For more than twenty-five years, Ben Brandstetter has built a distinguished career at the intersection of engineering, infrastructure, higher education, and community development. His professional journey reflects a rare blend of technical mastery, entrepreneurial leadership, and public service, shaped by decades spent guiding organizations through complex challenges and transformative moments. From leading transportation engineering initiatives to championing statewide educational policy, Ben has consistently demonstrated a commitment to improving the places where people live, learn, and thrive.
Ben’s philosophy is grounded in the belief that great communities are built through thoughtful design, collaborative partnerships, and long-term stewardship. This ethos took root early in his career when he joined Kimley-Horn and Associates, where he contributed to infrastructure projects within National Parks across the southeastern United States. Working closely with historically significant environments, Ben developed a deep respect for balancing innovation with preservation—an approach that continues to influence his leadership style today.
He brought these values to Brandstetter Carroll Inc. in 2005, where he quickly ascended into leadership of the company’s Transportation Engineering Division. Charged with overseeing projects critical to municipal infrastructure, he developed and managed multidisciplinary teams responsible for planning, design, and construction administration. Under his guidance, the division became known for its ability to deliver comprehensive solutions for local governments, responding to both immediate infrastructure needs and long-range community priorities.
In 2017, Ben assumed the role of President of Brandstetter Carroll Inc., leading the company through sustained growth and expanded service offerings. His tenure has been defined by strategic discipline, operational excellence, and a commitment to cultivating a culture where technical expertise and public service go hand in hand. Through his leadership, the firm has strengthened its reputation as a trusted partner for communities seeking to modernize and enhance their built environments.
Beyond his architectural and engineering contributions, Ben has also demonstrated a keen entrepreneurial instinct. As Co-Founder of Pilllar, LLC, he helped establish a company purpose-built to navigate the complexities of development projects involving both public and private funding streams. His experience bridging government, industry, and community stakeholders gives him a unique perspective in structuring successful partnerships, particularly in the increasingly vital area of P3 development.
Ben’s entrepreneurial portfolio extends to North Avenue Trade Partners, where, as Managing Partner, he participates in the ownership and management of real estate along East 8th Street in downtown Cincinnati. Through this work, he has played a central role in branding the area as the “Design District,” collaborating with fellow property owners to shape a cohesive and forward-looking vision for the neighborhood. His ability to merge economic insights with place-based development underscores his skill in building vibrant, sustainable communities.
A respected civic leader, Ben has served on multiple boards dedicated to education, economic development, and youth advancement. As Chair of the Kentucky Council on Postsecondary Education, he played a pivotal role in shaping statewide higher education policy, supporting institutions as they navigated both emerging opportunities and systemic challenges. His current service as Vice Chair of the BE NKY Growth Partnership further demonstrates his commitment to regional progress, empowering Northern Kentucky’s economic future through strategic planning and collaborative governance.
Throughout his career, Ben has demonstrated an unwavering dedication to public service, community development, and advancing opportunities for future generations. His volunteer commitments, particularly with Scouting America in Northern Kentucky, reflect a personal belief in mentoring young people and fostering character, leadership, and resilience. Whether guiding urban development strategies or supporting youth programs, Ben is driven by a genuine desire to contribute meaningfully to the world around him.
Ben’s professional foundation began with a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from the Georgia Institute of Technology, a degree that provided the technical rigor and analytical discipline that continue to underpin his leadership. Over the years, he has expanded his skill set through continued learning and certification, including earning the LEED Green Associate credential, ensuring he remains at the forefront of sustainable design and responsible development.
Outside of his many professional roles, Ben is an avid golfer and someone who values the grounding influence of time spent outdoors—a quiet parallel to his work improving the built environment. With a steady leadership style shaped by humility, persistence, and vision, he continues to influence industries, organizations, and communities across Kentucky, Ohio, Texas, and beyond.
Character:
Ben’s character is reflected in his steadfast commitment to service, integrity, and responsible leadership. He approaches every challenge with humility and purpose, ensuring that decisions benefit both organizations and the communities they serve. His actions consistently demonstrate reliability, authenticity, and compassion for others.
Knowledge:
His knowledge is rooted in more than two decades of cross-sector experience in engineering, development, and governance. He brings a deep understanding of public infrastructure systems, organizational leadership, and stakeholder collaboration. His insight allows him to navigate complex challenges with clarity and strategic foresight.
Strategic:
Ben is a highly strategic thinker who effectively connects long-term vision with practical execution. He excels at designing pathways forward for organizations, even when navigating multifaceted political and economic environments. His strategic mindset enables him to guide teams and boards toward sustainable, high-impact outcomes.
Communication:
A clear, thoughtful communicator who listens deeply, synthesizes information effectively, and articulates ideas with precision. His ability to engage stakeholders across sectors strengthens partnerships and builds trust. He fosters open dialogue that supports strong decision-making and forward momentum.
