Mike Hoover is ENR Southwest Legacy Award winner for 2026 | Engineering News-Record
Summary
Mike Hoover, executive chairman of Sundt Construction, receives the ENR Southwest Legacy Award for 2026, recognized for his leadership and significant revenue growth of the company.
Why It Matters
Hoover's recognition highlights the importance of effective leadership in the construction industry, showcasing how strategic planning and employee engagement can lead to substantial business growth. His initiatives not only transformed Sundt but also contributed to workforce development and community service.
Key Takeaways
- Mike Hoover led Sundt Construction to a fivefold revenue increase, reaching over $4 billion.
- His strategic plan, 'Sundt 2025,' expanded the company's geographic reach from four to 24 states.
- Hoover emphasized workforce development through the establishment of a training center for skilled builders.
- The KAPBCS motto fostered a culture of pride and innovation among employees.
- Hoover's community contributions through the Sundt Foundation have exceeded $18 million.
TalentAwardsLegacy Award Mike Hoover is ENR Southwest Legacy Award winner for 2026 By Jennifer Seward Photo courtesy of Sundt Construction Mike Hoover came up through the ranks to transform Sundt into a multibillion-dollar powerhouse while fostering a culture of employee pride and innovation. February 19, 2026 A self-proclaimed passionate builder, Mike Hoover, Sundt Construction’s executive chairman, came up through the industry’s ranks, ultimately leading in a role that was practically scripted for him. Hoover joined the Tempe, Ariz.-based construction firm 38 years ago, shortly after graduating from the University of Arizona with a degree in mechanical engineering. But his time as CEO from 2016 to 2025 was his defining chapter. His 10-year strategic plan, “Sundt 2025,” led the company to a fivefold increase in revenue and record profitability, with the firm climbing to No. 46 on ENR’s list of Top 400 Contractors and growing from $850 million in revenue to more than $4 billion. A second-generation Sundt employee, Hoover left his post-college engineering job to become a carpenter, developing his career through his work as project engineer, project manager, chief estimator and manager of the heavy civil (now transportation) group at the firm. “He has the knowledge of the business and of his people because he’s really one of them,” says Sundt board member Mike Kemper. “The combination of those [attributes] are what makes him a great leader.” As CEO, Hoover oversaw many succe...