Listen to this articleDavid Rible has officially assumed the role of CEO of the Utility and Transportation Contractors Association, effective Jan. 1, 2026. He succeeds longtime UTCA Chief Executive Officer Robert Briant Jr., who retired after 43 years with the organization.
Rible had served as UTCA’s executive director since 2019. His focus includes issues such as renewing the Transportation Trust Fund, strengthening New Jersey’s infrastructure, and raising awareness about mental health in the construction industry.
Prior to joining UTCA, Rible served as director of the New Jersey Alcoholic Beverage Control Commission (ABC). He also served a decade in the New Jersey Assembly from 2007 to 2017. In the Legislature, the Republican earned a reputation for bipartisan leadership. He also sponsored legislation reauthorizing the Transportation Trust Fund.
Rible brings extensive leadership experience to the role, including serving as conference leader and Republican whip in the Assembly as well as a former Wall Township police officer and detective.
Passing the baton
Briant Jr. became UTCA CEO in 2006. Having worked for UTCA since 1982, he followed in the footsteps of his father, who started the association in 1967. The senior Briant was involved until his 2013 passing.
UTCA recognized the outgoing CEO for securing proper funding for the TTF, chairing the New Jersey Infrastructure Bank and contributing to multiple state infrastructure initiatives. The American Road and Transportation Association (ARTBA) Foundation’s Transportation Development Hall of Fame inducted Briant Jr. in 2022.
“UTCA has long been a forceful and effective advocate for the construction industry,” said Rible. “Filling Bobby Briant’s shoes will not be easy. He leaves behind a remarkable legacy. But it is my honor to lead the association in this next phase and continue its history of assisting its members and supporting the entire construction industry.
“We stand ready, willing and able to build a better, stronger New Jersey.”
UTCA President Lisa Ballerini welcomed Rible’s leadership.
“Dave’s steady hand is welcomed in guiding UTCA in the years ahead,” said Ballerini. “It is critical that we see continued and enhanced investment in New Jersey’s infrastructure. Numerous projects require immediate attention to ensure our roads, bridges and rails are safe and modern.
“Under Dave’s leadership, UTCA and its member organizations are ready to work on these challenges.”
