Shook Construction has strengthened its leadership team with the appointment of Don Potter as Vice President and Central Regional Manager, marking a significant move for the company as it approaches its centennial milestone. The firm, known for its work across manufacturing, healthcare, infrastructure, and advanced industry facilities, announced that Potter will oversee strategic planning, business development, and talent management across the Central Region. His responsibilities include leading operations in the company’s Indiana offices located in Indianapolis, Kokomo, and Richmond.
Potter, who brings more than two decades of experience in construction and development, enters the role with a background in directing major capital projects, guiding cross-functional teams, and building long-term industry partnerships. His appointment reflects Shook’s efforts to strengthen its footprint across Indiana, where demand for advanced facilities and infrastructure upgrades continues to grow.
“Don brings deep industry knowledge and experience to our Central Region, where Shook has been the builder and construction manager of choice for transformative projects,” said Joe Mellon, Shook’s Chief Operations Officer. “Under Don’s leadership, our team will build on our excellent reputation as we continue to expand our market presence in the region and the state.”
The Central Region has been one of Shook’s most active markets, with recent high-profile projects demonstrating the company’s versatility. Among the most notable is the Bila Solar North American headquarters in Indianapolis, a large-scale design-build initiative that converted a 60-year-old facility into a state-of-the-art solar panel manufacturing hub. The project earned a Merit Award at the Indy Chamber’s distinguished Monumental Awards, underscoring Shook’s capabilities in modernizing legacy industrial facilities.
Additionally, Shook continues decade-long partnerships with several of Indiana’s major manufacturers, supporting projects across the automotive, aerospace, heavy equipment, and food production sectors. The company’s reach spans both new construction and critical facility upgrades, helping clients adapt to changing market demands and technology shifts. Shook is also part of a joint venture currently building a new ambulatory care facility for Reid Health in Connersville—another example of its expanding impact in the state’s healthcare market.
Potter says the company’s culture played a major role in his decision to join. “I’m excited to join Shook and lead the Central Region team,” he said. “From my first conversations with Shook, I could feel the pride, teamwork, and commitment to excellence that make the company special. It’s not often you join a company that’s approaching its 100-year anniversary. But with Shook’s people-centric approach, that longevity is no surprise. I look forward to continuing the work Shook has accomplished in the region and strengthening our trusted relationships with clients, industry partners, and communities.”
A licensed professional engineer, Potter graduated from the Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology with a degree in civil engineering, forming the technical foundation that has supported his longstanding career in leading construction and development projects across the Midwest.
With Potter at the helm of its Central Region, Shook Construction signals continued investment in leadership, client service, and strategic expansion—reinforcing its position as a premier builder as it enters its next century of operations.
Originally reported by Building Indiana Business.
