Ryan C. Linthicum will assume the role of Chief Executive Officer at Langan, a comprehensive environmental and engineering consulting firm, effective January 1, 2027. This transition follows a two-year succession planning process. Current CEO and Executive Chair David T. Gockel expressed his full support for Linthicum, stating he has the “judgment, integrity, energy, and commitment to our employees that will guarantee Langan’s continued success.”
Linthicum, who has dedicated his entire 30-year career to Langan, will be the third CEO in the firm’s history. He has progressed from a staff engineer at the New Jersey headquarters to a Managing Principal and is a member of the firm’s Executive Committee and Board of Managers. In his current capacity, Linthicum oversees the firm’s technology strategy, including investments in artificial intelligence (AI) and the integration of AI services. He also leads the firm’s nationwide digital solutions practice.
His leadership has been instrumental in opening three Langan offices in Virginia: Washington, D.C., Arlington, and Richmond. Linthicum also spearheaded Langan’s expansion into the Federal market. This included significant work with the State Department’s Bureau of Overseas Buildings Operations, where Langan has supported the design or redevelopment of nearly 200 U.S. embassies and consulates globally. He has managed diverse, high-performing teams across various market sectors, such as mixed-use development, commercial properties, resorts, cultural institutions, sports facilities, educational campuses, life sciences, and aviation projects.
“I am honored and excited to assume the responsibility of becoming the third CEO in Langan history,” Linthicum stated. “I look forward to my new role and to working tirelessly with Dave, my partners, and Langan staff. Under my leadership, we will continue to deliver premier consulting services to our clients on projects that define and enhance how we live and work, and that contribute to communities around the world.”
David Gockel will continue his involvement with the firm as Executive Chair. “Ryan Linthicum has the full support of our executive team to lead Langan as we continue our journey as a national powerhouse and magnet for talent,” Gockel remarked. “I have enormous respect for Ryan as a leader and as a person.”
Founded in 1970, Langan employs 2,500 professionals across 60 offices in the U.S. The firm provides comprehensive environmental and engineering consulting services. Its international arm, Langan International, operates from five offices in London, Panama, Calgary, Athens, and Dubai.
The succession plan highlights a structured approach to leadership transitions, a crucial aspect of organizational stability and growth. Such processes are often detailed in CEO announcement press releases, ensuring clear communication to stakeholders. This move also aligns with broader trends in corporate strategy, where firms are increasingly focusing on technological advancement and talent development to maintain a competitive edge. For instance, the emphasis on AI investment by Langan under Linthicum’s guidance mirrors developments in other sectors, such as the Google realignment of AI leadership.
The firm’s extensive project portfolio, spanning from critical diplomatic infrastructure to diverse commercial and community developments, underscores its significant impact. This broad reach is indicative of Langan’s role in shaping the built environment. The firm’s commitment to delivering premier consulting services suggests a focus on client needs and project excellence, a principle that often drives success in sectors like engineering and environmental services. This can also be seen in regional developments, such as the Utah County approval of transportation projects, which aim to enhance community infrastructure.
Linthicum’s experience in managing large-scale, complex projects, including those with international implications, positions him to guide Langan’s future endeavors. His tenure at the firm, marked by consistent growth and leadership, prepares him for the expanded responsibilities of CEO. The firm’s forward-looking approach, evident in its embrace of AI and digital solutions, suggests a commitment to innovation. This innovative spirit can also be applied to broader policy goals, as demonstrated by the emergence of community environmental projects as multi-purpose policy tools.