Eric Rivera from Lochner Recognized in Airport Business Magazine's Top 40 Under 40

Eric Rivera Achieves Prestigious Recognition

H.W. Lochner, Inc., a top-tier provider of engineering and planning services, has recently celebrated an outstanding achievement within the aviation sector. Eric Rivera, a Professional Engineer (PE), has been named to Airport Business Magazine's prestigious 2024 Top 40 Under 40 list. This honor is reserved for dynamic and high-achieving professionals who are ushering in innovation and excellence in the airport industry.

Eric Rivera's Journey to the Top

Based out of Lochner's Grand Junction, Colorado office, Eric Rivera has been instrumental in the realm of aviation engineering since he joined Armstrong Consultants, which is now part of Lochner, in 2013. Over the course of his career, he has successfully ascended from the position of Airport Engineer to his current capacity as Design Department Lead. In this role, he oversees intricate projects for both commercial service and general aviation airports, demonstrating remarkable leadership and technical skills.

Among his noteworthy projects is the reconstruction of Taxiway A and the terminal apron at Canyonlands Regional Airport in Moab, Utah, which brought home an esteemed American Council of Engineering Companies (ACEC) Engineering Excellence Award. Furthermore, he oversaw the complete runway reconstruction and ARC upgrade at the same airport, a project that earned the Engineering News-Record (ENR) Mountain States Best Project Award. Additionally, Eric has played a pivotal role in the rehabilitation of Runway 17/35 at Logan-Cache Airport located in Logan, Utah.

A Passion for Mentoring

Beyond his notable technical accomplishments, Eric is deeply committed to mentoring the upcoming generation of engineers. In his leadership position at Lochner, he actively guides young professionals, imparting his wealth of experience in airport design and engineering principles. Reflecting on his professional journey, Eric states, "I am proud to work as a civil engineer in aviation, where every project contributes to a safe and efficient travel system. The aviation community is vast and unique, and I'm driven by the knowledge that my work supports critical infrastructure that people rely on every day. I am grateful to be part of this industry, working behind the scenes to meet the needs of our clients and the communities they serve."

Eric's commitment to professional development doesn't end there; he recently completed Lochner's Leadership Foundations Program in collaboration with the DePaul University Driehaus College of Business. This program further enhanced his leadership capabilities, reinforcing his position as a rising star in the aviation engineering field.

About H.W. Lochner, Inc.

Founded in 1944, H.W. Lochner, Inc. has evolved into a leader in delivering a comprehensive array of planning, environmental, design, construction engineering, and program/construction management services. With a commitment to serving surface transportation, aviation, and water clients across the United States, the firm is recognized for its excellence, proudly holding the 103rd spot on the Engineering News-Record's list of the Top 500 Design Firms.

In a significant move aimed at expanding capabilities, Armstrong Consultants was acquired by Lochner in December 2022 and seamlessly integrated as part of the Lochner brand in September 2024. This merger enhances Lochner's standing as a premier provider of essential engineering and planning services in the aviation sector.

Conclusion

Eric Rivera’s recognition as part of the Top 40 Under 40 not only speaks to his dedication and expertise but also highlights Lochner’s commitment to excellence in engineering and aviation. As he continues to influence the future of airport infrastructure through both innovative projects and mentorship, Eric serves as an inspiration for aspiring engineers everywhere.