Nashville, Tenn. (Sept. 17, 2026) – Ernie Molina, PE, has joined Neel-Schaffer as Deputy Tennessee Area Manager, bringing more than three decades of transportation infrastructure and operational leadership experience to the firm’s growing Tennessee operations.

Based in Nashville, Ernie will help lead Neel-Schaffer’s Tennessee operations, focusing on employee development, client relationships, and the firm’s continued growth across the state.

With more than three decades of experience in transportation infrastructure and operations, Ernie has led transportation infrastructure projects and teams across nine states. His background spans both the public and private sectors and includes transportation maintenance, asset management, business operations, employee development, and client service throughout the Southeast.

“What stood out to me about Ernie was his ability to build relationships and connect with people,” said Lance Taylor, PE, Senior Vice President and Area Manager for Alabama and Tennessee. “From the moment you meet him, it’s clear that he fits our culture and shares our values. He has led large teams and knows how to create a strong team atmosphere. We look forward to the impact his experience and leadership will have across our Tennessee offices.”

Before joining Neel-Schaffer, Ernie served as Chief Operations Officer and Executive Vice President for American Infrastructure Maintenance Management. He also held leadership positions with Roy Jorgensen Associates and Infrastructure Corporation of America, helping lead transportation infrastructure programs throughout the Southeast and beyond. He began his career with the North Carolina Department of Transportation.

“We are incredibly blessed and excited to have Ernie join our team in Tennessee,” said Chris Sellers, PE, Executive Vice President for Neel-Schaffer’s East Region. “He has a heart for people and is a strong servant leader. It is clear that his faith has played a significant role in shaping his approach to leadership, and I have no doubt he will make a tremendous impact on our employees and clients. He also brings unique experience and knowledge that will strengthen our team and help us continue delivering innovative solutions.”

For Ernie, the opportunity to join Neel-Schaffer was rooted in the firm’s culture and commitment to people.

“What excites me most is building relationships,” Ernie said. “We’re in the service business, and service begins with people. The relationships you build with employees, clients, and communities are what make this industry rewarding.”

He said Neel-Schaffer’s culture became apparent throughout the interview process.
“It became clear very quickly that the culture here isn’t something people simply talk about. It’s reflected in how the company operates and how people treat one another,” Ernie said. “I saw a culture that matches how I want to work and lead, and I’m excited to be part of a team that genuinely lives those values every day.”

Ernie earned a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from North Carolina State University and is a licensed Professional Engineer in North Carolina. He is a member of the American Council of Engineering Companies of Tennessee, the Association for the Management and Operations of Transportation Infrastructure Assets, the American Road & Transportation Builders Association, and the International Bridge, Tunnel and Turnpike Association.