Our History

Hales Engineering was founded in 2006 with a clear vision: to build a company rooted in technical excellence and a strong commitment to people, both clients and employees. After working at several firms, founder Ryan Hales saw an opportunity to bring together the best elements of those experiences and create something more intentional, focused on quality, integrity, and long-term relationships. From the beginning, the company was built on technical precision, practical solutions, and a people-first culture, supported by a strong benefits package and a flexible approach to time off. A clear technical philosophy was established early on: transportation decisions should be driven by detailed analysis and a deep understanding of traffic behavior. By focusing on intersections, signal timing, and system performance, the team delivers solutions that are both effective and sustainable. The company began modestly, operating out of a home office with long hours dedicated to building a strong foundation. Soon after the company’s formation, the firm secured a major opportunity in Sandy, Utah: a traffic and parking analysis for the Rio Tinto Stadium project, now known as America First Field. That project became a defining early milestone and helped establish the company’s presence in the industry. Like many businesses, Hales navigated early challenges, including the 2008 economic downturn. During that time, the company made thoughtful adjustments to maintain stability, reducing overhead and focusing on consistent municipal work. That disciplined approach reinforced a commitment to data-driven, sound engineering judgment. This foundation has earned the trust of clients and communities, leading to long-standing relationships. Internally, Hales operates as a collaborative, team-driven environment. Projects are supported across the team to ensure continuity, mentorship, and consistency in delivery, reinforcing a culture of shared success. In 2024, Ryan made the decision to sell the company, prioritizing long-term stability for both the business and its employees. The transition was intentional, with new ownership selected based on alignment with the company’s values and commitment to preserving its culture. Today, Hales is recognized for its specialized expertise in transportation engineering and planning, supported by a highly skilled team with strong academic and industry backgrounds. The firm continues to deliver thoughtful, technically sound solutions for complex projects and growing communities, while remaining well positioned for continued growth both locally and in new regions.