The Lehigh Valley's 2025 Power List for Construction and Real Estate has been released, identifying 29 of the most influential figures shaping the region's physical landscape. The list includes a diverse group of CEOs, developers, architects, engineers, and brokers who are instrumental in the area's ongoing growth and urban transformation.
These individuals, with decades of combined experience, represent the driving force behind major development projects, architectural designs, and real estate transactions across Lehigh, Northampton, Berks, and Montgomery counties. Their leadership impacts everything from large-scale commercial development to residential housing markets.
Key Takeaways
- The 2025 Power List recognizes 29 key leaders in the Lehigh Valley's construction and real estate sectors.
- Honorees include company founders, CEOs, architects, engineers, and real estate brokers with extensive experience.
- The list highlights individuals from prominent firms in Allentown, Bethlehem, Reading, and surrounding areas.
- These leaders are responsible for significant urban renewal, commercial development, and residential projects shaping the region's economy.
Foundational Leadership and Long-Term Vision
A significant portion of the 2025 Power List is dedicated to individuals who have guided their companies for decades, establishing a foundation for the region's current development boom. Their long-standing presence signifies stability and a deep understanding of the local market dynamics.
Pioneers with Decades of Experience
Among the most tenured leaders is Barry Schlouch, CEO and president of Schlouch Inc. in Blandon. For 42 years, he has led the site preparation company, playing a crucial role in the groundwork for countless projects in Berks County and beyond.
Similarly, Lawrence Stuardi, CEO and founding partner of MRA Group in Horsham, has been at the helm for 34 years. His leadership has positioned the firm as a key player in Montgomery County's real estate development scene.
In Bethlehem, Les McCoy has led DesignPoint Interior Architecture as founder and president for 30 years, shaping the internal environments of numerous commercial and institutional spaces. His work demonstrates the importance of interior design in the overall success of a building project.
A Legacy of Leadership
The list features multiple leaders with over 20 years of experience at their respective firms, including Mark Bahnick of Van Cleef Engineering Associates (nearly 30 years) and Sean A. Boyle of Boyle Construction (since 1996).
Driving Urban Renewal and Regional Development
Several honorees are at the forefront of transformative projects that are redefining urban centers like Allentown and Reading. Their work involves everything from site acquisition and planning to securing financing and managing large-scale construction.
Revitalizing City Centers
J.B. Reilly, president and CEO of City Center Group, has been a central figure in Allentown's revitalization for 14 years. His organization is credited with developing millions of square feet of mixed-use property, fundamentally changing the city's downtown core.
In Reading, Alan Shuman has directed the Shuman Development Group as president and owner since 1994. His firm specializes in urban redevelopment, taking projects from initial site acquisition through to final construction and management.
The Role of NIZDA
The Allentown Neighborhood Improvement Zone Development Authority (ANIZDA) is a key factor in the city's growth. Steve Bamford, its executive director for nine years, manages the unique state tax district that funds major development projects, making him a critical player in the city's economic strategy.
Economic development is further supported by figures like Deborah Millman, president of the Greater Berks Development Fund (GBDF). In her dual role with the Greater Reading Chamber Alliance (GRCA), she facilitates growth and investment in the Berks County area.
The Architects and Engineers Building the Future
Behind every major development are the technical experts who design the structures and ensure their viability. The Power List recognizes several architects and engineers whose creativity and problem-solving skills are essential to the region's progress.
Designing the Skyline
The architectural community is well-represented by leaders like:
- Silvia Hoffman, a founding partner at MKSD Architects in Allentown, who focuses on client-centric design.
- Randy Galiotto, CEO of Bethlehem-based Alloy5 Architecture for the past decade, responsible for the firm's overall strategic direction.
- Michael Kelly, principal and president of KCBA Architects for 19 years, overseeing projects from offices in Hatfield and Center Valley.
- Christa Duelberg-Kraftician, a director at Spillman Farmer Architects in Bethlehem for 15 years.
Engineering and Environmental Solutions
Engineering excellence is highlighted by individuals such as Jason Englehardt, a principal and vice president at Langan Engineering & Environmental Services with 25 years of experience. His firm provides integrated site, environmental, and engineering services for complex projects.
Dan Gensemer, a principal and founding partner at Element Environmental Solutions in Adamstown, has provided specialized environmental consulting for 17 years. This expertise is critical in an era of increasing regulatory and sustainability requirements.
Other notable engineers on the list include Scott Paterski of Keystone Consulting Engineers and Mark Bahnick of Van Cleef Engineering Associates, both of whom play vital roles in civil engineering and land development projects.
Navigating the Real Estate Market
The list also honors the professionals who manage the transactions and trends that define the regional property market. This group includes top brokers from major national firms and leaders of influential local real estate organizations.
Brokers and Association Leaders
Justin Porembo has served as CEO of the Greater Lehigh Valley Realtors for nine years. His organization represents thousands of real estate professionals and is a key voice on housing policy and market health in the region.
Leading major brokerage operations are figures like D. Brad Patt, region president of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Fox & Roach Realtors in Center Valley, and Doug Frederick, broker/owner of Howard Hanna the Frederick Group in South Whitehall Township.
"The inclusion of these leaders underscores the collaborative nature of the real estate industry, where brokers, developers, and civic organizations must work together to foster a healthy market."
Specialized advisory services are also recognized. Cynthia “Cindy” McDonnell Feinberg, principal and broker of record at Feinberg Real Estate Advisors, has provided commercial and industrial real estate expertise for 23 years, focusing on the specific needs of businesses in the Allentown area.
A Diverse Ecosystem of Expertise
The 2025 Power List demonstrates that the health of the construction and real estate sector relies on a wide array of specialized skills. From builders and contractors to marketing and hardware suppliers, each professional plays an indispensable role.
Leaders in construction management include Kevin Frantz, CEO of Skepton Construction, and Sean A. Boyle, president of Boyle Construction. Custom home building is represented by Keith Hoeing, founder and president of Erwin Forrest Builders.
The ecosystem also includes Chuck Richard, president of Builders Door & Hardware, Inc., who has led the Allentown-based supplier for eight years. His company provides essential materials for construction projects of all sizes.
Ultimately, the 2025 Power List serves as a comprehensive snapshot of the talent and leadership propelling one of the most critical sectors of the Lehigh Valley's economy. The collective efforts of these 29 individuals will continue to shape the region's communities for years to come.
