After a remarkable career spanning over 35 years at Horwitz, a leading provider of design-build mechanical and plumbing services, CEO Bill McKoskey has announced his retirement effective November 2024. McKoskey’s tenure has been marked by transformative leadership, overseeing numerous iconic projects, mentoring a generation of engineers, and contributing significantly to Horwitz’s growth. His retirement heralds a new chapter for the company, with seasoned executive Matt Dekkers stepping into the role of CEO and several of Horwitz’s next generation moving into key leadership roles.
Matt Dekkers Assumes Role of President & CEO
Joining Horwitz in early 2023, Dekkers brings over two decades of industry experience to his role as CEO and is recognized as a skilled leader and accomplished construction executive. Originally from northwest Iowa, Dekkers holds a bachelor’s degree in history from Dordt University and a law degree from Drake University. Dekkers spent the first decade of his career working internationally, focusing on the development and construction of public-private partnership infrastructure projects across several market sectors, including healthcare and transportation in Canada. His diverse background and international experience position him as a forward-thinking executive, ready to propel Horwitz into a new chapter of innovation and growth, aligning seamlessly with the company’s commitment to excellence and client satisfaction. Dekkers also serves on the board of directors for the Associated General Contractors (AGC) of Minnesota and as a trustee for the Pipe Trades Pension Fund.
Assuming the role of CEO as of January 1, 2024, Dekkers will be responsible for the overall leadership of Horwitz, steering the company towards continued success and growth. “In Matt, we have a leader equipped with the knowledge, relationships, and experience to pave the way for the next generation of success. I wholeheartedly believe in his capacity to lead, and he has my unwavering confidence and support,” stated McKoskey.
Todd Matelski Promoted to Vice President of Preconstruction
We are proud to announce the well-deserved promotion of Todd Matelski to Vice President of Preconstruction and Strategy. In his new role, Matelski will oversee the firm’s extensive preconstruction services, previously under the purview of McKoskey. With an impressive 22-year track record in the industry, and more than 10 years with Horwitz, Matelski has been an integral part of every facet of the mechanical construction process. His extensive portfolio showcases a myriad of intricately complex projects, spanning pharmaceutical manufacturing, high-purity medical device manufacturing, cleanroom, laboratory, and semiconductor facilities. Todd’s recent role as the Preconstruction Manager and Engineer of Record for Project Keystone at Upsher-Smith Laboratories, where Horwitz served as the design-build mechanical contractor, highlights his exceptional leadership and expertise. As he steps into the position of Vice President of Preconstruction and Strategy, Matelski’s wealth of experience positions him as a key driver of innovation and success for Horwitz.
Eric Olson, Promoted to Vice President of Construction Operations
We are proud to announce the promotion of Eric Olson, currently serving as the Construction Operations Manager, to the position of Vice President of Construction Operations. In his new role, Olson will foster synergy among divisions, driving team collaboration and holistic project delivery throughout the entire company. With nearly a decade of dedicated service to Horwitz, Olson’s journey from a sheet metal worker with Local Union 10’s apprenticeship program to an estimator, project manager, and senior project manager reflects his commitment to continuous growth and excellence. As the VP of Construction Operations, Olson will take on the responsibility of overseeing the success of all construction projects, managing team dynamics and financial logistics from project initiation to completion. His leadership marks a pivotal moment for Horwitz, reinforcing a commitment to team empowerment and accountability at every level of the organization, while ensuring success across all Horwitz divisions and enterprises.
Sam Augspurger Promoted to Preconstruction Manager
We are proud to announce the promotion of Sam Augspurger to Preconstruction Manager. Beginning in April 2024, Augspurger will transition from project management to managing key client relationships previously managed by McKoskey. Augspurger began his professional career in 2010 after graduating from the University of Minnesota with a degree in Mechanical Engineering and Business Management and joined the Horwitz team in 2016. Over the years, Augspurger’s role has evolved from Project Manager to becoming one of the eight company partners in 2021, showcasing his dedication and impact on notable projects such as Upsher-Smith Laboratories, Seagate’s Wafer South expansion, and Donaldson’s Materials Research Center, among others. “In Sam, I recognize a remarkable individual—one of the talented, driven ‘kids’ who, much like myself, embodies the qualities of patience, dedication, and a deep commitment to client and team satisfaction. Sam’s unwavering dedication assures me that he is more than equipped to not only manage but excel in maintaining the relationships I’ve cultivated throughout my tenure,” stated McKoskey.
Reflecting on a Remarkable Career
Reflecting on his career journey, McKoskey shared insights into his beginnings at Horwitz in 1987, emphasizing a fluke of good fortune that led to a rich and challenging career. Starting as a jack-of-all-trades, he grew to become President in 2003, and instrumental in building an amazing team of over 100 office staff and 250 tradesmen and women that make up Horwitz today. “As I reflect on my decision to retire, it’s a mix of emotions. I’ll genuinely miss the hustle and competition – they’ve been a vital part of my journey at Horwitz for over 35 years,” reflects McKoskey. As for his post-retirement plans, McKoskey highlighted a desire to focus on health, enjoy international travel, including an African safari, and a personal goal of learning to play the piano.
Bill McKoskey’s retirement marks the end of an era at Horwitz, but the company looks forward to building on his legacy and embracing new opportunities in the years to come. “There’s energy in the building! The future for Horwitz and our team is bright. We’ve got some great projects underway and in our backlog. Bill’s been an industry leader and is leaving us with a solid foundation for our continued growth and service of our clients throughout the Twin Cities,” stated Matt Dekkers, incoming CEO of Horwitz.
Horwitz, with its century-long commitment to growth through diversification under McKoskey’s leadership, stands poised for the future. Over the years, the company has evolved into a comprehensive solutions provider for mechanical, electrical, and plumbing needs, playing a pivotal role in numerous projects throughout the Twin Cities. The shift in leadership, coupled with the ongoing presence of the eight existing firm partners and private equity firm Svoboda Capital, aligns seamlessly with the firm’s long-term vision, enhancing innovation and positioning the firm for sustained growth.