Honorees recognized for their positive impact and investment in their communities
COLUMBUS, Ohio (May 15, 2025) – HNTB’s Katie Zehnder, AICP, PE, PTOE, project director and vice president, has been selected as a 2025 Columbus Woman of Influence by Columbus Business First.
The award recognizes women who are trailblazers, visionaries and leaders making a significant impact on the region’s business landscape. Honorees are chosen for their exceptional leadership, business acumen, mentorship and community involvement.
“I am truly humbled to be acknowledged alongside these extraordinary women who have made significant impacts in our community,” said Zehnder. “I am grateful to my late mother, a dedicated teacher, and my father, a Vietnam veteran—both of whom taught me to serve with purpose, strive for progress and remain endlessly curious about what comes next.”
At HNTB, Zehnder plays a key role in driving the firm’s digital infrastructure and advanced mobility solutions. She has significantly contributed to infrastructure programs across the U.S., assisting states, toll agencies, airports, counties, cities and transit agencies in fostering a culture of innovation and efficiency by advancing strategic initiatives that connect people, improve safety and strengthen communities.
Earlier in her career, Zehnder served as HNTB’s Ohio office leader, overseeing the Cleveland, Columbus and Cincinnati offices. During this time, she helped the City of Columbus secure $50 million in U.S. Department of Transportation and private Smart Cities grant funds to utilize technology to connect communities and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Zehnder is actively shaping the future of the infrastructure industry through her leadership in digital infrastructure, industry involvement and dedication to her local community. She is a former president of the Columbus Children’s Choir and is currently chairing their renovation initiatives. As a passionate advocate for girls in STEM, she serves on the Dream Big Champions Committee for the Girl Scouts, where she has raised vital funds and awareness for their STEM center and continues to foster connections between the organization and Ohio’s STEM leaders. Additionally, Zehnder contributes her expertise as a member of the Industrial Advisory Board for Union College’s new Civil and Environmental Engineering Department in Schenectady, N.Y.