The professional contributions of John E. Carlson, Sr., a retired longtime Sundt executive who passed away in February, were recognized recently with an Arizona Transportation Legacy Award from the American Council of Engineering Companies – Arizona.
The award was presented at the organization’s annual Arizona Conference on Roads & Streets, held April 16-18, 2014, at the JW Marriott Starr Pass Resort & Spa in Tucson. Carlson’s son, John E. Carlson, Jr., accepted the award on his father’s behalf. John Carlson, Jr., leads Sundt’s Texas District, based in San Antonio.
The senior Carlson retired from Sundt as the vice president for special projects and public affairs in 1997. His 40-year career took him around the world, including to Saudi Arabia during the 1970s and to Russia, where he led a joint venture team in rebuilding the U.S. Embassy before the end of the 20thcentury.
Carlson was well-respected in local and national construction circles, holding leadership roles in a number of industry organizations. He served as past chairman and other leadership positions for the Professional Engineers in Construction, Associated General Contractors (AGC) of America, Arizona District Export Council of the U.S. Department of Commerce, Arizona Chamber of Commerce Southeast Region and Tucson Chamber of Commerce. He also was a chief lobbyist on industry legislation for the AGC at the state and national levels.
“Dad’s body of work, with significant U.S. and key international projects, speaks for itself,” said John Carlson, Jr. “He was one of the most respected people in our industry and in our community.”
