C-Level Awards 2026: Ken Ahler, Chief Operating Officer — Lee Mechanical

Ken Ahler serves as chief operating officer of Lee Mechanical, a Franklin, Wisconsin-based mechanical contractor founded in 1976 that specializes in HVAC, refrigeration, plumbing, piping, electrical and life safety systems for commercial and industrial clients throughout southeastern Wisconsin and northern Illinois.

Ahler holds a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and is a licensed professional engineer. He joined Lee Mechanical in 2019 as vice president of mechanical before being promoted to COO in July 2024.

Under his leadership, the 429-person company expanded its use of prefabrication by standardizing assemblies, integrating BIM-driven coordination and aligning estimating, detailing and field installation teams early in the project lifecycle — reducing field labor hours, improving safety and increasing schedule certainty.

Lee Mechanical ranked No. 1 among extra large companies on the 2025 Milwaukee Business Journal Best Places to Work list.

“Ken Ahler delivers where it matters most,” said Brandon Quinn, CEO of Lee Mechanical. “Through disciplined execution, strong leadership, and an unwavering focus on people and performance, he has elevated our operations and driven exceptional results.”

Ahler also serves as scoutmaster of Boy Scout Troop 592.