Nora Coggin – Stupp Bros

Stupp Bros., Inc. has been a cornerstone in the infrastructure industry for nearly 170 years, contributing significantly to the development of St. Louis and beyond with their iron and steel products. As a seventh-generation family business, Stupp Bros has expanded its operations to include a range of ventures such as Stupp Bridge Company, Midwest BankCentre, Stupp Fiber, and Ben Hur Construction Co. Nora Coggin, as general counsel, plays a vital role in guiding these diverse ventures, providing legal and business expertise.

Coggin oversees the legal aspects of all Stupp Bros’ operations, ensuring compliance and strategic alignment with the company’s goals. She is instrumental in negotiating and managing contracts, overseeing risk management, and providing legal counsel across various departments. Her role is crucial in maintaining the company’s longstanding tradition while driving innovation and growth.

“As we look back on our 170 years of history, Stupp Bros continues to forge ahead, expanding our legacy. I’m proud to guide our diverse ventures, ensuring legal integrity and strategic alignment for sustained growth and innovation,” Coggin says.

Managing complex projects across states

One of the key projects under Coggin’s direction is Stupp Fiber, the company’s broadband division in Bowling Green, Kentucky. This venture represents a significant step forward for the company, as it seeks to stay relevant in the modern era by expanding into the telecommunications industry. Coggin works closely with the sales and marketing teams to ensure that all contractual documents and communications comply with legal standards, helping secure the company’s position in a highly competitive market.

Another major initiative is the Stupp Bridge Company, specializing in plate girder bridge fabrication. This project involves complex legal and logistical considerations, as the fabrication facility is in Bowling Green, Kentucky, while the company is headquartered in St. Louis. Coggin’s expertise ensures that the agreements are flexible yet robust enough to protect the company’s interests while facilitating the execution of these large-scale projects.

Coggin also contributes significantly to Midwest BankCentre, where she assists with financial, lending, and banking regulations. Her involvement ensures that the bank operates within legal frameworks while pursuing innovative financial solutions that benefit the community. Her strategic input on the board of directors helps steer the bank towards sustainable growth and regulatory compliance.

Coggin supports Ben Hur Construction Co., a key player in the construction industry. Her role includes negotiating contracts, managing legal risks, and providing counsel on various construction projects. Her efforts ensure the company meets its legal obligations while successfully completing projects enhancing the community’s infrastructure.

Enhancing team efficiency and effectiveness

Coggin understands the importance of teamwork in achieving company goals. She promotes effective communication and close collaboration among team members across departments, ensuring everyone’s expertise and ideas contribute to the company’s success. This approach enhances productivity and creates a supportive environment where employees can thrive.

Retention and recruiting are central to Coggin’s strategy. She recognizes the value of retaining talented individuals and actively works to create opportunities for professional growth and development within the company. By investing in her team’s skills and career paths, Coggin strengthens loyalty and commitment, reducing turnover and maintaining continuity in key roles.

Coggin’s leadership extends to recruiting new talent that is aligned with Stupp Bros.’s vision and values. She emphasizes the importance of cultural fit and seeks individuals who can contribute to the company’s legacy of innovation and excellence. Her proactive approach to recruitment ensures that Stupp Bros. continues attracting top talent dedicated to advancing the company’s mission.

Navigating the complexities of a generational company, Coggin’s leadership in teamwork, retention, and recruiting plays a crucial role in sustaining Stupp Bros.’s legacy and preparing it for future challenges and opportunities. Her focus on building a cohesive and capable team underscores her commitment to ensuring the company’s continued growth and success.

Journey of Success

Coggin’s academic journey began at Duke University, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in History. At Duke, she was a varsity swimmer, demonstrating her commitment to academics and athletics. After completing her undergraduate studies, she pursued a Juris Doctor at Washington University in St. Louis School of Law.

During law school, Coggin gained valuable practical experience through internships. She worked as a law clerk at the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) and as a summer associate at The Stolar Partnership. These roles provided her with a solid foundation in various areas of law, including corporate law, real estate, finance, and litigation.

Following graduation, Coggin began her professional career as an associate at The Stolar Partnership, where she practiced general business law. She continued to develop her legal expertise and broaden her skill set. In March 2013, she joined Lewis Rice LLC as a corporate attorney, where she further honed her abilities in corporate law.

Coggin’s career took a significant turn in December 2015 when she joined Stupp Bros., Inc. as general counsel. This move was a career progression and a return to her roots. Stupp Bros was established by Coggin’s great-great-great-grandfather in 1856.

“Being part of this organization is truly inspiring as we continue to uphold our longstanding commitment to excellence in the infrastructure industry. It’s about preserving history and driving innovation and growth, ensuring that we remain at the forefront of our field while honoring our heritage,” Coggin says.