Ken Hanifan, PE, LEED AP, is a seasoned civil engineering and leadership professional with more than 30 years of experience in land development, public infrastructure, organizational effectiveness, and strategic planning. He brings extensive expertise in operations, project delivery, business management, talent development, and executive leadership.
Ken is a dynamic entrepreneur who is not only passionate about building successful businesses but also about developing the people within them. He loves presenting ideas that empower individuals to become better leaders, communicators, and innovators. His work centers on strengthening team dynamics, enhancing collaboration, improving workplace culture, and ultimately driving stronger business performance.
Ken co-founded Slater Hanifan Group (SHG) in 2003 and served as the firm’s Visionary, guiding strategic planning and organizational development as the company expanded into new markets. Under his leadership, SHG grew into the largest privately held engineering firm in Nevada with offices in Las Vegas, Phoenix, Lake Havasu, and a satellite office in the Philippines. The firm began with a focus on private development-including residential and commercial projects-and later expanded into the public market with expertise in public infrastructure. Following SHG’s acquisition, Ken served as a Vice President at Westwood, contributing to corporate strategic planning and mergers and acquisitions efforts across the organization.
Ken has served on the boards of ACEC Nevada (American Council of Engineering Companies of Nevada) and YPO (Young Presidents’ Organization), contributing to leadership, industry advancement, and professional development initiatives.
Ken is a certified Emergenetics Associate and is highly skilled in leadership development, communication, team dynamics, and organizational culture improvement. Over the years, he has trained people from all walks of life, including engineers, attorneys, CPAs, families, and non-profit organizations. With a dedication to mentorship, professional growth, and strategic leadership, Ken continues to make a lasting impact in both the world of business and personal development.
He earned his bachelor’s degree in engineering from the University of Nevada, Reno.
Ken is a family man, dedicated to his wife Michelle and daughter Faith. He enjoys traveling, biking, hiking, skiing, and reading a good book. In his downtime, he loves to hang out with his best friend…his two-year-old labradoodle, Harlie.