New Names and Faces: May 2026

Why It Matters

These appointments signal a strategic focus on succession planning and regional growth, positioning firms to capture emerging infrastructure and mobility markets while reinforcing leadership diversity in a competitive industry.

Key Takeaways

• Coastal Construction names Murphy brothers co-CEOs, founder remains chairman
• Balfour Beatty elevates Dave Campbell to VP of Florida operations
• Breeden Construction's Stephanie Luce earns GlobeSt. 2026 Woman of Influence
• Pella Corp appoints Emily Videtto as president and CEO, starting July
• Skanska appoints Lew Guerrette REO West, Don Kowalchuk EVP Washington

Pulse Analysis

The construction industry is entering a pivotal era of leadership renewal, with family‑run firms like Coastal Construction Group turning the reins to the next generation. After nearly six decades at the helm, Thomas P. Murphy Jr. is handing operational control to his sons, a move that blends continuity with fresh perspective. Such planned succession mitigates disruption, preserves institutional knowledge, and reassures investors and clients that strategic momentum will persist.

Regional expansion remains a core priority, as illustrated by Balfour Beatty’s promotion of Dave Campbell to oversee Florida operations and Skanska’s dual appointments of Lew Guerrette and Don Kowalchuk. Both leaders bring deep project‑delivery experience that aligns with the Southeast’s booming aviation, aerospace, and mobility infrastructure initiatives. Their mandates include accelerating emerging‑technology adoption, streamlining risk management, and strengthening client relationships—critical factors for winning public‑sector contracts and navigating the increasingly complex regulatory environment.

Diversity and talent development are also gaining prominence. Stephanie Luce’s recognition as a GlobeSt. Woman of Influence underscores the growing impact of women in construction finance and project management, while Emily Videtto’s elevation to Pella’s top post reflects a broader industry shift toward merit‑based, forward‑looking leadership. Together, these trends suggest that construction firms are not only reinforcing operational capabilities but also investing in inclusive, innovative leadership pipelines to sustain growth in a rapidly evolving market.