The Grainger College of Engineering
Civil & Environmental Engineering

Avaristto "Jim" Lopez

Avaristto
Avaristto "Jim" Lopez (BS 97)


CEEAA Distinguished Alumni Award, 2024

Mr. Lopez’s career is an outstanding example of the realized potential provided by UIUC CEE training and an inspiration to future generations of alumni. He is a first-generation university student from a traditionally underrepresented demographic. Mr. Lopez has consistently demonstrated exceptional entrepreneurial vision. Under his leadership, Broeren-Russo builders has grown from a single company with annual revenues of $25 million to a family of companies with annual revenues exceeding $250 million. He hires and mentors UIUC CEE alumni, fosters a culture of community service, and is dedicated to his workers. Mr. Lopez models the mantra of “putting the client’s needs first.” His leadership has allowed Broeren-Russo Builders to flourish in the Champaign County community as a builder you can trust.

Biography

Avaristto Jimmy Lopez serves as CEO of Broeren Russo (BRBI) which offers expertise in Design Build, Construction Management, General Contracting, Consulting and AISC Steel.  In 1997 he received a UIUC BS in Civil Engineering which led to work at IDOT and McCarthy. Additionally, service in the US Army 682nd Engineer Battalion prepared him to lead BRBI and over 100 craftsmen, 50 engineers & administration and a $250 million portfolio.

He oversaw recruitment of over 50 UIUC graduates, established a BRBI summer intern program for UIUC students. He has led the building of apartments totaling more than 5000 bedrooms that includes the tallest building in CU nicknamed “The Whopper”, 24 stories.  Other notable UIUC project he participated in include the iHotel, Indoor Golf Building, Memorial Stadium Additions, Atkins Baseball Center, Martin Softball Center, and Ubben Basketball Complex.  He is now leading their expansion into 8 more states.

He has been recognized for service; building Zambia water wells, building Hatia medical clinics, sponsoring CU charity events, years of service to non-profit Boards including 10 years with the YMCA, and US Army Service Medals - National Defense for service during the Persian Gulf War and Military Achievement for service in OPFOR, Mojave Desert 94’.