Steve Lyons of Skanska Named 2024 SMPS Leonardo Award Winner

On May 15, 2024, SMPS Members celebrated the Annual Evening of Excellence at The Rock at La Cantera and awarded Steve Lyons, Vice President of Business Development at Skanska, with the 2024 SMPS Leonardo Award. This prestigious award was inspired by the Renaissance inventor, writer, painter, and sculptor, Leonardo da Vinci. The award recognizes individuals who epitomize innovation, creativity, and acumen, as it relates to the built environment. As a recipient of the SMPS Leonardo Award, Lyons joins a distinguished group of professionals who are unparalleled in their respective fields.

Steve’s career in construction began at Aerotek in a supporting role as a recruiter. His responsibilities included assisting local A/E/C firms fill critical positions in their companies. During this time, he became involved in SMPS where he served as Chair of the Membership Committee. His contributions helped propel the organization forward while also expanding his professional network. Subsequently, he joined SimplexGrinnell, supporting local construction projects with fire alarms and life safety systems. These experiences ultimately led him to Skanska where he has dedicated the past ten years of his career. Throughout his tenure, he has taken on leadership roles in various industry organizations and participated in local charities and nonprofit initiatives. His commitment to making a lasting impact on the community is evident through Skanska’s projects and volunteer engagement.

Over the past decade at Skanska, Steve has played a pivotal role in expanding the company’s engagement and network in San Antonio. His people-focused approach underscores the importance he places on building strong relationships. By finding personal ties to his work and encouraging his team to follow suit, he has deepened community involvement, entered new markets, and advanced the perception of the A/E/C industry.

Sally J. Smith, Principal at Marmon Mok Architecture, applauds Steve for taking a “strategic, integrated approach” to “position an international construction company as a viable, community-minded construction company.” Localizing the Skanska name and creating direct ties to the community are at the core of his marketing and business development philosophy, which he shares with his entire team.

Steve’s proudest moments center around the collective accomplishments of his team, reflecting his strong belief in shared victories. He is a genuine leader who values and inspires teamwork. He frequently acknowledges the “thousands of great people we have at Skanska” and has helped create a culture of inclusion where everyone’s contribution matters. His collaborative approach and innovative spirit have led to key project wins over the last decade with Skanska. His humility, authentic enthusiasm, and commitment to making a meaningful impact reflect the innovative and humanistic spirit that the Leonardo Award honors.

SMPS San Antonio seeks Leonardo Award nominations every year and asks nominees to prepare packages consisting of a nomination letter, résumé, and experience to be reviewed and voted on by a committee made up of representatives of past SMPS San Antonio Leonardo Award recipients.

Nominees should meet the following criteria: