Early Life and Education
Riley Peart Bechtel was born on March 25, 1952, in Alameda County, California. He is the great-grandson of Warren A. Bechtel, who founded the Bechtel Corporation in 1898. His parents are Elizabeth Hogan and Stephen Bechtel Jr., the former chairman and CEO of Bechtel. Riley attended The Thacher School and later pursued higher education, earning a bachelor's degree from the University of California, Davis. He furthered his education at Stanford University, where he obtained a joint Juris Doctor (JD) and Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree in 1977.
Rise to Success
After graduating from Stanford, Riley worked for the law firm of Thelen, Marrin, Johnson & Bridges. He officially joined Bechtel full-time in 1981, taking on the role of contract coordinator. Over the years, he advanced through the company, becoming president and chief operating officer in March 1989. In June 1990, Riley was appointed CEO, and in January 1996, he also became the chairman of Bechtel. Riley's leadership oversaw some of Bechtel's most significant projects, including the Hoover Dam and San Francisco's Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) system.
Key Business Strategies
Riley’s approach emphasized a commitment to large-scale infrastructure projects. This strategy led Bechtel to become a key player in engineering, construction, and project management. The company has undertaken projects worldwide, including major developments in the energy, infrastructure, and government sectors. Under his leadership, Bechtel focused on innovation and collaboration to deliver value to its customers and communities.
Philanthropy
Riley Bechtel is actively involved in philanthropic efforts. He and his wife, Susan, established the Riley and Susan Bechtel Foundation, which supports poverty-fighting programs, ensuring access to basic needs, and creating pathways to career and employment. The foundation supports organizations such as the Foodbank of Santa Barbara County. He has also been involved with various organizations, including the Conservation Fund and the Ocean Exploration Trust.
