CHICAGO, IL — HNTB Corporation has named Kristi Lafleur, an industry veteran with 20 years of leadership in transportation and infrastructure, to head the firm’s Chicago office. Lafleur, who starts in her new role in August, takes the reins from Mark Becherer, PE, who is transitioning to a division leadership role for HNTB.

Lafleur most recently served as President and CEO of Ascend Infrastructure, a Chicago-based transportation consulting firm. She also served as Executive Director of the Illinois Tollway for five years, overseeing the $12-billion Move Illinois program, the largest capital program in the agency’s history. Her experience also includes transportation committee service on the transition teams of Illinois Governor JB Pritzker and Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot. In addition, Lafleur oversaw transportation initiatives as Illinois Governor Pat Quinn’s Deputy Chief of Staff for Economic Development and Recovery.

“Kristi has in-depth knowledge of the transportation challenges and opportunities across the region and will help guide our clients as they look to plan and deliver significant infrastructure projects,” said Chris Gale, PE, President of HNTB’s Great Lakes Division. “Her leadership, record of accomplishment, and connections across the industry will bring value to our colleagues and clients here in Illinois and around the country.”

Lafleur is active with local industry and community groups, including Women Transportation Seminar, ChildServ, and Chicago Innovation. She serves on the board of the Chicago Skyway. Lafleur also served on the boards of International Bridge, Tunnel, and Turnpike Association; Alliance for Toll Interoperability; and E-Z Pass Group. Lafleur earned her Bachelor of Arts in political science from DePaul University.