DIG Awards — Honoring Dignity, Integrity, and Generosity

United Contractors (UCON) is proud to announce Michael Crawford, CEO and chairman of the board of Sukut Construction, LLC (Sukut), as the recipient of the 2027 DIG Award. 

Presented annually since 1988, the DIG Award is a lifetime achievement honor recognizing Dignity, Integrity, and Generosity in individuals who have advanced the professionalism of the construction industry in California. Honorees are selected by a DIG Award Selection Committee made up of contractor representatives from UCON, the Southern California Contractors Association (SCCA), and the Associated General Contractors, along with past DIG Award recipients. This year, the Committee unanimously selected Crawford as the 2027 DIG Awardee. 

Crawford's career with Sukut spans more than four decades, beginning as an intern in 1980 before advancing to president in 1990, CEO in 1999, and chairman of the board in 2011. Under his leadership, Sukut has grown into one of the nation's leading heavy civil and earthmoving contractors, expanding its reach while maintaining a reputation built on strong relationships and respect for the people who do the work. Crawford has also served the broader industry as a past president of the SCCA and The Beavers, reflecting the same qualities of dignity, integrity, and generosity the DIG Award was created to honor. 

“Mike embodies dignity, integrity, and generosity in the way he leads, setting a clear vision for Sukut while never losing sight of the people who bring it to life. As president, I’m deeply proud to build on the strong foundation he has established. Mike’s influence reaches far beyond our company, and this recognition reflects the lasting impact he has made on our people and the entire industry.” — Eddie Juarez, president, Sukut. 

“Each year, only one name is selected for the DIG Award, making it one of our industry’s most meaningful honors. UCON is proud to host this uniquely industry-unifying event and recognize Mike Crawford as its 2027 recipient. Mike is an exceptional leader who has made a lasting impact on our industry and our communities. His example inspires all of us to lead with purpose, give back, and make a meaningful difference.” — Emily Cohen, CEO, UCON. 

“Mike Crawford has spent decades leading with integrity, vision, and an unwavering commitment to advancing California’s heavy civil construction industry. As a past SCCA president, longtime board member, and respected industry leader, Mike has earned the admiration of colleagues across our profession. We congratulate him on this well-deserved recognition.” — Charlie Nobles, executive director, SCCA. 

The DIG Awards will be held Saturday, January 30, 2027, at The Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel in Dana Point, CA.   

DIG Awards Registration Link 

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About Sukut Construction, LLC 

Founded in 1968, Sukut Construction is one of the nation's leading heavy civil general contractors, delivering innovative infrastructure solutions across the United States. With expertise spanning dams and reservoirs, water and wastewater systems, earthwork, environmental remediation, renewable energy, transportation and underground utilities, Sukut partners with public and private clients to build projects that strengthen communities and support long-term resilience. Backed by one of the nation's largest company-owned and operated heavy civil equipment fleets, Sukut delivers complex infrastructure projects with the resources, expertise and self-performance capabilities to meet demanding schedules and technical challenges. Headquartered in Santa Ana, California, Sukut is committed to Building Excellence in People and Projects through an unwavering focus on safety, quality, innovation, and lasting client partnerships. 

 
For more information about United Contractors and the DIG Awards, contact: 
Angelica Gouig, UCON Director of Member Experience, (925) 362-7309