Greg Koger
Holland & Knight
WBC’s 86th Chairman of the Board
Did you grow up in the Washington, DC area or what brought you to the region?
My father was in the Army when I was young, and that resulted in my family moving from Ohio to the Washington, D.C. area in 1977. The Washington, D.C. area has been my home ever since. It’s a great area in which to grow up and eventually raise a family.
When and how did you become interested in the construction industry?
During college, I worked for a small subcontractor that performed erosion control work on jobsites. The work was outside during a particularly hot summer and it was challenging work, but the experience gave me valuable insights and perspective into how hard folks in the construction industry work day in, day out. The jobsites were active and humming before the sun came up and that activity lasted through to the evening. I came away from that experience with a true appreciation for this industry.
As an attorney, have you always practiced in the area of construction law?
Following graduation from law school, I served in a one-year clerkship with a judge in Maryland. Once my clerkship concluded, I worked for a law firm focused on construction law and government contracts matters. My practice has continued in these areas. I am very fortunate to have an opportunity to continue to serve my clients in these practice areas.
How did you arrive at Holland Knight? What have you found to be most appealing/rewarding about working there?
I joined the Washington, D.C. office of Holland & Knight LLP in 2004, and I have practiced at the firm since that time. Holland & Knight is an international law firm serving clients all over the world. The type of platform that exists at my firm affords my clients access to a wide range of services, no matter the size or complexity of a client’s particular needs. It is personally rewarding to be in a position to assist in addressing the needs of my clients when faced with unique and challenging construction and government contracts matters.
How did you first become involved with WBC?
I became involved with the WBC simply as a member. I attended a number of events, and I really enjoyed the camaraderie I experienced at these events. This positive experience created a desire to become more involved in the organization. As a result, I became involved with the WBC’s Membership Committee and my involvement with WBC has only grown over the years.
In your view, what are the most significant benefits of a WBC membership – both from a company and an individual’s perspective? (Why did you join?)
The primary reason I joined WBC was to develop personal relationships with construction industry professionals throughout the Washington, D.C. area. I also saw the benefit of expanding my firm’s recognition and profile through my involvement with WBC. Personal relationships in the construction industry are invaluable. The WBC provides a fantastic platform to create and strengthen those relationships.
Are there any issues or projects that you would like to pursue as Chairman?
It is critical that the younger generation become more engaged and involved in our industry. A company is only as strong as its team, and it is important that industry-related companies and organizations in the Washington, D.C. area recognize the value of training and mentoring the next generation. I believe the WBC membership would benefit by encouraging its colleagues, and particularly the younger colleagues, to make every effort to create and strengthen the personal relationships that may run the length of their individual careers. A colleague’s participation and direct involvement in WBC’s various committees and events are great avenues for the next generation to be engaged and to keep moving forward in this industry.
What are some of your personal interests/hobbies? What do you do when you’re not working?
Outside of my time representing clients and attending WBC events, I enjoy spending time with my fantastic family. I also enjoy getting outdoors whenever possible, particularly hitting the roads and trails on my bikes. The Washington, D.C. area has so many opportunities to enjoy the outdoors, and we are lucky to live in an area that provides a wide range of activities in every direction.
Any final thoughts?
I want to thank the WBC personnel and the WBC membership for ensuring that this organization is in a strong position to serve the construction industry in this region. The WBC is stronger today than ever before, and that only affirms that the members recognize the value of this organization. With that said, I look forward to seeing all of you at the various events the WBC has planned over the next year.