"As I retire after 33 years with RLF, I reflect on the immense blessing of being part of this exceptional firm. Through our projects, we've had the privilege of impacting lives worldwide. Above all, I'm grateful to RLF for entrusting me with the role of leader for so many years. Successful leadership is a testament to great teams, and I've been fortunate to lead one of the best." – Steve Hingtgen, PE
Join us in celebrating and extending our heartfelt congratulations to Steve Hingtgen, PE, on his well-deserved retirement from RLF after an incredible 33-year journey! Steve’s impact has been monumental, from joining RLF as a mechanical engineer in 1991 to serving as president for 18 years (2004 – 2022) and contributing as a board member for 25 years. Throughout his career, Steve played a pivotal role in overseeing many of RLF’s notable projects with Advent Health, Bishop Moore Catholic High School, Cleveland Clinic, the Diocese of Orlando, Lake Highland Preparatory School, Orlando Health, Rollins College, and many more.
Steve's interest in construction took root during his early years, working in his father's plumbing, heating, and electrical business in Farley, Iowa. He discovered mechanical engineering at the University of Iowa, earning a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering (BSME) in 1982.
Embarking on his professional career, Steve joined HLM Orlando in 1983 as a mechanical engineer, where he became immersed in the design of mechanical systems for healthcare facilities. Over the years, Steve successfully managed and completed numerous projects contributing to the expansions and renovations of prominent healthcare institutions such as Mercy Hospital in Miami, Holy Cross Hospital in Fort Lauderdale, Sarasota Memorial Hospital, and Orlando Health. One of Steve's notable accomplishments during his tenure at HLM Orlando was serving as the lead mechanical engineer for the Arnold Palmer Children’s Hospital at Orlando Health. This role allowed him to showcase his expertise significantly impacting the healthcare infrastructure.
Steve joined RLF in 1991 as head of the mechanical engineering department, where he dedicated himself to nurturing young engineers and instilling a passion for design excellence. In 2004, Steve assumed the presidency of RLF, succeeding Jack Rogers, son of the firm’s founder, James Gamble Rogers II. With over 40 years of experience in the AEC industry, Steve and his partners have grown the firm from 68 to 150 employees and have successfully completed projects in 33 states, 25 countries, and five continents representing the federal, healthcare, educational, and cultural markets. Under Steve’s leadership, RLF also earned the prestigious title of Firm of the Year from both the Orlando and State of Florida chapters of the American Institute of Architects.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Steve's commitment to volunteerism shines brightly. His philosophy of sharing ‘time, talent and treasure’ goes beyond writing checks and encourages active engagement to make dreams come true. Throughout his career, Steve has led various community service initiatives, supporting organizations such as Habitat for Humanity of Winter Park-Maitland, Grandma’s House of Orlando, Second Harvest Food Bank, the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life, Boy Scouts of America, The Hunger Project, the American Heart Association’s Heart Walk, and many more.
Steve Hingtgen leaves an indelible mark on RLF, and we wish him all the best in this exciting new chapter of his life!