InNova is built on a foundation of passion, expertise, and generational ties to the engineering profession. Established in 2023, our firm was founded with a vision to deliver innovative, high-quality civil, structural, planning, and transportation solutions. Guided by technical excellence, community impact, and forward-thinking design, we are dedicated to creating solutions that not only meet today’s needs but also shape stronger, more sustainable communities for the future. At InNova, we lead by example, with a commitment to active community engagement and meaningful partnerships that ensure our work not only meets the highest technical standards but also reflects the values and needs of the people we serve.
InNova is proud to support education in our community through a partnership with Maine East High School, providing students with hands-on opportunities to develop engineering skills with InNova staff. In addition, we actively sponsor local events to stay connected and engaged with our community.
President
Samina leads as the President of InNova Consulting, Inc. with both technical expertise and business foresight. Raised by a City of Chicago engineer, she developed a lifelong connection to the field and a deep respect for the vital role engineering plays in shaping communities. That early exposure, combined with her own career as a software engineer and family's multigenerational ties to civil engineering, inspires Samina to guide InNova with vision, integrity, and innovation. Samina oversees strategic growth and business development, cultivate partnerships, and ensures InNova staff not only delivers high-quality, innovative solutions but also reflects the company’s commitment to community engagement, sustainability, and advancing opportunities for women in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM).
Executive Vice President / Traffic Lead
jgnatenco@innovaconsultinc.com
Julian brings three decades of experience in civil and transportation engineering, making his expertise a cornerstone of our team. His involvement in all facets of traffic engineering is extensive, marked by key roles in numerous Phase I and Phase II transportation projects for prominent agencies such as the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT), Chicago Department of Transportation (CDOT), Illinois Tollway, Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT), Cook County, Kane County, and numerous local municipalities. Julian's deep knowledge encompasses major traffic studies, sophisticated traffic and travel demand modeling, optimizing traffic signal and arterial operations, in-depth safety studies, precise traffic signal design, and effective project management. His commitment to delivering efficient and safe transportation solutions ensures exceptional results for our clients.
Mechanical Engineer I
yalghabiesh@innovaconsultinc.com
Yazeed is a Mechanical Engineer with experience designing HVAC, plumbing, and fire protection systems for commercial, residential, educational, and institutional projects. He is skilled in Revit MEP, AutoCAD, HAP, and MagiCAD, with experience performing load calculations, equipment selection, duct and pipe sizing, BIM coordination, construction documentation, and shop drawing review. Yazeed has also supported construction administration, testing, and commissioning while coordinating with architects, structural engineers, contractors, and inspectors to deliver code-compliant mechanical systems.
Planner
Bernadette leads InNova's stakeholder engagement activities, supports planning projects, and assists in optimizing internal team processes. Bernadette brings experience in community engagement, transportation policy research and writing, data analysis, and project management. Throughout her career, she has worked on initiatives that help create safer and more equitable communities through projects including a Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) corridor, mobility hubs, better bus system, and ballot referendum requesting an increase in sales tax funding for public transit. Bernadette specializes in bridging the communication gap between the technical world and the day-to-day life of community members.
Senior Aviation Planner
Zach is a Senior Aviation Planner with extensive experience in operational phasing, construction planning, and compliance evaluation for major airports and airspace projects. He currently supports the Chicago Department of Aviation at O'Hare and Midway International Airports, where he provides planning, phasing, and technical analysis to ensure safe and efficient operations during large-scale capital improvement projects. Zachary's background also includes airspace analysis at Leidos and UAS/LiDAR data acquisition at Axis GeoAviation, giving him a strong foundation in both planning and advanced geospatial technologies.
Aviation Planner
Alan is an Aviation Planner with experience supporting complex airport projects at O'Hare and Midway International Airports. His expertise includes airspace analysis, taxiway and aircraft parking layout design, and operational phasing to ensure safe, efficient airfield operations. Alan has collaborated with the Chicago Department of Aviation (CDA), Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), airlines, and contractors to deliver technical solutions that enhance safety, efficiency, and long-term planning. His background also includes flight operations support, giving him a strong foundation in both planning and operational perspectives.
Principal Engineer - Mechanical
Tom is a seasoned mechanical engineering professional with more than 40 years of experience leading the design, engineering, and construction management of mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems for commercial, retail, institutional, and industrial facilities. He has successfully managed projects from concept through construction, overseeing multidisciplinary teams, project budgets, scheduling, quality control, and client coordination to consistently deliver high-quality results. Throughout his career, Tom has specialized in HVAC system design, building automation and controls, energy efficiency, and complex facility renovations, with extensive experience in project management, cost control, and construction oversight. His practical, hands-on approach and technical expertise have contributed to the successful completion of numerous building modernization, tenant improvement, and infrastructure projects throughout the Midwest.
Director of Geomatics
Bob leads InNova's geomatics practice, encompassing land surveying, 3D laser scanning, and geospatial data services. A licensed Professional Land Surveyor with more than 40 years of experience in boundary, topographic, construction, geodetic, and forensic surveying, including over 30 years as a principal directing surveying and mapping firms, Bob brings a depth of expertise that spans the full evolution of modern surveying technology. He was part of the first surveying firm in the Chicago region to deploy GPS in 1984, and as a former authorized Trimble dealer he has trained engineering and surveying firms across the Midwest on the very equipment InNova fields today. His project history includes work for the Illinois Tollway, IDOT, airports, railroads, and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and he has prepared and sealed ALTA/NSPS land title surveys, topographic surveys, and statutory right-of-way plats throughout his career. At InNova, Bob directs field operations and quality control, leads the firm's advanced 3D scanning and reality-capture capabilities, and mentors the next generation of field staff so that decades of institutional knowledge stay in-house.
Senior Aviation Planner
Carsyn has experience supporting complex federal and commercial initiatives across the public sector, with a focus on energy, transportation, and large-scale program management. She specializes in project coordination, process improvement, and client relationship management, with experience supporting organizations with multi-billion-dollar budgets. Carsyn has also led and trained teams, streamlined internal processes, and enhanced data accessibility across project systems.
Project Engineer
ahashmi@innovaconsultinc.com
Atif has over five years of experience supporting the inspection, documentation, and administration of transportation infrastructure projects for agencies including the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT), Illinois State Toll Highway Authority (ISTHA), Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT), and Metra. He has contributed to the successful delivery of bridge replacements, roadway rehabilitation, rail reconstruction, and utility improvement projects by performing construction inspection, quality assurance, materials testing, contract documentation, and maintenance of traffic oversight. Atif is experienced in coordinating with contractors, design teams, and public agencies while utilizing construction management platforms to support project delivery through final acceptance. His commitment to safety, attention to detail, and strong communication skills enable him to help deliver high-quality infrastructure projects that meet schedule, budget, and regulatory requirements.
Director of Operations
Lauren oversees daily operations, leads project delivery, supports client management, and creates streamline internal processes for InNova's team of engineers and planners. Lauren brings a wealth of experience in transportation planning, consulting, and project management, with a career that spans local, state, and federal levels. Her deep understanding of client needs and her commitment to delivering exemplary results make her an outstanding addition to our leadership team. Throughout her career, Lauren has worked on a diverse range of projects including Safe Routes to School programs, Bus Rapid Transit systems, public transit planning, Road Safety Audits, and crash analysis. Lauren specializes in navigating complex projects and collaborating across disciplines to guide her teams in achieving results.
Aviation Lead
Doug is InNova's Aviation Lead with nearly a decade of specialized experience in aviation consulting. He has played a key role in planning, designing, and delivering multi-billion-dollar airport expansion projects at both Chicago O'Hare and Midway International Airports. With expertise in airfield, terminal, and landside operations, Doug excels at navigating complex stakeholder needs while prioritizing safety, efficiency, and passenger experience. His client-focused approach and hands-on leadership have consistently supported the successful execution of large-scale aviation initiatives.
BIM Modeler
hmohammed@innovaconsultinc.com
Hafeez is a skilled CAD Drafter with a strong ability to translate concepts, sketches, and technical specifications into precise digital drawings for design and construction. Proficient in industry-standard drafting software, he develops detailed plans, layouts, and schematics that support engineers, architects, and project teams throughout all phases of development. Known for his attention to detail and thorough understanding of drafting standards, Hafeez ensures accuracy, consistency, and clarity in every deliverable. His work plays a vital role in bridging design intent with practical implementation, contributing to the successful execution of complex projects.
Solutions and Strategy Manager
Amal is a strategic technology leader with over 10 years of experience translating complex business requirements into high-impact technology solutions within highly regulated environments, including Healthcare and Public Health. At Innova, she directs Information Technology (IT) strategy by assessing system improvements and aligning digital capabilities with long-term organizational goals through data-driven, scalable solutions. A specialist in digital transformation and data governance, she partners with executive leadership to communicate complex insights via strategic briefs and actionable recommendations. Amal is recognized for her ability to lead large-scale projects from concept to completion, managing significant budgets and mitigating risks while fostering cross-functional collaboration to drive innovation and long-term competitiveness.
Landscape Architect / Urban Designer
• Registered Landscape Architect: Florida and Illinois
• LEED AP
Alexia is an accomplished Landscape Architect and Urban Designer with extensive experience shaping transformative public spaces and infrastructure projects. Her portfolio spans transportation corridors, lakefront trails, historic parks, green roofs, and community open spaces, with notable contributions to Chicago's Millennium Park, the 606 (Bloomingdale Trail), and South Lake Shore Drive reconstruction. Alexia is skilled in leading multidisciplinary teams, guiding public processes, and integrating sustainable and context-sensitive design solutions. Licensed in Illinois and Florida, she brings a passion for creating landscapes that balance ecological stewardship, community needs, and long-term resilience.
Geomatics & GIS Data Analyst
Construction Engineer
• IDOT Certification: Documentation of Contract Quantities
Abdul has experience in roadway design, construction inspection, and technical documentation. He has supported transportation infrastructure projects, including a $6M+ roadway rehabilitation project where he assisted with field inspections, monitored Cold In-Place Recycling (CIR) and Hot Mix Asphalt (HMA) paving operations, and ensured compliance with Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) specifications through testing and verification. His experience also includes Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) compliance inspections, quantity tracking, and preparation of daily documentation using Inspector Daily Reports (IDRS). Abdul is known for his attention to detail, technical accuracy, and ability to translate engineering concepts into clear, actionable deliverables that support successful project execution.
Construction Engineer
Fazl is a Civil Engineer with over ten years of experience in transportation, construction, and design projects. He has worked on roadway, bridge, and infrastructure improvements across the United States, UAE, and India, specializing in project supervision, documentation, management, quality assurance, and compliance with industry standards. Currently serving as a Construction Engineer, Fazl brings expertise in both design and field inspection for Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) and municipal projects. He has led and supported Phase Three construction engineering services, including traffic signal modernization, roadway resurfacing, Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) improvements, bridge rehabilitation, and hot mix asphalt overlay programs, while managing field operations, contractor coordination, and project documentation in accordance with IDOT standards.
Marketing Manager
Amina leads marketing and communications efforts to strengthen brand presence, drive business development, and highlight the innovative work being done across projects. She plays a central role in advancing InNova's mission by shaping outreach strategies, elevating community engagement, and fostering partnerships that reflect the firm's commitment to building stronger, more connected communities. Her background includes leading political campaign initiatives where she managed communications, coordinated media coverage, and developed grassroots strategies that mobilized communities and amplified key messages. Drawing on this experience, Amina brings a unique perspective to InNova's work, using storytelling and strategic outreach to showcase impact while supporting the firm's growth as a woman- and minority-owned business.
Director of Mechanical, Electrical, & Plumbing
Ahmad is an accomplished Mechanical Engineer with over 16 years of experience leading complex Mechanical, HVAC, and MEP projects throughout the Chicago metropolitan area. As a licensed Professional Engineer, he has successfully delivered high-profile initiatives such as the CTA 95th Street Terminal, the modernization of Chicago City Hall, and numerous high-rise and mixed-use developments. Ahmad possesses deep expertise in advanced HVAC system design, energy-efficient technologies, and Building Information Modeling (BIM) coordination, ensuring the seamless integration of mechanical systems within multidisciplinary project environments. His strategic leadership and technical acumen consistently drive performance, sustainability, and precision across all phases of project execution.
Structural Engineer
msayeed@innovaconsultinc.com
Shaqib is a Structural Engineer with experience in structural engineering, BIM documentation, construction QA/QC, field inspections, and project coordination. He is experienced in structural modeling and analysis using Revit and RISA, AutoCAD drafting, technical documentation, and field verification, including reality-capture and Scan-to-BIM workflows. His background includes submittals, shop drawings, and specifications, as well as supporting multidisciplinary coordination and construction compliance.
Lead Structural Engineer - Buildings
Afzal is a Structural Engineer with over a decade of experience in the design and coordination of high-rise residential and office towers, commercial developments, industrial facilities, and mission critical projects. His expertise spans structural steel, reinforced concrete, and masonry systems, with extensive experience delivering gravity and lateral system designs, foundation engineering, construction administration, and multidisciplinary coordination for complex developments. Afzal has contributed to a wide range of large-scale projects. Proficient in industry-leading structural analysis and BIM software, he is experienced in applying standards to produce efficient, code-compliant designs. Known for his technical precision, collaborative approach, and ability to manage projects through design and construction phases, Afzal brings a strong commitment to quality and innovative structural solutions.
Lead Structural Engineer - Transportation
Raguez specializes in structural engineering, nondestructive evaluation, and innovative infrastructure solutions, with a strong focus on advancing the durability and resilience of transportation systems. Raguez's work centers on developing custom-engineered and additively manufactured components for strengthening aging steel bridges. She brings a unique blend of industry experience, academic research, and teaching, having contributed to major transportation projects across agencies such as Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT), Chicago Department of Transportation (CDOT), and Illinois Tollway, while also leading cutting-edge research in ultrasonic imaging, material characterization, and 3D reconstruction. Raguez is passionate about bridging the gap between emerging technologies and real-world infrastructure challenges, and is committed to driving innovation, mentorship, and equity within the engineering field.
Senior Aviation Planner
Long is a Senior Airport Planner with over six years of experience supporting major airport projects including O'Hare, Midway, Orlando, Tampa and Milwaukee International Airports. He specializes in airspace analysis, construction phasing, and aircraft parking layout design, helping airports optimize efficiency and safety during complex construction and expansion initiatives. Long has worked closely with the airport stakeholders such as the Chicago Department of Aviation (CDA), Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), airlines, and contractors to deliver technical planning, phasing strategies, and capital improvement planning. His collaborative approach and strong technical expertise make him a trusted partner in advancing operational efficiency and long-term airport growth.