Gomez joins a distinguished group of industry leaders dedicated to advancing construction to build a better nation
LOS ANGELES – (Oct. 5, 2026) – HNTB’s Diana Gomez, senior project director and vice president, has been elected to the National Academy of Construction (NAC), one of the highest honors in the construction industry.
Each year, NAC recognizes individuals whose leadership and achievements have significantly advanced how the nation designs, builds and delivers its infrastructure. Gomez was nominated for her accomplishments and innovations over a 36-year career advancing the construction industry.
“Diana’s leadership has left a lasting mark on how Californians travel, and her influence will be felt for generations,” said Yoga Chandran, PhD, PE, GE, Los Angeles office leader and senior vice president at HNTB. “Her election to NAC places her among the nation’s most respected construction leaders, a distinction that reflects not only her remarkable career, but her commitment to building a better future for the communities we serve. We are incredibly proud to have her on our team.”
At HNTB, Gomez directs the firm’s highway work across the State of California. She joined the firm in 2025 after holding executive leadership roles with the California Department of Transportation and the California High-Speed Rail Authority, bringing decades of experience from two of the state’s most significant transportation programs.
Her impact extends well beyond her major projects. In December 2024, U.S. Reps. Lou Correa, Jim Costa and David Valadao recognized Gomez industry accomplishments with tributes entered into the Congressional Record. In 2023, the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers presented Gomez with its highest honor, the Jaime Oaxaca Award, which recognizes selfless service and outstanding contributions to the Hispanic community through engineering. That same year, the California State Assembly honored her with the Women Leading the Way Award. Hispanic Business magazine has also named her one of the “100 Most Influential Hispanics.”
Gomez was one of 45 industry leaders invited to join NAC’s 495-member organization this year and was formally inducted into this distinguished group of leaders at a ceremony in Nashville on September 26.