Bill Derks and Collen Derks in his early career days at McAdams.
Bill Derks’ name has become synonymous with innovation, excellence, and unwavering dedication to civil engineering within the Raleigh-Durham community and beyond. His retirement on June 1, 2024 from Vice President of Land Development at McAdams, the Raleigh–based multidisciplinary planning, design and engineering firm, signals the end of a remarkable 27-year tenure that shaped the skyline while forging unwavering relationships and mentorships that will outlast his storied career.
Bill, a Cary resident who started with the firm in August 1996, has been instrumental in advancing some of the most significant development projects in the area. No stranger to challenges, his career highlights include leading the civil engineering side of The Streets at Southpoint project, one of his first projects, and includes nods to his children who posed for the statues placed across the property. Bill also played a fundamental role in the Fenton project in Cary, one of his last projects, where he oversaw its multifaceted construction and innovative design and effectively bookended his career with monumental achievements in development.
Bill Derks joins McAdams Founder John McAdams and teammates on a bike ride to celebrate McAdams’ 45 year anniversary.
Bill carved a legacy not just through his professional achievements but also through the profound personal connections he fostered within McAdams. Colleagues and clients alike have come to admire his competitive spirit, a trait that harkens back to his days as a collegiate swim champion at Kenyon College in Gambier, Ohio. Bill will remain available as a part-time advisor to the McAdams Land Development team who looks forward to the coming year of projects.
Bill Derks enjoys a holiday celebration with McAdams teammates.
