Former Garver President and CEO Brock Johnson inducted into the Arkansas Construction Hall of Fame

Former Garver President and CEO William “Brock” Johnson was posthumously inducted into the Arkansas Construction Hall of Fame as part of the 2026 class — one of the highest honors in the state’s construction, architecture, and engineering industries.

The Arkansas chapter of the Associated General Contractors of America (AGC Arkansas) recently announced the 2026 Hall of Fame inductees in conjunction with the completion of a new, permanent Arkansas Construction Hall of Fame at its headquarters in downtown Little Rock.  

Johnson is among a distinguished group of inductees whose collective work has helped shape skylines, strengthen critical infrastructure, and improve the lives of generations of Arkansans. Their contributions represent a lasting legacy, one that continues to influence communities across the state.

Raised in Prattsville, Arkansas, Johnson earned both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in engineering from the University of Arkansas before beginning a 40-plus year career at Garver, his first and only employer.

Johnson rose steadily through the firm, ultimately becoming president, CEO, and chairman of the board. From 2003 until his passing in 2012, he guided Garver through a transformative era marked by significant growth, strategic expansion, and cultural evolution. Under his leadership, the firm doubled in size during a challenging economic period and expanded its geographic footprint across multiple states, solidifying Garver’s position as a regional engineering leader.

A respected executive, Johnson was known for his integrity, vision, and people‑centered leadership style. His influence extended well beyond business growth, leaving a meaningful imprint on Arkansas’s construction and engineering industries.

Johnson played a pivotal role in advancing aviation and transportation infrastructure throughout Arkansas, including major work at Clinton National Airport in Little Rock. He also led the expansion of Garver’s aviation practice, which grew into one of the firm’s largest and most influential service lines during his tenure.

In addition to championing technical excellence, Johnson was an advocate for innovation and sustainability. He helped lead the development of Arkansas’s first LEED‑certified engineering headquarters and encouraged forward‑thinking practices that positioned the firm for long‑term success.

Beyond projects and growth metrics, Johnson believed deeply in investing in people. An avid cyclist with a passion for healthy living, he directly influenced the creation of Garver’s award-winning employee wellness program, establishing well-being as a core part of the firm’s identity. That commitment helped foster a workplace culture focused on balance, health, and engagement — values that continue to define Garver today.

Colleagues remember Johnson not only for his business acumen but for the respect and esteem he earned from peers across the industry. His leadership style emphasized trust, collaboration, and innovation, setting a standard that still resonates within the firm and across the Arkansas construction community.

Established in 2000, the Arkansas Construction Hall of Fame is a biennial tradition honoring Arkansans who have dedicated their lives to advancing architecture, construction and engineering throughout the state. The Hall of Fame is a partnership between AGC Arkansas, the Arkansas chapter of the American Institute of Architects, and the American Council of Engineering Companies of Arkansas.