Kyle DeLabar is a seasoned engineering executive, accomplished structural engineer, and visionary leader with over two decades of experience in consulting engineering and structural steel detailing. As the President and Treasurer of Lehigh Valley Technical Associates (LVTA), Kyle has exemplified excellence in operational leadership, financial stewardship, and strategic transformation. His journey from entry-level engineer to president of a 100% employee-owned firm showcases his dedication, resilience, and expertise in driving both technical and organizational growth.

Kyle began his professional career at LVTA in 2005, quickly establishing himself as a highly skilled project engineer with a deep understanding of civil and structural engineering. Over the years, he gained comprehensive experience in project management, structural analysis, AutoCAD, and steel detailing—skills that served as the foundation for his later success in executive roles. His ability to lead cross-functional teams and manage complex engineering projects with precision has earned him wide recognition among peers and clients alike.

In 2022, Kyle was named President and Treasurer of LVTA. Upon assuming this role, he inherited a company in need of revitalization—culturally, operationally, and financially. Through decisive action and inclusive leadership, Kyle spearheaded a strategic reorganization that redefined LVTA’s core markets, realigned resources, and implemented robust systems and policies. His introduction of an integrated timekeeping and accounting platform (Ajera) revolutionized financial tracking and project profitability analysis across the firm.

One of Kyle’s most significant accomplishments was orchestrating the formation and execution of an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP). As the inaugural ESOP Trustee, he led the negotiation, formation, and purchase of LVTA by its employees in 2023. This initiative not only secured the company’s long-term independence but also fostered a culture of shared ownership, accountability, and employee empowerment. Under Kyle’s stewardship, LVTA transitioned from a privately held firm to a thriving employee-owned enterprise.

As Chairman of the Board, Kyle now leads quarterly strategic meetings with directors, advisors, and executive leadership. He provides detailed briefings on company performance, long-term objectives, and HR initiatives while also managing critical client relationships and overseeing key projects. His collaborative yet data-driven approach to governance has helped position LVTA as a leading force in the engineering consulting sector.

Kyle’s leadership has yielded measurable results. In just under three years as president, he increased company profit margins from 4% to 24%, boosted accounts receivable turnover by 50%, and achieved a remarkable 0% employee turnover—compared to five resignations in the prior two years. These achievements are a testament to his ability to connect technical excellence with people-focused leadership and financial acumen.

In addition to his executive responsibilities, Kyle is a licensed Professional Engineer (PE) and Structural Engineer (SE) in 31 U.S. states and two Canadian provinces (Alberta and Ontario). He holds a B.S. in Civil Engineering with a Mathematics minor from Lafayette College and an MBA with a Project Management Certificate from Lehigh University. He is also a published co-author in Modern Steel Construction, further reflecting his commitment to thought leadership and industry advancement.

Kyle is a member of several respected industry organizations, including the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE), the American Institute of Steel Construction (AISC), and APEGA (Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of Alberta). These affiliations reflect his commitment to continuous learning and professional excellence, and they provide platforms for Kyle to share insights with the broader engineering community.

While Kyle’s expertise is firmly rooted in engineering, his broader interest lies in helping other companies succeed—especially those in consulting engineering or those navigating the complex world of employee ownership. He is actively seeking advisory or board director roles where he can apply his experience to help emerging or mid-sized companies structure themselves for long-term success and sustainability.

Kyle’s legacy at LVTA reflects a rare combination of technical mastery, business acumen, and authentic leadership. As he looks to contribute his experience on a broader scale, organizations seeking grounded, experienced, and forward-thinking leadership will find in Kyle a partner who not only understands how to build structures but how to build companies.

Character:
Kyle’s career is a testament to integrity, resilience, and people-first leadership. His commitment to building a strong, values-driven company culture led to zero resignations during his presidential tenure and a renewed sense of purpose among employees.

Knowledge:
With licensure in over 30 jurisdictions and a published technical background, Kyle brings deep expertise in civil and structural engineering. His dual credentials in engineering and business position him as a rare bridge between technical execution and strategic management.

Strategic:
Kyle has led large-scale organizational change—from restructuring markets to implementing ESOP governance—with long-term impact. His leadership turned around LVTA’s financial performance and positioned it for scalable, sustainable growth.

Communication:
Kyle is an effective communicator across all levels of an organization, from engineers and project managers to board members and strategic partners. His clear, confident, and collaborative style fosters trust, transparency, and shared accountability.