Veteran SCDOT industry professional brings more than three decades of experience successfully managing and delivering multimodal transportation programs
COLUMBIA, S.C. (Mar. 26, 2024) – Mark Lester, PE, PMP, has joined HNTB as a project director and associate vice president bringing 32 years of transportation engineering, project management and leadership experience. His extensive career includes more than two decades with the South Carolina Department of Transportation where he last served as deputy secretary for intermodal planning overseeing all components of the Statewide Multimodal Transportation Plan and Statewide Transportation Improvement Program.
“Mark brings an impressive record of achievements and proven leadership experience to help take our transportation practice to the next level,” said Spencer Franklin, PE, HNTB Carolinas office leader and senior vice president. “His deep understanding of the transportation network across the Carolinas and long tenure with SCDOT will bring significant value to our clients and enhance HNTB’s capabilities to continue delivering on complex projects throughout the region.”
In his new role, Lester will lead significant transportation infrastructure projects for clients throughout the region, driving the advancement of large-scale initiatives aimed at enhancing mobility. This entails overseeing all aspects of the project lifecycle, from scope development to cost and quality control and project management.
“I’m thrilled to welcome Mark to our dynamic team in South Carolina,” said Shannon Meder, HNTB South Carolina practice lead and vice president. “With our firm’s ongoing expansion to meet the rising demand for our comprehensive infrastructure services, Mark’s demonstrated expertise in team growth and development, coupled with his extensive background in business development and client relations, will be vital to further maximize HNTB’s position in the market.”
Prior to joining HNTB, Lester served as a senior project manager and client service leader for another consulting firm. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering from Clemson University and is a registered professional engineer in South Carolina as well as a certified Project Management Professional.