A self-proclaimed passionate builder, Mike Hoover, Sundt Construction’s executive chairman, came up through the industry’s ranks, ultimately leading in a role that was practically scripted for him. Hoover joined the Tempe, Ariz.-based construction firm 38 years ago, shortly after graduating from the University of Arizona with a degree in mechanical engineering. But his time as CEO from 2016 to 2025 was his defining chapter. His 10-year strategic plan, “Sundt 2025,” led the company to a fivefold increase in revenue and record profitability, with the firm climbing to No. 46 on ENR’s list of Top 400 Contractors and growing from $850 million in revenue to more than $4 billion. A second-generation Sundt employee, Hoover left his post-college engineering job to become a carpenter, developing his career through his work as project engineer, project manager, chief estimator and manager of the heavy civil (now transportation) group at the firm.…