Wilbur C. Milhouse III Named a 2025 BLC by Chicago United

Wilbur C. Milhouse III Named a 2025 BLC by Chicago United 

Chairman/CEO of Chicago-based engineering firm honored among the city’s top business leaders 

CHICAGO, IL (September 3, 2025) – Wilbur C. Milhouse III, Chairman and CEO of Milhouse Engineering and Construction (Milhouse), has been named a 2025 Chicago United BLC. This distinguished recognition celebrates leaders who are strengthening the business landscape in Chicago. 

An award-winning entrepreneur and engineer, Mr. Milhouse has transformed more than 30 years of civil and structural engineering experience into a global enterprise. Since founding Milhouse in 2001, he has expanded the firm into seven business lines supported by more than 400 professionals worldwide. Under his leadership, the company has earned national recognition for its work delivering projects that improve infrastructure, strengthen communities, and drive economic development. 

Mr. Milhouse also brings extensive experience to board service. He has successfully guided organizations through transitional periods, negotiated partnership agreements, and balanced the interests of diverse stakeholders. As Chairman of the Illinois Quantum & Microelectronics Park, he manages high-stakes collaborations between universities, tech companies, and government agencies while protecting the project’s integrity during negotiation. He has also provided strategic direction as a University of Illinois Trustee, helping to align the institution’s long-term vision and priorities. In addition, he serves on the board of Milhouse Charities, the nonprofit he co-founded in 2012 to empower underrepresented youth through STEM education and enrichment programs. Across all his board roles, he is known for bringing strategic insight and a focus on long-term value creation. 

“Being named a 2025 BLC is a distinction that honors the influence business leadership has in shaping communities,” said Mr. Milhouse. “From my experience as Milhouse Chairman and as a board member of multiple civic, charitable, and educational organizations, I know how strong boardroom leadership can change lives. Building strong companies goes hand-in-hand with building strong communities, and I’m proud to contribute to the fabric of a Chicago that values innovation and leadership.” 

Chicago United is a corporate membership organization committed to advancing inclusive opportunities across the business community. Since 2003, its BLC honor and publication have identified more than 500 board-ready executives who have gone on to serve in nearly 500 corporate directorships. The 2025 BLC cohort includes 50 senior-level executives representing a wide range of industries and sectors. 

“The vision of Chicago United is a Chicago region that is the most inclusive business ecosystem in the nation, creating a business culture where everyone can thrive,” said Tiffany Hamel Johnson, President and CEO of Chicago United. “For over 20 years, our Business Leaders of Chicago distinction has united those leaders prepared for Corporate Board opportunities, so they have a gateway to engage with other executives and helps to prepare them for a seat at the corporate table. We are proud to honor this year’s cohort of outstanding leaders.” 

The honorees will be formally recognized during Chicago United’s 2025 Bridge Awards Celebration on Thursday, November 20. 

### 

About Milhouse   

Milhouse is a family of companies dedicated to improving communities around the world. Our expertise spans civil, electrical, mechanical, and structural engineering, general contracting, carpentry, program management, vegetation management, and real estate development. Where others see just another project, we see an opportunity to drive meaningful change for our clients and the people they serve.   

For further information, please contact:    

Elizabeth Wayne, Communications Specialist, Milhouse, ewayne@milhouseinc.com