People News: American Seating, HNTB

Pictured (left to right): The late David Brian McLaughlin, American Seating, and John Hong, HNTB. (Photographs from American Seating and HNTB, respectively)

American Seating reports the passing of David Brian McLaughlin, Vice President of Sales and Marketing. Also, HNTB signs on John Hong as Construction Project Director based in the firm’s Los Angeles, Calif., office.

American Seating

American Seating, a provider of transportation seating products in North America, on June 5 reported the passing of Vice President of Sales and Marketing David Brian McLaughlin. “His departure is a tremendous loss to our organization,” the company said. “David was a dear friend and colleague who will be missed greatly. We extend our sincere condolences to his family.”

McLaughlin’s career with American Seating spanned more than 40 years and began in the Management Information Systems area. He became Vice President of Management Information Systems in 1987. In 1993, McLaughlin was promoted to Vice President and General Sales Manager of the Transportation Products Group, and American Seating said he remained in that capacity throughout the balance of his career. He also served as a Director, Executive and Officer of the company at various times during his American Seating career.

“Dave was the consummate loyal employee, working tirelessly for the success of American Seating and our customers,” American Seating said. “He will always be remembered for his dedication, his love for his work, and his kind and personable ways.”

HNTB

HNTB announced June  4 that John Hong has joined the firm as Construction Project Director. Based in Los Angeles, he supports regional projects, including California High-Speed Rail’s Construction Package 4.

Hong has more than 30 years of experience in construction management, spending much of his career with the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans), most recently as Senior Construction Engineer. He also served as an instructor for Caltrans, teaching construction procedures and standards.

Hong received a Bachelor of Science in civil engineering from California State Polytechnic University–Pomona. He is a registered Professional Engineer in the state of California.

“John combines strong leadership and construction management skills with expert collaboration with agency partners,” said Kenneth Oh, HNTB Los Angeles Construction Services Lead and Associate Vice President. “He is a key leader on high-profile infrastructure improvement projects and has been recognized for his award-winning work.”

“John brings a wealth of experience, dedication and expertise to our team,” said Yoga Chandran, HNTB Los Angeles Office Leader and Senior Vice President. “He has a track record of innovation, excellence and outstanding service that will benefit our clients.”

Separately, HNTB recently appointed Victor Rivas as a Transportation Asset Management Senior Project Manager.