In an industry known more for hard hats than high tech, Ben Burgess stands out as a leader pushing boundaries - both in construction and in community. As CEO of Burgess Civil, Ben has built a thriving civil contracting firm in Tampa Bay with a focus on quality, adaptability, and engineering excellence. Backed by over 70 years of combined experience on his management team, Burgess Civil takes on both commercial and residential projects. Their work has been recognized by the National Utility Contractors Association (NUCA) for its rigor and innovation.

But beyond the job sites and GPS-grade equipment, Ben is also a father and it’s that role that led him to Women in Tech & Entrepreneurship (WTE). A proud girl dad, Ben has seen firsthand how early exposure to tech and creative exploration can shape the way young women envision their futures. His investment in WTE is more than sponsorship; it’s a personal mission.

We sat down with Ben to learn more about his journey, what drives him, and why he believes so strongly in opening doors for women in tech and entrepreneurship.

Q&A with Ben Burgess

What inspired your journey into tech/entrepreneurship?

"While I’m not in tech per se, I’ve always been drawn to entrepreneurship. In fact, I started college as a computer science major because I had a strong interest in technology. But I quickly realized it wasn’t the right fit for me, so I pivoted into civil engineering, which ultimately led me into construction. What drew me to both tech and construction was the ability to build something of your own. These are industries where, if you can solve a problem, you can create a business around it. That independence and problem-solving opportunity is what pulled me into entrepreneurship."

How did you choose your field?

When I was in high school, my family built a house in Charlotte, North Carolina. Watching the general contractor work left a strong impression on me. I remember seeing him pull up in a nice truck, direct everyone on the job site, and then leave for the next one. I didn’t know all the details of what he actually did, but I thought, “That looks like the coolest job ever.” That was my first real inspiration to pursue a career in construction.

What resources were most helpful to you along the way?

In high school, one of my best friends’ dads, Walter Marsh, was a serial entrepreneur. He planted the seed for me early on. Later in my career, I had an incredible mentor named John Braddock, who had previously owned a construction business. He trained me to think like a business owner, and honestly, I wouldn’t have my own company today without him. I’ve also gained a lot from being part of Entrepreneurs’ Organization (EO) and YPO. Both have helped me grow not just as a business leader, but as a person.

How do you see technology impacting your field and what are your future predictions for innovation in civil contracting?

It’s often said that construction and fishing are the two most antiquated industries in terms of technology. But at Burgess Civil, we’re doing our best to challenge that. We’re leveraging software, artificial intelligence, GPS grading systems on our equipment, and exploring robotics and remote-controlled heavy machinery. While it’s not yet clear which innovations will stick long-term, we’re committed to staying at the forefront and continuously exploring what’s next.

What inspired you to support and invest in Women in Tech & Entrepreneurship?

As a girl dad with two daughters, this one’s close to home. When I noticed their interest in gaming, especially Roblox, I enrolled them in coding classes. I want them, and all young women, to feel like tech and entrepreneurship are not just available to them, but exciting and achievable. Supporting this initiative is about helping the next generation explore all the paths they might be curious about.

What advice would you give to women who are first-time entrepreneurs or first-time techies?

I tell my daughters all the time: there’s nothing a woman can’t do, and often, they can do it better. The playing field has leveled significantly, especially in the U.S., and with fewer women currently in tech and entrepreneurship, there’s tremendous opportunity for those stepping in. Being in a space where you’re underrepresented can be a powerful advantage.

Anything else you'd like to share that we didn’t ask today?

Even though I found my path in construction, which has been great to me and my family, there’s still a small part of me that wonders what would’ve happened if I’d stuck with computer science and entered the tech world. I think that curiosity is what drives me to keep exploring how technology can intersect with our work, and to encourage others, especially those just starting out, to be open to unexpected paths.

A Champion for the Next Generation

Ben Burgess is proof that leadership doesn’t just show up on the job. The way we show up in classrooms, mentorship, and quiet moments with our kids can all be transformative leadership opportunities. Ben’s story is a reminder that curiosity, courage, and community support are the cornerstones of innovation. For anyone just stepping into the world of tech or entrepreneurship - especially women wondering if there’s space for them - Ben’s message is clear: not only is there space, there’s momentum.

To learn more about Ben or connect with Burgess Civil, visit www.burgesscivil.com or connect with Ben on LinkedIn.

About Ben Burgess

Burgess Civil LLC is owned and operated by Ben Burgess, a licensed P.E. in Florida. Holding a B.S. in Construction Engineering & Management from North Carolina State and an M.B.A. from the University of Florida. Ben is committed to leading Burgess Civil into the next era of construction development in Central Florida. His 10+ years of civil construction experience in project management, estimating and operations make him and Burgess Civil the ideal partner for your next civil construction project. See Ben Burgess interview for Grow FL and NC State Inspiring Engineers Podcast.

About Burgess Civil

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