PROMOTIONS: BUILDING GREAT PEOPLE
Russell is excited to announce the promotion of seven team members in Q2 of 2026!Â
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Sarah Connors has been promoted to Director of Client Acquisition and Communications, recognizing the energy, ownership, and client-first excellence she’s brought to the role. Behind the scenes, she’s already been leading, bringing structure to our workflows and strengthening our lead generation approach. In her expanded role, Sarah will take on communications and public relations, while continuing to elevate our digital platforms, client acquisition funnel, and overall brand presence. Congratulations, Sarah!
Jason Fahrenkrog has been promoted to Preconstruction Executive. Since joining Russell four years ago after a career in the interior systems trade, Jason has made a significant impact with clients including Quad City Bank & Trust, Van Meter, Riverdale CSD, and A.Y. McDonald Mfg. Co., managing many of Russell’s larger, more complex projects while mentoring peers along the way. Most recently, he’s led preconstruction on several projects for a Fortune 100 Global Construction & Heavy Equipment Manufacturer, strengthening that relationship and opening doors across the Midwest. Congratulations, Jason!Â
Cassie Heller has been promoted to Senior Project Manager, recognized for her strong leadership and mentorship across an impressive portfolio of projects. Cassie brings a calm, solutions-oriented approach that moves teams forward and invests in the people around her. She is also an active recruiter for our St. Louis office, respected by vendors, owners, and teammates alike. Congratulations, Cassie!
Tony Latoria has been promoted to Director of Preconstruction, Quad Cities, recognized for his strong leadership on complex projects with clients including John Deere, A.Y. McDonald, and Black Hawk College. With more than 18 years of experience across operations, preconstruction, and estimating, Tony builds connected teams and invests in the people around him. Congratulations, Tony!
Sean McGinn has been promoted to Vice President, Technology and Innovation, recognized for the impact he’s made since 2024, including a company-wide cybersecurity program, a growing data and analytics function, and AI-driven solutions that boosted efficiency across Russell. Sean manages large, complex projects while mentoring peers, earning respect as a calm, steady leader. Congratulations, Sean!
Travis Odneal has been promoted to Director of Preconstruction, St. Louis. In just over four years at Russell, Travis has been a key driver of the office’s rapid growth, touching nearly every pursuit and helping secure wins including Lutheran South STEM Addition, St. Charles City Hall & Parking Deck, and Allen Market Apartments. Congratulations, Travis!
Sam Russell has been promoted to Vice President. Since joining Russell in 2019, Sam has worn nearly every hat at Russell, from preconstruction and operations to owner’s rep work and helping lead the acquisition of Russell’s St. Louis and Kansas City offices. He’s currently leading real estate development initiatives focused on governmental projects. Congratulations, Sam!Â