Sanford Native Bobby VonHerbulis Retires, Passes McKee Construction to Son

After a decades-long career in construction, Sanford native Bobby VonHerbulis retired and transferred day-to-day management of McKee Construction Company to his son, Maverick. The transition, completed on January 20, 2026, keeps ownership and operations in a family that has deep roots in Seminole County and signals continuity for employees and local clients.

VonHerbulis began his career learning work habits on the family farm in Sanford and developed technical skills through drafting and construction training. He rose through the ranks at McKee Construction before purchasing the company in 1996. Under his ownership the business expanded its workforce and client base, becoming a familiar presence on local projects and in the county’s construction economy.

The handoff to Maverick places an experienced successor at the helm while allowing VonHerbulis to step back from daily operations. He plans to spend more time with family and continue philanthropic activities in the community. For many local residents, the move represents both an end and a continuation: an era of leadership concludes, but the company’s community ties and ongoing projects remain intact.

From an economic standpoint, the succession matters for Seminole County’s small business landscape. Family-owned construction firms like McKee supply steady employment, contract work for subcontractors and suppliers, and capacity for local infrastructure and housing projects. A smooth transfer of management reduces the risk of disruption to current contracts and helps preserve the local labor market that relies on steady construction activity.

The change also reflects broader trends in regional business succession. Many small businesses face challenges when founders step down, and successful transfers to second-generation leadership can stabilize local economies by maintaining existing relationships with clients and vendors. McKee’s internal promotion suggests a conservative path focused on continuity rather than rapid restructuring.

For Sanford residents and local stakeholders, the immediate effect should be stability in ongoing projects and continued community engagement from the company’s leadership. Longer term, the transition will test how new management balances legacy client relationships with potential changes in technology, regulation and market demand.

With Maverick in charge of management and operations and Bobby shifting to family and philanthropy, Seminole County can expect a familiar local builder to remain part of the economic fabric. The community will watch how the new leadership navigates growth, workforce needs and continued community support.