Seasoned industry leader and business executive to begin January 1, 2026
Lisle, Illinois — November 18, 2025— The National Land Improvement Contractors of America (LICA) is pleased to announce the appointment of Dennis Mikula, Jr., as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective January 1, 2026.
Mikula joins National LICA with nearly three decades of leadership experience in the land improvement, construction, and business sectors. As President of Mikula Contracting, Inc., a third-generation, family-owned excavation, demolition, and environmental services company established in 1946, he has guided the organization through consistent growth while modernizing operations with technology and best practices. Mikula will assume the role of Chairman of Mikula Contracting as he commences his duties as CEO of National LICA.
Under his leadership, Mikula Contracting has earned multiple honors, including being named New Jersey Family Business of the Year (2020) by Fairleigh Dickinson University’s Rothman Institute of Innovation and Entrepreneurship. The company has also received numerous NJLICA Safety Awards and Commerce and Industry Association of New Jersey (CIANJ) “Companies That Care” Awards for community outreach.
Currently serving as President of the New Jersey Land Improvement Contractors of America (NJLICA), Mikula has been a vocal advocate for contractors and the broader construction industry. He also has an extensive history of civic and business leadership through his roles on the Executive Boards of the Commerce and Industry Association of New Jersey, Meadowlands Chamber of Commerce, Bergen New Bridge Medical Center Foundation, and the New Jersey Policy Research Organization (NJPRO).
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Mikula is deeply committed to community service and mentorship. He helps coordinate the Meadowlands Chamber Basket Brigade Program, providing Thanksgiving meals to over 300 families each year. He also continues to mentor young professionals, a passion shaped by more than 20 years of coaching high school and college football.
“I’m honored to serve as CEO of National LICA at such a pivotal moment for our industry and our association,” said Mikula. “We have an opportunity to modernize our structure, strengthen national–state alignment, and deliver even greater value to our members nationwide. I’m committed to leading with transparency, collaboration, and a bold vision that positions LICA as the nation’s top voice for land improvement and conservation.”
National LICA President Jeff Schell said, “Dennis brings a rare blend of operational excellence, industry leadership, and community spirit. His experience leading a family-owned contracting business and his deep roots in the LICA network make him uniquely qualified to guide our organization into its next chapter.” Mikula lives in New Jersey with his wife, Diana, and their daughter, Lucy.
About LICA
The Land Improvement Contractors of America (LICA) is a national trade association representing contractors dedicated to the professional conservation of land and water. Through education, advocacy, and member services, LICA promotes high standards of workmanship and environmental stewardship.
Media Contact:
Caroline Krug Editor, The LICA Contractor, Land Improvement Contractors of America: cnational.lica@gmail.com