Herbert V. Johnson didn’t found HVJ Associates just as a means to provide engineering services, but to create opportunity. Shortly after graduating college in 1985, Herbert founded HVJ with an initial focus on geotechnical engineering, environmental engineering, and construction materials testing. By the early 2000s, however, HVJ evolved to include pavement engineering and civil design services.

Herbert's idea for business growth, which are rooted in spiritual growth, is focused on improving the community and everyone who interacts with the firm.  As such, HVJ's structure was formed - paving the way for an engineering services firm with emphasis on character and learning.

The HVJ Difference

HVJ firmly believes that the success of infrastructure projects rests on the character of those involved. We delight clients, employees, providers, and franchisees by delivering on the ability to succeed working together each step of the way.

Through the years, we've compiled numerous comments from satisfied clients, including:

  • It is hard to compare HVJ to other subs, they just "get it" they know what you need
  • HVJ is very reliable; they are professional in the services they provide
  • They've been cooperative in working with the system to get our projects moved forward.
  • Their understanding of the technical side is valuable.  I'm not a geotech engineer and I need them to really know their stuff—they do.
  • Their services are excellent. They're not just responsive. They are reachable and available. They find a way to get someone out to the job and help out if needed.
  • HVJ does a really good job of producing a service that in return reduces our risk back to our client, which is the ecstasy of the team.

HVJ frequently works with previous clients to build repeat business and long-term relationships. Our accomplishments are a direct result of the individual effort and dedication of each HVJ employee and their commitment to the high standards and ideals set by HVJ's Management Team.

HVJ works as an ambitious, supportive, and resilient team focused on each project's success.  To accomplish this, HVJ's ideals are implemented in each sector of our business, with special focus on inspiring excellence, owning the solution, growing with gratitude, and amplifying every voice.

The keystone of our business is the relationship we establish with each client, one which translates to a commitment to meet their unique needs for their projects.  The HVJ difference is the unrelenting focus on improving the ability to interact effectively with boundless enthusiasm and support.

HVJ Company Profile

Franchise Business Model

To meet our firm's goals of providing superior services for our clients as well as creating opportunities for broadened firm ownership, HVJ Associates, Inc. has created a franchise business structure. We have taken this initiative as it allows us to expand our reach while preserving the firm's characteristics that our clients value. The business structure provides for local ownership, closer to the clients and communities that the business serves. The franchise component provides a cohesive system following our proven, successful business model and practices. Our franchise offices are created from our former offices, with the personnel, project experience, and equipment from those offices. The franchisee companies have been formed by trusted former employees of the firm.


Timeline

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1985

HVJ Associates, Inc. formed in Houston

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1992

HVJ moves to current headquarters location

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2001

HVJ establishes Austin office through acquisition from Maxim Technologies

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2005

HVJ establishes Dallas office through acquisition of QTE Group, Inc.

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2016

HVJ Associates® creates the first engineering franchise system in the country by franchising the Dallas and Austin branches

Meet the Team

Herb Johnson

Herb Johnson

President

Herb Johnson is President and founder of HVJ Associates, Inc. He has responsibility for corporate vision, strategy, development of company culture, executive team leadership, and capital allocation. He is an accomplished executive and business leader, and leads a team of executives delivering quality engineering services throughout Texas.

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Mike Hasen-1

Mike Hasen

Principal Engineer

Mr. Hasen’s career encompasses a period of over 30 years of diverse geotechnical, construction, and environmental engineering experience. In addition to technical leadership Mr. Hasen’s responsibilities include development and implementation of new initiatives related to our revolutionary and unique franchise business model.

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Hossam Esmail-1

Hossam Esmail

Executive Vice President

Mr. Esmail joined HVJ in 2000, and provides overall leadership for company owned and franchised operations.  He is a successful Chief Operations Officer with extensive experience in Geotechnical Engineering, Construction Materials Testing, and Business Development.

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Didi Ndando

Didi Ndando

Senior Vice President

Ms. Didi Ndando leads the accounting, financial, talent management, and administrative services of the firm.  She joined HVJ in 1992 as a staff engineer, but over the years she experienced a growing interest and aptitude in management and leadership as she moved on to project and department management.

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Laboratories

 

HVJ Associates® operates geotechnical and materials testing laboratories across the state of Texas. The quality of our laboratories is assessed biannually by AASHTO through a rigorous review of testing, equipment, and quality system management.

 

 

Lab Map

Frequently Asked Questions

Certifications

HVJ Associates testing staff holds certifications by ACI, TxAPA, and NICET that attest to their technical knowledge and skill. They also participate in proficiency testing programs that assure ongoing competence to provide test results following the required procedures and using the required equipment

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