Paving the way for future innovators through education and engagement
LOS ANGELES (Feb. 11, 2025) HNTB Corporation has successfully concluded the second year of its SPARK LA program at Lennox Academy in Inglewood, inspiring the next generation of engineers through hands-on learning and real-world applications. This year, the program welcomed a record-breaking class of 62 students, offering them six weeks of interactive activities focused on key topics in engineering and transportation.
“The SPARK LA program has been a tremendous success, providing students with a unique opportunity to ignite their curiosity and inspire their passion for engineering and transportation,” said Yoga Chandran, PhD, PE, GE, HNTB Los Angeles office leader and senior vice president. “Seeing young minds engaged and excited reminds us of the importance of fostering creativity, problem-solving skills, and teamwork at an early age. These experiences not only make a lasting impact but also equip students with the tools and confidence they need to excel in their future careers.”
SPARK LA 2024 introduced students to key engineering topics addressed by HNTB infrastructure professionals, including: Mydria Clark for Equity and Community Engagement; Tony Fermelia and Nathan Vardas for Aviation Infrastructure and Design; Karim Eldomiaty for Cost and Schedule; Cecilia Vong for Roadways; Amjad Hussain for High-Speed Rail, and Michael Torsiello and Martin Ellwood for Tunnel Design and Construction. The program began with students designing community centers to envision youth-friendly spaces, fostering teamwork, creativity, and presentation skills.
“Through hands-on activities, students explored engineering concepts such as aviation infrastructure, the effects of alignment on ‘train wheels’ and superelevation, and the relationship between horizontal and vertical alignments in plan, profile, and section views,” said Tony Fermelia,” HNTB vice president. “They also learned the importance of scope, schedule, and budget in project management to ensure successful project delivery.”
“The SPARK LA program goes far beyond just teaching engineering skills,” said Lilly Acuña, HNTB’s SPARK LA program leader. “It offers students engaging activities that highlight creative thinking, collaboration, adaptability, and the ability to tackle real-world challenges with innovative solutions.”
HNTB’s collaboration with dedicated volunteers and industry experts ensured that SPARK LA at Lennox Academy was an unforgettable experience for students. The SPARK LA program is now offered at three Los Angeles schools, reinforcing HNTB’s commitment to empowering communities and nurturing young talent to shape the future of engineering and transportation.