Team | BD Construction
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Leadership Team

Brenda Benjamin

President and CEO

Brenda Benjamin

President and CEO

Born in Broken Bow and raised in Kearney, Brenda Benjamin holds a Bachelor of Science degree in business administration with an emphasis in finance from the University of Nebraska-Kearney. In 1996, she began her career at BD Construction as the company’s Controller.

 Over the next two decades, Brenda served as Treasurer for the organization and as advisor on business operations, finances and organizational development alongside her husband Mark, then president and CEO. Upon his death in 2015, Brenda stepped into the President’s role. In this position, Brenda is dedicated to preserving and furthering BD Construction’s position as an innovative construction management firm and a trusted business partner to build education, health, commercial, cultural and manufacturing projects.

She is co-owner of several local businesses, and advocate for the Kearney Public Schools Special Education Program and member of Buffalo County Republican Women. Brenda brings a commitment to excellence, an attention to detail and an imaginative vision to all that she does.

Linette Butler

General Manager

Linette Butler

General Manager

Linette Butler joined BD Construction in 1996 working in accounts payable, eventually earning the position of senior accountant and, in 2016, general manager. Linette holds a Bachelor of Science degree in business administration from the University of Nebraska at Kearney. As a result of Linette’s focus and organizational skills, BD Construction employs an open-book policy and clear cost-plus-work guidelines that enable clients to easily monitor project costs, which are tracked and managed through collaboration with project managers and the estimating department.

Linette’s drive is not limited to the workplace. She has served as president of the Association of General Contractors of America Nebraska Building Chapter Board of Directors – the first woman to hold that position. She was chairperson of the Membership Development committee and participated in the Construction Leadership Academy. A graduate of the Nebraska Chamber of Commerce Leadership Nebraska Class XI, Linette is a member of UNK’s College of Business and Technology Dean’s Leadership Council, Kearney Works board member, Kearney Area Chamber of Commerce Envoys, and American Heart Association’s Go Red for Women. Linette loves life at the lake, riding her bikes (motorcycle and bicycle), attending Husker volleyball and football games, traveling and spending time with her family and friends.

Business Development Team

A photo of Mike Kalb

Mike Kalb

Business Development Director

Mike Kalb

Business Development Director

A native of Kearney, Mike Kalb earned his BS in business administration with emphasis in finance and accounting from Kearney State College (now UNK) in 1991. Following stints as Western Missouri Region Manager for GE Capital Financial Services and as a broker for Morgan Stanley financial services, Mike joined BD construction in 2002.

Mike serves on the Association of General Contractors Nebraska Building Chapter Nebraska Design and Construction Industry Council and participated in the 2010-2011 Construction Leadership Academy. Active in the community, Mike was the co-founder of Kearney Cares, member of the Kearney Public Schools Foundation Board of Directors and vice-president of Kearney Little League. He is also the co-organizer and co-manager of five real estate development companies in the Kearney area.

As business development director, Mike leads the Business Development and Marketing team as well as works with and advises potential clients regarding construction projects.

Mark Lewis Business development

Mark Lewis

Business Development

Mark Lewis

Business Development

Mark Lewis has held management positions since the beginning of his career. After four years as a social science major at Kearney State College (now UNK), in the early 1980s, Mark spent 10 years with The Buckle as supply manager, followed by positions as the general manager of the Buffalo County Agricultural Association and service manager for Anderson Brothers Electric.

Mark joined BD in 2000 and has specialized in business development ever since. As business development manager, Mark stays abreast of building trends, especially in the areas BD specializes in, such as education, healthcare, retail and agriculture. Mark works with both the private sector and public agencies developing feasibility studies and apprising them of BD’s expertise and capabilities.

Mark volunteers his time as a YMCA coach and with the Kearney Public Schools Foundation Class Act fundraiser.

Scott Kralik

Business Development

Scott Kralik

Business Development

With a strong history in account management, Scott Kralik brings robust relationship-building skills to his role in business development. He works alongside clients to develop construction solutions that meet their needs and help their businesses grow.

Scott graduated from the University of Nebraska at Kearney with a bachelor’s degree in business administration. His career as a global account manager and, prior to that, regional sales manager – Middle East, gave Scott a proven record of experience in growing business and developing new distribution routes. Scott joined BD Construction to contribute to the success of a Nebraska-based company. He is familiar with BD Construction’s work as a dad—his three children have attended schools built or renovated by BD Construction.

After years of volunteering on the Kearney Soccer Board and serving as a youth soccer coach for more than ten years, Scott’s weekends are now free to enjoy his hobbies of fishing and spending more quality time with his wife Mashall, family and friends.

David Gifford

Business Development

David Gifford

Business Development

David Gifford brings a unique blend of expertise and experience to BD Construction as a seasoned professional with a diverse background. With a foundation rooted in construction gained through hands-on experience and service in the Air Force, David has a meticulous attention to detail, a commitment to excellence, and a strong work ethic that forms the cornerstone of his approach to every project.

After transitioning from the construction field, David spent a decade dedicated to shaping young minds as an educator. During this time, he cultivated invaluable skills in communication, leadership, and relationship-building, all while fostering meaningful connections within the community.

Now, as a Business Developer, David brings together his extensive background to drive client initiatives forward. With degrees in construction, education, and business management, he offers a comprehensive understanding of the industry coupled with a strategic mindset to identify opportunities, build lasting partnerships, and deliver unparalleled service to clients.

David is dedicated to serving the community, fostering strong relationships, and providing personalized solutions tailored to meet the unique needs of each client.

Marsha Wilkerson

Marketing and Community Outreach

Marsha Wilkerson

Marketing and Community Outreach

Marsha Wilkerson observed BD Construction’s work firsthand as a volunteer on a project to update several schools in Kearney. Impressed by the team’s openness, honesty and thoughtful approach to involving the community in the process, Marsha is delighted to be part of the BD Construction crew to assist other great communities.

A Kearney native and graduate of Kearney State College (now UNK), Marsha worked in communications consulting across the nation as well as marketing for healthcare and financial services in Omaha before returning to Kearney as a healthcare marketing and communications professional.

Marsha serves on the Kearney Public Schools Foundation Board of Directors and the CHI Health Good Samaritan Foundation board and is a habitual volunteer. She enjoys boating and camping with her family, especially when she can take a good book along.

Project Team

Pre Construction Services and Estimating

Austin Larson

Construction Operations Director/Estimator

Austin Larson

Construction Operations Director/Estimator

Austin Larson was first introduced to construction through his grandfather, an owner of a residential construction company. Following in his footsteps, Austin pursued opportunities to gain experience in the construction industry through Habitat for Humanity, various construction class projects and working for a custom home builder during college. Austin earned his Bachelor of Science degree in construction management from the University of Nebraska at Kearney. He first joined BD Construction as an intern and was hired full-time as an estimator upon graduation.

In addition to his work as director of Construction Operations, which encompasses pre-construction services and subcontractor pre-qualifications, Austin also serves as BD Construction’s estimator. Austin has earned LEED Green Associate certification.

Austin participated in the Association of General Contractors Nebraska Building Chapter Construction Leadership Academy. Outside of work, he is actively involved with his two sons in various sporting activities and events. In his spare time, he enjoys fishing, camping and boating with his family and the occasional ride on his motorcycle.

Project Managers

Kent Cordes, P.E.

Civil Engineer | Project Manager

Kent Cordes, P.E.

Civil Engineer | Project Manager

During his 20 years working as a design engineer and project manager in Kearney, Kent Cordes had frequent opportunities to work with BD Construction as a consultant. He enjoyed working with the BD team and noted the team members’ commitment to their clients, their professionalism and their spirit of cooperation. In 2013, Kent decided to join the BD team and has made many significant contributions to BD’s most complex projects.

Originally from York, Kent obtained his bachelor’s degree in civil engineering in 1993 and his master’s degree in civil engineering a year later, both from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. A registered Professional Engineer, Kent has extensive experience with surface water drainage and stormwater runoff issues.

Off the job, Kent serves as the congregational chairman at Holy Cross Lutheran Church, participates with his son in Cub Scouts and formerly volunteered as a baseball coach in Riverdale. He is a member of the Nebraska Floodplain and Stormwater Management Association. He enjoys woodworking, fishing, camping and golf.

Jon Mosbarger

Project Manager

Jon Mosbarger

Project Manager

Jon Mosbarger’s early experience in the construction industry led him to pursue a degree in construction management from the University of Nebraska at Kearney. While in school, he completed an internship with BD Construction, and upon graduation, was offered a job to join BD full time.

Born and raised in Kearney, Jon was drawn to BD’s professionalism and camaraderie. Jon’s rigorous classroom education as well as his experience in the field make him a valuable member of the BD team. Jon is a member of the American Concrete Institute, and when not on the job, enjoys hunting, fishing and working on his car.

Dan Schulte

Project Manager / Business Development

Dan Schulte

Project Manager / Business Development

Dan Schulte brings more than thirty years of expertise in manufacturing operations and engineering management to benefit BD Construction clients as they seek profitable growth through new construction or renovation projects. In his previous role, Dan oversaw minor and major facilities renovations and additions including the $40 million addition to Kearney’s Baldwin Filters plant in 2015.

Dan enjoys seeing projects come to life from inception to completion and sharing his operational expertise in manufacturing and facilities to help BD’s customers be successful.

Dan holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering from South Dakota State University and is skilled in environmental health and safety, project management and in reducing and eliminating materials and labor waste.  He is involved in his church, Prince of Peace, as a member of the buildings and grounds committee and the choir. He is also a member of the Knights of Columbus and served on the executive steering committee that raised $10 million to build a new Central Community College-Kearney campus. Warm weather will find Dan outside landscaping or smoking meat. He enjoys spending time with his wife, Lori, and their four daughters, Brittany (Cody Kissel), Morgan, Connor and Tessa, and one grandson, Colin Kissel.

Lisa Amen

Project Manager | Design Technician

Lisa Amen

Project Manager | Design Technician

Lisa Amen lived in Kansas and Colorado before settling closer to her husband’s hometown in south central Nebraska. She has a nearly 20-year career in civil drafting and uses her client and subcontractor communications skills to manage projects as well as support with civil engineering work. Lisa became a fan of BD Construction after witnessing the company’s dedication to building long-term relationships with clients and its commitment to giving back to communities.

Lisa brings diversified experience to her role and loves being able to provide clients with drawings so they can better visualize the end project. She earned her degree from the Northwest Kansas Technical College and has honed her skill working on a variety of projects. She has a commitment to being precise in her drawings and assisting clients to create the best possible plans for their project.

With a young son, Layton, Lisa’s free time is sparse. She and her husband Shelby enjoy spending time with their son and especially taking him to watch his favorite thing—race cars. The family also enjoys fishing and going on walks with their two cocker spaniels.

Field Team

Field Operations

Rick Pettit

Field Operations Director

Rick Pettit

Field Operations Director

Rick Pettit was born and raised in Kearney. Appreciative of the local atmosphere, Rick remained in Kearney to work for BD Construction, joining the company in 1984 after he graduated high school. He began as a basic laborer, was eventually promoted to leadman and then foreman. Throughout his career at BD Construction, Rick has utilized opportunities to expand his industry knowledge through work experience and online classes.

Due to his reliability and motivation, Rick mastered the role of superintendent and was eventually promoted to become BD’s director of Field Operations. Rick’s duties include supervising all construction projects in progress, establishing consistent practices for project oversight, quality and safety, as well as managing scheduling and staffing for jobs.

In addition to his role at BD Construction, Rick is an active member of Faith United Methodist Church and finds time to for boating, fishing and golfing when the weather permits.

Superintendents

Jeff Hoppenstedt

Superintendent

Jeff Hoppenstedt

Superintendent

Jeff Hoppenstedt came by his love of the construction industry naturally; in fact, you might say it’s in his genes. Both his father and grandfather have worked in the construction industry, and, Jeff would visit job sites with his dad as a child. He started working summers for BD when he was 15. All of this has provided Jeff experience beyond his years.

Born in Columbus but raised in Kearney, Jeff is a graduate of Kearney Catholic High School and also attended the University of Nebraska at Kearney. Jeff enjoys the opportunity to work outdoors as part of a team and takes satisfaction in things he’s built himself. When not on the job site, Jeff enjoys riding four-wheelers on the river, golfing and spending time with family and friends.

Gary Allen

Project Manager/Superintendent

Gary Allen

Project Manager/Superintendent

As a project manager/superintendent, Gary Allen leverages a wealth of experience in his role at BD Construction. Originally from Benkelman, Nebraska, Gary first came to Kearney in 1978 to earn his Bachelor of Science from Kearney State College (now the University of Nebraska at Kearney). After graduating, Gary held a number of positions. He coordinated the opening of all new Boston Market restaurants in Colorado, Wyoming and New Mexico, as well as oversaw special projects in California, Oregon and Washington. After his work there, Gary worked as head of construction with Sullivan Hayes Brokerage, and then owned Allen Construction Management in Colorado. The combination provided him experience in large retail and office developments along the Front Range, as well as tenant finish.

Gary started with BD Construction in 2008 under a special services contract to build the KREX television station in Grand Junction, Colorado. Upon the project’s completion, Gary made the decision to become a full-time employee of BD Construction.

Sharing the values of many of his coworkers, Gary utilizes his free time to connect with his family while relaxing or playing golf.

Richard Gregg

Superintendent

Richard Gregg

Superintendent

Richard Gregg served in the U.S. Army at Fort Drum, New York, prior to jumping into the construction industry in 1996. He specialized in concrete work and brought his expertise to BD Construction in 2006. Richard loves being outside and working with his hands.

Over the years, BD relied upon Richard’s knowledge of concrete but began to turn to him more and more for other construction skills including steel erection and some finish work. Today, Richard is a superintendent where his responsibilities include regular communication with the project owners, overseeing construction quality and scheduling, as well as coordinating the work of subcontractors on a project site.

Richard went to school in Lexington, Neb. and now lives in Kearney with his wife Maria, who is BD Construction’s receptionist. Together they have two daughters, Josie and Elissa. As a family, they enjoy camping and occasionally fishing (but only when the fish are biting)!

Nate Oberg

Superintendent

Nate Oberg

Superintendent

Nate Oberg began working in the construction industry at the age of 19. Over the past nearly 25 years, Nate has earned increasing levels of responsibility and joined BD Construction in 2017 as a site superintendent. In this role, Nate oversees owner relationships, construction quality and scheduling as well as coordinates the work of subcontractors on a project site.

Nate’s approach to communicating with customers and his attention to detail have earned him repeat clients. He became familiar with BD Construction while working beside BD staff on Kearney High School, and liked the company’s involvement in the community as well as the camaraderie among the BD staff, clients and subcontractors.

 Outside of work, Nate enjoys cooking, especially smoking meats, and his smoked brisket is a favorite. While working as superintendent on the new Kearney High School, Nate befriended the basketball coaches and served as chef to the team before big games. Nate also loves hunting and fishing and is a volunteer for Miles for Heroes, which helps service men and women receive care for PTSD. A native of Hooper, Neb., Nate and his wife, Leila, have three children, Ceara, Madison and Quin. He is a member of Countryside Christian Church and coaches youth sports. 

Mike Christ

Superintendent

Mike Christ

Superintendent

Mike Christ began constructing fences, corrals, cattle working facilities, roping arenas and more around his hometown of North Platte when he was in high school and continued doing so for a while after graduating. One of his projects was building 5,000 head addition to a cattle feed yard. When the time was right for him to attend college, Mike earned a bachelor’s in Biology with a Health Science emphasis from the University of Nebraska at Kearney.  During college, he continued to learn the construction business by framing houses.

After college, he had a tough decision to make: pursue his goal of attending medical or veterinary school or remaining close to his family. Mike chose family and stuck to what he knew by opening his own construction business, building custom homes, remodeling buildings and constructing new buildings. Mike and his wife, Cathy, have six children. Mike enjoys hunting and fishing. He is part of the Windmill Foundation, which raises funds for people with depression who cannot afford treatment.

Clint Spath

Superintendent

Clint Spath

Superintendent

Clint Spath learned the construction business inside and out while running his own residential and light commercial general contracting company for 24 years. Now a site superintendent/project manager for BD Construction, Clint knows what it takes to build a project from the ground up, focusing on attention to detail while building strong relationships with customers and subcontractors.

Clint earned a bachelor’s degree in business education from the University of Nebraska-Kearney. While in college, he began working for residential contractors which kindled his passion for construction. Clint has put his education degree to good use as a safety trainer and is versed in project management and estimating. He was drawn to BD Construction’s reputation within the community and family-oriented culture.

When he’s not working, Clint can be found fishing, hunting and attending athletic events for his two sons, Brandt and Braden. He has taught bow hunter education for nearly 20 years and is a member of First United Methodist Church in Kearney. Clint, his wife Bette and their sons live in Buffalo County.

Evan Moody

Superintendent

Evan Moody

Superintendent

Straight out of college, Evan Moody went to work for home builders in Colorado as a superintendent. He eventually moved to commercial construction firm John J. Kirlin SP as a project manager where he specialized in building and renovating military dental clinics.

He and his wife Laura returned to Kearney to be closer to family after the birth of their first child Adalyn. Evan established Moody Construction, which he successfully ran for seven years. During that time his family grew by another daughter, Jael, and twin boys, Ezekiel and Elias.

Evan’s time working as carpenter, superintendent and project manager honed his approach to working with clients and gave him an acute eye for detail-oriented projects.

Evan and his family attend Kearney eFree Church. They keep with kids’ activities including ballet, swimming and gymnastics. In the off chance the Moody’s have a free weekend, they love walleye fishing, camping, and hunting.

Aaron Abramson

Superintendent

Aaron Abramson

Superintendent

After working for a large firm for 12 years, Aaron joined BD because he was attracted to helping a local contractor continue to build and improve local communities. Aaron appreciates the family-friendly atmosphere and friendship that BD has with its employees and clientele. Aaron uses his past experiences to help owners to enjoy the construction process while coordinating sub-contractors to complete a project in a timely manner. Aaron loves to work with in team environment and having some fun along the way in the construction process.

Brandon Wagner

Superintendent

Brandon Wagner

Superintendent

Brandon Wagner joined BD Construction with a wealth of commercial construction projects already under his belt, including serving as site superintendent on the 911 Emergency Center in Grand Island, an all-new Home Goods store, and renovation projects with nursing centers, a pharmacy warehouse and dental clinic. He considered a career in architecture but ultimately earned a Construction Management degree from UNK when he realized that he’d prefer to work in the field instead of the office.

When he’s not overseeing a complicated construction project, he enjoys hanging out with family and friends and spending time fishing, hunting, doing competition shooting and riding motorcycles.

Real Estate

Jennifer Yendra

Property Manager

Jennifer Yendra

Property Manager

Raised in Gibbon, Jennifer Yendra earned her Bachelor’s Degree from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln before returning to Buffalo County with her husband to raise their family. With previous work experience in real estate, combined with more than a decade of management experience at the CHI Health Wellness Center at Good Samaritan, Jennifer blends her strengths with her interests in the Property Manager position.

Jennifer was drawn to the progressive attitude of the team at BD Construction as well as its loyalty to customers and employees. Now that she’s experienced the BD Construction atmosphere firsthand, Jennifer says it is obvious how professional and positive the company is. When she’s not helping renters find a great apartment, Jennifer and her family enjoy outdoor activities including camping and kayaking.

Accounting Team

Mike Belieu

Controller

Mike Belieu

Controller

After graduating from UNK, Mike Belieu worked in roles outside the state of Nebraska eventually returning to Kearney in 2023 to become BD Construction’s controller. In Mike’s previous CFO role, he worked as part of the owner’s group on construction projects. He selected BD for the fun and challenge of being part of the team involved in the tangible aspect of building.

Mike brings 20 years of financial leadership to his position as well as strong HR, IT and risk management experience in a variety of industries including affordable housing, property management and healthcare. He earned a MBA from Regis University in Denver and has completed continuing financial management coursework. Mike’s expertise in solving problems, reviewing financial statements, as well as budgeting and forecasting will serve BD Construction clients well as he upholds BD’s unique Open Book policy.

A native of Sidney, Mike enjoys boating, traveling (including trips to Italy), watching MLB and Husker baseball. He and his wife have three wonderful children, along with a beloved four-legged pup. He served on the Leading Age local and national housing committee and the Housing Colorado Conference Committee. 

Mike Rohde

Information Technology | Accounts Payable

Mike Rohde

Information Technology | Accounts Payable

Mike Rohde moved to Kearney as a college student studying computer science. He remained in the community to pursue his career, working in information technology at Marshall Engines (now Blueprint Engines) and later at the University of Nebraska-Kearney.

Mike’s expertise in data management and report development will benefit his role in information technology and accounts payable for BD Construction. His hobbies reflect his skill set, as he enjoys writing computer programs, building computers, flying RC planes, and, in his words, “other geeky computer stuff.” He also enjoys planning family vacations for his wife, Raeleen, and their two girls Emma and Natalie, and is the go-to-guy around the office for tips on getting the most out of a trip to Disney.

Administrative Team

Maria Gregg

Culture Coordinator

Maria Gregg

Culture Coordinator

As BD Construction’s culture coordinator, Maria Gregg exemplifies the warmth and approachable nature of the construction firm and extends that to clients, staff and the community. She began honing her customer service skills at age nine with the clients on her newspaper route and later perfected them as the manager of a Blockbuster store. Maria majored in sports administration at the University of Nebraska-Kearney, where she also earned a minor in Industrial Technology.

Maria says, “my husband, Richard, has called this company a family for more than a decade and we both appreciate the family feel BD Construction provides” When she’s not greeting visitors or helping clients, Maria enjoys watching UFC and basketball or working out, especially running and kickboxing. She is also a fabulous cook and says her cooking habit is why she runs. Her favorite moments are those spent with her two teenage girls.

Lee Purdy

Receptionist

Lee Purdy

Receptionist

Throughout her career, Lee Purdy has held roles that take advantage of proficiency in risk management, compliance and safety. She earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration from Kearney State College and applied her knowledge within the manufacturing sector. Later, working for the University of Nebraska-Kearney, Lee gained experience in healthcare safety and honed her property inspection skills. While there, she also taught OSHA Construction Safety as an adjunct professor.

Lee believes in giving back to the community and is the chair of the Civil Service Commission and on the SAFE Center board of directors. She is a past board member for Crane River Theater and United Way, as well as Kearney Area Community Foundation volunteer and Kearney Area Chamber of Commerce Envoy. It was BD Construction’s dedication to volunteerism and giving back that drew Lee to seek a position with the firm.

When she’s not volunteering at the Classic Car Museum, Lee can be found enjoying the company of her two grown children and two grandchildren, reading, participating in services at First United Methodist Church or tending her flower beds.

Civil Engineering Team

Civil Engineering Team

Kent Cordes, P.E.

Civil Engineer | Project Manager

Kent Cordes, P.E.

Civil Engineer | Project Manager

During his 20 years working as a design engineer and project manager in Kearney, Kent Cordes had frequent opportunities to work with BD Construction as a consultant. He enjoyed working with the BD team and noted the team members’ commitment to their clients, their professionalism and their spirit of cooperation. In 2013, Kent decided to join the BD team and has made many significant contributions to BD’s most complex projects.

Originally from York, Kent obtained his bachelor’s degree in civil engineering in 1993 and his master’s degree in civil engineering a year later, both from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. A registered Professional Engineer, Kent has extensive experience with surface water drainage and stormwater runoff issues.

Off the job, Kent serves as the congregational chairman at Holy Cross Lutheran Church, participates with his son in Cub Scouts and formerly volunteered as a baseball coach in Riverdale. He is a member of the Nebraska Floodplain and Stormwater Management Association. He enjoys woodworking, fishing, camping and golf.

Lisa Amen

Project Manager | Design Technician

Lisa Amen

Project Manager | Design Technician

Lisa Amen lived in Kansas and Colorado before settling closer to her husband’s hometown in south central Nebraska. She has a nearly 20-year career in civil drafting and uses her client and subcontractor communications skills to manage projects as well as support with civil engineering work. Lisa became a fan of BD Construction after witnessing the company’s dedication to building long-term relationships with clients and its commitment to giving back to communities.

Lisa brings diversified experience to her role and loves being able to provide clients with drawings so they can better visualize the end project. She earned her degree from the Northwest Kansas Technical College and has honed her skill working on a variety of projects. She has a commitment to being precise in her drawings and assisting clients to create the best possible plans for their project.

With a young son, Layton, Lisa’s free time is sparse. She and her husband Shelby enjoy spending time with their son and especially taking him to watch his favorite thing—race cars. The family also enjoys fishing and going on walks with their two cocker spaniels.

Concrete Team

In Memoriam

In Memoriam

Mark Benjamin

President and CEO

2002-2015

Mark Benjamin

President and CEO

2002-2015

An energetic and visionary leader, Mark Benjamin’s legacy of professionalism, collaboration and innovation continues to shape BD Construction today. Mark was a leader in the industry and in the Kearney community, and instilled the BD Construction culture with the character, skill and enthusiasm to exceed the expectations of everyone it encounters.

After graduating with a Bachelor of Science in business from Kearney State College (now the University of Nebraska at Kearney) in 1983, Mark Benjamin interviewed with BD Construction in Columbus, Neb. The founders, Gene Bierman and Bill Dreifurst, gave him a chance in commercial sales in the new office they were opening in Kearney.

Their decision paid off. In 1987, Mark was named general manager and, in 2002, he became the majority shareholder, president and CEO of BD Construction, Inc./Kearney. During his tenure, BD Construction has built, and continues to build, many notable projects including schools, banks, retail stores and industrial and healthcare facilities throughout Nebraska, Kansas and the Midwest.

Active in the industry and community, Mark served as a member of the Nebraska Building Chapter of the Associated General Contractors of America and was the President of the Kearney Area Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors. He also served on the Southeast Community College Building Construction Technology Advisory Council, and as a trustee (1 of 16 in the USA) for the national Associated General Contractors Legislative Affairs Committee.

Mark passed away in April 2015. His spirit lives on in the company he shaped and the family and friends who cherish his memory.