For Dana A. Wells, the foundation of any lasting success lies not just in concrete and steel, but in character, conviction, and compassion. With more than 48 years of experience leading complex, multi-billion-dollar construction projects across the globe, Dana has cultivated a reputation as a visionary builder and transformative leader. From the jobsite to the boardroom, his work has consistently merged technical mastery with human-centered leadership, proving time and again that true progress is as much about people as it is about process.
Dana’s journey into the world of heavy construction began with grit and curiosity. After studying Structural Engineering at the University of Kentucky and Computer Science at Quinebaug Valley Community College, he embarked on what would become a remarkable career shaping some of the most advanced facilities in the world. Early on, he recognized that successful construction is not just about materials—it’s about aligning teams, negotiating risk, and executing under pressure. His roles evolved quickly, leading him from field operations into senior management, where his impact grew exponentially.
Throughout his expansive career, Dana has overseen the planning and execution of several hallmark projects, including a $15 billion semiconductor facility, a $3 billion Google data center, and a $1.2 billion U.S. Air Force lab. At Exyte U.S., Inc., where he currently serves as Project Director, he leads cross-functional teams managing critical path milestones, commissioning phases, and cost control across high-stakes environments. His leadership has been pivotal in ensuring compliance with federal regulations and in upholding the standards of safety and quality that have become hallmarks of his management style.
But perhaps Dana’s most defining professional trait is his ability to rescue projects from the brink. He is widely recognized as a turnaround expert—someone organizations call when things go wrong. A standout example is his work on a $23 million defense project for Nammo Defense Systems, where he was appointed as the Owner’s Representative to recover a delayed timeline and over-budget execution. Within seven months, Dana had the entire operation back on track, showcasing his tactical command of change order management, schedule recovery, and stakeholder alignment.
Dana has also been a consistent leader in steel fabrication and erection, directing major projects such as the $65 million Chase Center Arena and NASA’s $70 million VAB High Bay 3 renovation. His tenure with companies such as SME Steel, Steel LLC, and Schuff Steel involved managing structural steel scopes for iconic structures, navigating over 250 contract modifications, resolving thousands of RFIs, and delivering on compressed timelines. In these roles, Dana’s forward-thinking leadership, engineering fluency, and mastery of constructability were indispensable assets.
Internationally, Dana has lent his expertise to clients across Canada and the Middle East. As a consultant, he has advised global stakeholders on construction risk, safety, and performance metrics. His work overseas has expanded his cultural fluency and equipped him with a nuanced understanding of how to deliver mission-critical infrastructure in dynamic and often highly regulated environments. These global engagements have only deepened his passion for solving big problems with precision and perspective.
Beyond the blueprints and boardrooms, Dana brings a profound sense of service and personal integrity to every endeavor. An ordained pastor and former trade school instructor, he has spent years speaking on education, leadership, and ministry. These parallel careers in teaching and pastoral care have honed his ability to connect, mentor, and lead with empathy. Whether addressing a congregation or guiding a team of 250 on a high-pressure jobsite, Dana shows up with the same clarity of purpose: to uplift, to guide, and to build lasting impact.
Dana’s educational foundation is as diverse as his professional achievements. In addition to engineering and technology studies, he has completed specialized certifications in OSHA compliance, HVAC efficiency for data centers, welding, rigging, and energy systems. His hands-on knowledge is further amplified by over 80 LinkedIn certifications focused on leadership, project management, and communication. This lifelong learning ethos has made him a sought-after mentor, capable of bridging generational and technological gaps across the industry.
Outside of work, Dana finds joy in the arts, golf, reading, and public service. These hobbies aren’t mere pastimes—they reflect a deeply held belief in balance, creativity, and civic engagement. Dana’s values echo throughout his personal and professional life: excellence through discipline, leadership through service, and growth through continuous learning. Whether serving in the field or from an advisory seat, he brings a holistic perspective rooted in both wisdom and warmth.
As Dana looks toward new opportunities to serve on boards or advisory councils, he is motivated by a desire to contribute at a higher level—to advise emerging ventures, support transformative infrastructure projects, and mentor the next generation of leaders. With nearly five decades of experience, he believes now is the right time to give back in a more strategic and impactful way. If there’s a mission-driven organization out there seeking seasoned guidance, operational excellence, and leadership with heart, Dana Wells is ready to help build the future.
Character:
Dana exemplifies integrity, compassion, and a strong sense of duty, both as a leader and as a human being. His commitment to doing what is right—especially in high-stakes environments—has earned him trust across sectors and cultures.
Knowledge:
With nearly five decades of deep industry experience and ongoing professional development, Dana brings both historical insight and modern fluency to every challenge. He seamlessly translates complex technical concepts into strategic decisions that benefit teams and outcomes.
Strategic:
Dana is a master of recovery and foresight, known for leading projects through uncertainty with clarity and precision. His ability to manage budgets, people, and timelines—while aligning with broader organizational goals—makes him a vital asset at the highest level.
Communication:
Whether mentoring teams, presenting to stakeholders, or speaking from the pulpit, Dana’s communication is grounded in purpose and clarity. He connects across functions and levels with authenticity, creating trust and alignment wherever he leads.
