Veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps and electric transmission and distribution industry to lead construction efforts

Black & Veatch has appointed Michael McConnell as chief operating officer of Bird Electric, effective June 1, 2026. In this role, McConnell will be responsible for Bird Electric’s overall construction operations and financial performance while helping to execute the company’s strategic direction as it continues to scale and expand its capabilities.

McConnell brings more than 20 years of leadership experience in electric transmission and distribution operations, construction execution and large‑scale infrastructure delivery. Most recently, he served as executive vice president of power operations at Ferreira Power, where he led enterprise-wide power functions across multiple operating companies and oversaw significant growth and project backlogs. His prior experience includes senior leadership roles at Grid United and National Powerline, as well as project leadership with PAR Electrical Contractors, where he managed electric transmission and distribution construction and maintenance work for investor-owned utilities in the western United States. He began his career in the U.S. Marine Corps, where he developed the leadership discipline and operational rigor that have defined his professional approach.

He is recognized for building high‑performing teams, driving operational excellence and delivering complex projects safely, on time and within budget. His ability to align strategy with execution and foster strong relationships across stakeholders will support Bird Electric’s continued growth.

“Michael’s depth of experience in electric transmission and distribution operations, combined with his proven ability to translate strategy into results, makes him an outstanding addition to Bird Electric’s leadership team,” said Katie Werner, president of Bird Electric. “As we continue to expand our operations and capabilities, his focus on safety, execution excellence and team development will be instrumental to our success.”

McConnell earned a Bachelor of Arts from Ashford University, a Master of Business Administration from Norwich University and is currently pursuing his Doctorate in Strategy from the University of Michigan. McConnell will be based in Mansfield, Texas and will report directly to Werner.

Editor’s notes:

• Michael McConnell photo and LinkedIn profile

About Black & Veatch

Black & Veatch is a 100-percent employee-owned global engineering, procurement, consulting and construction company with a more than 110-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 the 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.

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