Houston looks unstoppable. But according to James Ross, CEO of LJA Engineering, that growth doesn't happen on its own — it's engineered, project by project, decision by decision.

In this episode of HBJ On the Record, James joins host Sean McRory and HBJ technology reporter Jishnu Nair to talk about the infrastructure challenges and opportunities shaping Greater Houston's future. From regional drainage and highway capacity to AI adoption, workforce development, and public-private partnerships, this is a candid look at what it actually takes to keep one of America's fastest-growing cities moving.

What you'll hear in this episode:

• Why drainage is Houston's most urgent infrastructure priority
• The road projects that will matter most over the next decade
• How AI is changing engineering today — and what it will never replace
• The case for thinking regionally instead of locally
• How LJA's 200-intern program is building the next generation of Houston engineers
• What a blank-check infrastructure investment would look like

James Ross has spent decades at the center of Houston's growth story. This conversation is essential listening for business leaders, developers, city planners, and anyone who wants to understand where Houston is headed — and what it will take to get there.

HBJ On the Record is presented by the Houston Business Journal and sponsored by Withum. Supporting sponsors: Douglas Elliman and Spring Branch Management District.