#USA #Atlanta #Leadership Transition #ARCO Design/Build #Co-CEOs

Leadership Changes at ARCO Design/Build

ARCO Design/Build, a leader in the design-build construction industry, has revealed that Rob Steigerwald and Jake Stefan, its longstanding CEO and President, will retire effective December 31, 2025. This change marks the end of an era characterized by over 50 years of combined leadership. With deep roots in the company, Steigerwald and Stefan have massively contributed to ARCO’s evolution into a national leader in its sector.

In a strategic move aimed at securing future growth, Nick Hasapes and Joe Matthews, both current Divisional CEOs, have been appointed as Co-CEOs, effective January 1, 2026. The transition underscores a strong commitment to promoting from within, demonstrating that ARCO Design/Build has nurtured a robust leadership pool which can sustain its growth trajectory.

A Legacy of Strategic Leadership

Steigerwald joined ARCO in 1999 and became CEO in February 2023. He has played an integral role in expanding the company’s geographic footprint from 13 locations to 20 across the nation. His leadership drove ARCO's expansion into significant markets such as the Northeastern states, establishing their presence in cities like Baltimore, New York, and Raleigh-Durham. As Steigerwald put it, “Build ARCO has been about building leaders.” His vision involved hiring exceptional talent and providing them with the necessary tools to thrive and deliver superior results for clients.

Stefan, who also started in 1999 and assumed the presidency in February 2023, emphasized the operational systems that he developed to support ARCO's expansion. With a civil engineering background, he established project management and field operation systems, creating competitive advantages for the company. “The systems we built were about delivering for our clients and developing our people,” Stefan stated, highlighting the importance of trust and autonomy within the teams.

Transitioning to the Next Chapter

Today, ARCO Design/Build operates 20 regional offices supported by 34 divisions. It has consistently garnered accolades, being recognized as the #1 Warehouse Builder in the United States by Engineering News-Record. The fact that ARCO is a 100% employee-owned company through its Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) means the leadership transition carries profound implications for all associates involved. With every employee having a direct stake in the company’s prosperity, the shift in leadership represents a continuation of a culture rooted in mutual success and development.

Hasapes and Matthews bring invaluable expertise to their new roles, having spent nearly four decades combined with ARCO Design/Build. Hasapes, who joined in 2006, leads operations in major areas like Philadelphia, New York, and Pittsburgh while also spearheading the growth of ARCO's architectural capabilities. Matthews, on the other hand, who joined ARCO in 2003, has broadened the organization’s geographical reach while reinforcing internal capabilities that support its vertically integrated approach.

As Hasapes expressed, “Rob and Jake created something remarkable—an environment where talent can thrive and clients can trust in outcomes.” He and Matthews are honored to take on the leadership mantle during this pivotal moment, emphasizing their intent to deepen expertise, explore new markets, and continue investing in the people who form the backbone of ARCO.

Moving Forward

Looking to the future, Matthews commented on the nature of this transition: “It’s not a departure from what ARCO is—it’s a continuation and an opportunity.” The changing dynamics of the construction industry require partners who understand their clients’ business deeply and help drive informed decisions. Under the guidance of Hasapes and Matthews, ARCO Design/Build is set to leverage its legacy while scaling new heights.

As the company embarks on this new chapter, it remains committed to core values that have been pivotal in shaping its identity—innovation, excellence, and a deep-seated connection to employees and clients alike. For further details on ARCO Design/Build, visit arcodb.com.