About Us

President

Dee Burch

Dee Burch has served as President of Advanced American Construction (AAC) since 2000 and has been an influential figure in the heavy/civil and marine construction industry since 1978. Joining AAC in 1990, Dee’s extensive expertise in professional estimating and large project management has been instrumental in the company’s ongoing success. His in-depth knowledge and strategic insight have enabled AAC to consistently secure and deliver multi-million-dollar projects across the Northwest, navigating complex needs and challenges.

Dee’s leadership has also garnered prestigious industry recognition, with several projects receiving top honors, including the National AGC Build America Awards and three Marvin Black Partnering Awards. Notably, in 2011, AAC was awarded the national Project of the Year for the Lake Oswego Interceptor Sewer Project—making AAC the only Oregon contractor to receive this esteemed recognition. Dee himself was honored with the AGC Oregon/Columbia Chapter SIR Award in 2017, a testament to his exceptional leadership, skills, and impact on the construction industry.

In 2023, Dee expanded his leadership role and became President of Gunderson Marine & Iron. Under his guidance, Gunderson has expanded its capabilities and built a strong workforce. Dee remains committed to supporting Gunderson’s continued growth and success in the maritime and fabrication sectors.

Senior Vice President

Kyle Izatt

Kyle Izatt is the Senior Vice President of Advanced American Construction and a seasoned leader in heavy civil and marine construction in the Pacific Northwest. He was introduced to the company in 1999 when he was awarded the prestigious Schweiger Memorial Scholarship. Kyle received the scholarship for three consecutive years, building strong relationships with AAC that ultimately led to his decision to join the team.

Prior to joining the Advanced American team in 2005, Kyle was a Project Manager for Apollo Inc., specializing in bridges, earthwork, utility, and wastewater treatment plants. Kyle started working in the crane and construction industry for Lampson International Crane, specializing in the Heavy Lift and Transport industry, prior to pursuing a Construction Management degree at Central Washington University.

Kyle has demonstrated exceptional skills both in the field and in management, consistently earning AAC excellent client ratings on complex, schedule-driven projects. His expertise spans heavy marine construction, pile driving, salvage, accelerated bridge construction, complex fabrication, and deep-water pipeline deployment projects.

Leading up to 2020, Kyle was responsible for overseeing AAC’s workforce and equipment operations. Today, as Senior Vice President, he focuses on supporting the company’s key goals and objectives and plays a critical role in strategic planning and decision-making.

In addition to his responsibilities at AAC, Kyle oversees the operations of Marine Construction Rentals (MCR), which supplies marine assets to clients across the Western United States. MCR operates a diverse fleet of flexifloats, tugboats, barges, winches, cranes, and other specialty marine equipment available for immediate charter.

Outside of his professional roles, Kyle actively builds on his industry relationships and leverages his expertise in marine and heavy civil construction to identify growth opportunities for AAC in both the public and private sectors. He serves as an Employer Trustee for the International Union of Operating Engineers 701 Health and Welfare, Pension, and Training Trusts.  Kyle also contributes as a member of the Board of Directors for the Associated General Contractors Oregon-Columbia Chapter and as an officer for the AGC Chapters Foundation.

Vice President - Operations

Evan Clemson

Evan Clemson, Vice President of Operations, has been a part of the construction industry since 2005, working extensively in the Northwest. He began his career with Advanced American Construction (AAC) on the award-winning Lake Oswego Interceptor Sewer Project—AAC’s most successful project to date. Since then, he has managed a diverse range of projects, including high-risk marine operations, complex diving projects, and precision industrial work.

Evan’s experience in AAC’s estimating team has given him an in-depth understanding of the company’s equipment and capabilities, allowing him to drive efficiency and innovation in project execution. Today, he oversees AAC’s project operations and leads various marine construction initiatives, ensuring projects are completed safely, on time, and to the highest standards.

Beyond his role at AAC, Evan is committed to developing the next generation of construction professionals. He volunteers his time to support the Oregon State University Heavy Civil Team, providing coaching and mentorship to students as they prepare for careers in the industry.

Controller

Julie Davis

Julie Davis has been an integral part of Advanced American Construction, serving as our controller since 2015. With her extensive expertise in financial management and a keen eye for detail, Julie has played a crucial role in shaping the financial strategies of the company. In 2024, she demonstrated her leadership skills by taking on the position of president of the CFMA Portland chapter, where she actively contributed to the development of financial practices within the construction industry and fostered connections among industry.

General Counsel

Nathan Orf

Nathan Orf brings extensive legal experience in the manufacturing, maritime, and construction industries to his role as General Counsel of Advanced American Construction. He holds an LL.M. in Admiralty from Tulane University Law School and a J.D., magna cum laude, from Willamette University College of Law.

Throughout his career, he has held key legal and leadership positions, including Director, Corporate Counsel, at Lam Research Corporation and Managing Attorney and Assistant General Counsel at the Port of Portland, where he provided counsel on complex contracts, regulatory compliance, infrastructure projects, and governance.

Known for his strategic thinking and problem-solving skills, Nathan oversees legal matters across the company, including commercial transactions, risk management, organizational governance, and compliance, ensuring operations are both protected and aligned with regulatory requirements.