Prestigious honor recognizes leadership, service and global impact on the tunneling profession

 KANSAS CITY, Mo. (Feb. 27, 2026) – HNTB’s national tunnel practice leader, Sanja Zlatanic, PE, has been selected as the 2025 recipient of the Society for Mining, Metallurgy & Exploration (SME) President’s Individual Citation Award, one of the organization’s highest honors recognizing exemplary leadership and service in the tunneling and underground construction industry.

Established in 1978, the SME President’s Individual Citation Award recognizes individuals whose service and leadership have made a lasting impact on the profession. Zlatanic is honored for her significant contributions to the Underground Construction Association (UCA), including her leadership as chair of the George A. Fox Conference Committee and her election as vice chair of the ITA‑AITES Executive Council, representing the U.S.

“Sanja is an inspiring force within HNTB and across the tunneling industry. Her passion for advancing tunneling elevates everyone around her, from emerging professionals to seasoned experts,” said Mike Inabinet, PE, HNTB president of markets and services. “She brings an energy and vision that push our industry forward in remarkable ways. Her influence is felt not only in the projects she delivers, but in the people she empowers.”

Zlatanic received the award during the SME Awards Celebration at the MINEXCHANGE 2026 SME Annual Conference & Expo on Feb. 25 in Salt Lake City.

With more than three decades of experience in tunnel and underground infrastructure projects worldwide, Zlatanic leads HNTB’s national tunnel practice with a focus on technical excellence, innovation and mentorship. Her leadership has advanced major transportation and infrastructure programs across the U.S. and internationally, while helping to define best practices in underground design, construction and safety.

Beyond her work at HNTB, Zlatanic is an active and influential leader in the global tunneling community. She continues to advocate for international collaboration, knowledge sharing and the development of the next generation of tunnel professionals through her involvement with ITA‑AITES, UCA and other industry organizations.