MICHAEL I. KAUFMAN

CHAIRMAN & CEO, KAUFMAN LYNN CONSTRUCTION, DELRAY BEACH

Now in its 36th year, Kaufman Lynn Construction ranks among the top 200 largest contractors in the U.S. and is active in a range of market sectors, including multifamily housing, senior living, hospitality, government and others. Kaufman founded the company in 1989 with three employees, including himself. “Our KL employees donate their time and expertise to such worthy causes as YMCA, Habitat for Humanity, Red Cross and many others,” he says.

EDUCATION: University of
Florida (BS)

FIRST JOB: My first job at 14 years old was as a laborer unloading rail cars for Don’s Garden Shop in Hollywood.

DREAM ALTERNATE CAREER: My alternate career would be on the development side of my current business of building.

MENTEE IMPACT: I hope I’ve had a positive impact on many people along my path, but most recently my mentor-mentee relationship with Kaufman Lynn’s current president, Chris Long, has been very impactful and rewarding. Since joining KL 12 yrs ago, Chris has risen from senior project manager to his current role and will soon be named CEO.

PASSION PROJECT: My wife Lisa and I enjoy a summer home on Eastern Long Island, N.Y., and every summer we host dozens of friends and family. As one group departs, we welcome the next. It’s our magic trick! We are also passionate in supporting the research of Dr. Janet Davis. Dr. Davis is a world-renowned retinal disease practitioner, scientist and professor at Bascom Palmer Eye Institute.