Texas Tech University

2025 Inductees

Group Photo

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Michael "Hunter" Brennan, PE 

Michael "Hunter" Brennan

 B.S. Civil Engineering 2008 

 Associate & Senior Project Manager Civitas Engineerring Group, Inc. 

 

Hunter Brennan, P.E. is an Associate and Senior Project Manager at Civitas Engineering Group, Inc., leading public works infrastructure projects with a focus on roadways, drainage, parks, and trails. A Texas Tech Civil Engineering graduate in 2008, he became a licensed P.E. in 2014 and brings over 16 years of experience to projects, including site development and highway reconstruction. In his leadership role as Associate, he guides project teams, fosters client relationships, and contributes to the firm’s strategic direction. He also contributes to professional activities as co-chair of the North Houston Association’s 2025 Strategic Mobility Priorities (2024-2025) and a long-time member of its Transportation Committee (2018-Present). He is also actively involved with the American Council of Engineering Companies as a Contracts Committee Member (2023-Present), Drainage Committee Member (2021-Present), and Small Firms Committee Member (2024-Present), in addition to participating in their Emerging Leaders Program (2021-2022). Hunter, a Houston-area native, lives with his son Lane in Pearland. He enjoys hunting, fishing, supporting the Astros, and working on the family ranch.

Project awards: 

Memorial Park Land Bridge & Pririe - 2023 APWA Texas State Award winner, 2023 APWA National Award Winner, 2024 ULI HHouston Best Open Space, 2024 ULI Houston Development of Distriction People's Choice 

Brenda Shroyer Bullard, PE

Brenda Shroyer Bullard

B.S. Agriculutral Engineering 1990 
M.S. Civil Engineering 1993 

Senior Managing Director
Planning & Design 
Texas Tech Univerisity

Brenda S. Bullard, P.E., is the Senior Managing Director for Planning and Design in the Operations Division at Texas Tech University. With nearly 30 years of engineering experience, her career began in private civil and environmental practice before transitioning to facilities management. In her current leadership role, Ms. Bullard works directly with campus leaders to oversee all aspects of facilities planning, including maintenance and new capital projects.

A proud Texas Tech alumna, Ms. Bullard holds both a bachelor's degree in Agricultural Engineering and a master's degree in civil engineering from the university. She is a licensed Professional Engineer in the State of Texas and a Certified Educational Facilities Professional. When she's not shaping the future of the TTU campus, she enjoys spending time with her family, which includes her husband Phillip, three children, a daughter-in-love, and two grandbabies.

Cody Edwards, Leed AP 

Cody_Edwards

B.S. Construction Engineering 2007 

Project Manager
Hensel Phelps 

Cody is an accomplished Project Manager at Hensel Phelps, with over a decade of experience leading major construction projects across Texas. A 2007 graduate of Texas Tech University with a Bachelor of Science in Construction Engineering Technology, he joined Hensel Phelps upon graduation and rose through the ranks.

His career is distinguished by his leadership on significant projects, and he currently spearheads construction efforts for Hensel Phelps in the West Texas market, including his alma mater’s hometown of Lubbock. In addition to his professional responsibilities, Cody regularly guest lectures in courses at Texas Tech, sharing his expertise with the next generation of builders.

In his personal time, Cody is an avid outdoorsman who enjoys spending time with his wife, Krissie, and their two daughters, Kaden and Brooke.

Thomas Finn, PE 

Thomas_Finn

B.S. Civil Engineering 1993
J.D. 2003 

Asociate General Council 
Lerch Bates 

Tom is a civil engineer and attorney with over 30 years of experience in engineering design, regulatory compliance, and project risk management. A 1993 Texas Tech Civil Engineering graduate, he began his career with the EPA's Superfund program before becoming a water and wastewater design engineer. His interest in law led him to earn a Juris Doctor from the University of Denver in 2003.

Blending his technical and legal expertise, Tom has managed land development projects involving floodplain management and FEMA compliance. He served as a regional engineer for a national trade association, where he collaborated with state and federal agencies to apply a risk-based approach to project specifications and standards. He also became known for his engaging engineering ethics presentations. In his local community, he served as Chair of the Board of Variances and Appeals for the City of Englewood, Colorado.

Tom is currently the Associate General Counsel at Lerch Bates Inc., where he oversees contracting, manages risk, and provides strategic guidance on complex engineering projects. He remains committed to continuous learning, community service, and supporting the Texas Tech engineering program. He lives in Englewood, Colorado, with his wife Angela and their two rescue dogs.

 Taylor Hale 

Taylor_Hale

B.S. Construction Engineering 2008 

President 
Muckleroy & Falls 

Taylor Hale is a visionary construction executive and President of Muckleroy & Falls, a leading Texas-based firm he has helped expand into new markets like Dallas and Austin. A Texas Tech Construction Engineering graduate, he has over two decades of experience in commercial construction, excelling in preconstruction, real estate development, and field operations. He also holds a real estate broker license and LEED Green accreditation.

Beyond his professional life, Taylor is committed to community service, serving on the boards of the YMCA of Fort Worth and the Texas Tech Advisory Board. He is also an active member of the Young Presidents’ Organization (YPO). A devoted family man, he and his wife, Shelby, have three sons: Harrison, Palmer, and Merrick. He enjoys spending time with his family and playing golf in his spare time. Inspired by his love for golf, he is passionate about mentoring and supporting youth development programs, including The First Tee.

Kirk Hughlett, CSI, Leed AP 

Kirk_Hughlett

B.S. Construction Engineering 1990

Chief Estimator/Vice President 
Pre-Construction 
Lee Lewis Construction 

Kirk Hughlett is a highly regarded construction executive with more than 30 years of leadership at Lee Lewis Construction, Inc., where he serves as the Vice President of Preconstruction and Chief Estimator. A third-generation builder, he brings over four decades of industry experience and an exceptional depth of knowledge to his role.

A 1990 Texas Tech University alumnus with a Bachelor of Science in Construction Engineering, Kirk holds a LEED AP certification, demonstrating his expertise in sustainable building practices. His notable accomplishments include his involvement in several high-profile projects at Texas Tech University, such as the Jones AT&T Stadium expansion, Womble Basketball Center, Talkington Theater, and the Buddy Holly Hall.

As Chief Estimator and VP of Preconstruction, Kirk is instrumental in guiding projects from initial concept to completion, ensuring operational excellence and strategic planning. His comprehensive understanding of estimating, project bidding, and value engineering has been vital to the firm's success.

Beyond his professional achievements, Kirk is a distinguished Eagle Scout. He resides in Lubbock with his wife, Cindy, where they raised their two sons. In his personal time, he enjoys music, fishing, and being with his family and grandchildren.

Lori Lusk, PE, MBA 

Lori_Lusk

B.S. Civil Engineering 2001
M.B.A. 2013 

Senior PM/Shareholder
Kimley-Horn Associates

Lori is a distinguished civil engineer with more than two decades of experience, currently serving as a shareholder at Kimley-Horn. Since joining the firm in 2016, she has specialized in single-family and "built to rent" residential developments, bringing a wealth of expertise to complex projects.

A 2001 graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering, Lori began her career at TCB, spending five years building her foundational knowledge. Her entrepreneurial spirit led her to co-found her own engineering firm in 2009, during which time she also earned her MBA. This blend of technical and business acumen has shaped her strategic approach to project management and residential development.

Beyond her professional achievements, Lori is passionate about giving back. She regularly participates in events supporting Alzheimer’s and MS research. In her personal time, she enjoys photography, traveling, and spending quality time with her family, friends, and dog, Cooper.

Marcus McShan 

Marcus_McShan

B.S. Engineering Technology (Construction) 2005 

Vice President, Mission 
Critical Operations 
Rogers-O'Brien
Construction, LLC

Marcus McShan is the Vice President of Mission Critical at Rogers-O’Brien Construction, where he has worked for over 20 years. A proud Texas Tech graduate, Marcus has overseen more than $3 billion in projects, including 14 data centers and over 20 higher education facilities for notable clients.

Known for his hands-on leadership and mentorship, Marcus is a trusted advisor who emphasizes strong relationships and integrity. He remains deeply connected to Texas Tech, reflecting the high standards of professionals the university produces, and proudly supports his Red Raider roots. He and his wife, Angie, live in Ponder, Texas, with their two children, Mason and Paisley. Outside of work, he enjoys golfing, hunting, and spending time with his family.

Paula Monaco, PE, Ph.D.

Paula_Monaco

B.S. Environmental Engineering 2013
M.Eng Environmental Engineering 2001
Ph.D. in Civil Engineering 2016

Wastewater Treatment Leader 
Plummer Associates, inc. 

Paula is a highly accomplished Project Manager and Team Lead at Plummer, specializing in wastewater treatment. She earned her B.S., M.Eng., and Doctorate in Civil and Environmental Engineering from Texas Tech University between 2013 and 2016. Her professional expertise focuses on the planning, design, and construction of water and wastewater facilities, with a special emphasis on process modeling.

Known as a "top young industry professional," Paula is also the Biowin champion and a technical mentor for Plummer's modeling group. Her strong leadership is evidenced by her role as President of the WEAT North Texas Section and her active involvement in key industry conferences. Paula has received numerous accolades, including the 2025 WEAT Engineer of the Year and being named to ENR Texas & Louisiana's 2022 Top Young Professionals list.

In her spare time, she enjoys traveling, Formula 1, and family time. A dedicated Texas Tech supporter, she cheers on all of the university's sports teams.

Kayla A. Natividad, Ph.D., Well AP,  Leed Green Associate

Kayla_Natividad

B.S. Civil Engineering 2012
M.S. Civil Engineering 2014
Ph.D. Civil Engineering 2016

Architectural Technical Services 
Manager
Pilkington North America

Dr. Kayla Natividad is a highly respected Architectural Technical Services Engineer at Pilkington North America, specializing in architectural glass design. A triple alumna of Texas Tech University, she holds a BS, MS, and Ph.D. in Civil Engineering, with her doctoral research focusing on the strength and behaviour of glass in architectural glazing.

Since completing her doctorate in 2016, Dr. Natividad has established herself as a leader in the glazing industry. She is a dedicated advocate for glass technology, industry standards, and technical education, actively contributing to codes development and holding leadership roles in several trade associations and standards committees. Her expertise is further underscored by her WELL AP and LEED Green Associate certifications.

A recipient of multiple prestigious awards, including the GlasCon Global Young Researchers Award and three additional national awards since joining Pilkington, Dr. Natividad’s significant accomplishments reflect her profound impact on the industry, and the exceptional caliber of professionals Texas Tech produces. She resides in Ohio with her wife, Ashli, and their daughter, Ramona.

Jarred Overbey, PE, CFM 

Jarred_Oberbey

B.S. Civil Engineering 2004

Vice President/Operations 
Manager, Frisco Office 
Halff

Jarred Overbey, P.E., CFM, is a Licensed Professional Engineer and Certified Floodplain Manager with over 20 years of experience in civil engineering. As Operations Manager for Halff’s Frisco office, he leads multidisciplinary teams across civil, energy, survey, and environmental projects throughout North Texas. Having dedicated his entire career to Halff, he has progressed from project engineer to his current leadership role.

An innovative leader, Jarred integrates new technologies, including machine learning and AI for urban flood risk assessment, into complex projects. His leadership on the first-ever Region 3 Trinity Regional Flood Plan contributed to the inaugural State Flood Plan and earned his team the 2024 Silver Medal from the American Council of Engineering Companies (ACEC).

Jarred is an active member of the Texas Floodplain Management Association and supports the Texas Tech Civil, Environmental, and Construction Engineering Department by mentoring student interns. He also volunteers at events like Oak Cliff Earth Day to conduct flood risk awareness demonstrations and supports local efforts through Halff Community Initiatives.

Outside of work, Jarred enjoys collecting coins, traveling to historically significant locations, and exploring fantasy and sci-fi literature. He lives with his wife, Katy, who is a GIS project manager, and their dog, Dutch.

Wade Parks, PE, CFM

Wade_Parks

B.S. Civil Engineering 2009 
M.S. Civil Engineering 2013

Water Business Team Leader
Southeast Texas 
Garver 

Wade Parks, P.E., CFM, is a proud Red Raider and a civil engineer with over 16 years of experience in the water and wastewater industry. With an unwavering dedication to his profession and the organizations he serves, he has led the delivery of complex and critical infrastructure projects and currently works as the Water Business Team Leader for Southeast Texas at Garver.

An active leader in key water industry organizations like AWWA, WEAT, and APWA, Wade’s contributions have advanced the industry and earned him recognition, including the APWA Texas Chapter Young Member of the Year and President’s Award. He has co-authored design documents for the City of Houston and presented them at numerous conferences on treatment and pumping systems. Despite his demanding role, he remains committed to giving back to his community through volunteer work and youth development.

Wade earned his bachelor’s degree from Texas Tech University and holds a master’s degree from Kansas State University. He lives in Houston with his wife, Gwen, and their two sons, John and Graham. Outside of work, he enjoys sports, reading history and philosophy, and spending time with his family and friends.

David Rivera, PE 

David_Rivera

B.S. Civil Engineering 2002

Vice President, Land 
Development
LJA Engineering, Inc. 

David Rivera, P.E., is a Vice President at LJA Engineering with 23 years of experience in civil engineering, specializing in land and site development projects. An enthusiastic Red Raider, he earned his Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from Texas Tech University in 2002.

Highly regarded by clients such as HEB and the City of Magnolia, David has dedicated his career to LJA for over two decades. He is a passionate supporter of engineering and his alma mater, regularly attending the TTU Engineering job fair to mentor and hire graduates. David also carries a family legacy at Texas Tech, where his late grandparents, Albert and Antionette Sanger, taught in the civil engineering department.

Outside of work, David enjoys spending time with his family, including his wife Michelle, their children Claire and Abigail, and their dog Luna. They share a love for fishing in Matagorda, building sandcastles, and playing sports together.

Steven R. Samuels, PE 

Steven_Samuels

B.S.  Civil Engineering 2001
B.A. Engineering 2001 
M.S. Civil/Structural Engineering 2003 

Experimental Mechanics and
Dynamics, Sr. Manager 
Sandia National Laboratories 

Steven Samuels, P.E., is a highly accomplished senior leader and engineer with over 20 years of experience in high-consequence programs. As the Senior Manager of Experimental Mechanics and Dynamics at Sandia National Laboratories, he leads large, diverse teams in complex engineering, modeling, simulation, and testing projects with national and global implications. His expertise spans a broad range of technical areas, including mechanical, thermal, radiological, and electromagnetic testing.

Steven is known for his ability to build strong teams, foster an innovative culture, and create robust system architectures to ensure programmatic success. Before joining Sandia, he was instrumental in establishing a Commercial Blast Testing Capability at Hurricane Test Labs and also worked as a structural engineer for Parkhill. He is a passionate advocate for engineering excellence, mentoring young professionals, and has actively engaged with universities to support the next generation of engineers.

As a dedicated professional and Texas Tech alumnus, Steven is known for his ethical, friendly, and helpful nature. In his spare time, he enjoys outdoor activities with his wife, Krissi, and their family, including hunting, fishing, and construction projects. He also gives back to the community as the Board of Directors President for Pine Springs Summer Camp, which serves over 1,000 children annually.

Arpit Talati, PE 

Arpit_Talati

B.S. Civil Engineering 2000

Chief Operations Officer
Ardurra 

Arpit Talati, P.E., CFM, is the Chief Operations Officer at Ardurra Group, overseeing a $420 million operation with over 1,850 professionals. A 2000 civil engineering graduate of Texas Tech, his 24+ years of experience include key leadership roles at Jacobs Engineering and WSP. At Jacobs, he rapidly advanced from project engineer to regional sales leader, managing complex roadway and transit projects, including Dallas's Project Pegasus and the Hoover Dam Bypass Approach. His transition to WSP saw him take on senior roles, including Southwest District Leader, where he secured major projects like the DART Silver Line and the Texas High-Speed Rail initiative, and helped double the value of the Texas region.

An active mentor and advocate for Texas Tech engineers, Talati also serves as a guest speaker and helps recruit talent from the university. His exceptional career reflects what Texas Tech engineers can achieve with dedication and integrity. Outside of work, he enjoys sports, cooking, and family activities with his wife, Jennifer, and children, Tara, Alaina, and Anna.

John A. Tyler, PE, RAS 

John_Tyler

B.S. Civil Engineering 2004

Managing Vice President
Pape-Dawson

John A. Tyler is a Principal at Pape-Dawson with 20 years of experience in transportation engineering, specializing in complex infrastructure projects, roadway design, accessibility, and public engagement. A proud Texas Tech alumnus, he earned his bachelor's degree in civil engineering in 2004 and has spent his entire career at Pape-Dawson, rising from an EIT to Vice President.

John was recognized as the TSPE Bexar Young Engineer of the Year in 2012 and is known for his leadership in information technology for the company. He also holds leadership positions in organizations like the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE). Outside of work, he enjoys sports, family trips, and community involvement with his wife, Anna, and their two children.

Ronda Visintainer, PE 

Ronda_Visintainer
B.S. Civil Engineering 1992

President 
Visintainer Engineering, PLLC 

Ronda Visintainer, a 1992 Texas Tech civil engineering graduate, is the founder and managing member of Visintainer Engineering PLLC, which she established in 2009. The firm, holding certifications as a Disadvantaged, Small, and Women Business Enterprise, specializes in water, sewer, paving, and storm drain projects for municipal and state agencies in the Fort Worth area.

With a career spanning decades, Ronda's expertise covers the entire project lifecycle, from initial data collection and design to construction management. Before founding her own company, she worked with a large engineering firm in Fort Worth, where she built lasting professional relationships. Her technical knowledge includes value-engineered design and a deep understanding of various municipal specifications and construction management platforms.

Outside of her professional life, Ronda is married to Nick, a fellow Texas Tech engineer. They will be celebrating their 30th wedding anniversary this December. She is a proud mother of two adult sons, one of whom has followed in her footsteps as a civil engineer, and a proud grandmother of three. Her career is a testament to her technical skills, project management capabilities, and entrepreneurial spirit within the engineering field.

Cole Webb, PE

Cole_Webb

B.S. Environmental Engineering 1995
M.Env.E. 1997 

Senior Vice President 
Kimley-Horn 

Cole Webb, P.E., graduated from Texas Tech University with a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Engineering in 1995 and a Master of Science in Environmental Engineering in 1997. Over his 27-year career at Kimley-Horn, he has progressed from an analyst to his current roles as Firmwide Production Manager, Senior Vice President, and Principal.

Cole's multifaceted expertise includes production management, utilities design, and construction contract administration. His technical focus is on planning and designing water and wastewater infrastructure for municipalities, including storage tanks, pump stations, treatment plants, and distribution and collection systems. He has served as project engineer, project manager, and principal-in-charge for numerous multimillion-dollar utility system projects. Cole holds professional engineering licenses in North Carolina, Colorado, Georgia, Tennessee, and Texas.

He is an active member of both the American Water Works Association and the Water Environment Federation. A strong supporter of his alma mater, Cole and his wife, Lisa, established the Cole and Lisa Webb Scholarship Endowment at Texas Tech to support students in higher education. They are also active members of the Keller FFA. The family lives in Keller, Texas, with their son, Mason (17), and daughter, Kendall (15).

Guo Zheng "Henry" Yew, Ph.D., PE 

Guo_Zheng
B.S. Civil Engineering 2011
M.S. Civil Engineering 2012 
Ph.D. Civil Engineering 2018 

Associate/Senior Engineering 
Curtain Wall Design & 
Consulting, Inc. 

Henry Yew, Ph.D., P.E., is a distinguished structural engineer and a proud alumnus of Texas Tech University. He holds both a Master of Science and a Ph.D. in Structural Engineering from Texas Tech. After earning his Ph.D., Henry joined Curtain Wall Design & Consulting (CDC) in Dallas, quickly rising to the position of Associate and Senior Engineer. He is recognized as one of the top structural engineers to have graduated from Texas Tech's Civil, Environmental, and Construction Engineering (CECE) Department.

Henry specializes in the structural analysis of building envelope systems, including glazed curtainwalls, metal panel wall systems, and stone panels. His expertise is reflected in his work on high-profile projects such as Amazon's Block 18 in Seattle, WA, the Delta Headhouse Terminal at La Guardia Airport in New York, NY, and The Modern Residences in Austin, TX. He is also actively involved in developing design standards for the architectural glazing industry through his participation in the ASTM E06.52 Subcommittee on Glass Use in Buildings. Henry frequently shares his knowledge by giving talks to students and fellow engineers about his work and the building envelope industry.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Henry is a dedicated and personable individual who reflects exceptionally well on the Texas Tech CECE program. He maintains a physically active lifestyle through rock climbing, swimming, and mountain biking. For relaxation, he enjoys playing the piano and chess.

Jack Mitchell Young, PE, CFM, PMP 

Jack_Young

B.S. Civil Engineering 2008

Vice President/Deputy Practice 
Leader, Water Resources 
Halff 

Jack Young, P.E., CFM, PMP, is a Vice President and Deputy Practice Leader for the 250-person water resources practice at Halff Associates. With 17 years of experience since graduating from Texas Tech University in 2008, he has dedicated his entire career to helping federal, state, and local communities reduce flood risk and strengthen infrastructure resilience.

As an expert in federal program delivery, Jack has led major programs on behalf of FEMA Region VI, including managing over $100M in RiskMAP production. Beyond his technical leadership, he plays a key role in the strategic growth of Halff's water resources practice across the southern U.S. and actively supports the profession through his involvement with TSPE and MATHCOUNTS.

Jack's commitment to public service and mentoring future engineers distinguishes him as a respected leader. He resides in Dallas with his wife, Lauren Taylor, and their two children, Madelyn and Hudson. In his free time, he enjoys golf, traveling, and restoring his 1926 Craftsman bungalow.

Tyson Cox 

Tyson Cox B.S. Civil Engineering 2000

In Memoriam

Tyson Cox, an experienced engineering professional, passed away, leaving behind a legacy of over two decades dedicated to forensic and diagnostic engineering. A graduate of Texas Tech University's Civil Engineering program in May 2000, he continued his education at the University of Houston, where he pursued advanced courses in finite element analysis, matrix analysis, advanced concrete design, and human resource management. After obtaining his Texas professional engineering license in May 2006, Cox went on to secure licenses in several other states as well as the U.S. Virgin Islands.

His career began with undergraduate work in wind engineering at Texas Tech. After graduation, he joined the Texas Department of Insurance, working alongside fellow Texas Tech alumnus Dr. Paul Rove. This role deepened his understanding of wind design and damage as they developed and implemented the Building Code for Windstorm Resistant Construction. This experience paved his way into forensic and diagnostic engineering, where he specialized in assessing, determining the cause of, and repairing damaged buildings and structures.

Throughout his career, Cox held increasingly responsible positions at firms including Walter P. Moore, the Port of Houston, and Haliwell Engineering. At the time of his passing, he was the Director of Engineering for the central region at YA Engineering Services (YAES). In his four-plus years at YAES, he was instrumental in the company’s exponential growth, helping to expand the engineering team from approximately 13 engineers in 2021 to over 100.

Beyond his professional achievements, Tyson Cox was a family man. He is survived by his wife, Amy Cox, and their two sons. His eldest son is finishing graduate studies in Industrial Engineering at Texas A&M, and his youngest is a junior at Texas A&M Corpus Christi.

Cox was passionate about mentoring the next generation of engineers and young adults. He believed his unique blend of engineering skills and social sciences knowledge, acquired through his undergraduate studies in philosophy, anthropology, sociology, and psychology, was perfect for developing and guiding individuals. He found immense satisfaction in mentoring others, building their confidence, and helping them realize their full potential.