Orion Project Receives 2025 Engineering Excellence Award from ACEC Hawaii Chapter

Orion Engineers & Associates is proud to be one of five Hawaii engineering firms recognized at the 2025 Engineering Excellence Awards, hosted by the American Council of Engineering Companies (ACEC) Hawaii Chapter. The annual event celebrates innovative, high-impact engineering projects that strengthen communities and improve daily life across the state.

This year’s award-winning projects showcased the breadth of engineering excellence in Hawaii, including breakwater repairs, emergency flood mitigation for a state monument, park accessibility improvements, wastewater treatment upgrades, and airport infrastructure enhancements.

Orion received an Award of Excellence for its work on Runway 8L Widening, Phase 2 at Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL) — the state’s busiest airport and an economic lifeline. The project was delivered for the Hawaii Department of Transportation – Airports and addressed a critical infrastructure need.

Runway 8L, Hawaii’s primary arrival runway, underwent a major transformation to accommodate the demands of modern air travel. The project widened the 12,000-foot runway to support larger aircraft, upgraded key airfield systems, and recycled more than 50,000 tons of materials, reducing both project costs and environmental impact.

One of the greatest challenges was maintaining airport operations during construction. Through innovative planning and collaboration with airlines, contractors, and airport officials, the team successfully managed a high-stakes, 45-day runway closure — delivering the work on time while minimizing disruptions to passengers and cargo flow.

This award-winning effort reflects Orion’s commitment to engineering solutions that advance sustainability, public safety, and economic vitality — all while supporting Hawaii’s $17 billion tourism economy.

Greg Garcia (retired HDOT-Airfield Design Section Chief) with Orion's Shannon Holman

Congratulations to our industry colleagues recognized at this year’s awards, and mahalo to ACEC Hawaii Chapter for organizing an inspiring celebration of engineering in our state! More information about this year's winners can be found at ACEC Hawaii Chapter.