Ryan Linthicum to Become Langan CEO on January 1, 2027
The Parsippany-based engineering firm announced a leadership transition following a two-year succession planning process.
Updated on Oct. 20, 2026 in People
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Ryan Linthicum is set to assume the role of CEO at Langan on January 1, 2027. He will become the third person to lead the firm in its history, succeeding current CEO David Gockel.
Why it matters
The transition follows a two-year succession process designed to ensure stability for the firm and its 550 employees. Linthicum will oversee the company's future technology strategy and AI integration.
The firm operates with 550 employees and has supported the design of nearly 200 U.S. embassies and consulates. Linthicum is credited with opening three offices in Washington, D.C., Arlington, and Richmond.
The players
Ryan Linthicum
He is the incoming CEO of Langan who previously served as a managing principal and Executive Committee member.
David Gockel
He is the current CEO of Langan who led the two-year succession process and will become executive chair of the Board of Managers.
Langan
This engineering firm is headquartered in Parsippany and maintains a portfolio including federal facilities.
The details
Linthicum rose through the ranks from staff engineer to managing principal and served on the Executive Committee. Current CEO David Gockel will remain with the firm as the executive chair of the Board of Managers.
Timeline
October 15, 2026: Announcement of leadership succession plan
January 1, 2027: Ryan Linthicum takes over as CEO
Market Landscape
This transition aligns with the industry trend of long-term succession planning to ensure leadership continuity during periods of technical evolution. It positions Langan to compete for infrastructure projects by emphasizing a stable transition at the helm.
For clients and partners, the change in leadership marks the continuation of the firm's long-term operational strategy. Service delivery and ongoing design projects are expected to remain stable as Gockel transitions to the Board of Managers.
The takeaway
Effective executive transitions are a critical component of institutional longevity in the engineering sector. Firms often utilize multi-year planning to prepare incoming leaders for the challenges of digital and technological integration.
What happens next
Ryan Linthicum officially begins his term as CEO on January 1, 2027.
Further reading
For more on industry leadership changes, visit the People section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by NJBIZ.
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