Jose Penalver

Jose Penalver is Vice President of Operations, overseeing Shimmick’s Chickamauga Lock and Lewisville Dam Safety Modification projects. Mr. Penalver brings more than 32 years of international experience in civil construction, with expertise across executive management, operations, engineering, project controls, and strategic project delivery.

Throughout his career, Mr. Penalver has led the successful execution of large-scale infrastructure projects in both the public and private sectors, including highways, dams, water systems, and high-speed rail. His experience spans the full project lifecycle—from preconstruction and procurement through execution and closeout—under a range of delivery models, including Design-Build and Public-Private Partnerships (P3s).

Before joining Shimmick, Mr. Penalver held senior leadership roles at several industry-leading infrastructure firms, where he oversaw multi-billion-dollar programs such as the I-10 Mobile Bayway, C-43 Reservoir, and Texas High Speed Rail. He is known for stabilizing complex projects, strengthening field execution, and building high-performing teams.

Mr. Penalver holds a Master’s and Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering from the Polytechnic University of Madrid. He has completed executive training in global management, leadership, and finance through ESADE Business School and Otto Walter International.