- January 14, 2025
- Kimley-Horn Corner
KHultivating Success at Kimley-Horn
Kimley-Horn launched its pilot session of KHultivate, a professional development program developed for Black/African American analysts within their first two years at Kimley-Horn that focuses on the development of interpersonal and technical skills, relationships, and community. The purpose of the program is to help increase retention and better integrate Black/African American employees to the firm.
Kicking Off KHultivate
In early October, 24 analysts from across the country joined together for KHultivate’s in-person kickoff in Fort Worth, Texas. Over the span of two days, participants took part in sessions on topics such as self-awareness, quality assurance, consulting skills, and career ownership—taught by leaders in the firm. Connecting with their class, the 24 analysts participated in team-building activities and heard from panels of employees at different stages of their careers who provided helpful advice.
“I had the chance to meet my amazing cohorts, engage with facilitators, and talk with leaders across the firm. The team-building activities, insightful speakers, candid conversations, and Q&A session with company leaders were all invaluable. I left the kickoff feeling empowered and inspired, with a network broader than I ever imagined. I’m grateful to everyone who helped to create an environment where we can flourish—one that values being seen, heard, and appreciated.”
Pioneering the Program
The driving force behind the KHultivate program was a team of employees from the firm’s Black Kimley-Horn Network (BKN) employee resource group. This team included the firm’s Chairman, Barry Barber, and Mike Sanders, a Diversity & Inclusion (D&I) Specialist at Kimley-Horn with a passion for providing opportunities for all people to flourish. After spending more than eight years serving clients as an engineer in roadway design, Mike pivoted roles and joined the firm’s D&I team—and immediately hit the ground running with plans for KHultivate.
A dedicated team of employees across the country joined in to assist with logistics, create a curriculum, develop and finalize content, and teach classes—turning this dream into a reality after months of planning and preparation.
“There are few things in life that literally move me to tears. Well, I now know KHultivate is one of those things. I have the distinct privilege of leading our efforts to create KHultivate, and it has already been one of the most rewarding professional experiences of my life. To be able to pour into the next generation of Black project managers, practice builders, and owners of our firm has been an absolute joy. I am proud to work with incredible people who helped make this dream a reality, and I’m deeply grateful for the dedication of everyone who contributed to its success. But even more so, I am proud of Kimley-Horn and our commitment to providing an environment for our people to flourish. I can’t wait to see the impact this program will have not only on our firm, but on the clients and communities outside our four walls that we get the honor of serving every day.”
Empowering the Leaders of Tomorrow
After an inspiring and impactful kickoff, KHultivate participants will now join virtual follow-up meetings over the next few months, including a Black Shareholder Roundtable and technical mentorship groups, as well as sessions that cover topics like AI tools and DiSC communication styles. In the summer, participants will attend a final in-person session.
KHultivate reflects our commitment to fostering growth and leadership. Based on positive feedback from our pilot session, we will host another class in 2025 and are excited to see the continued impact of KHultivate in action.
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