McCownGordon Promotes Key Leaders as Part of Long-term Growth Strategy
Kansas City, MO (Feb 10, 2025) – McCownGordon Construction, one of the nation’s largest construction managers, recently announced several key leadership promotions that align with the firm’s long-term growth strategy. These promotions are set to fuel regional, national and vertical growth, positioning the company for continued success.
Known for its people-first approach, McCownGordon continues to prioritize attracting and retaining top talent. With the retirement of Chief People Officer Nancy Whitworth, Brandi Riggs will step into the role of SVP, People/Human Resources. Riggs, who has been part of Whitworth’s team for the past nine years, has helped shape a culture that has been nationally recognized as a top workplace. The firm has also been named one of the Best Places to Work in Kansas City by the Kansas City Business Journal 18 times.
Since its inception, McCownGordon has implemented cutting-edge technology to deliver value-driven solutions. Dustin Burns has led technology adoption at McCownGordon since 2005 when most of the industry considered “construction tech” unnecessary. Burns has been promoted to SVP, Technology & Business Solutions where he will continue to advance the company’s technology initiatives.
Emily Tilgner, newly promoted to SVP, Building Performance Solutions, leads the Building Performance Solution team which offers clients innovative solutions across a spectrum of services including Mechanical | Electrical | Plumbing (MEP), Structural & Soils, Virtual Design & Construction (VD&C), Building Commissioning (CxP), Sustainability and Quality Assurance | Quality Control (QAQC). These services distinguish McCownGordon in the marketplace, providing cost-saving, schedule-driven solutions to its clients.
McCownGordon also sets sights on continued growth in the manufacturing market, offering turnkey manufacturing solutions nationwide. Freddy Allison, a 24-year veteran of the company, will oversee all manufacturing projects as VP of Operations, ensuring operational excellence across the business unit. Justin Hamilton, newly promoted to VP, Business Unit Leader for the food and beverage markets, will continue to drive business growth nationally and align teams with customer priorities. Notable projects include Walmart’s 330,000 SF case-ready beef facility, a turnkey design-build project currently under construction in Olathe, Kansas.
Over the past three years, Travis Huffman has been instrumental in launching the firm’s fourth regional office in Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas. His leadership and strategic vision have been pivotal in establishing a thriving business unit in the Texas market. With the Dallas office now flourishing, Huffman is set to relocate back to Kansas City and embark on a new role as VP, Business Unit Leader. Huffman will lead the regional higher education market, ensuring all client goals are met with excellence. The firm is currently working on the University of Missouri-Kansas City’s largest capital project in the University’s history, the Healthcare Delivery and Innovation Building.
The recent series of promotions at McCownGordon is set to drive continuous growth, solidifying the company’s position as a growing national firm. By recognizing and elevating talented individuals within the organization, McCownGordon not only fosters a culture of excellence and innovation but also ensures its leadership is well-equipped to navigate the complexities of the marketplace. These strategic moves will continue to enhance customer experience, operational excellence, and overall market competitiveness, paving the way for continued growth and expansion.
