National recognition highlights leadership and impact across the transportation industry
ATLANTA (April 15, 2026) – Melissa Mullinax, vice president and business development officer at HNTB, has been named a 2026 honoree by the Conference of Minority Transportation Officials as part of its prestigious Celebrating Women Who Move the Nation awards program. The annual recognition honors trailblazing women whose leadership and impact are shaping the future of the transportation across the industry. Mullinax is among an elite group of national leaders recognized for advancing transportation infrastructure, equity and opportunity. To date, COMTO has honored more than 160 women through the Women Who Move the Nation program.
At HNTB, Mullinax plays a key role in advancing the firm’s growth strategy across the Southeast, working closely with public- and private-sector partners to help deliver infrastructure solutions that strengthen communities. She is widely recognized for her commitment to expanding fair access to contracting opportunities and for championing partnerships that support workforce development and inclusion throughout the transportation industry.
“Melissa is a thoughtful, strategic leader whose career reflects a deep commitment to service, equity and collaboration,” said Doug Allen, HNTB’s southeast division president. “This recognition from COMTO is well deserved and speaks to the impact she continues to have — not only at HNTB, but across the broader transportation and civic communities we serve.”
Before joining HNTB, Mullinax served as chief of staff and chief administrative officer at the Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority, where she led key functions including government affairs, marketing and communications, and labor relations. Her career spans more than two decades at the intersection of transportation, public affairs and community engagement.
The 15th annual Celebrating Women Who Move the Nation Awards Breakfast was held in Washington, D.C. on April 15th and brought together transportation leaders from across the country to recognize this year’s honorees during Women’s History Month.