ENR Recognizes Michael Neal for Four Decades of Leadership and Service

ENR is pleased to announce Michael Neal as its 2026 Southeast Legacy Award winnerhonoree. A full profile of his career and contributions will appear in the Jan. 19 issue of ENR Texas & Louisiana. 

According to the nomination submitted to ENR by KAST Construction, Neal’s 46-year career demonstrates his firm belief that construction is primarily a people business. He started at McDevitt and Street Co. in 1982, advancing from project engineer to senior vice president before launching Coscan Construction, where he helped shape South Florida’s skyline with luxury high-rise towers.

In 2010, he became CEO and shareholder of KAST Construction, guiding the company from a small West Palm Beach office to one of Florida’s largest privately owned contractors. Under his leadership, KAST gained a reputation for concierge-level service, zero-defect delivery and a workplace culture recognized by Fortune Magazine as a “Best Place to Work” for five straight years.

Neal’s influence goes beyond the companies he has led. A dedicated mentor and servant leader, he has committed himself to developing values-driven professionals and strengthening communities. His industry and community service includes roles with ULI South Florida, the University of Florida’s Bergstrom Real Estate Center, and various nonprofit and industry boards.

He also founded Havana Nights, a biennial charity poker tournament that KAST fully sponsors; the event has raised nearly $12 million for grassroots organizations supporting families and children. Through his dedication to culture, service and community impact, Neal has created a legacy that embodies the spirit of the ENR Legacy Award.

Vince Kong is ENR’s Southeast Regional Editor, based in San Antonio, Texas. A veteran journalist, he brings deep experience in covering regional growth, infrastructure policy, and community impact — shaped by previous reporting roles in Florida and New Mexico. Before joining ENR, Vince led digital content initiatives for NPR affiliates in Texas and Florida, and served as an editor for Treasure Coast Newspapers and a reporter for the Albuquerque Journal.