Deryl McKissack

Founder & Chief Executive Officer
Washington, District of Columbia, United States

Professional Overview

Deryl McKissack is a renowned leader in the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry, leveraging over three decades of experience to drive innovation and business growth. As the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of McKissack & McKissack, she has spearheaded the firm's transformation into a leading provider of professional design, construction, and program management services. Additionally, Deryl recently founded AEC Unites, an organization dedicated to fostering collaboration and inclusivity within the AEC community.

Experience Summary

Current Roles

Founder & Chief Executive Officer, McKissack & McKissack (1990 - Present)

• Oversees the strategic direction and day-to-day operations of the firm, which has grown to become one of the largest minority-owned AEC companies in the United States

• Leads a team of over 200 professionals, delivering complex projects across diverse sectors, including transportation, education, healthcare, and commercial development

• Drives the firm's commitment to sustainability, diversity, and community engagement, positioning McKissack & McKissack as a industry leader in social responsibility

Founder & Chair, AEC Unites (2023 - Present)

• Established AEC Unites to foster collaboration, inclusivity, and professional development within the architecture, engineering, and construction industries

• Spearheads initiatives that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion, aiming to create a more representative and equitable AEC workforce

Career Progression

Prior to founding McKissack & McKissack, Deryl held various leadership roles within the AEC industry, including Project Manager at Turner Construction and Chief Operating Officer at a regional engineering firm. Throughout her career, she has been recognized for her strategic vision, operational excellence, and commitment to mentoring the next generation of AEC professionals.

Academic Background

Deryl holds a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from Howard University, where she graduated with honors. She later earned a Master of Business Administration degree from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business, further strengthening her business acumen and strategic leadership capabilities.

Areas of Expertise

• Architecture, engineering, and construction project management

• Organizational strategy and operational optimization

• Diversity, equity, and inclusion program development

• Sustainability and environmental stewardship

• Mentorship and professional development

Professional Impact

Under Deryl's leadership, McKissack & McKissack has been awarded numerous industry accolades, including recognition as one of the "Top 100 Minority-Owned Businesses" by Black Enterprise magazine. Additionally, Deryl has been named one of the "Most Influential Black Executives in Corporate America" by Savoy Magazine and has served on the boards of several industry organizations, contributing to the advancement of the AEC industry.

Conclusion

Deryl McKissack's proven track record of success, coupled with her unwavering commitment to innovation, diversity, and community engagement, positions her as a highly respected leader in the AEC industry. Through her visionary leadership at McKissack & McKissack and her newly founded initiative, AEC Unites, Deryl continues to drive positive change and inspire the next generation of AEC professionals.