2025 GroundBreaker: Will Huss, Chief Executive Officer, Trehel

GroundBreak Carolinas is honored to spotlight Will Huss, Chief Executive Officer of Trehel, who has been named to the Class of 2025 GroundBreakers — an exclusive group of individuals recognized for going above and beyond to make a difference in the construction community across the Carolinas. With decades of contributions to economic development, community infrastructure, housing, and urban revitalization, Huss has left an enduring mark on both the industry and the communities Trehel serves.

As CEO, Huss has helped transform Trehel into one of the region’s leading general contractors, completing more than 1,700 projects across commercial, industrial, faith-based, nonprofit, education, and healthcare sectors. In 2024, Huss expanded Trehel’s reach with the launch of Trehel Tailored Homes, a division dedicated to high-end custom homebuilding.

Huss leads nearly 60 employees and has fostered a culture rooted in collaboration and care. Through programs such as Values in Action and Trehel’s Caring Team, Huss has emphasized support for employees, partners, and the wider community. This people-first approach has earned Trehel recognition as one of South Carolina’s “Best Places to Work” for 10 consecutive years.

Huss’ leadership extends well beyond the workplace. He serves on the boards of the Greenville Chamber of Commerce Foundation, United Ministries, and the Greenville Area Parkinson’s Society, and is also a member of Liberty Fellowship and Clemson University’s Construction Science and Management (CSM) Industry Advisory Board.

GroundBreak Carolinas recently caught up with Huss for a quick conversation, and it’s clear how deeply he values his team and their commitment to delivering exceptional work while making a meaningful impact.

Tell us what you are most passionate about when it comes to the AEC industry and/or your role within your organization.

I love that we work in an industry that helps build community. We are meant to be with people and to play a role in caring for each other. I often ask the folks I work with, “Would Trehel be missed if we went away?” If we are not making a positive impact on our community, we’ve missed the point. We build our internal community at Trehel, which, in turn, helps strengthen the communities where we live, work, worship, and play. 

What are some of the things you are doing inside and outside of your workspace and organization to improve the construction industry and encourage others to make construction a potential career choice?

I believe part of my role is to serve as a champion, servant, and leader in the community. This also encourages others to do the same at Trehel.  I participate in a C12 forum for Christian CEOs, and it has had a profound impact on me. Engaging with other like-minded leaders has helped me understand and implement best practices in business while also exploring what faith-work integration truly looks like in a professional setting. These practices also help us remain thoughtful in workforce development, which is one of the industry’s biggest challenges. A values-based culture is crucial, and it’s essential to build an organization around a purpose. 

What would you say has been your greatest accomplishment?

My greatest accomplishment is building and surrounding myself with a team of people who genuinely care for each other, our clients, and our communities. I’m proud that we are recruiting compassionate and talented individuals while fostering teamwork and service, which enables us to deliver excellent work and have a meaningful, consistent impact internally and beyond. 

What do you think are the most important personal attributes one must possess to be successful in the construction industry of tomorrow?

I believe that curiosity, combined with integrity, is essential. Also, emotional intelligence and the ability to listen are vital. Work hard but work smart. 

What are the top Leadership Principles that you have discovered and executed that have contributed to your success?

Being present is one of the most incredible things a leader can do. Having self-awareness is a key part of that, and I believe Patrick Lencioni, author of  The Ideal Team Player explains it well with the idea of Hungry, Humble, and Smart (“people smarts”). Being a servant is also a powerful tool for leading others. Trehel’s purpose is to honor God by caring for people, and one way we fulfill this is by promoting collaboration and problem-solving– two additional core leadership principles I value.