Martin selected for Leadership Arkansas Class XXI

Garver's Central Field Services Director Blake Martin, PE, CFM, SI, MBA, has been selected as a member of Leadership Arkansas Class XXI, a prestigious statewide program that brings together emerging and established leaders committed to shaping Arkansas's future.

Administered by the Arkansas State Chamber of Commerce/Associated Industries of Arkansas, Leadership Arkansas identifies leaders from diverse industries and communities across the state and provides opportunities to expand their understanding of Arkansas's challenges, opportunities, and economic drivers. The 2026-2027 class includes 52 professionals from across Arkansas who share a commitment to making the state a better place to live and work.

As Central Region Field Services Director, Martin leads engineering professionals delivering critical infrastructure projects throughout Arkansas and the surrounding region. During his career, he has helped bring to life transformative transportation, aviation, municipal, and utility projects that improve safety, mobility, and quality of life for communities across the state.

Among his most notable contributions is serving as resident engineer on the Arkansas Department of Transportation's (ARDOT) 30 Crossing project, the largest construction project in ARDOT history. Martin has also played key roles in major transportation initiatives including the I-49 Arkansas River Bridge project near Fort Smith and the ongoing King's Crossing project.

In addition to his professional achievements, Martin is an active leader in civic and community organizations. He currently serves as chairman of the Sherwood Planning Commission and Board of Zoning Adjustment and has held leadership positions with the Arkansas Chapter of the American Concrete Institute, where he served as president in 2019 and 2020. His community involvement also includes youth coaching, homeowners association leadership, and service with local churches and nonprofit organizations.

"Blake's selection for Leadership Arkansas is a reflection of both his professional excellence and his longstanding commitment to serving Arkansas communities," said Garver Director of Field Services Earl Mott. "Throughout his career, Blake has demonstrated an exceptional ability to lead complex infrastructure projects while investing his time and talents in the communities he serves.”

Martin said he is looking forward to learning from fellow class members and gaining a broader perspective on the industries that strengthen communities across Arkansas.  

"Supporting Arkansas's infrastructure has been the focus of my career, but Leadership Arkansas presents a unique opportunity to better understand the many industries and leaders that contribute to our state's success," Martin said. "I'm excited to learn from others across Arkansas and explore how we can work together to support the state's continued growth."

The Leadership Arkansas program consists of sessions held throughout the state, exposing participants to key issues impacting Arkansas's economy, workforce, healthcare, education, government, agriculture, and infrastructure.  

Martin joins a distinguished network of Leadership Arkansas alumni who continue to make significant contributions to their communities, professions, and the state as a whole.