
Haley Plessel Civil Engineer
Whit Thomas Civil Engineer
Danielle Smith Talent Development Specialist
Kat Weeden Communications Assistant
Lela Dourado Scientist
Cole Backman Software Engineer Granville Barker Software Engineer
Kaleb Larson Survey Technician
Mike Henderson Senior Geotechnical Advisor
Kyle Ten Napel Transportation Planner
Cody Zarak Civil Technician
Derek Kayser Civil Engineer
Alex Schmidt Civil Engineer
Nicholas Graham Survey Technician Drone Pilot
Megan Doyle Administrative Assistant
Rachel Olm Scientist
Colson Barton Civil Engineer
Bethany Fraase Director of Finance
Victor Gronvold Civil Engineer
Jay Peterson Senior Civil Construction Technician
Krista Hanneman Payroll Specialist
Justin Kassen Civil Engineer
Jeff Langan Senior Civil Engineer
Ryan Haring Senior Technician Survey Crew Chief
Casey Rieke
Accomplishments, Events, and More!
Congrats New Shareholders!
Moriya Rufer was named Super Partner of the Year by the Morrison Soil & Water Conservation District. She was also invited to be a board member of the Minnesota Lake Management Society!
Volunteering Team members volunteered their time for a variety of worthy causes, including meal prep and community events.
Tony Nordby was awarded Prairie Business’ 40 Under 40 for 2024.
PE Licenses
Congrats to HEI team members for earning your Professional Engineering License (PE)!
PLS Licenses
Congrats to Kory Alexander and Zachery Hartung for earning their Professional
Drew Kessler was named to the board at Farmers for Sustainable Food!
Culture FUN
HEI staff and families have had a blast inside and out this winter and spring!
Congrats to Mark Jacobs on receiving the Top Speaker Award at the MNAFPM and IFSMA Joint Conference!
Aaron Carrell Adam Pawelk Naomi Disrud Joe Reiter
Ted Rud
Colson Barton
Chris Furman
Mike Van Hove
Zach Holweger
Alex Schmidt Steve Strack
To better serve our clients we now have a new location in Aberdeen. Be sure to stop by and say hello! 13 2nd Avenue SE | Suite 3 Aberdeen, SD 57401 605.622.0985 Find Your Passion: Build Your Future
HEI is all about teamwork, collaboration, and making a difference. We offer great opportunities for growth through mentorship and continuous learning. If you’re passionate, client-focused, and eager to learn, HEI could be the perfect place for you to grow your career!
We’re looking for entry level to experienced engineers in these disciplines:
Scan here to check out all our open positions and apply!