PHILADELPHIA, Pa. (Nov. 10, 2011) –Tom Defant Jr., PMP, has been named associate vice president and project director in HNTB's Philadelphia office.

Defant will be focused on developing the firm's aviation practice and continuing to expand HNTB's presence in the Philadelphia area by developing both existing and new clients throughout the metropolitan area.

"With more than 21 years of experience in aviation in the Philadelphia area, Tom will bring expertise in airside and landside projects and services to our clients in the region," said Yassmin Gramian, PE, HNTB Pennsylvania office leader.

HNTB has provided transportation services in Pennsylvania since the 1960s. Building upon these early efforts, in 1994, HNTB reaffirmed its commitment to Pennsylvania by establishing a permanent presence with the opening of its Philadelphia office. Since that time, HNTB has grown and diversified to provide a wide array of planning, design and construction services to Pennsylvania transportation clients. The firm employs more than 100 professionals in various offices throughout Pennsylvania – Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Harrisburg and Norristown.

Prior to joining HNTB, Defant was a consultant serving as program director for program management services to the Philadelphia International Airport's multi-billion dollar capital improvement program. He also served as senior project engineer for the city of Philadelphia's Neighborhood Transformation Initiative, where he served as the main contact for the city of Philadelphia.

HNTB Corporation is an employee-owned infrastructure firm serving public and private owners and contractors. With nearly a century of service, HNTB understands the life cycle of infrastructure and solves clients’ most complex technical, financial and operational challenges. Professionals nationwide deliver a full range of infrastructure-related services, including award-winning planning, design, program delivery and construction management. For more information, visit www.hntb.com.