HR Green has been named the 2026 Large Firm of the Year by the American Council of Engineering Companies of Illinois (ACEC-IL.) The Firm of the Year award recognizes the company that has contributed most to the success and growth of ACEC-IL, advanced the consulting design industry, and has been committed to active involvement in their communities.
HR Green has been very involved with ACEC-IL through a wide variety of events, sponsorships and committee participation. Through this engagement, HR Green continues to amplify the voice of consulting engineers and promote initiatives that shape the future of the industry. Together, these efforts in project excellence, leadership development, and advocacy reflect HR Green’s enduring commitment to elevating the consulting engineering profession statewide.
“Being named ACEC Illinois Large Firm of the Year is a meaningful recognition of the work our teams do every day, and of HR Green’s long-standing commitment to ACEC Illinois and the consulting engineering profession,” said PJ Fitzpatrick, Vice President of Business Development. “The leadership and advocacy opportunities afforded me by ACEC Illinois have led to additional national advocacy efforts, including my role as ACEC National PAC Board Vice Chair.”

ACEC-IL is a statewide association that advocates for consulting engineering firms. Through its business, government, and public affairs programs, ACEC-IL promotes the interests of these firms. With a rich history dating back to 1964, ACEC-IL has grown to include over 250 member and affiliate firms across the state, representing various fields of practice and employing over 10,000 professionals.
In addition to being named Large Firm of the Year, HR Green was also recognized for project excellence. The Blackberry Creek Multi‑Use Path and Bridge, Collins Road Extension, and Woods Creek Reach 6/7 Restoration projects each received Special Achievement Awards, while the Main Street Road Diet project earned a Merit Award. Continuing the momentum, the HR Green marketing team received the Outstanding Graphics Award for excellence in graphic design
“Being recognized as the ACEC Illinois Large Firm of the Year is an honor that reflects the dedication, expertise, and passion of our people,” said Jason Poppen, HR Green CEO. “Our commitment to ACEC Illinois and to the advancement of the consulting engineering profession is deeply rooted in our mission as a firm. We’re proud to help shape the future of engineering in Illinois and beyond.”
