St. Paul-based McGough Construction says it is expanding its presence in the Midwest presence by opening a new regional office in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Industry veteran Scott Sylvester will lead the firm's office in Cedar Rapids, and oversee the expansion.

Since its founding in the late 1950s, has steadily expanded its reach to become a regional leader in commercial and industrial construction with experience in health care, corporate office, higher education, performing arts, data centers, and industrial projects. "We believe that Iowa's diverse and growing economy provides many opportunities for McGough to add value," said Brad Wood, McGough chief operating officer, in a statement. "Scott's insightful leadership and local market expertise will take our heightened focus on the region to a whole new level."

Sylvester is an Iowa native and graduate of the University of Northern Iowa. He has more than 15 years of experience in the commercial and industrial construction sectors throughout Iowa and the Midwest.

A new hire for McGough, Sylvester served as director of Business Development for Knutson Construction. He previously held senior roles with The Weitz Co. and Fagen Inc.

"I look forward to solidifying our commitment to expand our market presence and bringing McGough's uniquely collaborative and customer-centric project delivery approach to the Iowa market," he said.