Rashod Johnson

CEEAA Distinguished Alumni Award, 2025

For visionary leadership and entrepreneurial spirit in founding The Roderick Group, Inc. transitioning through acquisition into Ardmore Roderick, fostering growth from a local entity into a multi-million-dollar powerhouse and one of the largest Black-owned infrastructure solutions firms in the United States; for an exceptional and enduring commitment to community enrichment through Board service, nonprofit partnerships, and mentoring the next generation of leaders with a particular emphasis in the under-represented African-American population; and for visible demonstration of unwavering support for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion.

Biography

Rashod R. Johnson, PE, MBA (BSCE '00, UIC MSCE '05) is a visionary engineering and business leader who has transformed Ardmore Roderick into one of the largest Black-owned infrastructure firms in the United States. As President and CEO, he has driven the firm’s national expansion, growing it into a nine-figure enterprise with 10 offices across the U.S. and Puerto Rico. Under his leadership, Ardmore Roderick has been recognized on Crain’s Chicago Business 50 Fastest-Growing Companies list for four consecutive years and ranked among ENR’s Top 50 Program Management Firms for three consecutive years—a testament to its impact on the industry.

A proud University of Illinois alumnus, Rashod holds a BS in Civil Engineering from Illinois, an MS in Civil Engineering from UIC, and an MBA from the University of Notre Dame. He founded The Roderick Group in 2005 and later acquired Ardmore Associates in 2017, merging them into a full-service infrastructure solutions firm that now oversees more than $30 billion in major public and private projects. His firm has played a critical role in high-profile initiatives for the Chicago Department of Aviation, Lockheed Martin, the Chicago Transit Authority, and the Obama Foundation.

Beyond his business success, Rashod is a champion of diversity in the engineering and construction industries. Nearly 60% of Ardmore Roderick’s workforce and leadership are from underrepresented backgrounds—significantly outpacing industry norms. His dedication to mentorship and community impact extends through his service on the Boards of the Griffin Museum of Science and Industry, St. Ignatius College Prep, and Intersect Illinois, supporting statewide economic development.

His passion for fostering diversity in engineering led him to establish The Robert & Glenda Johnson Student Collaboration Space in UIUC’s new CEE Building. This space, named in honor of his parents, is designed to support and inspire all students, particularly those of color, to pursue careers in civil and environmental engineering. Its artwork, reflecting the beauty and vibrancy of Chicago’s South Side, stands as a symbol of inclusion and excellence in the profession.

Through his leadership, advocacy, and unwavering commitment to innovation, Rashod is shaping the future of infrastructure and engineering on a national scale. In addition to his professional achievements, he is a devoted husband and father with a passion for faith, live music, travel, cars, and golf.