Seasoned construction leader to guide continued growth, workforce development and operational excellence

Black & Veatch Construction Inc. (BVCI) has named Rich Applegate president, effective immediately. Applegate has served as interim president since January 2026, providing strong leadership during a tremendous cycle of growth for the company.

A veteran construction professional with 36 years of commercial and industrial construction experience, Applegate brings deep expertise in operations, labor relations, workforce development, project execution and the delivery of complex infrastructure projects. During his more than eight years with the company, Applegate has helped strengthen BVCI's focus on safety, operational excellence and high-quality project delivery while supporting staff and craft professionals across the United States.

He has also played an important role in advancing workforce development initiatives and maintaining strong relationships with labor partners, contributing to BVCI's ability to safely and effectively meet client needs.

"Rich has provided strong leadership during an important period in our industry," said Jennifer Divito, president, Black & Veatch Operations. "His deep understanding of Black & Veatch’s business, our operations, commitment to our people and strong relationships across the industry position him well to lead BVCI into its next chapter."

As president, Applegate will continue to lead BVCI's strategic direction, while overseeing efforts to support the company's long-term growth objectives.

BVCI, Black & Veatch's union construction company, has been delivering construction services for more than 35 years and plays a critical role in executing infrastructure projects across the power, water, telecommunications and industrial sectors. The organization self-performs and manages construction work throughout the U.S., partnering with clients to deliver complex projects safely, efficiently and successfully.

Editor’s Notes:

• For Rich Applegate’s headshot, click here.

About Black & Veatch 
Black & Veatch is a 100-percent employee-owned global engineering, procurement, consulting and construction company with a more than 100-year track record of innovation in human critical infrastructure. Since 1915, we have helped our clients improve the lives of people around the world by addressing resilience and reliability of our most important infrastructure and energy assets. Learn more about us at the Black & Veatch newsroom, and follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram.

Media Contact Information:

MEGHAN LOCKNER | +1 201-977-1628 | Media@bv.com