March 20, 2025 /

We’re pleased to introduce a new role at HRG that strengthens our commitment to client service and growth. Kara Smith, Shawn Fabian, and Melissa Komar will be serving as client development managers, a newly created position designed to enhance client engagement while preserving HRG’s commitment to technical excellence and personalized service.

In their roles, Kara, Shawn and Melissa will focus on building strong relationships with clients, gaining a deeper understanding of their needs, and ensuring HRG delivers the right expertise to support their goal.    Through their work, Kara, Shawn, and Melissa will also create greater capacity for our technical and project delivery leaders to focus on engineering solutions and project execution.

Kara has 13 years of experience at HRG, previously serving as business development manager in the firm’s Pittsburgh office.  She is actively involved in industry organizations, recently serving as president of the Pittsburgh chapter of the Society for Marketing Professional Services and actively volunteering with local chapters of the Society of Women Environmental Professionals and NAIOP, the commercial real estate development association.  She is a passionate advocate for both the AEC industry and local governments.

Shawn joined HRG in 2019 and most recently served as a team leader in the municipal and water resources group.  He has extensive expertise in environmental compliance with certifications in erosion and sediment control and stormwater quality. He is also actively involved in the community through the Yellow Breeches Watershed Association, the Cumberland County Master Watershed Steward program, and Cub Scouts.

Melissa is joining HRG after most recently serving as the executive director of the Johnstown Redevelopment Authority.  She also has experience as a city manager, GIS specialist, land development coordinator, and environmental specialist.  She has held a variety of leadership positions with the Pennsylvania Municipal Authorities Association, Greater Johnstown School District, YWCA, YMCA, and West End Improvement Group.  She also received the Governor’s Excellence Award in 2024 and was previously named a Woman of the Year by the YWCA of Greater Johnstown, a Leader of Distinction by the Girl Scouts of Western Pennsylvania, and one of Pennsylvania Business Central’s Foremost under 40.

We are excited to welcome Kara, Shawn, and Melissa to their new roles and look forward to the impact they will make in strengthening HRG’s client relationships and service offerings.