US construction CEO resigns after Musk-style straight-arm salute at company meeting

Interior view of an empty boardroom. (Image: Adobe Stock)

Hill’s resignation as CEO was effective immediately.

He is also co-owner of ESI – a construction management provider – which employs more than 500 people with estimated annual revenue more than US$300 million.

ESI is one firm working on the estimated $15-billion Micron semiconductor fabrication plant.

He was filmed making the salute during the company event last week.

Initially, he attempted to defend the gesture as satire of the current political situation in the US, following a similar gesture by billionaire Elon Musk on stage before Donald Trump’s arrival in Washington’s Capital One arena last month, after Trump’s inauguration as US president.

But Hill later issued a lengthier apology that accompanied news he was resigning his post as CEO.

In a statement, he said, “I want to express my deepest apologies for my actions at a recent employee gathering. I performed a gesture at the event on stage intended to comment on our turbulent political environment. I now fully recognise that this gesture is not only inappropriate but also profoundly hurtful.

“After significant feedback from those who have seen the video or were at the event, I more deeply understand how inappropriate the gesture was. I acknowledge that it was a gesture that has rightfully led to feelings of betrayal and distress. I want to make it unequivocally clear that I reject any form of hate or discrimination, and I am deeply sorry for compromising the trust that our employees and the broader community place in me and in ESI Construction.

“My previous note attempting to explain my actions fell short and I realise it was defensive, and it significantly missed the mark. I am taking immediate steps to reinforce my commitment to respect in the workplace and the true values of our company.”

ESI President Neil Nelson, also a co-owner, was elevated to the position of CEO and chairman of the board.

Nelson said, “Our focus now is on healing and moving forward. We are dedicated to ensuring that our mission remains clear and that every decision we make reflects the principles that define ESI.”

Does this US state have too much construction activity? Projects are springing up in this American locale, but are there enough workers?