The Trident Tech Legacy at HLA
Should you venture into the offices of HLA, Inc. in West Ashley these days, there is a good chance that you encounter an alumnus of Trident Technical College.
More precisely, there is a sixty-three percent chance.
Founded in 1987 to meet the land consulting needs of a growing Charleston population, HLA is comprised of engineers, surveyors, site permit coordinators, landscape architects and land planners, placing various site work services under one roof.
When Barry Whalen, president and co-founder, discovered that so many HLA associates had attended TTC, he was delighted, but not surprised.
“We have a strong appreciation for how HLA is built on Trident Tech education. The resilience, diligence and passion instilled in our team reflect broadly across our community,” says Whalen.
Adriana Carson '92, a senior project manager with a 25-year tenure at HLA, embarked on her journey from Panama as an exchange student at Summerville High School.
Excelling academically yet constrained by financial limitations for a four-year degree, she discovered Trident Technical College's 2+2 engineering transfer program. This innovative program allowed her to complete her initial two years at TTC before transferring to the University of South Carolina.
“Entering TTC with English as my secondary language and without nearby family was daunting,” Carson recalls. “However, the welcoming environment made it feel like home.”
The program was rigorous, but with Trident Tech’s cutting-edge technology, flexible class schedules and work-study opportunities, she was well prepared to transfer. Carson was inducted into Phi Theta Kappa, TTC’s honor society, and was recognized in “Who’s Who Among College Students.”
“Academia was my passion and I loved being at the college. I even met my husband at TTC; we shared rides to campus,” she adds.
Kyle Neff '08, HLA’s vice president and director of engineering, initially enrolled at a four-year college, but was unsure of what he wanted to do. He was drawn to landscaping and the outdoors, so he decided to pursue the Horticulture program at TTC.
“I found an affinity for landscape design,” Neff remarks. “The classes were diverse, with both career seekers and retirees, and the instructors were passionate and knowledgeable.”
Post-certification in landscape management and horticulture technology, Neff joined Charleston County Parks and Recreation. His burgeoning interest in mechanical pumps and water systems pivoted him towards engineering and the 2+2 program, leading to his transfer to The Citadel.
Given his experience in the Horticulture department, he knew he would be in good hands.
“The faculty and mentors were exceptional. I was well-prepared for The Citadel’s engineering program,” Neff recounts.
He completed his bachelor’s at The Citadel and a master’s at the University of South Carolina. He is still in touch with his 2+2 cohort, and they get together periodically.
Neff oversees the Engineering team, half of which are TTC graduates.
“Just like Trident Tech, HLA empowers individuals to thrive and serve the community,” Neff asserts. “We are proud to have graduated from an institution that has had such a large impact on the local economy and well-being of its people.”
Since 1992, Trident Technical College's 2+2 engineering graduates have successfully transitioned to esteemed institutions such as The Citadel, Clemson University, and the University of South Carolina, exemplifying the program's far-reaching impact.