Mowery, an industry-leading construction company based in Mechanicsburg, Pa. announced the addition of Derek Dilks of Camp Hill, Pa. to their growing team. In his new role, Dilks will serve as Mowery’s director of special projects. His primary responsibility will be to oversee and continue to grow the company’s smaller, short-duration projects and tenant fit-out services which prepare the interior spaces of a new building for occupation.

“Derek’s track record of developing special projects that are smaller on scale at very competitive prices make him uniquely qualified for this position,” said Dave Cross, president and COO of Mowery. “Our team is proud to bring big contractor expertise to smaller projects, with faster turnaround and less cost. With Derek’s leadership, we’re looking forward to continued growth in this specialty.”

Dilks previously served as vice president of real estate development for Brickbox Enterprises in Mechanicsburg, Pa. Throughout his career, he has lead several notable projects such as the first 48-unit student housing redevelopment in the City of Harrisburg for Harrisburg University; the conversion of the former Furlow five and dime into the 24 unit COBA apartments in Harrisburg’s Midtown neighborhood; the development of the former AFL-CIO headquarters into a 42-unit LUX condominiums on State Street in front of the State Capital building; and 56 units of student housing apartments at the historic former Kunkel building on Market Street for Harrisburg University.

Dilks attended the University of Maryland. Throughout his career, he has volunteered for many non-profit and community organization including previously serving as president of the Historic Harrisburg Association.

Dilks has received a number of honors and recognitions for his work through the community. In 2011, he was appointed by Governor Tom Corbett to serve on the Pennsylvania Capitol Preservation Committee, which restores and preserves the art, architecture and history of the Pennsylvania State Capitol and Capitol Complex. In 2009, he received the Mayor’s award for "Distinguished Public Service” in honor of his work as board president of the Historic Harrisburg Association; and in 2008 he received the Mayor’s award for "Preservation Excellence" in honor of his work to restore and preserve the Horace McFarlands "Breeze Hill" mansion in Harrisburg, Pa.

“We are honored to have Derek join our growing team,” adds Cross. “His addition certainly continues the Mowery tradition of high-quality professionals with a passion for the clients we serve.”