Will M. Lyles, IV is a fourth generation Boilermaker, third generation CE and one of 14 family members to have attended Purdue.  Born and raised in California, he came to Purdue just in time for the winter of 77-78 (wind chill of 69 degrees below zero).  He opted for Purdue mostly because of the great program and tradition, but also because Cal and Stanford did not offer a construction emphasis to undergraduates.  At Purdue, he was a member of the Sigma Chi Fraternity, the Purdue Swim Team, and the Student Concert Committee, mostly for the free tickets.  Will received his bachelor’s degree in civil engineering as well as a bachelor’s degree in Economics in 1981.

From graduation in 1981 through 2009, Will focused on his construction career within the Lyles Construction Group, founded by his grandparents in 1945. During this time, he rose from project engineer to CEO and Chairman.  He remains active in the company, overseeing construction for the parent company as well as participating in critical construction initiatives.  Today, Will also manages investments and participates in the company’s development and rental partnerships. 

While the Lyles Construction Group performs a range of infrastructure construction, the primary focus for much of Will’s work has been the construction of wastewater treatment plants.  During Will’s tenure, the Lyles Construction Group has consistently been named an ENR top 400 Contractor and has become California’s second largest environmental contractor.  The group, partnered with leading engineering and operating firms, has performed over 90 California design-build projects totaling over $1 billion.  The Lyles Construction Group is also pleased to have at least three Purdue student interns joining them this summer. 

Will previously chaired the Young Presidents Organization construction network.  He is currently a board member and former Chairman of the Fresno County Boys & Girls Clubs, and the Fresno State Lyles Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship.  He serves on the Fresno State Presidents Advisory Board and the Purdue Lyles School of Civil Engineering Advisory Board.

Will is married to wife, Tami.  His daughter Chloe will be graduating from NYU in May, while daughter Kelsey is a third grader who plans to swim for Purdue!