Mark Davis
October 14, 2025 (Santa Rosa, CA) — Mark Davis has officially announced his retirement as President of Wright Contracting, a leading commercial construction firm based in Santa Rosa, after nearly four decades with the company, including more than 15 at the helm. Davis, who joined the company in 1986 fresh out of Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, has been a pivotal figure in the growth and success of Wright Contracting, helping it evolve into one of the premier construction firms in the region. His decision to retire marks the end of an era for Wright Contracting, but it also signals the beginning of a new chapter for both Davis and the company.
A Legacy of Excellence
Under Davis’s leadership, Wright Contracting experienced substantial growth, securing high-profile projects and maintaining a reputation for quality, reliability, and innovation in the construction industry. Known for his hands-on, direct approach, Davis was deeply involved in every facet of the business, from managing client relationships to overseeing major project developments. His leadership was instrumental in building lasting relationships with key clients and partners, ensuring the company’s position at the forefront of the construction industry in the North Bay. Davis credits much of his success to the trust and confidence that previous Wright leaders Jay Wright, Mike Wright and Sid Lipton showed in him, that allowed his growth and to establish his own identity and reputation.
“Mark has been the backbone of our company for so long. His vision and dedication have shaped Wright Contracting,” said Stephen Wright, CEO and Co-Owner of Wright Contracting. “We’ll miss his leadership, but we’re grateful for everything he’s done to prepare the company continued success.”
Colleagues such as Architects, Engineers and Construction Managers across the industry have valued Mark’s collaboration on a diverse range of project types over the years. Mark Van Pelt, President and Founder of Van Pelt Construction Services commented that, “2025 marks my 45th year in institutional construction in the greater Bay Area. Throughout my career, I’ve encountered only a handful of professionals who possess the rare combination of technical knowledge, extensive experience, and exceptional leadership abilities. Mark Davis is undoubtedly one of those individuals. His calming influence in what can often be a chaotic industry will be truly missed. Congratulations on a fantastic career, and enjoy your well-deserved retirement.”
Upon learning of Mark’s retirement announcement, Hugh Futrell, CEO of Hugh Futrell Corporation, commented, “My team and I worked with Mark and his team on numerous projects over the past 15+ years, ranging from multifamily to healthcare clinic construction and renovation. My view about Mark, a view I have passed on to numerous other people, is simple. He always can be relied on. He always tells the truth. He always knows what he is talking about. He never pretends or conceals or manipulates. He is always himself. In the world of construction – and this is my 46th year in development and construction – no one, absolutely no one, surpasses Mark Davis in effectiveness as a leader and decency as a person.”
The Next Chapter
After retiring from Wright, Mark plans to take some time off, do more hunting, some traveling, and spend time with his 6 grandchildren here and in Nashville. “While I am closing my almost 40-year chapter with Wright, I don’t foresee myself fully retiring, as I am not a sit around type of guy. I will find something else to do, it’s just time for me to move on and let the new generation run the company without me over their shoulder”.
As Davis embarks on this next phase of life, Wright Contracting looks ahead with optimism and anticipation, poised to build upon the strong foundation he helped create. The company remains committed to its core values of integrity, quality, and excellence. Mark Davis’s retirement, while marking the end of a significant chapter, also represents a testament to his enduring contributions and the continued success of Wright Contracting.
About Wright Contracting
Wright Contracting has been building in the North Bay since 1953. Over the past 70+ years, the company has built iconic projects across the region, including Hospitals, Multi-Family Housing, Educational Facilities, Wineries, Resorts, Commercial Buildings and more. Wright Contracting also supports the community through philanthropic efforts and by being a truly local firm. For more information, please visit www.wrightcontracting.com or contact Lisa Freedman, [email protected].
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