Cheerleader-turned-engineer Chris Gale leades HNTB's Great Lakes Division

From designing the infrastructure that shapes communities to leading teams across nine states, Chris Gale (BSCE '95) boasts a career journey that is a testament to vision, service and perseverance. Based in Indianapolis, Gale serves as president of HNTB’s Great Lakes Division. He’s also a devoted husband of 26 years and proud father of two sons.

Gale describes himself as being dedicated to helping others grow, encouraging teamwork and fostering an environment that enables people to do their best work.

“I’m proud not only of the milestones I’ve achieved but also of the relationships I’ve built and the collective impact we’ve made together,” he said. “For me, true success is measured in the growth of those around me and the lasting value we create as a team.”

Gale planned to study aeronautical engineering, but after an encounter with Robert Jacko, professor of civil and construction engineering, and noticing changes in the aerospace field, he switched to civil engineering. He was drawn to the real-world impact of infrastructure and recognized that civil engineering presented both technical challenges and opportunities to help communities. Purdue showed him the many paths the field could offer.

While at Purdue, Chris balanced the demands of cheerleading with a rigorous engineering curriculum. These experiences helped shape his leadership style and continue to fuel his growth.

“The opportunities I gained through the civil engineering program and cheerleading taught me to lead with confidence, push my limits and think beyond what’s right in front of me. Purdue gave me a foundation that I continue to build on today.”

Chris Gale (BSCE’95) with his wife, Kim, and with their two sons, Kyle and Cole.

As a cheerleader, Gale performed on the same football field his grandfather played on as a Purdue quarterback in the 1940s. His grandfather’s old, leather and wooden helmet, along with a football from one of the games, are two of Gale’s most cherished possessions. Although Gale did not initially seek out cheerleading, when a friend from home learned about the chance to try out, they decided to do it together.

Following graduation, Gale worked his way up from technical design jobs to senior leadership. He went from leading HNTB’s Indiana office and working in sales to becoming president of the Great Lakes Division. In his current role, Gale oversees growth, client relationships and operations in nine states, showing his dedication to learning and strategic thinking.

Gale’s workdays are always different. He spends his time planning, meeting with clients, helping staff develop and checking on projects. He looks at performance data, finds ways to help the division grow and supports leaders in different states. Gale enjoys mentoring and keeps in touch with teams across the region. He especially likes working with interns and co-ops in the summer, helping students gain real experience and learn about careers in infrastructure.

Throughout his career, Gale has faced numerous challenges, particularly during periods of change, including market shifts, company restructuring and evolving client needs. He believes that clear communication, flexibility and empathy are important during these times. To navigate career challenges, Gale says he keeps the company’s goals in mind, listens to diverse viewpoints and fosters trust and accountability. He views challenges as opportunities for growth and consistently seeks ways to transform problems into advantages.

Gale encourages civil engineering students to remain curious and continue learning, both inside and outside the classroom. He suggests making strong connections, finding what excites you, taking on leadership roles early and seeing every day as a chance to grow. Gale sees engineering as a blend of relationship-building, listening, communicating and enjoying the process.

From cheerleader to leader, these are Chris Gale's winning skills from Purdue Cheer.

TEAMWORK AND COLLABORATION:
Gale learned to communicate, support others and lead by example. The team became like family in college.

RESILIENCE AND DISCIPLINE:
Balancing academics, practice, training and performances required strong time management and perseverance. This prepared him for highpressure environments and tight schedules.

PUBLIC PRESENCE AND CONFIDENCE:
Performing for large crowds built his poise and confidence, directly benefiting his public speaking, presentations and leadership.