By Phil Key, CEO
At our recent Board of Directors meeting, two observations about change from our board members really stuck with me. First, the average age of a company on the S&P 500 has dropped dramatically—from about 33 years in 1965 to roughly 13 years today. Second, companies that are newer often underestimate the impact of change, while companies that have been around longer tend to overestimate it.
What that tells me is this: even some of the most recognized, resource-rich companies—once thought untouchable—are being displaced in just over a decade. At the same time, more established companies like Ruppert can become overly cautious, hesitating to adapt for fear of what might go wrong.
The reality is that the pace of change has accelerated. Markets shift, technology evolves, customer expectations rise, and competition gets tougher. Companies that don’t adapt risk falling behind, regardless of size or history. For us, the path forward is about cultivating adaptability—balancing our deep experience, which is one of our greatest strengths, with the agility to adjust as conditions evolve. That’s what will keep us resilient and thriving, no matter how the landscape shifts.
I’ve seen that adaptability in action this past year. When we rolled out a new organizational structure, our teams didn’t resist—they leaned in. We’ve strengthened collaboration across branches, built a clearer understanding of our service lines, and positioned us to win work more collectively and serve customers at a higher level. Some of you even relocated to new markets, bringing your knowledge and culture to branches that are still growing, while also embracing fresh ideas and perspectives.
Looking ahead, our IT modernization project is another example of necessary change—consolidating systems, boosting efficiency, and preparing us to scale. All of these efforts require trust, flexibility, and teamwork, and I’ve been pleased with the way so many of you have embraced that challenge.
Ruppert has been around for more than 50 years, and we’re proud of that legacy. But longevity in today’s business world isn’t guaranteed—it’s earned every single day. By continuing to adapt quickly, staying open to new ideas, and supporting one another, I believe we’ll not only outlast the averages but also build a company that we can all be proud of and thrives well into the future.