Industry veteran brings decades of strategic leadership and keen understanding of emerging transportation technology
CLEVELAND (Jan. 5, 2026) — Randy Cole, a nationally recognized transportation leader with two decades of experience, has joined HNTB as national toll market sector leader and senior vice president. In this role, Cole will lead HNTB’s toll strategy, partnering with the firm’s leadership team and toll professionals to drive innovation and deliver successful projects and programs for the firm’s clients.
“Randy brings a unique understanding of transportation policy, in-depth knowledge of toll systems and operations and a vision for innovation and technical excellence,” said Mike Inabinet, PE, HNTB president – markets and services. “His perspective and partnerships across the toll industry enhance the support HNTB delivers for our toll clients as they advance innovative funding and operations strategies for essential transportation infrastructure.”
Prior to joining HNTB, Cole held leadership roles including serving as a Commission Member of the Ohio Turnpike and Infrastructure Commission before eventually being named Executive Director, a role he served in from 2014-2019. During his time as Executive Director, he led a strategic plan to upgrade the Turnpike’s toll collection system and completed more than 70 projects focused on enhancing customer service and increasing revenue. He also was an executive sponsor for Ohio’s first connected vehicle corridor and served on the initial Advisory Board of DriveOhio, a statewide initiative dedicated to advancing smart mobility and connected vehicle technology.
Cole also led his own consulting firm that specialized in tolling and transportation related services. This included developing a strategic plan for the BETA District, a regional effort in the State of Ohio to support the development of advanced transportation technology. In addition, he led an effort for the EZ-Pass Group that guides interactions of 39 separate toll authorities across 19 states.
“I am eager to contribute to HNTB’s growth in the tolling industry and look forward to supporting our clients as they deliver transformative transportation solutions,” said Cole. “From cashless operations and expanded interoperability to advanced data-driven decision-making, the industry is evolving at an unprecedented pace. This is an extraordinary time to advance these solutions and enhance long-term asset performance and improve mobility and reliability for customers.”
Cole is an active leader in the toll industry, currently serving on the International Bridge, Tunnel and Turnpike Association’s (IBTTA) Toll Revenue Assurance Committee and previously serving on IBTTA’s Board of Directors and Emerging Technologies Committee.
He holds a bachelor’s in public policy from the University of Akron.