Former Williamson County judge and federal small business advocate brings extensive public-sector leadership, economic development and stakeholder engagement experience
AUSTIN, TEXAS (May 18, 2026) – William (Bill) Gravell Jr. has joined HNTB as business development officer and vice president in the firm’s Central Division. In this role, Gravell will support strategic growth initiatives, strengthen client relationships and help advance infrastructure solutions that address the evolving needs of communities. He brings decades of experience in public service, economic development, government relations and community engagement.
“Judge Gravell understands the challenges public agencies face as they balance rapid growth, funding needs and long-term community priorities,” said Scott Haywood, HNTB’s Central Division president and senior vice president. “His experience leading through that complexity will be a strong asset as HNTB continues partnering with clients to deliver infrastructure solutions that create lasting value.”
Gravell most recently served as Region 6 Advocate for the U.S. Small Business Administration’s Office of Advocacy, representing small businesses across Arkansas, Louisiana, New Mexico, Oklahoma and Texas. In that role, he worked with business owners, government officials and policy leaders to elevate regional priorities and support economic growth.
Before his federal appointment, Gravell served as Williamson County judge from 2019 to 2025, where he managed county operations, led emergency management efforts and helped guide the county through a period of significant growth. During his tenure, Williamson County welcomed more than 12,500 new small businesses, and major employers including Apple, Samsung and Kalahari expanded in the region.
“HNTB has a long history of helping communities deliver infrastructure that supports growth, improves mobility and creates lasting economic opportunity,” Gravell said. “In Williamson County, I saw how intentional planning and strong partnerships can help communities compete for major investment. I’m excited to partner with our clients as they apply those lessons to meet today’s needs and prepare for the future.”
Gravell was also critical to securing Williamson County’s first-ever international economic mutual cooperation agreement with the Korea-Trade Investment Promotion Agency, a first-of-its-kind partnership expected to help attract dozens, if not hundreds, of South Korean companies to the region and strengthen the supplier ecosystem supporting Samsung’s $17 billion semiconductor facility in Taylor, Texas.
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