DETROIT, MI — Walbridge, a full-service construction company headquartered in Detroit, Michigan, announces the appointment of John Rakolta III as President. In addition to the promotion, he will continue his role as Chief Administrative Officer.

“JR has a proven ability to deliver high levels of sustained results, and we are excited about the future,” Walbridge CEO Mike Haller said. “He is the right person, at the right time, to lead the Walbridge team into this new era.”

Throughout Rakolta's tenure, he has played a major role in the company’s market diversity, growth, and financial performance by leading the firm into the hyperscale data center and brownfield redevelopment markets. Rakolta led the organization’s expansion into West Michigan and the revitalization of Florida operations. In addition, Rakolta is advancing his father’s lifelong commitment of promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion by championing distinct initiatives within Walbridge and the community.

As the first family member to serve as President in nearly three decades, Rakolta is proud of his third-generation status. The achievements made under the leadership of his late grandfather, John Rakolta Sr., and his father, John Rakolta Jr., have motivated him to advance and expand upon Walbridge’s legacy.

“A couple of the things my father instilled in me are loyalty and reliability,” Rakolta said. “In a world where the idea of normal is rapidly changing, it’s important for our customers, suppliers, and team members to know there is security in Walbridge’s consistency. This organization will build upon our legacy of hard work, safety, and making a positive difference in the communities where we live and work.”

Rakolta holds a Bachelor of Science in building construction management from Purdue University, an Master of Science in real estate finance and investment from New York University, and is a graduate of Harvard Business School’s Executive Leadership Development program.