Monday, April 28, 2025
By: Kyle Niblett
Led by No. 1 Keystar, Inc., the University of Florida College of Design, Construction and Planning placed a record-tying 25 alumni-owned companies on the 2025 Gator100 list, the UF Alumni Association announced Friday night at a ceremony inside the Exactech Arena at the Stephen C. O’Connell Center. The annual list recognizes the 100 fastest-growing Gator-owned or Gator-led businesses in the world. Since its inception in 2015, DCP grads with successful businesses have earned the top spot four times and made up nearly 20 percent of the Gator100.
“Seeing DCP alumni thrive and lead in the business world reaffirms the strength of our design and building community,” DCP Dean Chimay Anumba said.
DCP Alumni-Owned Companies to be Ranked Number One
2018 – ACY Contractors, LLC. – Owned by Michael Young (BSBC ‘97)
2022 – Onicx Group – Owned by Dhvanit Patel (BSBC ‘98)
2023 – Action Equipment – Owned by Bruno-Elias Ramos (BDES ‘82, MARC ‘85)
2025 – Keystar Construction – Owned by Chas Spottswood (BSBC ‘10, MBC ‘12)
Owned by two-time DCP graduate Chas Spottswood, Keystar, Inc. is a Key West, Florida based, family-owned general contracting firm established in 1999. Their portfolio is highly diversified, having completed projects in many different areas including residential, commercial, healthcare, government, aviation, hospitality and more. The Keystar team is a group of highly qualified individuals with a wealth of building and construction management experience garnered from experience all over the United States.
DCP Alumni-Owned Companies on Gator100 By Year
2015 – 13
2016 – 25
2017 – 11
2018 – 18
2019 – 24
2020 –22
2021 –24
2022 –14
2023 –22
2024 – 20
2025 – 25
In addition to the 25 honorees, M.E. Rinker, Sr. School of Construction Management graduate Bryan Kornblau (BBC ’81) was named the recipient of the S. Clark Butler Pinnacle Award, which recognizes an established business leader who has demonstrated success in their industry. The Rinker Construction Hall of Fame member earned the award after founding Eagle Construction of Virginia in 1984 and molding it into the largest privately held homebuilding company in Virginia. The company has built more than 8,000 homes, developed more than 150 communities, and was selected as the 2022 “Best Homebuilder” for the area. He is also the Chairman and Principal of Markel|Eagle, which is an integrated real estate construction and development company.
Kornblau is also a 2024 UF Distinguished Alumnus Award winner and a founding member of Anumba’s Dean’s Advisory Council.
Below is a list of all DCP Alumni-led or owned companies that made the 2025 Gator100 list and where they ranked. Many of these companies joined Dean Anumba and college representatives prior to the event in the Antevy Hall Atrium for a reception. Congratulations to all these great companies!
#1
Business: Keystar, Inc.
DCP Leader: Charles “Chas” Spottswood, BSBC ’10, MBC ‘12
Location: Key West, Florida
Years Honored: 2025
Keystar, Inc. is a Key West, FL based, family-owned General Contracting firm established in 1999. Our portfolio is highly diversified having completed projects in many different areas including Residential, Commercial, Healthcare, Government, Aviation, Hospitality and more. The Keystar team is a group of highly qualified individuals with a wealth of building and construction management experience garnered from experience all over the United States. We pride ourselves on building relationships from the ground up and are committed to excellence.
#4
Business: Southeast Concrete Systems
DCP Leader: Adam Pearlman, BSBC ‘91 & Ken Blumbek, BSBC ’97
Location: Alpharetta, Ga.
Years Honored: 2023, 2024, 2025
Southeast Concrete Systems, Inc. is a trusted partner for all your concrete construction needs, specializing in turnkey commercial tilt-up construction. With over two decades of industry experience and more than five million square feet of concrete on the ground, we take pride in delivering exceptional results across various sectors, including commercial, retail, and industrial markets. Our projects range from smaller additions to new ground-up structures, showcasing our expertise in tilt walls, slabs, decks, foundations, and more.
Licensed in eight states, we currently see our work throughout Georgia, Florida, Alabama, South Carolina, North Carolina, and Tennessee. Our skilled team, led by industry veterans Adam Pearlman and Ken Blumbek, utilizes the latest technology and techniques to ensure high-quality results and timely project completion. At Southeast Concrete Systems, we value communication with our customers, dedication to our employees, and a commitment to excellence in all that we do. Our attention to detail and focus on client satisfaction make us a trusted choice in the field of concrete construction.
#8
Business: Audience, Inc.
DCP Leader: Carlina Womeldorph, MBC ‘96
Location: Allen, Texas
Years Honored: 2015, 2021, 2025
Audience, Inc. is a full-service commercial audio-visual design and installation firm focused on cutting edge technology that will provide years of enjoyment and functionality. Audience is a family-owned business serving the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex. The Company maintains their position of expertise and superior service by continuously educating their design and installation teams. Notably, Audience maintains, services, and upgrades the audio, video, and control systems for the Dallas Cowboys franchise at their stadium, pro shops, and The Star (Dallas Cowboy’s Corporate Headquarters/Practice Facility/Multi-Use Complex). Currently, Audience is part of the technology upgrade team for AT&T stadium where all clubs, corridors, and suites are being transformed with new Audio Video technology. This nearly $300 million project will bring the stadium to the elite level for a facility of its kind in preparation of welcoming the World Cup in 2026. Founded in 2002 by Jim and Carlina Womeldorph, Audience is a successful collaboration of their industry education and experience.
#11
Business: Edge Construction
DCP Leader: Marcelo Vila, BDES ’03, MARC ‘05; Thomas Manos, BSBC ’08 & Eric Weiss, BSBC ’08
Location: Fort Lauderdale, Fla.
Years Honored: 2019, 2021, 2022, 2025
Edge Construction, a certified general contractor, provides a full range of high-value pre-construction, construction, and design-build services across South Florida. Our experienced team brings industry-leading expertise to a wide range of sectors, including healthcare, higher education, commercial, corporate office spaces and more. Founded by three graduates of the University of Florida’s College of Design, Construction, and Planning (DCP), Edge Construction combines innovation, experience, and dedication to excellence in every project.
#17
Business: Shoreline Building Group
DCP Leader: Daniel Leiva, BSBC ‘10
Location: West Palm Beach, Fla.
Years Honored: 2025
Shoreline Building Group, founded by Daniel Leiva, is a premier custom home builder in South Florida, celebrated for its dedication to crafting exceptional homes and delivering a client-centered experience that inspires trust and satisfaction. Built on values of integrity, responsibility, and ambition, Shoreline specializes in new construction, renovations, additions, historic preservation, construction management, and design-build services. Every project is brought to life in partnership with top architects, designers, and skilled artisans, ensuring each home reflects meticulous craftsmanship and the unique vision of its owner.
Guided by a mission to provide an exceptional, trustworthy experience, Shoreline Building Group continually raises the bar in quality, transparency, and client empowerment. The team is dedicated to building lasting relationships, supporting clients through each step of the process with proactive communication and a deep commitment to excellence. Licensed, insured, and LEED-accredited, Shoreline exemplifies industry-leading standards, redefining what it means to build a home in today’s market.
Shoreline’s core values—raising the bar, inciting trust, setting a positive tone, and working as a cohesive team—are embedded in everything they do. These principles foster an environment where every decision is client-centered, and every relationship, from vendors to tradespeople, is valued and respected. With an unwavering commitment to accountability and innovation, Shoreline is more than just a builder; it’s a trusted partner that transforms the building journey into a rewarding, memorable experience.
#18
Business: Biggs Construction Company
DCP Leader: George A. Biggs, BBC ‘85
Location: Pensacola, Fla.
Years Honored: 2023, 2025
Biggs Construction Company, Inc. was established to provide commercial construction services in Northwest Florida and South Alabama by Pensacola native George Biggs 24 years ago.
The vast majority of our clients have been from the private sector.
We prefer and usually become involved in a project during the development stage providing budgets and schedules early for feasibility studies and to guide the design within budget parameters. Approximately half of the projects we provide pre-construction services for the project is constructed. The projects that may not be constructed or services are still considered positive because they were calculated as unfeasible prior to any major expenditure.
Historically we have assisted in the development of historical restorations, industrial, manufacturing, healthcare, schools, churches, high occupancy, retail, grocery, bars, restaurants, office, warehouse and mixed-use projects. There are little conceivable aspects of light commercial construction we have not constructed. Our typical projects are unique and require close and constant management.
#19
Business: Hennessy Construction Services
DCP Leader: Mark Stalker, BBC ‘81
Location: St. Petersburg, Fla.
Years Honored: 2022, 2025
A Century of Building Trust. That is Hennessy Construction Services Corp. through and through.
A history, rich in tradition, began in 1920 when AEneas P. Hennessy, a young Irish immigrant, moved his family to St. Petersburg and founded A.P. Hennessy Construction. The company’s first major project, St. Mary’s Church (for the Catholic Diocese), continues to serve the St. Petersburg community today.
Ken Hall purchased the company from the Hennessy family in 1983, and in 1986 changed its name to Hennessy Construction Services Corp. Bronson Alexander was hired in 1988 and purchased the company in 1999. Mark Stalker joined the firm in 2009 and was promoted to President in 2015; he became Owner in 2017.
Under Mark’s leadership the company continues to thrive, establishing itself as one of the Tampa Bay area’s premier, quality-oriented contractors. Hennessy is a stable, close-knit group, with many working for the company for more than ten years. With a focus on customer service and satisfaction, Hennessy has completed more than $500 million in construction projects since 2014, much of it with repeat clients. Some of the more notable projects include St. Anthony’s Hospital, Jim & Heather Gills YMCA, St. Petersburg Catholic High School, Don Cesar Beach Resort, Mahaffey Theater, the Sundial, and the Museum of Fine Arts.
Our people are the reason for Hennessy’s continued success and steady growth. It is this combination of experienced professionals and powerful resources which enable Hennessy to provide clients with controls assuring the completion of projects on time and within budget.
#22
Business: Ovation Construction
DCP Leader: Bert Karpinski, BDES ‘87, MBC ‘88
Location: Oviedo, Fla.
Years Honored: 2015, 2016, 2020, 2021, 2025
Ovation Construction is a full-service commercial construction company located in Central Florida that specializes in Municipal and Educational projects. Having completed hundreds of projects for high profile clients since inception in 2006, our mission is to provide outstanding customer services with attention to detail and quality.
#25
Business: WJArchitects
DCP Leader: Jason Jensen, BDES ’99, MARC ‘01
Location: St. Petersburg, Fla.
Years Honored: 2025
Incorporated in St. Petersburg, Florida in 1992, WJArchitects (WJA) is an interdisciplinary architecture firm that designs and creates engaging spaces for working, living, learning and playing. The firm’s design methodology is centered on the belief that architecture can inspire positive change and enrich society. With each project and any given set of challenges, we strive to provide creative and innovative design solutions that promote community and client ambitions, redefine conventions, and generate purpose driven solutions.
The firm has a broad range of experience across an array of project types and disciplines for municipal, institutional and Non-Profit clients. WJA’s capabilities expand beyond architecture to include comprehensive master planning, interior design, design-build construction, and development. As one of the few architecture firms with dedicated development and construction divisions we are capable of providing services from the initial project inception and planning phase all the way through construction with a single point of contact.
Since 2020, the WJA team has grown 305 percent. We attribute this growth to the thoughtfulness behind our designs. Each design has a story that harmonizes with the community while remaining within the constraints of scope, budget, and client needs. Our team brings together a variety of professionals from different backgrounds and expertise to holistically address projects from all perspectives.
President and CEO, Jason Jensen, a University of Florida graduate, began his career in New York before returning home with the goal of promoting the innovation of architectural design across Florida. Individually, Jason recently received the UF Young Architects award.
#27
Business: Cava Companies
DCP Leader: Frank Cava, BSBC ‘98
Location: Richmond, Va.
Years Honored: 2021, 2022, 2023, 2025
Since its inception in 2007, Cava Companies has been involved in thousands of projects across Virginia, while constantly adapting to the changing real estate landscape.
With 100+ years of collective professional experience, the Cava team has developed 3,000+ buildable homesites, constructed 2,500+ homes, and sold 2,000+ residences. Cava Companies has a deep local knowledge of the Virginia real estate market with a long track record of success.
At the heart of Cava Companies, Frank and his team are devoted to the communities they live and work in by adding value to the properties they build and renovate by providing exceptional returns to investors. Operating with excellence and integrity, Cava Companies strives to be a trusted partner to both investors and members of the community.
The Cava team is driven by its vision: to be an ethical, innovative, and profitable real estate business while serving the community through the development and restoration of Virginia homes.
#28
Business: SkyCon Group, LLC
DCP Leader: Douglas Parent, BSBC ‘10
Location: Miami, Fla.
Years Honored: 2025
SkyCon Group is a premier general contracting company founded in 2018, bringing together over four decades of collective industry expertise. We are known for our dedication to transparent communication, seamless collaborations with clients and subcontractors, and a commitment to quality and on-time delivery—setting the standard for excellence in construction across South Florida.
At SkyCon, we specialize in corporate interiors, retail spaces, financial institutions, healthcare facilities, and hospitality environments. Our approach blends high-value, strategic construction with thoughtful, creative design that elevates each project. This formula has consistently helped us become the go-to general contractor in the region.
With an extensive portfolio across diverse industries, our work is defined by refreshing spaces that inspire a sense of purpose, pride, and a revitalized energy in those who experience them. Our unique approach—marked by high-quality outcomes, constructive communication, and a creative touch—sets us apart from other commercial construction firms.
We look forward to hearing our client’s vision and turning it into a reality with a custom space that meets their needs and exceeds their expectations.
#29
Business: J.E. Decker Construction Group
DCP Leader: Christopher Decker, BSBA ‘05, MSBC ‘11
Location: Gainesville, Fla.
Years Honored: 2021, 2025
Decker Construction is a commercial Construction Management firm serving the North Central Florida and Central Florida regions (FL License CGC1522815). We deliver a wide range of services for all commercial building needs ranging from new construction, interior and exterior renovations, design-build project delivery, and consulting. We have extensive experience in institutional, higher education, medical research, healthcare, biohazard, and laboratory facilities. Our goal is to be the best partner for clients, our employees, and subcontractors in delivering the best projects possible. Our roots go back to J. L. Ewell Construction, which began serving Florida in 1931. In 1982, James Ewell Decker, a third-generation family builder, reactivated the commercial building program for J. L. Ewell Construction and operated under that established name until 1990, at which time the company name was changed to James E. Decker Construction Company. In 2012, the company was re-established by Chris Decker. Today, the team at Decker Construction draws on our deep history of construction management and general contracting. Having refined the process over four generations, we know the value of relationships, hard work, and integrity. As a family-centered company four generations strong, we value the relationships we are able to forge with our clients and our industry partners which allows us to fulfill our mission to build a better quality of life for everyone we serve.
#33
Business: Gast Construction Group
DCP Leader: Allen Gast, BSBC ’00
Location: West Palm Beach, Fla.
Years Honored: 2018, 2019, 2020, 2024, 2025
Gast Construction Group is a full-service Construction Management Firm located in West Palm Beach, Florida specializing in Commercial and Residential Construction in Palm Beach County, Florida.
#37
Business: Vickers Design Group
DCP Leader: Travis Vickers, BDES ’95; MARC ’97
Location: Atlanta, Ga.
Years Honored: 2018, 2019, 2024, 2025
We are creators and innovators. At Vickers Design Group, our team is passionate about creating smart, responsive, and intentional design solutions that positively impact the lives and well-being of our clients and community. Our four studios – Tenant Solutions, Landlord Solutions, Special Projects, and Architecture – provide limitless interior design and architectural solutions for businesses to thrive.
The VDG approach is not a one-size-fits-all, and we are not constrained to one look or one type of project. Instead, we make spaces uniquely suited to each client. Our talented team tackles a variety of project types including corporate, industrial, restaurants, breweries, retail, multifamily, ground-up and adaptive reuse.
Where others see hurdles, we unleash creativity, and where others see limitations, we imagine possibilities. That’s designed to work.
#41
Business: Appalachia Service Project
DCP Leader: Melisa Winburn, BSBC ‘05
Location: Johnson City, Tenn.
Years Honored: 2025
Appalachia Service Project is a Christian ministry, open to all people, that inspires hope and service through volunteer home repair and replacement in Central Appalachia. ASP originated in Barbourville, KY in 1969 when 50 teens and adults provided 4 families with safe, warm homes for the winter. The mission has continued for 55+ years, as ASP remains committed to a vision to see substandard housing eradicated in Central Appalachia. Typical repairs include – roof repair/replacement, room additions, wheelchair ramps, foundation restoration, subfloor/flooring replacement, drainage ditches, insulation/siding, etc.
ASP functions as one of the largest and most impactful substandard housing organizations serving Central Appalachia. To date, more than 20,000 families have received home repair or replacement through ASP. ASP works to establish each repair site as an intersection of compassion for youth/adult volunteers to bring hope to the families they serve, even as they are transformed in the process (and provided life-skills, construction-skills and critical exposure to the Region). ASP is deeply committed to the transformation of all who come in contact with our ministry. ASP is a major player in disaster recovery, we have been part of the rebuild from the 2016 floods in West Virginia, as well as the 2022 floods in Kentucky. Most recently, ASP committed to 200 homes receiving home repair or replacement in the wake of Hurricane Helene.
Our CEO, Melisa Winburn, is a 2005 graduate of University of Florida with a degree in construction management. Melisa is a licensed commercial and residential real estate developer, coalition for home repair member, and part of the Tri-Cities women who care philanthropy group.
#44
Business: kasper architects + associates
DCP Leaders: Erik Kasper, BDES ‘92, MARC ’94; Chris Densmore, BDES ’04, MARC ‘06 & Lauren Insalaco-Schwing, MARC ‘11
Location: Jacksonville, Fla.
Years Honored: 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025
kasper architects is a full service architectural + interior design firm. We exist to use the craft of architecture to develop our associates to impact their family, community, and themselves to be a conduit of good. At ka+, we bring our years of experience to bear on each project. This approach allows us to create a design solution that produces an efficient building plan contributing to the success of our clients. We are the right size to give personal attention to each client, while the technology we use gives us results that are second to none. We employ nine registered Architects and a support staff of designers and drafters, which affords us maximum efficiency and a team that sees the project through to the end. A solid understanding of real estate development, building engineering, and construction make us a great value.
#48
Business: J. Raymond Construction Corp.
DCP Leader: Jon Roemer, BSBC ‘98
Location: Longwood, Fla.
Years Honored: 2016, 2017, 2018, 2025
J. Raymond Construction Corp. is a full-service general contractor committed to treating its employees, customer and business partners the RIGHT WAY. In the past 35 years, JRCC has become one of the most recognizable construction companies in the Southeast delivering diverse facilities such as grocery stores, shopping centers, service centers, warehouse and pharmacy/distribution centers. Since its founding JRCC has remained committed to delivering work of the highest quality for a wide range of commercial and industrial clients.
#53
Business: Edgewater Custom Homes
DCP Leader: Kurt Ewoldt, BSBC ‘92
Location: Tequesta, Fla.
Years Honored: 2025
Edgewater Custom Homes, Inc. is a full-service construction and remodeling company based in Tequesta, Florida, specializing in high-end residential projects in Palm Beach and Martin Counties. Founded in 2002, the company is owned and operated by Kurt and Tina Ewoldt, a husband-and-wife team dedicated to excellence in craftsmanship and client satisfaction.
Kurt Ewoldt, a graduate of what was then known as the University of Florida School of Building Construction, has been a licensed Florida General Contractor since 1995. With over 30 years of experience in South Florida’s construction industry, he brings expertise in structural concrete and luxury finishes. His hands-on approach ensures each project meets the highest standards of quality and detail.
Tina Ewoldt, a graduate of the University of Florida Fisher School of Accounting, has been a licensed CPA since 1992. Her financial acumen and organizational skills provide a solid foundation for Edgewater’s efficient and transparent project management.
Edgewater Custom Homes emphasizes quality over quantity, focusing on clear communication among clients, design teams, and builders. With a dedicated team of skilled field personnel, Edgewater delivers exceptional craftsmanship on every project. Kurt personally oversees daily field activities, ensuring precision and consistency throughout.
By prioritizing attention to detail, concise financial management, and proactive communication, Edgewater Custom Homes creates not only stunning residences but also a seamless and enjoyable building experience tailored to each client’s vision.
#66
Business: Orocon Construction, LLC
DCP Leader: John Oropesa, BSBC ‘94
Location: Biloxi, Miss.
Years Honored: 2016, 2019, 2025
John Oropesa, a distinguished name in the construction industry, brings his innovative vision and operational expertise to his construction and development projects. Oropesa has more than 25 years of experience and has a background in both large-scale developments and boutique projects. The rapid growth of the gaming industry in the mid-1990s brought Oropesa to Mississippi, where he worked with two of the state’s leading contractors. During his time with these firms, he managed a diverse range of commercial and industrial projects, including hotels, parking structures, gaming facilities, restaurants, retail spaces, and condominiums, with a total value exceeding $500 million.
Oropesa founded Orocon Construction, LLC in 2006. He currently oversees the company’s business operations with nearly $300 million in completed projects. John’s extensive experience as a developer, general contractor, and subcontractor gives him a unique perspective in the industry. Among Oropesa’s achievements is the successful development and management of several high-profile mixed-use properties that have become landmarks in their respective cities, as well as incorporating cutting-edge design elements that cater to modern lifestyles while respecting local traditions and being a recognized leader in the industry.
Oropesa was recognized by his alma mater, the University of Florida, as a Gator100 recipient in both 2016 and 2019, and is an advisory council member to the M.E. Rinker, Sr. School of Construction Management. Oropesa also serves on the board of directors of Back Bay Mission and Extra Table. He is a longtime supporter of the St. Vincent de Paul Society and is an active parishioner at St. Elizabeth Seton Catholic Church.
#68
Business: DAG Architects
DCP Leader: Patrick Ballasch, BDES ’89, MARC ‘94 & Levi Wiegand, BDES ’13, MARC ’17, MSAS ‘18
Location: Destin, Fla.
Years Honored: 2025
Founded in 1981 in Destin, DAG Architects now has five offices across Florida, as well as an office in Atlanta, Georgia. From renovations to new buildings, our thoughtfully designed projects can be found in vibrant city streets, on university campuses, in state and local governments, school districts, and wherever people come to gather. We believe that the strongest testament to our commitment and delivery of services is the number of legacy clients who return to us time and again. At the heart of every project is our deep desire to deliver places that have a positive impact. Over the years, the firm has planned and designed many different building types, ranging from university and college buildings, fire stations and public safety facilities, hospitals and healthcare, schools, churches, and libraries to multi-story condominiums, offices, and private coastal residences. We have developed design guidelines, master plans, and feasibility studies for state and local governments, colleges and universities, K-12 school districts, and private clients. DAG’s exceptional design talent has been recognized by the American Institute of Architects with many design awards, and the firm was named 2020 and 2007 Firm of the Year by the Florida Association of the AIA, a statewide honor recognizing our contributions in design, service to the profession, and involvement in our local communities.
#73
Business: Willis Smith Construction
DCP Leader: F. John LaCivita, BSBC ‘91
Location: Sarasota, Fla.
Years Honored: 2025
Founded in 1972 and headquartered in Sarasota, Florida, Willis Smith Construction, Inc. has been a pioneering force in Southwest Florida’s construction industry for over half a century. A significant factor behind this success is the educational foundation of our leadership—100 percent of the ownership has roots in the esteemed M.E. Rinker, Sr. School of Construction Management, which instilled the technical acumen and industry knowledge that has powered our growth and reputation as a trusted leader in the field. Known for our Landmark® projects, Willis Smith sets the standard for excellence and integrity. Our services span every stage of construction, from pre-construction planning and design to project close-out, with a customized approach that ensures each project aligns precisely with the client’s vision and requirements. Our comprehensive management framework focuses on delivering quality, efficiency, and adherence to schedule and budget. The firm’s success is driven by a team of highly skilled commercial builders, project managers, and specialists who bring collaboration, creativity, and integrity to each project. United by a commitment to top-tier results, our workforce delivers innovative, sustainable solutions that enhance project value while meeting the highest standards. At the heart of Willis Smith is our culture, which embraces our local community. We actively support organizations and initiatives that contribute to the social and economic vitality of Southwest Florida, reflecting our commitment to responsible corporate citizenship. As Willis Smith Construction grows, we continue to uphold our mission to promote excellence and integrity while contributing to the betterment of the clients which we serve.
#83
Business: Straughn Trout Architects
DCP Leader: Tim Hoeft, BDES ’04, MARC ’06, Jonathan Kirk, BDES ’95, MARC ‘97
Location: Lakeland, Fla.
Years Honored: 2019, 2020, 2023, 2025
Straughn Trout Architects, founded in 1956, has been a leading architectural firm in Central Florida for over six decades. Our practice blends timeless design principles with innovative, forward-thinking approaches, delivering solutions that enhance the built environment. We are committed to creating spaces that foster community, growth, and sustainability through collaboration, innovation, and a deep understanding of our clients’ needs.
As a multidisciplinary firm, we provide services in architecture, interior design, campus/urban planning, graphic design, and brand activation. Our tailored approach ensures that every project reflects the unique needs of our clients, offering holistic and curated design solutions.
Straughn Trout Architects has earned numerous awards for design excellence, sustainability, and community impact from organizations like the American Institute of Architects, U.S. Green Building Council, and Tampa Bay Business Journal. Our award-winning portfolio includes notable projects such as the Ashley Gibson Barnett Museum of Art, Lake Crago Outdoor Recreation Facility, and Florida’s first commercial zero-energy building, Magnify Credit Union.
Our experienced team collaborates with clients ranging from public institutions and private developers to educational entities and government agencies. With a history of fostering long-term relationships and repeat partnerships, we remain dedicated to quality and service. As we approach 70 years of practice, Straughn Trout Architects continues to prioritize client value, community impact, and sustainability, striving to shape innovative spaces that inspire future generations.
#87
Business: Scorpio
DCP Leader: Domenic Scorpio, BDES ’94, MBC ‘98
Location: Gainesville, Fla.
Years Honored: 2019, 2020, 2021, 2025
Scorpio is a Commercial Construction Management firm started when Domenic and Holly Scorpio, along with a core group of dedicated construction professionals, decided to pursue their passion for building and their shared philosophy of community-centered construction. Together they dedicated their efforts to hiring outstanding talent, delivering exceptional quality, and keeping the experience of every partner at the center of their work.
At Scorpio, we understand people need buildings that frame their lives. Owners need return on investment. We deliver both through dedication to detail and holistic responsibility for your budget. And when you work with us, you are treated with care and respect – like family. We call this approach community-centered construction. Our team welcomes new ideas and unique obstacles. We are progressive and agile, embracing the need to evolve and master new tools, technologies, and processes to offer clients the best service and results for people who use our buildings. Through experience and hard lessons, we have cultivated a reputation for exceptional leadership across all aspects of construction.
Kindness, Integrity, Courage, Commitment, Excellence, and Responsibility are Scorpio’s six core values and the central tenants by which we conduct business and develop relationships. Our values are the scaffolding that drives our mission to build people, beautify cities, and bring exceptional buildings to life, for life.
No brick out of place. No building without purpose. No community without beauty. No city without abundant life.
#90
Business: Springer Voss Construction
DCP Leaders: Jeremy Voss, BSBC ’03 &Cole Springer, BSBC ‘14
Location: Lakeland, Fla.
Years Honored: 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025
Springer Voss Construction (SVC) stands as a pillar of commercial construction in Central Florida, with a legacy of excellence, innovation, and community partnership spanning over three decades. Originally founded in 1987 as Springer Construction, the company was revitalized in 2019 under the leadership of Jeremy Voss and Cole Springer. Today, SVC is recognized as a premier general contractor, distinguished for its commitment to quality, schedule fidelity, and building lasting client trust. With over 500 projects completed across Florida in the last five years, including more than 200 in Polk County, SVC has established itself as a trusted leader in the construction industry. SVC has expanded and built a diverse portfolio of projects across industrial and warehouse facilities, retail and mixed-use developments, financial institutions, government and public works, themed entertainment venues, and healthcare and educational facilities.
SVC’s success is deeply rooted in its collaborative, relationship-driven approach, which prioritizes transparency, proactive communication, and meticulous preconstruction planning. The company has fostered strong partnerships with over 2,000 subcontractors across Florida, creating a network of skilled professionals dedicated to achieving shared goals. These longstanding relationships enable the company to assemble the right teams for each project, ensuring seamless execution and superior results. From concept to completion, the company’s unwavering focus on collaboration, accountability, and strategic foresight continues to drive success across every project. SVC remains a leader in the construction industry and a valued partner across the Southeast.
Our blueprint for success is delivering quality construction on time and on budget.
#92
Business: Construction Specialties & Design LLC
DCP Leader: Don VanDemark Sr., BBC ’70
Location: DeLand, Fla.
Years Honored: 2018, 2019, 2020, 2023, 2024, 2025
Founded by Don and Phyllis VanDemark, Construction Specialties and Design started as a residential renovation company. Don VanDemark Jr joined our management team, and we have grown into a facilities maintenance company that encompasses the southeast United States and services over 50 major companies.