David Rible, chief executive officer of the Utility and Transportation Contractors Association (UTCA), has been named a recipient of the prestigious 2026 Silver Gull Award by the Monmouth-Ocean Development Council (MODC).
The award, a fixture of the Jersey Shore business community for over 60 years, recognizes Rible’s career-long dedication to government relations and his impact on the economic vitality of Monmouth and Ocean Counties.
Rible, who assumed the role of UTCA CEO on Jan. 1, following the retirement of longtime leader Robert Briant, Jr., has deep roots in the region. Before transitioning to industry advocacy, Rible served a decade in the New Jersey General Assembly (2007–2017).
During his tenure in the Legislature, Rible earned a reputation as a bridge-builder. He was the prime sponsor of the bipartisan legislation that reauthorized the state’s Transportation Trust Fund (TTF)—the financial engine behind New Jersey’s critical road, bridge, and rail infrastructure projects.
“This is a tremendous honor, especially to be recognized with so many other incredible individuals and organizations,” Rible said. “I am thankful that I have been able to give back, in some small way, to the area where I was born and raised.”
At the helm of the UTCA, Rible has expanded the association’s mission beyond traditional lobbying. While infrastructure remains a core focus—highlighted by his recent confirmation to the New Jersey Transportation Trust Fund Authority board—he has also emerged as a leading voice for mental health awareness within the construction trades.
Rible has frequently advocated for better suicide prevention and depression resources in an industry that faces significantly higher rates of mental health challenges than the national average.
The MODC Silver Gull Awards honor excellence across multiple sectors. Rible will be recognized for Government Relations alongside a diverse group of regional leaders:
- Economic Development: Anna Mayer (Eatontown Industrial Park Assoc.) and David Schoner (NJ Film & Television Commission).
- Community Service: Marilee Pettit (Press Communications), Dr. Pamela Monaco (Ocean County College), and James Davis (FC Monmouth).
- Nonprofit: Interfaith Neighbors.
- Tourism: Jersey Shore BlueClaws.
- President’s Award: Senator Robert Singer.
The honorees will be celebrated at the Silver Gull Awards Dinner on Wednesday, May 6, 2026, at South Gate Manor in Freehold. The event is expected to draw hundreds of business and community leaders from across the bi-county region
