The Evolution of HRC
Jesse Swofford knows a thing or two about the workings at HRC Engineers. The reason? He’s been at the firm for a long time.
He was hired in 2002—more than 23 years ago, when the company was known as Hughes Surveying. The Douglasville native started as an instrument man in the field—then became a survey crew chief.
Jesse’s still at the firm, although he did leave a time or two for what he thought was “greener grass.”
His experience at other organizations exposed him to new perspectives on how a well-oiled survey team should work—and affirmed in him that where he started in his career is where he belonged.
At HRC, Jesse’s responsibilities have increased over time. He’s held several positions on the survey
team, working closely with Aaron McCullough, RLS, and other survey leaders, and has also branched
out, taking on other roles, including drafting work; participating in the construction design process, including hydrology studies; and managing projects from start to finish.
Throughout his long tenure, Jesse’s gotten the opportunity to work closely with Howard Ray PE,
Darryl Ray, RLA, ALSA, as well as other HRCers in areas adjacent to surveying, expanding his horizons, all while contributing to the success of the firm.
Jesse’s career at the firm started with Clifford “Cliff” Hughes, a man Jesse calls a “great guy.” What
made him great? “He took us in, was generous, and is so knowledgeable about surveying. He had so much experience, and he was willing to teach.”
Jesse describes the transition from working for Cliff to working with Howard. “It was seamless. We evolved for the better … and we keep evolving. The HRC team appreciates Howard’s style—he listens to our ideas. He’s an optimistic leader.”
As Senior Survey Project Manager, it’s Jesse’s job to make sure jobs go as planned. At the end of the day, Jesse is steadfast in his belief that making clients feel special, having open communications, taking pride in the team’s work—and making sure jobs come in on-time and in-budget. Jesse’s been key to past success … and he is helping to ensure HRC is positioned to embrace the future for the benefit of all involved.