Stephen Bechtel, Jr.

$1.90 B

Ranked #1135 in World

About Stephen Bechtel, Jr.

Stephen Davison Bechtel Jr., a pivotal figure in the global construction industry and former Bechtel Corporation leader, died on March 15, 2021, at 95. Born in Oakland, California, on May 10, 1925, into the lineage of Bechtel founders, he carved his educational path with a BS in civil engineering from Purdue University and an MBA from Stanford. Taking the helm of Bechtel Corporation in 1960, he spearheaded monumental projects like the Channel Tunnel and the cleanup of Three Mile Island. Beyond his corporate achievements, Bechtel was known for his philanthropy, notably donating $50 million for a Scout Reserve in West Virginia, and his political contributions, serving under three U.S. presidents. His tenure saw Bechtel's revenues increase eleven-fold, marking a significant era in the firm's history. Bechtel's legacy is also marked by personal accomplishments, including being an Eagle Scout and a passionate nature enthusiast.

Born

May 10, 1925 in Oakland, California, U.S.

Died

March 15, 2021 (aged 95)

Source Of Wealth

Engineering, Construction

Industries

Construction & Engineering

Citizenship

United States

Education

Bachelor of Arts/Science, Purdue University; Master of Business Administration, Stanford University

Spouse

Elizabeth Mead Hogan

Children

5, including Riley

Parent

Stephen Bechtel Sr.

Stephen Davison Bechtel Jr. was born on May 10, 1925, in Oakland, California. He was the son of Stephen Bechtel Sr. and grandson of Warren A. Bechtel, the founder of Bechtel Corporation. During his high school years, Bechtel Jr. enlisted in the Marine Corps Reserve. He went on to pursue higher education, graduating from Purdue University in 1946 with a Bachelor of Science in civil engineering. His academic journey continued as he earned a Master of Business Administration from Stanford Graduate School of Business in 1948.

Stephen Bechtel, Jr.: Family

Stephen Bechtel Jr. was married to Elizabeth "Betty" Mead Hogan. Together, they raised two sons and three daughters. His son, Riley Bechtel, followed in his father's footsteps and succeeded him as chairman and CEO of Bechtel Corporation.

Stephen Bechtel, Jr.: Career Highlights

Bechtel Jr. joined Bechtel Corporation in 1948, embarking on a remarkable career within the company. In 1960, he succeeded his father as president, and in 1969, he assumed the role of chairman. Under his leadership, Bechtel Corporation experienced significant global expansion, undertaking major projects such as the Channel Tunnel, King Khalid International Airport, and Jubail Industrial City. Bechtel Jr. also oversaw the cleanup of the Three Mile Island nuclear reactor site.

However, his tenure was not without challenges. He faced scrutiny for Boston's "Big Dig" project and legal issues related to the Arab League boycott and projects in Iraq. Despite these challenges, Bechtel Corporation's revenues grew eleven-fold during his tenure. Bechtel Jr. retired from the company in 1990, leaving behind a legacy of leadership and innovation.

Stephen Bechtel, Jr.: Companies

Throughout his career, Stephen Bechtel Jr. was closely associated with Bechtel Corporation, the global engineering, construction, and project management company founded by his grandfather. He joined the company in 1948 and rose through the ranks, eventually becoming president in 1960 and chairman in 1969.

Stephen Bechtel, Jr.: Major Achievements

Bechtel Jr.

led Bechtel Corporation's global expansion, overseeing some of the most ambitious and complex projects of the 20th century. These include the Channel Tunnel, a 31-mile undersea rail tunnel connecting England and France; King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, one of the largest airports in the world; and Jubail Industrial City in Saudi Arabia, a massive petrochemical complex.

In addition to these major projects, Bechtel Jr. also played a key role in the cleanup of the Three Mile Island nuclear reactor site following a partial meltdown in 1979. He faced significant challenges and scrutiny throughout his career, including the Boston "Big Dig" project and legal issues related to the Arab League boycott and projects in Iraq.

Stephen Bechtel, Jr.: Awards & Achievements

Stephen Bechtel Jr. received numerous awards and honors throughout his career, recognizing his contributions to engineering, business, and philanthropy. In 1990, he was elected Fellow of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences. He was also the recipient of the Hoover Medal in 1980 and the National Medal of Technology and Innovation in 1991.

Bechtel Jr.'s contributions to civil engineering were recognized by Chi Epsilon and the National Building Museum. He was an Eagle Scout and received the Distinguished Eagle Scout Award and Silver Buffalo Award from the Boy Scouts of America.

Stephen Bechtel, Jr.: Personal Life & Legacy

Outside of his professional achievements, Stephen Bechtel Jr. was known for his personal interests and philanthropic endeavors. He was an avid nature enthusiast and hiker, having trekked to Everest base camp and hiked the John Muir Trail. Bechtel Jr. also had a passion for supporting environmental causes and non-profit organizations.

Through his foundation, established in 1957, he provided significant financial support to environmental initiatives. He also contributed $50 million to create a National Scout Reserve in West Virginia, named The Summit Bechtel Family National Scout Reserve.

Bechtel Jr. supported various non-profit groups, including Berkeley's International House, Mills College, and the San Francisco Symphony.

Stephen Bechtel Jr. passed away on March 15, 2021, at the age of 95. He left behind a remarkable legacy as a visionary leader in the engineering and construction industry, a dedicated philanthropist, and a passionate advocate for environmental causes.

Stephen Bechtel, Jr.: Trivia

Here are some interesting facts about Stephen Bechtel Jr.:

Bechtel Jr. was a licensed pilot and enjoyed flying his own plane.
He was a member of the Bohemian Club, a private social club in San Francisco.
Bechtel Jr. was a strong supporter of the Republican Party and contributed to various political campaigns.
He was known for his philanthropy and donated millions of dollars to various charitable organizations.
Bechtel Jr. was a recipient of honorary degrees from several universities, including Purdue University and Stanford University.

Wealth History

Timeline

May 10, 1925

Stephen Davison Bechtel Jr. is born in Oakland, California.

1946

Graduates from Purdue University with a Bachelor of Science in civil engineering.

1948

Earns Master of Business Administration from Stanford Graduate School of Business and joins Bechtel Corporation.

1960

Succeeds his father as president of Bechtel Corporation.

1969

Becomes chairman of Bechtel Corporation.

1980

Receives Hoover Medal.

1990

Retires from Bechtel Corporation and is elected Fellow of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences.

1991

Receives National Medal of Technology and Innovation.

March 15, 2021

Stephen Davison Bechtel Jr. passes away at the age of 95.

Stephen Bechtel, Jr. : FAQs

What is Stephen Bechtel, Jr.'s net worth?

As of 2020, Stephen Bechtel, Jr.'s net worth was $1.90 billion.

What are Stephen Bechtel, Jr.'s main sources of wealth?

Stephen Bechtel, Jr.'s main source of income comes from Engineering, Construction.

In which industry does Stephen Bechtel, Jr. primarily operate?

Stephen Bechtel, Jr. is primarily involved in the Construction & Engineering industry.

What is Stephen Bechtel, Jr. educational background?

Stephen Bechtel, Jr. holds a Bachelor of Arts/Science from Purdue University and a Master of Business Administration from Stanford University.

Is Stephen Bechtel, Jr. dead?

Yes, Stephen Bechtel, Jr. died on March 15, 2021 (aged 95).

How many children does Stephen Bechtel, Jr. have?

Stephen Bechtel, Jr. has 5 children.

Who was Stephen Davison Bechtel Jr.?

Stephen Davison Bechtel Jr. was a prominent American engineer and businessman who succeeded his father as president and then chairman of the Bechtel Corporation, overseeing its expansion into a global engineering and construction firm. Born on May 10, 1925, he played a crucial role in several international projects and was involved in various charitable activities until his passing in 2021.

What major projects did Stephen D. Bechtel Jr. lead during his tenure at the Bechtel Corporation?

During his leadership at the Bechtel Corporation, Stephen D. Bechtel Jr. lead several major projects including the construction of the Channel Tunnel, King Khalid International Airport, Jubail Industrial City, and the cleanup of the Three Mile Island nuclear reactor site. His vision and direction contributed to the company's significant global expansion.

How did Stephen D. Bechtel Jr. contribute to the Boy Scouts of America?

Stephen D. Bechtel Jr. was deeply involved with the Boy Scouts of America, achieving the rank of Eagle Scout and receiving the Distinguished Eagle Scout Award and Silver Buffalo Award. He generously donated $50 million for the establishment of The Summit Bechtel Family National Scout Reserve, a high adventure base for the Scouts.

What were Stephen D. Bechtel Jr.'s notable contributions to philanthropy?

Stephen D. Bechtel Jr. was a committed philanthropist, founding a foundation in 1957 focused on environmental causes. He notably contributed $50 million to establish a National Scout Reserve in West Virginia and supported various non-profit groups including Berkeley's International House, Mills College, and the San Francisco Symphony.

What honors and awards did Stephen D. Bechtel Jr. receive?

Stephen D. Bechtel Jr. received numerous honors throughout his life, including being elected Fellow of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences in 1990, receiving the Hoover Medal in 1980, and the National Medal of Technology and Innovation in 1991. His contributions to civil engineering and construction were also recognized by Chi Epsilon and the National Building Museum.