Lewis R. Smoot Jr. is the third-generation President and CEO of Smoot Construction, one of the Midwest’s largest Black-owned construction firms. With over 40 years of experience, he has helped grow the company from a small masonry contractor into a multistate enterprise. A Navy veteran and graduate of The Ohio State University, Lewis has held roles from laborer to executive, guiding operations across Ohio and Indiana. Deeply committed to community, he serves on numerous civic boards and promotes diversity in construction through Saturn Partners. He champions the C.H.I.P.P. philosophy: Character, Humility, Integrity, Pride, and Performance.