Press

On behalf of the Board of Directors of the RKA family, we are announcing the retirement of CEO, Montell Irvin, PE, PTOE, effective January 2023. Monty has dedicated 27 years of service to RKA and will soon enjoy retirement.

Ramey Kemp was the sole proprietor of RKA 30 years ago, working out of his basement, and three years later he hired Monty Irvin to work alongside him. Monty Irvin and Ramey Kemp started RKA with a vision to serve people and clients in an industry that serves the greater good. They grew the company with incredible employees, empowering them to grow personally and professionally. They created a culture where employees could truly take ownership of their work.

In 2009, Ramey Kemp stepped down as President and CEO and Monty Irvin took his place. Monty envisioned the firm doubling every five years, a goal he has achieved since becoming CEO. RKA will continue to grow both now and for the next 30 years.

Throughout the last 25 years, Ramey & Monty’s vision allowed for the expansion of the firm to three states and five offices. RKA now employs over 75 qualified and empowered employees and continues to grow daily.

In 2020, RKA was selected for a “Best Firms to Work For” award which honored the AEC firms by the Zweig group. The firms selected for this award were evaluated on culture, benefits, professional development, and more. RKA checked all the boxes which further solidified the incredible firm Ramey and Monty built.

When asked how Monty feels about this next chapter in RKA’s future he had this to say:

“The last few months have been emotional for me. I’m sad to leave behind a company I worked so hard to build but I’m happy to be moving on to the next phase of my life. I’m sad knowing I will not be around to see many of you on a day-to-day basis from here on, but I’m happy to be making way for Steve and others to take this company to the next level. I couldn’t be prouder of what we created thus far and I’m even more excited about the future.”

The RKA family has been so lucky to have experienced Monty’s leadership. Our board is excited for Monty as he ushers in this new chapter of his life. His service to RKA will never be forgotten and his name and likeness will be celebrated for years to come.

Please join us in thanking Monty for his service and his incredible leadership. He has made an impact on every employee, client, and colleague alike.

Monty, we could not be more grateful for your leadership, and we truly wish you good fortune in retirement.

Thank you.