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Each month we will spotlight an award recipient. This month we talked with Member of the Year Heather Honsberger.  

Heather, an Area Business Development Leader for HDR, Inc., is an active member of the WTS Metropolitan Phoenix Chapter and recently served as Communications Committee Chair for the WTS 2020 convention in Phoenix. She has also participated in the Jane Morris Mentorship program as a mentor.

We talked with her about her job, her passions, and how WTS has helped her advance her career. 

Tell us about what you do at HDR. 

I’m the Area Transportation Business Development Leader for Arizona and New Mexico, and work with our Transportation team in both states to understand our client’s projects and overall programs and goals, develop and maintain our industry and client relationships, and drive our pursuit and proposal strategy processes. Additionally, I connect our clients with the specialized experts they need to help successfully deliver their projects. 

How would you explain your job to a child?

Ha! That’s a tough question... Big picture, I would say I work to help our communities improve the way we, and the goods and items we all need (like Amazon orders), travel by building/improving freeways, roads, sidewalks, bike lanes, light rail, bus service, and airports. 

How did you first decide to get involved in the WTS Metro Phoenix Chapter?  And what keeps you involved?

I first started attending WTS functions around 2008 with coworkers from HDR that encouraged me attend the luncheons and the awards ceremony. At first, I didn’t know a lot of people as I primarily worked with ADOT, and a lot of the members were with other agencies, but I enjoyed meeting new people and learning more about our industry through the various programs. Fast forward over a decade, and it’s the people, the networking, the professional development, the mentorship program, the book club, golf committee and the learning opportunities (both locally and the national conferences) that keep me engaged and involved. And the best part is, I’ve made lifelong friends in the process! 

What would you say to someone considering joining our chapter or taking on a bigger role with the chapter?

 I would recommend starting by attending a luncheon, which even though they are currently virtual, they still provide a great opportunity to learn about the chapter and hear from industry leaders. From there, one can learn about the other committees, future conferences, and opportunities to get further involved that align with someone’s interests. I attend a lot of conferences and organizational meetings in my current position and all have various benefits, but for me, I find WTS fulfills my professional development goals as well as my personal growth. 

 Who has influenced you the most in your career?

For the first 20 years of my career I worked in Strategic Communications and Public Involvement through Arizona and the Western US and was fortunate to work with a number of amazing leaders, mentors and colleagues from both the client and consultant community on some incredible projects.  It’s hard to name just one person, but the teams I worked with early in my career on the SR 179 Needs Based Implementation Plan, the national opportunities through HDR, and over 12 years on South Mountain Freeway EIS and then as the GEC had a huge influence on where I am today in my career. The guidance, support and collaboration with these project managers and teammates has guided me tremendously throughout my career. 

What would you do for a career if you weren’t doing this?

With all this time in quarantine, I think I would become a professional baker! All joking aside, my other areas of interest include travel, food and photography, so maybe a travel blogger? 

 What is something you can’t live without?

Four and half months ago, I would have said Orange Theory Fitness! But right now, it’s my daily walks with my 4-year old pup Lola. Even though the mornings are hot and humid currently, it’s a new routine to start off the day and enjoy seeing neighbors do the same.