Branch Builds names president

The Branch Builds subsidiary of Roanoke-based construction company The Branch Group announced Wednesday it has promoted Catherine Underwood to president. 

With 20 years of experience at the company, she was most recently the senior vice president. She began her time with Branch Builds in 2000 as an estimator and has also served as a project manager, project executive and director of construction management. 

“The Branch Group is quite proud to have Cathy as the president of Branch Builds,” Board Chairman Ron Oakley said in a statement. “She has the knowledge of the industry and leadership skills that will support her to excel in her new role.”

During her time with Branch Builds, she has been involved with projects including the $107.5 million Montgomery County Public Schools three-school public-private partnership project and the $59 million Ridgeview High School/Middle School project in Dickenson County. 

Underwood earned her bachelor’s degree and master’s degree in biological systems engineering from Virginia Tech. She is the 2018 recipient of the Constructech Women in Construction Award, which recognizes women leadership in the industry.

“I feel fortunate to work for an organization that supports and empowers me,” Underwood said in a statement. “I hope other women and young ladies can look at my path and see that there are opportunities for everyone in this industry.”

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