Coppersmith Brockelman expands commercial litigation practice
Coppersmith Brockelman announced the addition of Gabe Aragon, an award-winning litigator with nearly 20 years of experience representing businesses and individuals in complex commercial disputes spanning multiple industries. His track record in business torts, trade secret misappropriation, unfair competition, business divorces, cannabis-related litigation, and employment matters strengthens the firm’s nationally recognized commercial litigation practice.
Prior to joining Coppersmith Brockelman, Aragon was a longtime partner at a premier boutique litigation firm in Phoenix. Over the course of his career, Aragon has built a reputation for successfully tackling a range of challenging, high-stakes disputes. His work has earned honors from Chambers USA, The Best Lawyers in America©, Southwest Super Lawyers, PHOENIX magazine, and Martindale-Hubbell®, which awarded him its highest AV Preeminent® rating.
“Gabe is an exceptional lawyer who embodies the qualities that define our firm: deep expertise, a pragmatic approach, and a genuine commitment to clients,” said Keith Beauchamp, partner at Coppersmith Brockelman. “His skill set and versatility will add even greater depth to our litigation practice.”
Passionate about advancing the legal profession as both a leader and educator, Aragon previously served as Chair of the Maricopa County Bar Association’s Litigation Section, has served and taught within the American Bar Association on commercial litigation and corporate counsel topics, and serves as faculty for the National Institute of Trial Advocacy’s deposition training programs.
Aragon earned his Juris Doctor cum laude from Arizona State University’s Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law, where he received the Dean’s Award at graduation, was named a Willard H. Pedrick Scholar, and served as a member and writer for the Arizona State Law Journal. His published article in the Arizona State Law Journal on economic damages issues was later cited with approval by the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit. He earned his B.A. in Spanish from the University of Arizona.
Ranked locally and nationally as a top law firm year after year, Coppersmith Brockelman’s litigation team is known for handling complex matters creatively, efficiently, and effectively. The firm frequently appears in high-stakes cases involving contract disputes, fiduciary duty claims, securities-related investigations, class actions, and shareholder rights matters.
“I’m honored to join such a talented and respected group of lawyers,” Aragon said. “Coppersmith Brockelman’s collaborative culture and reputation for excellence align well with my own values, and I look forward to serving clients alongside this outstanding team.”
LOCAL NEWS: 10 things you may not know are manufactured in Arizona
INDUSTRY INSIGHTS: Want more news like this? Get our free newsletter here
Cable One COO inducted into Cable TV Pioneers
Cable One Chief Operating Officer Ken Johnson has been inducted into the Cable TV Pioneers Class of 2025, one of the industry’s most prestigious honors recognizing leaders who have made lasting contributions to cable and broadband.
Founded in 1966, the Cable TV Pioneers recognizes leaders who have made significant and lasting contributions to the cable industry and the communities they serve.
“Ken’s career reflects the very best of our industry — a commitment to innovation, operational excellence, and above all, connecting people and communities,” said Julie Laulis, President and CEO of Cable One and fellow Cable TV Pioneer. “His vision and leadership have helped shape Cable One into the broadband provider it is today. We are proud to see his contributions recognized at this level.”
Johnson, who has more than 30 years of industry experience, said he is humbled by the recognition.
“It’s an honor to be inducted into the Cable TV Pioneers and to be part of an industry that plays such a vital role in keeping people connected,” Johnson said. “I’ve been fortunate to work alongside mentors, leaders and teams who care deeply about serving communities and making a real impact. This recognition is truly a reflection of them as much as it is of me.”
Over the course of his career, Johnson has been a champion of rural connectivity, revitalizing underperforming systems and expanding broadband access well before it became a national priority.
Since joining Cable One in 2018, Johnson has helped guide the company’s long-term strategy and overseen significant infrastructure investments to ensure reliable, high-speed broadband for communities across its 24-state footprint. He also serves on the boards of the National Cable Television Cooperative (NCTC), the Society of Cable Telecommunications Engineers (SCTE) and the CableLabs Technical Committee.
For more information about Cable One, visit ir.cableone.net.
Ware Malcomb names new director, architecture in Phoenix Office
Ware Malcomb, an award-winning international design firm, today announced that Demetrios Stavrianos has joined the firm as Director, Architecture in its Phoenix office. In this role, Stavrianos will lead the firm’s Mixed-Use, Retail, and Multifamily practice areas and business development efforts for the region.
Doug Gullo, Principal, Ware Malcomb, said, “Demetrios’ deep knowledge of commercial architecture and strong leadership, communication, and collaboration skills make him a great addition to Ware Malcomb. He’ll work closely with local leaders to expand our design presence in Phoenix, the Southwest, and beyond.”
A consummate designer at heart, Stavrianos brings 35 years of experience to the Ware Malcomb team. His work spans townhouses, mid-rise and high-rise multifamily, mixed-use residential, retail and office, urban planning, museums, food & beverage, and commercial office design. His background is highlighted by senior roles with several large design firms, providing oversight and client collaboration in all aspects of project design and management.
Known for his engaging leadership style and long-standing client relationships, Stavrianos enjoys mentoring and building teams, winning work through creative solutions. He has a B.Arch from the University of Illinois at Chicago.
Benson Construction names Courtney Dunlap as president
Gilbert-based construction company, Benson Construction, INC., announced today the appointment of Courtney Dunlap as President. In his new role, Dunlap will oversee strategic growth initiatives, operational efficiencies, and client relationship development as the company continues to expand its footprint across the Southwest.
As President, Dunlap will focus on enhancing operational efficiencies through improved standard operating procedures, forecasting market opportunities, and strengthening client relationships. He will also leverage his reputation and industry network to expand Benson Construction’s presence as a trusted mid- to large-sized general contractor.
“Joining Benson Construction allows me to lead a company in its early stages of growth. I’m excited to work alongside the Benson Family, who share my passion for building something lasting,” Dunlap said. “My vision is to scale the business to $100 million in annual billings by driving efficiencies, developing strong managers, and creating an environment where employees feel supported and valued.”
After earning a Bachelor of Science in Business Management from Oakland University, Dunlap went on to hold leadership roles at AR Mays Construction and StreetLights Residentia, bringing more than two decades of experience in the construction industry to Benson Construction. Throughout his career, he managed a diverse range of complex projects, including multifamily developments, mixed-use communities, municipal facilities, and entertainment venues. Some of his landmark projects include the City of Scottsdale Senior Center, the Angela at 28th Street and Camelback, Agritopia Epicenter, and Uptown Alley Entertainment Center in Surprise.
“Courtney’s leadership, experience, and proven track record of success make him the ideal person to lead Benson Construction into its next chapter,” said Eric Benson, CEO of Benson Systems. “His vision for scaling the business while preserving our strong culture aligns perfectly with our long-term vision.”
Dunlap is committed to a leadership philosophy rooted in bottom-up management, ensuring that all team members feel comfortable, supported, and connected in the workplace. He heavily emphasizes the importance of adapting to industry shifts, including the adoption of AI-driven technology, in evolving workforce development strategies.
Originally from Michigan, Dunlap now resides in Scottsdale with his wife, three children, and two dogs. He also enjoys hiking, biking, playing guitar, and spending time outdoors with his family.
For more information about Benson Construction, INC., please visit https://benson-con.com/.
