David Rible has been appointed CEO of the Utility and Transportation Contractors Association (UTCA), effective January 1, succeeding Robert Briant, Jr., who retired after more than four decades with the organization.
“UTCA has long been a forceful and effective advocate for the construction industry,” said Rible. “Filling Bobby Briant’s shoes will not be easy. He leaves behind a remarkable legacy. But it is my honor to lead the association in this next phase and continue its history of assisting its members and supporting the entire construction industry. We stand ready, willing and able to build a better, stronger New Jersey.”
Rible previously served as UTCA’s executive director beginning in 2019. During his tenure, he focused on key issues such as renewing the Transportation Trust Fund, improving state infrastructure, and increasing awareness about mental health challenges in the construction sector. Before joining UTCA, Rible was director of the New Jersey Alcoholic Beverage Control Commission.
UTCA President Lisa Ballerini commented on Rible’s appointment: “Dave’s steady hand is welcomed in guiding UTCA in the years ahead. It is critical that we see continued and enhanced investment in New Jersey’s infrastructure. Numerous projects require immediate attention to ensure our roads, bridges and rails are safe and modern. Under Dave’s leadership, UTCA and its member organizations are ready to work on these challenges.”
Rible was elected to the New Jersey Assembly in 2007 and served until 2017. He built a reputation for bipartisan cooperation during his legislative career, sponsoring legislation that reauthorized funding for transportation infrastructure through the state’s Transportation Trust Fund. In addition to serving as Conference Leader and Republican Whip in the Assembly, he participated on both Education as well as Law and Public Safety Committees. Earlier in his career, Rible worked as a police officer and detective for Wall Township.
Robert Briant Jr., who started at UTCA in 1982 before becoming CEO in 2006, led efforts to secure funding for transportation projects across New Jersey. His father had also played an active role at UTCA from 1967 until his passing in 2013. During his leadership period, Briant Jr., held roles including Chairman of the New Jersey Infrastructure Bank and membership with several transportation-related authorities. In recognition of his contributions to transportation development, he was inducted into the American Road and Transportation Association Foundation’s Hall of Fame in 2022.
