“There are some who bring a light so great to the world, that even after they have gone, the light remains.”
(Sidney, Ohio – February 2026) On February 4, our industry, our company, and our community lost a dedicated and respected leader. It is difficult to put into words the impact of a man who devoted his entire career to our company and left an indelible mark on everyone he worked with. While this tribute shares Mick’s professional accomplishments and leadership journey, it tells only part of the story. He will be remembered just as much for his genuine smile, his warmth, and the bright light he brought into every room.
Mick was introduced to the construction business at a very young age. As the son of Thomas Given (Ferguson Construction President from 1978–1986), he grew up accompanying his father on construction sites. Just as important, he learned early the value of putting the customer first and the importance of strong, lasting relationships.
After graduating from Sidney High School in 1975, Mick enrolled at the University of Dayton, where he majored in civil engineering. He enjoyed working with his hands, making the major a natural fit. Throughout college (before co-op programs were more widely established) he returned to Ferguson each summer to work, gaining hands-on experience and continuing to learn the business and the industry.
With his degree in hand, Mick officially joined Ferguson Construction in 1979 as a project estimator. His first major assignment was serving as a project manager for the Honda Plant in the early 1980s. As he gained experience, he was promoted to Operations Manager and later to Executive Vice President of Operations.
In 2001, Mick was named president of Ferguson Construction, succeeding Richard Scott. Continued growth under his leadership led to the opening of regional offices in Columbus (2003) and Indianapolis (2007). At the heart of every strategic plan was a steadfast commitment to the customer service model that had long defined the company. In 2018, Mick stepped into the role of CEO and Chairman of the Board.
Mick’s leadership philosophy was rooted in a deep commitment to customers. He once shared, “Relationship building is at the core of our company. For me, the best feeling is not just seeing a finished building, but having that same customer ask us to come back again for more projects.” Mick’s unwavering dedication to our clients is reflected in the 90% repeat customer rate we are proud to have today.
Having benefited himself from early exposure to the industry, Mick was also a passionate advocate for workforce partnerships and co-op programs. He served as Board Chairman of the Sidney–Shelby County Workforce Partnership, which promoted the skilled trades to the next generation of Shelby County residents. He also helped advocate for legislative change, and in 2023 supported the launch of a new Construction Mentorship Program across the state, which allowed high school students to work alongside mentors on job sites, earn pay, and receive certifications.
Mick was tirelessly committed to strengthening communities, especially those in Shelby County. He was a founder of MSGA Development, which has led significant commercial development efforts. He served on the investment committee for Wilson Health Hospital and was part of the 2003 stadium campaign committee and a donor. His many honors include the 2015 Zenith Award, the 2015 OVABC Legacy Award, and induction into the Sidney City Schools Hall of Honor in 2017. Mick also served on the YMCA Foundation Committee and as Board President for several years, was Chairman of the Associated Builders and Contractors (representing all three chapters), and was appointed to the Governor’s Executive Workforce Board. Additionally, he served as Board Chairman of the Sidney–Shelby County Economic Partnership.
While Mick’s career and community accomplishments were extensive, we also remember the man behind the leader. There was no time of year more joyful to Mick than Christmas. More often than not, you could find him wearing a Santa hat and festive tie at the company Christmas party. His love for the season was unmistakable, as was his extraordinary generosity.
Mick shared a warmth that lifted those around him. His legacy will live on as that of a devoted family man, an inspiring and compassionate leader, and a tireless champion for the trades. While this is a time of great loss, we are all brighter for having known him.
Mick, thank you for sharing your light with us. We will keep it burning through our work, our relationships, and our commitment to the values you lived every day.