HNTB has hired Zandra Ford as director of rail operations for the Capital Region where she will support HNTB’s transit and rail clients across the firm. Ford’s extensive experience in rail operations, project management, strategic planning, finance, capital budgeting, as well as the federal and state funding process will help to maximize the efficiency and performance of new and existing transit systems and programs.
“Zandra is a devoted strategist who is committed to helping transit organizations achieve the highest levels of efficiency, accountability and state of good repair while at the same time ensuring they deliver the highest levels of service for their customers and communities,” said Hillary Calavitta, HNTB’s Capital Region transit and rail group director.
HNTB has added Amanda DeGiorgi to its Boston office where she brings more than seven years of experience in the transit industry primarily working with the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA). DeGiorgi will serve as HNTB’s deputy program manager for the MBTA’s Mattapan High-Speed Line Transformation Program. In this role, DeGiorgi oversees planning and early design for the light rail corridor’s modernization. The project includes implementing state-of-good repair, accessibility and safety improvements on all infrastructure, as well as upgrades that will allow future deployment of a modern light-rail vehicle.
“Amanda is a trusted and valued partner to MBTA, bringing extensive expertise in all facets of bus and rail transit operations, planning and program management,” said Gary Bua, HNTB senior vice president and Massachusetts office leader. “The addition of her skills to the Massachusetts office enhances our already deep bench of innovative multimodal transit experience here and throughout the firm.”
VHB named Tom Stein, Jr., PE, as director of operations in its Newark, N.J., office. In this role, Stein will enable strategies that strengthen key client relationships, optimize project delivery and enhance strategic pursuits while developing and implementing VHB’s growth strategy in northern New Jersey.
“Tom’s diversified background, coupled with his unabridged passion and people-focused approach, make us confident that he will successfully accelerate strategic growth and expansion for VHB in the northern New Jersey market,” said Joe Pizzurro, VHB New York City managing director. “His esteemed reputation in civil design and proven leadership will enhance our team and amplify our ability to deliver transformative solutions for our clients.”
EAO appointed Bruno Cathomen as chief executive officer of EAO Corporate. He succeeds Kurt Loosli, who served as chief executive officer from 2000 – 2022. A well-planned succession was implemented in October 2022 and planned for the long term, ensuring continuity and stability in operation management. Loosli will join the board of directors of EAO Holding as vice president.
“I am excited to join EAO and look forward to the challenges and opportunity to further develop our strategic markets in the rail, heavy-duty and specialty vehicle segments,”Cathomen said. “I look forward to working with EAO’s leadership and building on the value and commitment we provide our customers.”
Mischa Wanek-Libman | Group Editorial Director
Mischa Wanek-Libman is director of communications with Transdev North America. She has more than 20 years of experience working in the transportation industry covering construction projects, engineering challenges, transit and rail operations and best practices.
Wanek-Libman has held top editorial positions at freight rail and public transportation business-to-business publications including as editor-in-chief and editorial director of Mass Transit from 2018-2024. She has been recognized for editorial excellence through her individual work, as well as for collaborative content.
She is an active member of the American Public Transportation Association's Marketing and Communications Committee and served 14 years as a Board Observer on the National Railroad Construction and Maintenance Association (NRC) Board of Directors.
She is a graduate of Drake University in Des Moines, Iowa, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Journalism and Mass Communication.
