John L. Carrato

John L. Carrato
John L. Carrato (BS 79, MS 80)
President and CEO
Alfred Benesch & Company

CEEAA Distinguished Alumni Award, 2015

For an outstanding career of progressively increasing responsibility demonstrated in multi-million dollar projects in urban infrastructure, complex railroad crossings and major river bridges; for technical expertise and commitment to the profession that have earned him a reputation as an industry leader; and for the commitment to quality and engineering excellence that defines his vision for Alfred Benesch & Company.

Biography

Mr. Carrato began his professional career at Alfred Benesch & Company (Benesch) 35 years ago. As an engineer, he specialized in the design and inspection of railroad bridges, and managed a number of complex transportation projects. 

From Structural Designer to Chicago Division Manager, he consistently proved to be an effective leader in the firm. In 2009, Mr. Carrato became President and Chief Executive Officer of Benesch.

Benesch is a multi-disciplined professional services firm, providing a range of services including civil, structural, construction management, geotechnical, environmental consulting and landscape architecture. Under Mr. Carrato’s leadership, Benesch has grown from 220, to over 500 employees in 25 offices throughout the country. Headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, Benesch has offices in 14 states.

Mr. Carrato’s accomplishments also extend past professional achievements, as he is an active member within his professional and local communities. Currently, he is the President for ACEC-Illinois; Director of Structures Function Group for AREMA; a member of the Board of Directors for the Structural Engineering Institute; and a member of the Building Code Review Board for the Village of Arlington Heights. He is also a Past President of the University of Illinois’s Civil and Environmental Engineering Alumni Association.