Cementing a Legacy: Bob Morreale Named 2026 Man of the Year
October 12, 2026
BURR RIDGE – Bob Morreale, longtime Executive Director of the Concrete Contractors Association of Greater Chicago (CCA), was honored as the 2026 Man of the Year by the Italian American Labor Council of Greater Chicago (IALC) during its annual Dinner Dance Oct. 10, 2026, which also celebrated the organization’s 60th anniversary.
The evening brought together Union leaders, signatory contractors, elected officials and industry executives to recognize Morreale’s decades of dedication to the construction industry and his commitment to strengthening Labor-management partnerships.
“When you have organized Labor, Unions, signatory contractors, politicians and commercial executives all in one room to honor one person, which is Bob Morreale, I think it’s amazing,” said IALC Secretary-Treasurer Michael Somone.
IALC President Anthony Guida highlighted Morreale’s extensive career, which began in the construction industry in 1976. Following successful careers with Sears Contract Sales and General Electric, Morreale became CCA Executive Director in 2005, bringing his relationship-building skills and industry expertise to the organization.
Throughout his 21-year tenure, Morreale has helped elevate CCA’s visibility while fostering strong relationships between contractors, suppliers and Union partners.
Accepting the honor, Morreale expressed gratitude and humility, mixing heartfelt appreciation. “Tonight, I can’t tell you how proud I am, as well as humbled,” Morreale said. He couldn’t resist a little humor, which is his trademark. “I heard that the first person the nominating committee asked decline. It was Pope Leo [XIV]. Anyways, it’s not too bad coming in second to a Pope,” he said to laughs.
He emphasized the importance of cooperation between Labor and management in building Chicagoland. “There’s something powerful about bringing Labor and management together for the common goal, building Chicago,” Morreale said. “We’re united by the same mission, the same values, and we believe that when we build together, our team is stronger.”
Morreale also recognized CCA’s charitable efforts, noting that contributions benefiting the Child Life Center at Comer Children’s Hospital have surpassed $250,000 over the past decade, thanks to generous sponsors, supporters and the CCA Board.
Among the evening’s most personal moments, Morreale thanked his wife of 59 years, Jan, whom he affectionately described as the “foundation” of their family, drawing laughter with the concrete-related reference.
He also acknowledged the Council’s founders, particularly Joe Martucci, and thanked CCA officers, directors, contractors and Union partners for their continued support.
Reflecting on his career, Morreale reaffirmed his commitment to helping CCA contractors and Union workers continue building a stronger Chicagoland.
“This recognition means more than words can express,” he concluded. “Thank you very much.”
