By Bill Stokes
Seventy years ago, Hanson Professional Services Inc. began its journey in Springfield, Illinois, as a modest engineering firm. Today, it stands as a national leader, with 28 offices and over 600 employees. Sergio “Satch” Pecori, a cornerstone of the company, has spent more than five decades with Hanson, shaping its evolution and its significant contributions to Springfield’s infrastructure. In this exclusive conversation, Satch shares insights into his remarkable journey, the firm’s milestones and the transformative projects that have defined Springfield’s growth.
A Journey of Growth and Resilience
Satch’s connection to Hanson began in high school, when he worked as a summer intern. Reflecting on those early days, he recalls, “Back then, I was just a gopher, helping around the lab and running errands.” However, it was clear even then that Hanson wasn’t just another engineering firm – it was a hub of opportunity and mentorship, thanks to its founder, Walter Hanson.
Over the years, Hanson evolved from a small local firm to a national powerhouse, diversifying into markets such as aviation, railways, infrastructure, power, industry and government. Key acquisitions fueled its expansion, including firms specializing in mechanical, electrical, aviation and logistics engineering, as well as civil engineering in Florida and Texas. “We grew both organically and geographically,” Satch explained. “Walt’s vision of a national company set the foundation for our success.”
Innovating the Future
Hanson’s focus on innovation has been one of the driving forces behind its sustained growth. The company appointed a chief innovation officer more than five years ago to spearhead advancements in data analytics, artificial intelligence and machine learning. “Our aim is to deliver faster, more efficient services to our clients,” Satch said. He believes that embracing technology is essential for staying competitive in the ever-evolving engineering industry.
Satch also discussed the challenges of modern engineering, including workforce shortages and the need for regulatory innovation. “Many government projects still operate on a cost-plus fix fee basis, which discourages innovation. We need to rethink how we approach these contracts to incentivize innovation and efficiency,” he added.
Transforming Springfield: The 10th Street Corridor
One of Hanson’s most notable contributions is the $540-million Springfield Rail Improvements Project, a transformative project relocating rail traffic from the Third Street Rail Corridor to the 10th Street Rail Corridor and incorporating pedestrian-friendly underpasses that keep traffic moving. This ambitious initiative has not only enhanced transportation but has opened doors for urban redevelopment. It has connected the underserved parts of our city. Details about the project, including a video documenting its progress, can be found on Hanson’s website.
With a recent $157 million federal grant, the project is on track for completion by 2027. “This grant was the second largest in the country in the latest round of grants, underscoring the significance of this project,” Satch said. The initiative has involved extensive collaboration among city, state and federal stakeholders, including Sen. Dick Durbin, who has championed the project since its inception.
Looking ahead, plans for a Third Street greenway aim to repurpose the old rail corridor into a vibrant pedestrian and bike-friendly space, complete with playgrounds, fountains and a promenade. “It’s a chance to reimagine urban space and create something truly special for Springfield,” Satch said.
A Broader Perspective
Beyond Springfield, Satch’s career has taken him to national and global stages. As chairman of the American Council of Engineering Companies, he gained a deeper understanding of industry challenges and opportunities. He also served on a Department of Defense advisory board, focusing on integrating industry expertise into military operations. “These experiences broadened my perspective and reinforced the importance of innovation and collaboration,” he reflected.
Springfield’s Bright Future
As Hanson concludes a year of celebrating its 70th anniversary, Satch remains optimistic about Springfield’s future. “The collaboration we’ve seen on projects like the 10th Street corridor is a testament to what we can achieve when we work together,” he said. Hanson’s legacy is not just about engineering — it’s about building communities, fostering innovation and inspiring the next generation of leaders.
For Springfield, and for Hanson, the journey is far from over. With leaders like Satch Pecori at the helm, the city’s future looks as bright as ever.
Bill Stokes, Publisher bill.stokes@ss-mag.com
