William "Bill" O’Neil II, the former CEO and board chairman of W.E. O’Neil, passed away at the age of 83. Having dedicated nearly five decades to the company, O’Neil played an instrumental role in its growth and transformation into a fully employee-owned enterprise. Starting as a layout engineer in 1967, he climbed the ranks to lead the firm from 1985 until his retirement in 2003. Under his leadership, the company expanded geographically and established a pioneering Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP), which has since become a model for sustainable business transitions in the construction industry.

A Lifelong Journey with W.E. O’Neil

In the vibrant era of the late 20th century, William "Bill" O’Neil II embarked on a remarkable journey with W.E. O’Neil, joining the company in 1967 as the grandson of its founder. Over the years, he assumed various roles such as superintendent, project manager, and estimator before becoming CEO in 1985. His tenure saw significant milestones, including the establishment of offices in Los Angeles, Denver, and Nashville. In collaboration with the O’Neil family and company leaders, Bill spearheaded the creation of an ESOP in 1994, fostering a culture where employees could share in the company’s success. By 2020, under the guidance of former CEO Brian Ramsay, W.E. O’Neil transitioned to full employee ownership, ensuring the continuation of its legacy. Recent achievements include acquiring DCA Construction and completing key segments of the $1.4 billion Midfield Satellite Concourse South project at Los Angeles International Airport.

Current CEO John Finn highlighted Bill's belief that every employee should partake in the collective achievements of the company. Former CEO Ramsay praised O’Neil for his deep affection towards both his family and the employees of W.E. O’Neil, emphasizing how these passions defined his life.

As W.E. O’Neil approaches its centennial year, founded in 1925, it honors Bill's contributions through the enduring values and culture he helped cultivate.

Bill O’Neil’s story serves as a testament to the power of leadership rooted in empathy and inclusivity. His vision not only transformed W.E. O’Neil but also inspired a broader movement within the construction sector. For readers and aspiring leaders alike, his legacy underscores the importance of fostering a sense of ownership and community within organizations, ensuring their longevity and prosperity. Through his actions, Bill demonstrated that true leadership lies in empowering others and creating opportunities for shared success.