Mark Casso, president of the Construction Industry Round Table since 1998, died on June 25 at the age of 70, the McLean, Virginia-based organization announced in a LinkedIn post. His cause of death was not released.
The longtime industry advocate is survived by his wife, Julie, and children Nicholas and Nia.
“Mark Casso was a man of unwavering integrity, kindness and brilliance,” said Jane Bonvillain, director of association programs for CIRT, and Casso’s colleague since 1986, starting at the American Council of Engineering Companies. “Mark’s unwavering commitment to his family and profession was matched only by his passion for history, his talent as a painter and his generous spirit as a mentor and friend. His legacy will endure through the countless lives he touched and the industry he helped shape.”
Bonvillain emphasized Casso’s humility, saying in all of his efforts across the industry, he never sought to bring attention to himself.
CIRT, a nonprofit trade association founded in 1998, seeks to improve the performance of the U.S. construction industry by championing advancements and advocating for policy adjustments. Contractor members of the group include major players such as Turner Construction, Bechtel, Gilbane, McCarthy, Mortenson, JE Dunn, Jacobsen and WSP.
“Mark Casso was a tremendous advocate for the construction industry nationwide, and he represented our community with integrity and humility,” said Anthony Consigli, CEO of Consigli Construction Co., another CIRT member. “His deep understanding of the many complexities and challenges we face, and his dedication to helping build strong and successful companies, was unmatched. Mark leaves behind a lasting legacy, and he will be deeply missed.”
Examples of industrywide initiatives championed by Casso include Construction Safety Week, the CIRT Sentiment Index Quarterly Report and, more recently, Construction Inclusion Week.
“Mark was a leader of uncommon vision and character, and a trusted friend — someone who offered his heart as readily as his insights. For those who had the privilege to know him well, his passing leaves a space that cannot be filled,” said Tom Reilly, president of Turner Construction’s enterprise service.
Reilly, chairman of CIRT for 2025-2026, penned the LinkedIn post announcing Casso’s death.
“Over the past two and a half decades, Mark shaped CIRT into the respected organization it is today. His dedication left a lasting imprint on our work and our community,” Reilly said.
Mentor and competition leader
Prior to joining CIRT, Casso served as deputy executive vice president and general counsel for the American Consulting Engineers Council, a national trade association made up of roughly 5,000 consulting engineering firms. He also formerly held the title of director of government affairs for the American Institute of Architect’s national headquarters.
Before his construction career, Casso was an associate at a Washington, D.C., law firm specializing in international trade and custom law.
Additionally, Casso was a lead mentor in the ACE Mentor Program.
“I first met Mark while I was a senior in high school presenting at the CIRT National Competition for the ACE Mentor Program,” said Joey Bahnsen, associate architect at New York City-based CannonDesign. Bahnsen later worked with Casso as a young professional while attending the CIRT competition two years in a row.
“It’s like our time between talking had never missed a beat and he immediately remembered me,” Bahnsen said. “His quick wit, knack for relating to anyone and his infectious smile will be missed.”
Bonvillain described the CIRT competition as Casso’s “baby,” something he was most proud of for developing and executing.
The first competition, held in Washington, D.C. in 2007, had six entries from across the country, Bonvillain said. This year it had 74 entries.
“Mark's involvement with it was always the highlight of his year,” Bonvillain said. “Engaging with the students, the mentors and the judging.”
