MINNEAPOLIS, MN — A key HDR transit design team member has been accepted into the American Public Transportation Association’s Emerging Leaders Program Class of 2025. Theophile "Theo" Nkenfack’s dedication to pursuing innovative transit solutions at HDR led to him being selected from a pool of 71 applicants.

Based in HDR’s Minneapolis-area office, Nkenfack is one of 35 professionals selected by APTA from member organizations across the transit industry. The 10-month program began at APTA’s Rail Conference and ends with a graduation ceremony at the April 2025 Mobility Conference in Austin, Texas. Along the way, it includes skill-building workshops, round table sessions, online collaboration, and unique access to the industry’s top leaders through a national mentoring program. The program will enhance Nkenfack’s development by exposing him to diverse viewpoints within the industry and support him gaining a deeper knowledge of the opportunities and challenges that the industry and communities served are focusing their attention.

“I aspire to play a pivotal role in the development of the next generation of industry leaders,” Nkenfack said. “And through the Emerging Leaders Program, I aim to continue growing personally, engage with new people across the industry, and share my perspective and experiences with my classmates."

During his five-year career with HDR, Nkenfack has assisted transit clients through every project phase, from planning through construction, commissioning, and service opening. He has contributed substantially to construction oversight and systems integration of the METRO C Line, D Line, and E Line bus rapid transit projects for Metro Transit in Minneapolis. In addition to his technical expertise, Nkenfack devotes significant time to community outreach and volunteer organizations. He also coordinates local community, disaster relief, and young professional action grants for the HDR Foundation.

“The APTA Emerging Leaders program is second to none in supporting the professional development of talented professionals like Theo, who demonstrate the capacity to be a future leader,” HDR Global Transit Director Matt Tucker said. “Theo has already proven himself to be invaluable as a team member, and I’m confident that his energy, passion, and determination will shine as he upholds HDR’s tradition of excellence in this prestigious program and that his insights will be beneficial for the other participants in the program.”