the TALK LINE
an internal publication for TTL team members
May 2026
MERCEDES BRIDGE AND
AL
IN THIS ISSUE
• LETTER FROM LEADERSHIP
• SAFETY TIP
• DRIVEN TO SERVE
the TALK LINE
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"The success we enjoy as a firm isn’t accidental. It’s built on thousands of decisions ... that are made correctly, responsibly, and thoughtfully every single day."
Patrick Gupton, PE Business Unit Leader, Construction Services
What's Inside?
PURPOSE
Letter from Leadership
PEOPLE
Driven to Serve
Photo Contest Winner
Milestones
PROJECTS
Project Highlights
LETTER FROM LEADERSHIP
The quiet effort behind every win
Over the past several years, TTL has experienced tremendous growth. We’ve taken on larger projects, expanded our teams, entered new markets, and positioned TTL for even greater future opportunities that reflect the trust our clients place in us.
Those wins matter – they are visible, exciting, and worth celebrating. But neither they nor the company’s growth and success happened on their own.
What often goes unseen are the silent contributions that make moments like these possible. The day-in, day-out efforts that don’t make headlines in The Talk Line, don’t get much recognition, and rarely come with applause –these are what keep this firm moving forward.
It’s administrators keeping details aligned and work moving smoothly behind the scenes.
It’s field staff adjusting to changing conditions and, sometimes, chaotic schedules, all while continually looking out for one another.
It’s professionals pulling in colleagues for a second set of eyes to make sure a deliverable is accurate and correct before it ever goes out the door.
None of these moments stand out on their own. But together, they create the consistency and trust that allow everything else to succeed.
Whether you’re providing administrative support to a project from the office, working in the field, managing schedules, reviewing deliverables, or keeping operations running efficiently, your work matters. It creates stability. It builds trust. And, perhaps most importantly, it protects our reputation and the clients who rely on us.
I also recognize that quiet work can sometimes feel thankless. When you’re focused on details, solving small problems, or keeping things running in the background, it may seem like no one notices. But I want you to know that it is noticed.
And it is valued.
The success we enjoy as a firm isn’t accidental. It’s built on thousands of decisions -- to follow through, to communicate clearly, or to take ownership – that are made correctly, responsibly, and thoughtfully every single day.
As we continue to grow and take on new challenges, this kind of focus matters more than ever. Growth of the kind TTL has enjoyed brings new demands and higher expectations, but it doesn’t change what makes us successful.
The adage about going fast and going far is true: “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.”
What makes (and keeps) TTL strong are the people who care about their work, respect each other’s roles, and understand that every TTL team member’s efforts are what hold everything in place.
So, if your work falls mostly behind the scenes, please know this: You are a critical part of our success.
And if you’re fortunate enough to have a role that puts you in a position to lead others, remember to recognize and respect the quiet work around you. It deserves just as much appreciation as the visible wins.
“
"None of these moments stand out on their own. But together, they create the consistency and trust that allow everything else to succeed."
Thank you for showing up. Thank you for your consistency. And thank you for the work you do every day to keep this firm moving forward.
We truly couldn’t do it without you.
PATRICK GUPTON, PE Business Unit Leader, Construction Services
DRIVEN TO SERVE
When professional services become community support
RICK HECKEL, PE
At TTL, it’s easy to see our “Driven to Serve” philosophy in action through volunteer hours, community involvement, and local engagement.
But sometimes, one of the most meaningful ways to give back is by doing what we do best.
That was the case when TTL recently provided a pro bono comprehensive building inspection for the Child Advocacy Center (CAC) of Rutherford and Cannon Counties in Tennessee. This nonprofit organization was formed in 2000 to provide safety, justice, and healing for victims of child abuse and child sexual abuse, drug-endangered children, and their non-offending family members.
“TTL is well known for supporting the communities where we live and work.”
“
TTL’s involvement was fostered by Chief Geotechnical Engineer Rick Heckel, PE, whose wife, Reba, serves on the CAC’s board. Through her volunteerism, Rick learned more about the CAC’s mission and the challenges they faced – particularly their need for a larger, more functional space to serve vulnerable children and families.
"When you learn about what they do, it’s just a great cause,” Rick said. “They needed not only more space, but space that has been modified so they can do all the things that they do.”
At the time, the organization was operating in a facility that was not only too small, but also lacked the privacy and security necessary for their most sensitive work. And in some cases, Rick said, staff had to clear entire office suites just to conduct confidential interviews.
So, when the CAC began pursuing the purchase of a larger, 8,000-square-foot facility, TTL stepped in to help and conducted a full building inspection – services that would typically cost between $8,000 and $10,000 – at no charge.
Beyond Rick’s involvement, Jared Elmore and Frank Upchurch, PE, both from our Tuscaloosa office, pitched in to complete the inspection that, ultimately, achieved two critical goals.
“We went in and were able to, No. 1, make them confident that the building they were purchasing was structurally sound,” Rick said. “And No. 2, we were able to give them a list of things that need to be done to the building. It’s old enough that it’s got some wear and tear on it.”
TTL’s detailed assessment highlighted key issues such as the need for a new roof and other age-related repairs, which allowed the CAC to plan and budget accordingly. That insight proved valuable as the organization moved forward with its purchase and ongoing capital campaign to renovate the space into a permanent home.
“This step has been 26 years in the making for this vital organization,” said CAC Board Chair Dr. Trey Duke in announcing earlier this year the purchase of the new CAC facility. “In fact, since its inception, the CAC has not had a permanent location or adequate space.”
For Rick, though, supporting the CAC wasn’t just about donating time. Rather, it was about applying TTL’s expertise in a way that directly strengthens a vital community resource.
“TTL is well known for supporting the communities where we live and work,” he said. “I can think of no better way to do that than how we supported this worthwhile organization.”
Do you have a team member who gives back to the community or colleagues through volunteerism or support?
Let us know!
Baylee Rutherford
May Safety Tip
SUNSCREEN
Select Broad Spectrum: Choose a label that specifies "Broad Spectrum" to ensure you are protected against both UVA rays, which cause skin aging, and UVB rays, which cause burning.
The 15-Minute Rule: Apply your sunscreen at least 15 minutes before heading outdoors. This allows the formula to fully bind to your skin and create an effective protective barrier.
Check the Date: Sunscreen loses its potency over time. Always check the expiration date on the bottle and replace any product that has changed in consistency or scent.
SAFETY
BY CHOICE, NOT BY CHANCE.
PLAY BALL!
Our Tuscaloosa office softball team wrapped up the regular season with a 1–8–1 record — but the real win was everything that happened off the scoreboard. With participation from nearly every service line, the team brought together a great mix of colleagues who might not otherwise cross paths during the workday.
It was a fun opportunity to connect, compete, and enjoy some time outside the office, and the team spirit was strong all season long. The enthusiasm hasn’t slowed down either — there’s already plenty of interest in getting back out on the field for a fall season!
Who’s Who & What We Do
Who’s Who and What We Do introduces the people behind the work and shares how their skills, experience, and dedication help move our projects – and our communities – forward.
With a bachelor’s degree in journalism from The University of Alabama, Jason Morton brings more than two decades of professional writing experience to TTL as the firm’s writing specialist.
A native of Alabama, Jason built his career in newspapers where he developed a reputation for clear, accurate, and compelling storytelling across a wide range of complex topics.
His journalism career began in 2000 with the LaGrange (Ga.) Daily News, covering local government and public safety. In 2004, he joined The Tuscaloosa (Ala.) News, where he spent the next 18 years reporting on courts, regional communities, county commissions, and ultimately municipal government, with a focus on the City of Tuscaloosa.
AREAS OF SUPPORT
During his newspaper career, Jason earned two Story of the Year awards along with multiple accolades from press associations in Georgia and Alabama. He also was part of the reporting team that received the Pulitzer Prize for Breaking News Reporting for coverage of the deadly April 27, 2011 tornado that devastated much of Tuscaloosa.
At TTL, Jason focuses on elevating the firm’s written content across proposals, qualifications, and internal and external communications. He also works closely with technical staff to translate complex engineering concepts into clear, concise, and meaningful messaging that resonates with clients and stakeholders.
Outside of work, Jason enjoys cooking, watching movies, and cheering on the Alabama Crimson Tide. He and his wife, Pam, live in eastern Tuscaloosa with their son, Enoch.
• Develop clear, compelling written content for proposals, qualifications, and marketing materials
• Translate technical details into concise, client-focused information that is easy for non-engineers to understand
• Edit and refine content to improve clarity, consistency, and overall quality
• Support internal communications and messaging to maintain alignment across teams
• Assist with storytelling efforts that highlight TTL’s projects, people, and capabilities
WHEN TO CONTACT JASON:
Jason assists with:
• Press releases
• Resume updates
• Project descriptions
• Why-based bios
• Technical white papers and abstracts
• Technical bios for conferences
• Writing/grammar advice
• And, really, any other writing assistance, technical or otherwise
While Jason is available by phone or text, a quick
is the fastest way to reach him.
Jason was part of the reporting team that received the Pulitzer Prize for Breaking News Reporting in 2012.
More Good News
THE MAYOR'S CUP 5K
TTL was proud to support the 2026 Mayor’s Cup 5K for Pre-K in Tuscaloosa, with team members both participating and volunteering alongside more than 65 volunteers over the weekend. In addition to TTL's sponsorship of the Mile 1 hydration station, about 15 to 20 TTL employees and their family members were among the nearly 1,200 participants. It’s all part of our inaugural commitment to this event, which began in 2007 as a means to raise funds and awareness for early childhood education in the community.
CONGRATULATIONS
Zachary Blair, PG, TN QHP, married Erika Davis on April 25!
DINNERVIEW
Project Professional Samantha Borglum, far left, sat on the panel for UAB's DinnerView event, which offered an opportunity to network with women in STEM and participate in a Q&A with a panel of professionals.
OUT OF OFFICE
WOMEN IN BUSINESS
Members of the Nashville office attended the Williamson County Chamber of Commerce Women in Business Luncheon. From left: Rachel Hagan, Anna Jones, Bri Shaw, Karen Hope, Brandy Baltz, PG, Savannah Cooper, and Kim Jordan.
Steve Newton, PE shared his expertise across Alabama this April, starting with a presentation on the reissued ADEM Construction General Permit to the Alabama Association of Floodplain Managers. He concluded the week by lecturing on engineering ethics to Auburn University seniors and volunteering as a presenter for fifth graders at the Cullman County Water Festival.
Photo Contest & Pet of the Month
GET READY TO SNAP SOME SHOTS!
It is time again for our monthly photo contest for all team members. In the office? The field? Out and about? All options apply! Submit your best project or field photos for a chance to win a $50 Visa gift card!
To enter, email your photos with "PHOTO CONTEST" in the subject line to baylee.rutherford@ttlusa.com.
PET OF THE MONTH
Does your furry coworker deserve the title? Cast your vote using the link below to help us crown this month's winner! Voting for May closes 5/8.
Click to cast your vote!
Got a photogenic pup, chaotic cat, or cool creature? Send a photo to baylee.rutherford@ttlusa.com along with their name and a fun fact.
APRIL PHOTO CONTEST
Congratulations to our April winnerElizabeth Brunner (Valdosta)!
She captured these photos while drilling on a job site in Texas. They found varying layers in the core sample, including calcite!
PET OF THE MONTH
Congratulations to our April winnerAristotle Hughes!
His human friend, Emma Hughes, EI, (Huntsville) let us know he is a pleco catfish and currently 8 years old and 15 inches long, but he eventually could reach 20 years and 24 inches.
Note: Plecos are highly invasive species and should never be introduced into waterways.
Shining Stars
Congratulations to our dedicated professionals on their new licenses and certifications!
Thomas Moore, PE
Congratulations Thomas on successfully passing The Principles and Practice of Engineering (PE) exam.
Clinton Van Wormer
Level 1 Unbonded PT Installer
ICC Structural Steel & Bolting Special Inspector
Owen Wilson
Level 1 Unbonded PT Installer & Inspector
Rebecca Beal
ACI Aggregate Testing Technician Level 1
Keith Kummer
TDOT Asphalt Certified Roadway Technician
Jonathan Casey
ACI Concrete Field Testing Technician Grade I
April Garcia
TXDOT SB101 Material Properties Specialist
Mark Canada
GDOT Asphalt QCT Level I
Justin Markiewicz
ACI Concrete Field Testing Technician Grade I
Not Pictured
Not Pictured
Not Pictured
CELEBRATION
A major milestone for our Nashville CMT team was reached when every field technician on staff, as of April 2, earned ACI certification!
Welcome to the TTL team!
We’re excited to have you on board and look forward to achieving great things together!
BIRMINGHAM
David Johnson
DECATUR
Shari Godsey
SAN ANTONIO
Khyati Bhatiya
Milo Teplin
O'Shea Jones
TUSCALOOSA
Austin Klein
Andrew Strickland
Ryan Nolen
VALDOSTA
Blake Howell
Anniversaries & Birthdays
MAY ANNIVERSARIES
John Harvey
Brian Harvey
Matthew Gaston
Miranda Runion
Leanna Whitwell
Brian Wysock
Andy McCartney
Christopher Bauml
Amanda Miller
Andy Durrence
Jonathan Shepard
Steve Newton
Adam Strachan
Scott Faulkner
Shelley Gordon
Andrew DeLeon
Gene Owen
Jeff Strickland
Joel Wampol
Kyle Neighbors
Bailey Herfurth
Brad Nichols
Jake Lay
Samantha Robinson
Austin Howard
Jason McAbee
Joshua Vega
Anna Whiting
Daniel Alfaro
Dillan Durrence
Dustin Harper
Eric Bridwell
Matthew Jones
James Bailey
Julian Sanchez
Patrick Dooley
Aravinda Jangam
Bradley White
Corey Diamond
David Mills
Happy milestone anniversary to our team members!
MAY BIRTHDAYS
Gabriel Rosales
Julian Torres
Whitt Wilkerson
Chester Drash
Anna Massey
Louis Dechamps
Chase Martin
Brandon Shows
Dan Jennings
William Tillett
Noah Loy
Dennis Isbell
Eireann Donohoe
Evan Hicks
Gary Leonardo
Gavin Colegrove
Hailey Smith
Harrison Stephens
Jackson Mills
Jacob Eakin
Laine Welch
Michael Nierodzik
Michael Powell
Quentin Coleman
Talton Hamilton
Terry Taylor
Trevor Cherry
Thomas Jones
Matt Taylor
Trenton Corbitt
Tal Hamilton
Bradley Porter
Anu Ramachandra
MatT Barker
Preston Liles
Jeremy Moheit
Bruce Lynn
John Castleman
Michael Nierodzik
Dan Cooper
Melissa Norris
Brooks Martini
Alex Henry
O'Shea Jones
Travis Timmermann
Jackson Mills
Trey Barlow
Anna Jones
Justin Preston
Drake Crosby 5/16 5/16 5/16 5/17 5/17 5/18 5/18 5/20 5/20 5/22 5/22
Julie Jacobsen
Robbie Harris
Srividya Nandi
Jason Webber
Benjamin Blevins
Austin McDonald
Cameron Taylor
Trey Schodorf
Crystal Gary
5/23 5/23 5/24 5/26 5/28 5/28 5/30 5/31 5/31
Recent Wins
IH-35 NEX SOUTH PHASE 2
Texas
Persistence has paid off for our Texas team, which recently was selected to provide environmental monitoring services for the Texas Department of Transportation’s (TxDOT) IH35 NEX South Phase 2 project.
In partnership with prime contractor Williams Brothers Construction Co., this design-bid-build project represents approximately $301 million in infrastructure improvements and spans 3.3 miles of non-tolled roadway along IH-35.
TTL will support construction within a designated contaminated zone – providing continuous environmental monitoring over a 250-day period – along with on-call environmental consulting services, as needed.
The project team includes Christopher Bauml, PG, who is providing project management support; Kaitlyn Blount, GIT, who will serve as the lead environmental field specialist throughout the 12.5-month effort; and Ben Batt, who will assist with field monitoring services.
This award marks a major milestone for TTL as its first large-scale environmental services engagement on a TxDOT construction project, something our Texas team has worked long and hard to achieve.
Being chosen for this work only serves to reinforce our firm’s continued growth in the transportation sector alongside our ability to support complex, high-profile infrastructure programs.
TDOT ON-CALL ENVIRONMENTAL HAZARDOUS MATERIALS SERVICES CONTRACT RENEWAL
Tennessee
TTL’s longstanding partnership with the Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) continues with the renewal of the On-Call Environmental Hazardous Materials Services contract, supporting TDOT projects statewide.
This contract builds on years of trusted collaboration, providing TDOT with timely hazardous materials evaluations that help protect public health, manage risk, and keep transportation projects moving forward. From asbestos and hazardous building materials surveys to underground storage tank services and abatement oversight, TTL’s role supports critical decisions made early in project development.
The successful proposal was the result of a true team effort. The environmental and marketing teams worked together to showcase TTL’s deep familiarity with TDOT
standards and procedures, as well as our ability to respond efficiently across multiple regions and task orders.
That effort was strengthened by long standing subconsultant partners who bring specialized laboratory, abatement, drilling, and remediation services to the team, reinforcing a collaborative approach built on experience and reliability.
The award reflects not only technical expertise, but also the relationships, consistency, and teamwork that have defined TTL’s service to TDOT over time.
